If you like an understated, your-nails-but-better manicure, you’ll adore the BB cream nail trend. You’ve probably already heard of BB creams for the skin. Unlike full-coverage foundations, which can leave a heavy, thick, matte layer, BB creams give a sheer, hydrated tint. They’re designed to blur imperfections (BB literally stands for blemish balm or beauty balm) for a natural glow. And that’s the goal of BB cream nails, too! This mani allows your natural nail to show through, softening the line between the pink and white part.
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The style has really been heating up on TikTok. A video from @stephanieyianni_ has racked up almost 940,000 views at the time of writing, and another from @nailsbyalsn has more than 357,000 views. But the trend actually began thanks to the company Gelcare. The brand launched BB cream gel polishes in 2023 – and the shades went viral. The brand offers lavender, pink, and nude versions of it’s sheer-yet-creamy BB lacquer, which is why this trend is all about neutral colors. So, think the exact opposite of Hailey Bieber’s out-of-this-world neon nails and more Bieber’s glazed donut manicures.
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How to pick the perfect BB cream nail polish
For a complimentary BB cream nail color, choose a neutral polish based on your skin tone. If you have light skin, pastel colors (think light, baby pinks or lavenders), and taupe-y browns will be most complimentary. If you have medium skin tone, cool pinks and light taupes will look stunning on you, as will beiges. Dark-skinned beauties, look towards warmer undertone neutral polishes, such as deep taupes or a warm rose shades.
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You can use gel polishes or standard lacquers, but just remember you want a sheer application. Some gel polishes are designed to be opaque from the first layer, so they might be too intense. It can also be difficult to let your natural nail peek through using builder gels or nail powders, so it’s best to avoid those too. This trend works best with one or two coats of a light, classic polish over your natural talons. For best results, prep your nails for perfect polish application (including a good base coat!) and finish with a glossy top coat to enhance the shiny finish.
Avoid going overboard for a simplistic glow
Matte polishes aren’t going to give you a shiny, blurred glow, so keep those in the drawer when trying the BB cream nail trend. Also avoid the likes of 3D nail art, nail stickers, or glitters. Though these can be gorgeous and fun, they’ll make your mani look overdone and won’t give you the understated, natural aesthetic. If you really love a sparkly finish, though, and want to put your twist on the BB style, you could use a polish with a barely there shimmer or apply a translucent subtle lustre polish over the top.
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Part of the allure of the BB cream nails trend is how versatile it is, and that stems from its simplicity. Neutral shades are sophisticated, classy and daytime appropriate, so this style is ideal for work. But that doesn’t mean it can’t transition to the evening. You may even find you can go bolder with your night-time outfit, as your ensemble won’t clash with your modest nails. Another big occasion BB cream nails are perfect for? A wedding! Whether it’s your wedding day or someone else’s, this style is the ideal mix of glossy, healthy, and understated. Perfect for a big day.
