You’ve no doubt seen the hashtag of the moment: #chromenails. Thanks to the internet, techs and clients alike have a newfound interest in pigment powders, and the chrome nail, designed using a super-fine silver pigment over a tack-free soak-off gel top coat, is leading the charge.
Pigments have long been the unheralded ingredient in nail lacquer and nail paints — they are intensely colored powders derived from various organic and inorganic sources. Used in their pure undiluted form, pigments are opening a whole new world of innovation in nail art, and other techniques besides chrome nails are proving powder pigments’ incredible diversity and power.
Whether you are seeking the Holy Grail of a mirror-like finish or simply experimenting with creating custom colors, here are five techniques that will launch you deeper into the wild and wonderful world of cosmetic-grade pigment mania.
1. Color Mixology
Expand your gel color library cost-effectively without compromising storage space. Through practice and experimentation, you can create any color imaginable using pigments and hard gel.
2. Dramatic Finish
From chrome to holo nails, and metallic to mermaid manicures, effects pigment powders add a rich coating to the nails, transforming your base color shade into something totally trendy.
3. Stamping
Compared to gel-polish and traditional lacquer which can dry quickly, using a super-fine pigment powder for stamping means you can take your time to prep the stamp.
4. Color Theory
Using pigments and gel-polish to create the right shade for your client’s complexion can boost her skin’s vibrancy. She’ll love you for it!
5. Acrylics
Add a dash of glitter pigments to your favorite polymer for an easy-to-do granite-inspired design.
6. Handpainted Nail Art
You can always charge more for nail art, especially if it’s done by hand. From an easy ombre to a detailed negative space design, pressed pigments allow you to get creative with a dry medium.
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