Aurora Nails: The Manicure Trend To Wear in 2024

 

Inspired by the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, Aurora Nails features a stunning blend of vibrant, iridescent colors that swirl and shift just like the dancing lights in the sky.

These out-of-this-world nails are the latest obsession, drawing inspiration from the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. The trend is characterized by its ethereal, iridescent, and highly reflective colors, creating a captivating, almost translucent crystal-like appearance. As your hands move, the colors playfully dance and transform. 

The hashtag #AuroraNails has amassed over 162,000 posts on Instagram, and its Korean equivalent, 오로라네일 (Aurora Nails), boasts an impressive 260,000 posts. Scrolling through either feed promises a visually satisfying and shiny experience.

Ahead, get all the inside scoop on the Aurora manicure trend, including how to achieve the look and some inspiration to keep up with the nail trend for 2024.

What are Aurora Nails?

Aurora nails derive their name from the mesmerizing aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, owing to their holographic and light-refracting allure. This effect is crafted using holographic nail foils and thick 3D gel, strategically layered onto the nail plate to fashion a distinct and captivating nail shape.

Originating in Korea, this trend has gained substantial popularity in the country and is now making its mark in Western countries such as America, France, and Australia. Leading the charge in promoting this trend is Korean American nail artist Mary Koh, who advocates for aurora nails, imparts the K-beauty technique through online classes, and offers the service to her clientele.

“In Korea, it’s called uru uru nails. I wanted to bring it back as a simple yet fun design,” Koh said while describing the process of Aurora nails to Glamour. I created my look by layering foils in a multi-step process. Most importantly, I make sure the cuticle line is clean so that the design can take front and center.”

How to do the Aurora Nails

The aurora nails, at first glance, resemble glazed donut nails, but they transform with the addition of gel and holographic foil layers, resulting in a mesmerizing 3D effect. The entire creation is then sealed with a thick gel top coat for a polished finish. 

Ready to try the Aurora nail trend? Here’s how:

1. Prepare Your Nails:

Ensure your nails are clean, dry, and shaped to your preference. If needed, trim and file them for a neat canvas.

2. Apply a Base Coat:

Begin with a clear base coat to protect your natural nails and enhance the adherence of subsequent layers.

3. Choose Your Foil and Gel:

Select holographic nail foils and a thick 3D gel of your choice. The beauty of Aurora Nails lies in their freedom to experiment with various foil and gel combinations.

4. Layer the Foil:

Apply the holographic foil to your nails in a multi-step process. Experiment with different layering techniques to achieve the desired 3D effect. This is where your creativity can shine.

5. Seal with Gel Top Coat:

Once satisfied with the foil layers, encase the entire design with a thick gel top coat. This not only provides a polished finish but also ensures durability.

6. Focus on Cuticle Care:

Pay special attention to your cuticles. Clean and well-maintained cuticles contribute to the overall aesthetic by allowing the design to take center stage. Ensure they are neat before applying the foils.

7. Experiment and Personalize:

There are no strict rules for Aurora nails, so feel free to experiment and personalize the trend according to your style. Mix and match foils, play with layering techniques, and have fun creating your unique 3D masterpiece.

Aurora Nail Trend Inspiration

If you need inspiration and are unsure where to begin, don’t worry—keep scrolling. We’ve curated a collection of the finest aurora nail trend ideas that the Internet has to offer.

Photo Credit: Instagram / Createandcoat