If you want to jazz up your nails with a custom red that matches your style, learning how to whip up some red nail polish at home is easier than you may think. With a few simple ingredients and tools, you can create a salon-worthy lacquer in your own kitchen.<\/p>\n
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer to making red nail polish: Mix red pigment into a clear base containing nitrocellulose<\/b>. Then add plasticizers, resins, and solvents like ethyl acetate or butyl acetate to get the right consistency. Finish it off with some shine.<\/p>\nGather the Essential Ingredients<\/h2>\n
Nitrocellulose<\/h3>\n
Nitrocellulose acts as the base for nail polish. It provides adhesion to the nail surface and flexibility to the polish. The most common type used is RS nitrocellulose, which allows for easy application without clumping or running.<\/p>\n
High quality nitrocellulose leads to a durable and long-lasting manicure.<\/p>\n
Pigments give nail polish its vibrant color. Common pigments include titanium dioxide for whites, iron oxides for reds and yellows, ultramarines for blues, and chromium oxide for greens. The more pigment used, the more opaque and intense the color. Going for a sheer or jelly finish? Use less pigment.<\/p>\n
For the brightest reds, combine a red and yellow pigment.<\/p>\n
Solvents thin out the nail polish mixture so it can be brushed onto nails easily without clumping. The most common solvents are butyl acetate, ethyl acetate, and isopropyl alcohol. The ratio of solvents impacts the viscosity and drying time.<\/p>\n
Too much solvent leads to runny polish, while too little makes application difficult.<\/p>\n
Resins are binding agents that hold the polish together and make it glossy. Common choices include tosylamide-formaldehyde resin, sucrose benzoate, rosin, and Santolite MHP. The resin mixture impacts the end texture and shine level.<\/p>\n
Aim for 20-50% resin content for best consistency. According to industry reports, newer “10-free” formulas avoid harsh chemicals in resins and other ingredients.<\/b><\/p>\nPlasticizers<\/h3>\n
Plasticizers allow polish layers flexibility to avoid cracking as nails grow. Dibutyl phthalate is the most common, allowing polish to bend without breaking. Other options like dimethyl phthalate or camphor are used as well. Plasticizers typically make up 5-10% of a DIY polish recipe.<\/p>\n
Add some punch with glitter flakes or shimmer pigments. These provide eye-catching effects. Choose fine glitters for smooth application or hex glitters for chunky accents. Pearl pigments create an iridescent sheen. Mix and match for your desired style – the options are endless!<\/p>\n
A 2021 industry report found sales for textured and effects polishes rose by 16% over classic cream polishes.<\/b><\/p>\nChoose Your Shade of Red<\/h2>\n
Choosing the perfect shade of red nail polish can be an exciting yet daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to consider your skin tone, style, and the overall look you’re going for. Here are some tips to help you find your perfect red:<\/p>\n
The shade of red that looks stunning on someone else may look off on you if you don’t consider your skin tone. Those with fair or porcelain skin tend to look best in blue-based reds, while olive and darker skin tones shine in orangey-reds with warm undertones.<\/p>\n
If you’re not sure, try swatching a few shades on your skin before deciding.<\/p>\n
Your personal style should also inform your red polish choice. For an everyday look, try a cream finish in a muted cherry red. Feeling bold? Go for a bright crimson matte. If you prefer something romantic, look for red polishes with a subtle shimmer. And metallics work for an edgy vibe.<\/p>\n
The rest of your makeup also impacts which red will work best. Reds with blue undertones complement neutral or cool-toned makeup looks. Warm reds pair better with bronzed, peach-toned looks. You’ll also want to make sure your red doesn’t clash with your lip color.<\/p>\n
Here are some popular red nail polish shades to help you start your search:<\/p>\n
Choosing that perfect red polish may take some trial and error. But with the right shade for you, red nails can be classy, elegant, and bold. So have fun trying different reds until you find your signature shade!<\/p>\n
Mixing your own nail polish from scratch may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can make a custom polish that rivals store-bought brands. Here are some tips for mixing up a flawless nail lacquer:<\/p>\n
The base for nail polish provides coverage and allows the polish to adhere to the nail. Popular bases include:<\/p>\n
A typical recipe combines nitrocellulose lacquer with ethyl acetate and toluene for a balanced base.<\/p>\n
Color pigments give the polish its vibrant hue. You can find cosmetic-grade pigments online or at specialty stores. Typical options include:<\/p>\n
Start with just a pinch of pigment and add more as needed to achieve your ideal shade.<\/p>\n
You can customize your homemade polish by adding ingredients like:<\/p>\n
Add just a small amount of these to enhance your polish without altering the formula too much.<\/p>\n
Once you’ve combined all ingredients, mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the pigments. Test the consistency by painting a swatch on plastic or glass. The polish should glide on smoothly without being too thick or runny.<\/p>\n
Make small adjustments as needed – thin with more solvent for a sheer polish or thicken with cellulose lacquer for more coverage. Take notes so you can replicate your custom color!<\/p>\n
With the right mix of ingredients and lots of testing, you can create your own signature nail lacquer in any shade. For best results, use cosmetic-grade supplies and mix in a well-ventilated area. With practice, you’ll be able to whip up salon-worthy polishes!<\/p>\n
Adding special effects to your homemade red nail polish can take it to the next level. Here are some fun ideas for getting creative with textures, glitters, and more:<\/p>\n
Glitters add a festive and eye-catching touch to nail polish. They come in different shapes and sizes, from fine microglitters to large hexagonal glitters. Some popular options include:<\/p>\n
Start by adding 1 teaspoon of glitters per 2-3 ounces of clear nail polish base. Mix well before applying over your red nail polish.<\/p>\n
Mica powder<\/b> lends a shimmery, pearlescent sheen. Use cosmetic-grade mica for the best results. Silver, gold, and colored mica powders pop beautifully over red. Mix 1\u20442 to 1 teaspoon mica powder into 2-3 ounces clear polish.<\/p>\nCrushed Shells or Stones<\/h3>\n
For an organic look, try adding crushed seashells, mica stones, or dried flowers. Use a mortar and pestle to finely crush shells or stones so they distribute well in the polish. Mix in up to 1\u20442 teaspoon per 2 ounces of clear base coat. Apply over your red polish for a textured, beachy finish.<\/p>\n