Snakeskin Nails: How to DIY Bubble Nails for a Snakeskin Nail Design
In the beauty world, there are always new trends and techniques to try (patterned pantyhose nails, anyone?). One of the latest to catch beauty lovers' eyes is snakeskin nails, and it's not just the reptilian design that really wows but the way that nail artists create the effect: with bubbles, as in soapy water. You have to see it to believe it.
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If you look closely at the snakeskin nails design, you'll see how soapy water left it behind, but it's pretty unbelievable that it works. Whether you're into nail art or not, there's no denying that this technique is supercool. “This is such a fun look to bring some texture to your nails into the cooler months, particularly if you're looking for a change from matte or gloss,” says Michelle Nguyen, a professional manicurist and founder of PLA Nails. “It really is incredibly easy to do—just as simple as the Reel!”
For more on this bubble nail trend, we tapped Nguyen and celebrity manicurist Jin Soon Choi to share tips. Both nail artists agree that this is the perfect look for the fall and winter to complement a cold-weather wardrobe that may feature the print as well.
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How to DIY bubble nails
If you're the DIY type and already like to give yourself gel manicures, this will be a total breeze. All you have to do is paint your gel polish—the chrome step is up to you, but we personally think a touch of metallic makes the look even cooler—and then before you cure your topcoat, add as much bubbly foam as it takes to cover your nail. Then carefully place your nail in the UV lamp. When it's done curing, wipe off the bubbles to reveal your snakeskin design. Nguyen recommends the PLA Non-Wipe Top Coat, which doesn't have a tacky feel to it post-curing.
Choi suggests some alternatives that won't get you quite the same look but offer a similar effect sans water or gel polish. For a relatively easy option, she says that a dotting tool can give you a sort of snakeskin look. After applying your base coat of polish and topcoat and letting them dry, you can use a dotting tool to “apply small dots of nail polish to your nails randomly.” Then gently blend the edges of the dots together using a toothpick before applying another layer of topcoat to seal the design.
