If there's one thing we can count on Instagram and TikTok for, it's bringing new beauty trends to light. Lately, those trends have been (in no particular order) the "model cheekbones" contour trick, an obsession with '70s-inspired hair, and something called "vampire skin."
Sometimes, though, the trends that circulate on Instagram and TikTok aren't exactly new—they're just a return to old, familiar ones. Take matte nail polish, for instance. What was once the trendiest manicure somewhere circa 2010 is making its way back into the spotlight. But instead of the kitschy matte nail art we used to see on social media, this year's updated version is all about clean and minimalist designs with a soft, shine-free finish.
There are two ways you can go about getting a matte manicure. First, you can paint your nails with any shade you like then apply a matte topcoat to sub the shine for a clean, minimalist finish. This is the most popular way to achieve a matte look (and my personal favorite). Second, you can use a matte nail color for a shine-free finish. This method can get a little tricky since there aren't many matte nail colors out there. There are a few options though. Keep scrolling!
The Best Matte Topcoats
You don't need a UV lamp to cure this gel-effect topcoat. Swipe it on as you would a normal nail polish, and it will provide long-wearing, chip-resistant, and gel-like protection to any nail color (and a soft matte effect, too).
The same goes for this topcoat. The gel-effect polish means you don't need any fancy equipment to use it, yet it will provide a long-lasting effect.
The iconic nail polish brand Jinsoon also makes a topcoat that instantly mattifies any color.
OPI never misses, and this matte topcoat is no exception.
This budget-friendly brand is so underrated.
I'll end with my favorite matte product—this Olive and June topcoat. It makes my manicures last longer than any other topcoat I've ever tried. And, FYI, the Olive and June Glossy Top Coat ($9) is just as good. You know, if you want a shiny mani every once in awhile too.
The Best Matte Nail Polish Shades
What's better than classic crimson nails? The answer is matte crimson nails.
Another matte nail polish from Zoya, there's something about this bright kelly green that makes me want to pair it with my favorite neutral athleisure set.
This is a thermal nail polish, meaning when it's cold, it appears as indigo blue. As soon as it warms up, it changes to a pale lavender shade. Oh, and it dries matte, so there's no extra mattifying topcoat necessary. Cool, right?
Another thermal nail polish, this one changes to a dark oxblood red when cold and a bright crimson when warm. Again, it dries to a matte finish, so no topcoat is necessary.
Another color-changing formula, this one transforms from cornflower blue to white based on the temperature. Just like the last two, it has a matte finish.
This article was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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