11 Nail Colors That Are Particularly Gorgeous Against Dark Skin
These shades are guaranteed to pop on fingers and toes!
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Whether you're looking for a beauty boost or a way to rock this year's latest beauty trend without a major commitment, a mani/pedi is always a good idea. But with a plethora of nail polishes on the market, it can be tricky to choose one that's current and complements your dark skin tone.
"My favorite nail colors to see on dark skin tones are anything citrus," says Rachel James, founder of nail brand Pear Nova, who expects to "see louder statements being made on the nails" in 2021. Don't worry: the trendiest styles are DIY-friendly. "Minimal nail art is hot as more and more people are being creative in the confines of their own space doing their nails," says Gina Edwards, a celebrity nail stylist in New York City. And "investing in at-home nail care treatments is a must," says Kitiya Mischo King, founder of nail line Mischo Beauty, to keep those natural nails strong and healthy.
If you're heading to the salon or purchasing a polish so you can DIY a mani at home, we've rounded up the best nail polish colors that look fantastic on darker skin tones, from summer nail inspo to fall nail colors and winter-friendly nail colors with neutrals, shades for toes, and more!
Pros
- Comes in two shades to match skin
- Great value
Cons
In search of the perfect nude to match your melanin? Mented Cosmetics provides a high-shine, deeply pigmented polish that is just for you. This milky cappuccino shade is a great neutral nail color for dark skin tones. We also love the brand's Brown & Bougie, a deep brown shade that looks great on darker skin tones.
Pros
- Unique, sophisticated shade
- Highly pigmented
Cons
"Dirty" pastels are trending for spring and summer this season, and Pear Nova's sage green is the ideal pale nail shade for melanated skin, with a twist. The brand is known for their pigmented formulas, and this color's dusky tones make pastel look chic rather than candy-like against dark skin tones.
Pros
- Rich, saturated pigment
- Brand gives back to charity
Cons
The winds of fall mean moodier manis, and this fall, try and inky shade like this intensely beautiful deep plum from Mischo Beauty against deep skin tones. Plus, proceeds from the sale of this nail polish hue benefit an organization that empowers women.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Red Eye
Pros
- Versatile shade
- Long-lasting, chip-resistant formula
Cons
You can't go wrong with a classic cherry red on dark skin tones, especially for a pedicure, as it looks stunning with any sandal. This at-home gel nail polish formula from Sally Hansen is a Good Housekeeping Beauty Award winner, and when used with the matching topcoat, lasted longer and chipped less than regular polish, plus doesn't require a light to cure.
Pros
- Fast-drying
- Highly pigmented
Cons
As James says, citrus colors stand out against melanated skin. Try this eye-catching orange with hints of red from OPI; the classic lacquer formula was the best fast-drying polish in Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab testing.
Olive & June Nail Polish in XOXO
Pros
- Color pops against skin
- Great value
Cons
Light brown skin tones look lovely with richer, bolder nail color shades like this raspberry pink from Olive & June. It boasts a gel-like finish that comes off with regular nail polish remover. This pop color is striking on both fingers and toes.
Pros
- Looks clean and polished
- Shiny, chip-resistant formula
- Great value
Cons
White nail polish isn't just for French manicures — they call it "winter white" for a reason. This Essie nail color is a stark white that looks flattering and polished on Black women and perfect for matching those snowy, chilly days. Plus, the formula is a GH Beauty Lab test winner for easy application, shine, and resisting chipping.
Pros
- Pops on dark skin tones
- Great for a pedicure
Cons
Want a jolt of bold and bright? This creamy yellow nail polish color from Breukelen Polish looks striking against chocolate skin tones, and is especially fun with a warm-weather pedicure.
Pros
- Versatile
- Shiny finish
Cons
If you're looking for something unique yet wearable, Edwards loves this OPI nail color in a "warm amber palette". The easy-to-wear earthy chestnut shade melds beautifully with dark skin tones and works on both hand and feet.
Pros
- Shiny finish
- Works as a neutral
Cons
A minimalist light gray is a fresh update to your normal neutral nail polish. It looks classy with a subtle edge and complements dark skin tones nicely. This modern hue from Côte has a super shiny finish that dries quickly. If you are running short on time, you can skip your topcoat and still have a professional look!
Pros
- Opaque gloss finish
- Great for pedicures
Cons
This pastel blue nail color from Sundays is the perfect option for dark skin tones — and doesn't have to be relegated to spring or summer. Its cool undertones create a contrast that looks vivid agains deep skin. If you're wary of wearing blue on your nails, try it on your toes first.
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