Blush Nails Are a Cheeky K-Beauty Trend That Elevates a Classic Manicure

• Blush nails are a soft take on aura nails that make your nails look like they’re blushing.
• They’re done in shades like pink, peach, or mauve, similar to blush colors used in makeup.

Of course, you know about blush for your face—but blush nails? The K-beauty nail style is characterized by a stunning diffused pink center, giving the impression that your nails are blushing. “Blush nails are very similar to aura nails,” adds celebrity nail artist Brittney Boyce. “[They’re] practically the exact same thing, but lighter in color.” The blush shade in question—which can be pink, peach, or mauve, similar to actual blush—is what makes all blush nails aura nails but not all aura nails blush nails.

To find out more, InStyle tapped Boyce and nail artist Mazz Hanna for everything there is to know about the trending mani. Not only did they share how to recreate blush nails at home or what to ask for when you go to a salon, but they also shared some of their favorite looks. So keep scrolling for some serious blush nail inspiration with expert tips to boot.

Meet the expert

• Mazz Hanna is a nail artist and the CEO of Nailing Hollywood.
• Brittney Boyce is a celebrity nail artist. Her clients include Kate Hudson, Megan Fox, and Kim Kardashian.

How To Get Blush Nails at Home

1. Start with a milky pink base color—like Sundays No. 43 or Essie Marshmallow—to give your nail coverage, says Boyce.
2. Without letting your base color dry, add your “blush.” Use a soft pink shade, such as Manucurist Paris in Rose, or a hot pink flush, like Olive & June’s Love All, and use a sponge to gently dab it.
3. Then, once it’s had a minute or two to set, finish with a top coat.

Instead of a sponge, you can also use an eyeshadow brush to set your “blush,” says Boyce. Or opt for a dedicated blooming gel polish that causes color to disperse for a similar effect, she adds.

How to Ask for Blush Nails at the Salon

As with any viral nail trend, it’s best to work with a visual. “I always recommend showing a picture so that your manicurist knows exactly what you are looking to achieve,” says Hanna. “There is a lot of room for interpretation with nail art, especially blush nails.”

That can ensure you don’t walk away with something totally different than what you were hoping for. Sharing a photo helps to make sure that you are both on the same page, Boyce says. You should also make sure they’re comfortable creating this look at all, she adds.

Pink That Pops

@theparlourclovelly

Against a barely there base, paint on a bright pink at the center and have it drift out until it almost touches the nail edges for a cool, eye-catching look.

Pink on Pink

@loli.nailedit

Double down on pink nails with two tones of the rosy shade. Rather than a milky base, go for neon pink followed by your paler pink blush.

Hint Of Blush

@theurbanbeauty

Calling all minimalists. For this mani, simply dab a warm pink shade against a glossy bare nail. It still has an impact while being subtler than its peers.

Shine Bright

@noellefuyunails

For a playful spin, dress up your blush nails with dainty accents. These hand-painted white stars and hearts amplify the whimsical nature of this look.

Spring Fever

@presssed.byp

Negative space, French tips, and floral accents make for a gorgeous mani. But the addition of a blush overlay takes it to the next level.

Hopeless Romantic

@abrowngirlrecommends

If you’re one to wear your heart on your sleeve, then why not on your nails too? Adding a bright white heart in the middle of your blush nails makes for a date night-ready look.

Flower Power

@bycheznails

These daisy decals paired with rhinestone jewels over blush nails (whew) are both darling and groovy. Try them for spring or any time you’re after a fresh set.

Deep Vibrations

@nails_of_la / @nailartbyqueenie / @nailinghollywood

For something more moody, go with a deep pink shade for your blush. Mix a dark magenta against a pink-purple background for a bold nail. As a bonus, add a fun design like stars.