Aura nails have been busy picking up a fan base over the last couple of years, especially among those looking for something a little more artistic. Not only does the nail art add an intriguing twist to a mani, but it’s also an easy way to personalise your fingertips and bring the energy.

New nail techniques are expanding the possibilities for mini artworks across our nail beds, and advancements like airbrush nails have made the rise of aura nails possible.

What are aura nails?

Also known as blush nails or sometimes eyeshadow nails, aura nails feature a burst of diffused colour starting from the centre of your nail. It taps into our renewed obsession with auras – the colourful electromagnetic field that surrounds a person’s body and can describe their energy. The mani calls on colours that vibe with your mood.

“Airbrush nails are a huge trend right now,” says celebrity manicurist, Michelle Humphrey, who counts Adele and Dua Lipa as clients. And, they’re becoming even more experimental, with modern finishes and even teensy symbols sketched into them – “from chrome aura nails to precise stencil work,” says Michelle. And, along with matching your mood or energy, they can match the season too, with browns headlining for autumn and pastels coming into play for spring. Most importantly, though, bring your own aura to your manicure for a personalised touch. Whether it’s dark and moody or soft and subtle, there are aura nails that work for every and any aesthetic.

How to get aura nails?

There are a few different techniques you can try to arrive at aura nails.

Airbrush aura nails

Airbrush aura nails involve using an airbrush machine to blow the diffused colour on.

Brushed out aura nails

Another way to achieve aura nails is to take a dotting tool and a fluffy brush and blend out the colour so it fades from the centre.

Sponge aura nails

“Get the look at home using nail polish and makeup sponges. Layer colours onto a sponge and gently dab onto the nail create this effect, then clean up any overflow on the skin using a Q-tip in remover,” says Michelle.

Blooming gel aura nails

Alongside the airbrush technique, blooming gels are a clever new innovation that can help deliver aura nails. The gel disperses once applied to give an aura effect.

Blush or eyeshadow aura nails

This innovative approach involves using a fluffy brush to delicately tap eyeshadow or blush powder onto the nails, before blending it out, resulting in a stunning airbrushed effect.