8 Steps to the Perfect Glitter Manicure

If you love adding some glitter & glam to make your nails shine, you're in the right place! Admittedly, our Big Glitter Powders can be a bit stubborn at times. But don't worry, we'll show you how to create a beautiful and smooth glitter manicure in just a few steps 💅

Let's get started! 

1. Prepare your nails thoroughly

Thorough preparation is key for any manicure. Before you even look at your glitter powder, consider the following steps: 

• Gently push back your cuticles with a rosewood stick or manicure stick.
• Also, remove the invisible cuticle at the base of the nail. It's best to use a buffer or our Glass Cuticle Pusher. Its pointed side can reach every tiny corner. 
• Then shape your nails to the desired form.
• Finally, thoroughly roughen the entire nail surface. 

This creates a clean base and ensures that your design brings you joy for a long time. Also, make sure to avoid washing or moisturizing your hands at least an hour before dipping. 

2. Mix the glitter powder thoroughly

Before applying the glitter to your nails or dipping your finger into the jar, make sure to mix everything thoroughly. This dissolves any clumps, blends the glitter particles well with the fine powder, and the result will end up wonderfully even. Use a rosewood stick or manicure stick for this. 

3. Apply Base Powder as a foundation

As with any design, apply a thin layer of Base Coat on all nails and dip into the Base Powder. This creates a stable foundation and protects the nails from potential discoloration. 

4. Time for the extra dose of glitter

For a perfectly opaque result, we recommend applying 2 layers, just like with any other color powder. Our tip to not "overdo it" in the truest sense of the word: don't go all the way to the nail edge with the first layer of Base Coat. Especially with large glitter particles, achieving even nail edges can be a bit tricky. Apply the Base Coat as close to the edge as possible only with the second layer and tap off the remaining powder well.

5. Clean the nail edges 

After applying the glitter powder, remove any protruding particles at the nail edge with a rosewood stick. This ensures a beautifully even result, and we avoid the risk of having some of the dipping manicure on the cuticles, causing lifting as it grows out. 

6. Use tape as a game-changer 

Attach some tape to your finger and press the glitter onto the nail firmly. This ensures that the surface is as smooth as possible, nothing breaks during filing later, and you don't get caught anywhere with your nails. 

7. Protect the glitter with Base Powder

Finally, apply one last thin layer of Base Coat and Base Powder. This ensures a balanced nail surface and protects your glitter manicure during later filing. The individual glitter particles will thus maintain their shimmer and gloss, avoiding any matte spots that could disrupt the overall appearance. 

8. Continue with your routine as usual 

Once your nail edges are free of excess powder, it's time to use the Activator. Apply it generously to all nails and let it cure for 2 minutes. Then you can balance any unevenness with a buffer and, if necessary, shape your nails a bit. Follow with another layer of Activator. After allowing it to dry for another 2 minutes, you can make your glitter manicure shine with 2 layers of Top Coat. Of course, a bit of hand and nail care is a must for the finishing touch. 

So, what are you waiting for? Add a touch of glamour to your look and dare to step into the spotlight! With these tips and tricks, you're well-equipped for your next glitter manicure 🪩✨