Matte manicure: how to do it at home, nail design ideas (photo)

Beautiful and well-groomed nails are the treasure of every girl. They charge her with confidence and good mood for the whole day.

Manicure is the fastest growing trend in the beauty industry. Long nails are replaced by a short, discreet manicure; bright, saturated shades give way to a moderate color palette.

Features and benefits of coating

A fashionable matte manicure is always flawless and practically does not depend on the shape and length of the nails. The main thing is not to make a mistake with the choice of texture and shade. It is simple to perform and resembles a classical technique. Many famous artists offer a top product over standard varnish.

An even more lasting result is obtained when using gel polish with a faded finish.

The main differences in creating nail design images are the even shape and short length. In this case, the cuticle and surface are always carefully processed to eliminate roughness or depressions and achieve an absolutely smooth, but not shiny surface.

This technique is available to any beauty salon. If you can’t go to the salon, this type of manicure can be done at home. You just need to decide on the shade and purchase a special finishing top.

Benefits of using matte manicure:

Very fast drying. It is not always possible to spend 2-3 hours getting your nails in order given such a busy rhythm of life as a business woman.
Any color scheme does not look vulgar. Any color looks elegant and stylish without attracting much attention or irritating others. Very convenient for those who are in the office or often on business trips; it is preferred by older women.
A high-quality coating contains a thick coloring agent that spreads evenly over the entire surface without streaks or streaks.
The matte gel fits perfectly onto the base and stays there for a long time. The presence of this combination creates armor against possible fungal infection while visiting a sauna or bathhouse.

Tips for creating a matte effect

Before coating, the surface of the nails should be thoroughly sanded with a special polishing stone or a non-hard fine-grained file. Afterwards, the plates are covered with a leveling base, which improves the adhesion of the varnish to the nail. These simple manipulations guarantee an increase in the service life of a matte manicure.

To achieve a more uniform texture, shake the product well before use. It must be applied in layers, giving each previous one the opportunity to dry thoroughly. Most often it is done with two layers. If you use too thin a varnish, you will need to apply a third coat.

The first few minutes the coating will look glossy. And only as it dries it will acquire a matte texture. You must wait until the varnish has completely hardened. This usually takes about an hour. If this period of time seems too long, it is permissible to use spray drying, which does not contain oils. The result will be a pretty stylish manicure.

Matte nail design does not lose its relevance. Regardless of the planned event, it will perfectly complement absolutely any female image. At the same time, do not forget about some of its features regarding the shape of the nails and the color of the product used.

How to make a matte manicure?

The easiest way is to purchase matte gel polish.

Next, follow the standard scheme for how to make a matte manicure with gel polish:

Pre-treat the nail. There should be no irregularities or flaws on it, since any flaw is clearly visible here. The nail plate should be dry and clean.
Apply polish to the nail. We start from the center to the side surfaces.
Dry under a lamp.

Another way is to use a top. For this:

carefully prepare the nail surface for manicure;
apply the base layer;
create nail designs;
Cover the nails with the varnish you like and let them dry until completely dry;
cover with matte top.

Any varnish can be used for design and coating. The top will give a matte finish.

Firms

Quite often, girls who come to the store to buy matte nail polish get their eyes wide open. The choice of funds is simply huge. Paint without a glossy sheen is available in the lineup of almost every manufacturer. It differs in quality and cost.

Matte varnishes are produced:

Avon. The compositions produced under this brand will help you get the coveted manicure without shine. As the creator assures, when applying this product, it is not at all necessary to use a topcoat. Each layer of varnish will apply evenly and dry quickly. The color palette offered by the cosmetics company is simply huge;
El Corazon. Quite popular compositions that are in great demand among fashionistas. A manicure created using varnishes from this company lasts quite a long time. The manufacturer tries to keep up with the times and constantly updates the color palette;

Divage. This product has a delicate texture, making it easy to distribute over the nail plate. Using this composition allows you to create a beautiful manicure. Nails become smooth and even. The company offers fashionable and beautiful shades. To obtain the desired tone, it is enough to cover your nails with one layer of varnish. The manufacturer recommends using a fixative to protect the manicure from chipping and extend the wear period;
Zoya. This product belongs to the professional category. It contains no substances harmful to the nail plate, for example, toluene or formaldehyde. The completely safe formula allows you to use the varnish regularly, without giving the plate time to “rest”. Many representatives of the fair sex appreciated the high quality, ease of application and wide range of shades.

Silvana. Budget nail polish that allows you to achieve a lasting matte effect. The palette presented by this brand on the market is quite rich. Every girl can find a suitable option for herself;
OPI. This company offers a fairly wide range in which you can find creative and unusual shades. The undoubted advantage of this option is its excellent quality. Matte nail polish produced under the OPI brand dries quickly in air without the use of special dryers. The duration of wear often does not exceed three days. The cost of one bottle reaches 500 rubles;

ORLY. This company produces high-quality products used in beauty salons. This option is supported by its affordable price and high quality. Varnishes from this manufacturer dry in the shortest possible time. To create a dense coating that completely covers the nail plate, it is enough to apply one layer;
MAC. The advantages of these products are fast drying, long lasting manicure and unsurpassed quality. This company offers a fairly limited range of shades. Prices for products from this manufacturer are high - approximately 700 rubles per bottle of paint;
Golden Rose. One of the budget options. The cost of varnish reaches 100 rubles. The durability of the composition and consistency are average. Its main advantage is almost instant drying. The second layer can be applied immediately after the first. Can be used without topcoat.

Not only the companies listed in the list produce matte varnishes. These manufacturers are just popular. They offer the optimal combination of product quality and cost.

Matte manicure at home in three ways

At home, you can get a matte nail finish in various ways. The main thing is to remember that a successful result will be if the image and color scheme are well thought out; high-quality preparation before manicure.

The most common are:

using a matte finishing top;
using flour;
using steam;
Prepare your own matte varnish.

Can I use regular varnish?

You can use regular polish to get a matte nail polish. First, apply a regular manicure, creating a glossy manicure, and only at the last stage, to obtain a matte finish, use one of the methods indicated below.

Using flour

To obtain a matte varnish, you can use flour or powder. The sequence of actions is as follows:

Prepare the flour. To do this, sift it through a sieve so that there are no lumps.
Let's apply a varnish coating.
Using a very soft brush, pick up some flour and apply it to the nail (do not remove excess).
Let the nails dry, then brush off the flour with a brush.
We are waiting for the nails to dry completely. The fixative will add gloss, so it should not be used.

Using steam

In this case, regular varnish is used; matte varnish will be obtained after a simple operation.

Sequencing:

We apply regular varnish according to the base - color - top scheme.
Before it dries, raise your hands as high as possible above the boiling container and carefully lower them to a distance where there is steam, but it does not burn your hands, for 15–20 seconds.
We are waiting for it to dry. You should get a matte surface.

Please note that this method requires great care and skill. In addition, under the influence of steam, some substances evaporate from the top, which extend the wear period.

How to make nail polish in a bottle?

Matte varnish can be obtained from ordinary glossy varnish using powder, starch and non-shiny shadows.

1.5 teaspoon is enough for half a bottle. In some bottles, manufacturers add metal beads to the varnish. If there are none, then it’s good to throw 2-3 balls with a diameter of 3-4 mm. Having poured powder, shadows (the entire box) and balls into the bottle, we begin to mix. If the knocking of the balls against the walls stops, it means the varnish has thickened enough. If necessary, you can add another 0.5 tsp.

Photo instructions

To make a manicure matte, you don’t have to use a polish with this finish - just apply a matte top coat over a regular glossy finish (this is what Essie has, for example). What is the sequence of actions?

Prepare everything you need. You will need colored polish (we used the new Essie Gel Couture, so we didn't use a base) and a matte topcoat.

Degrease the nail plate with oil-free nail polish remover. Antiseptic hand gel is suitable for the same purpose.

Apply two coats of color (we used Surrounded By Studs). The finish of the varnish can be anything - but a regular one paired with a matte top will look better than metallic, pearlescent or glitter.

Make sure you are happy with the coverage. The fact is that a matte top will highlight all imperfections, especially if the varnish is dark.

Apply topcoat to your nails in one coat (keep in mind that some topcoats may slightly change the color of the polish, such as making it lighter). Let it dry thoroughly - it's good if you have an hour left. Ready!

We recommend reading:

Manicure in beige tones 2022
Red French: the brightest manicure trend in 2022
New ideas for manicure

What color and length should I choose for a matte effect?

This manicure is perfect for nails of any length and shape. Now the trend is medium length nails. Almond or oval shape. By applying a matte manicure to short nails, you can be sure that it will look comfortable, stylish, and practical.

Matte beige manicure is a sign of good style, discreet and refined taste.

Modern materials and technologies emphasize originality and give modern women opportunities for self-expression.

Not everyone can grow long nails. But matte manicure for long nails looks great in all variations of color and shape.

The main thing is to remember a few rules:

Light shades on such nails visually lengthen the nail plate when applied using the ombre technique.
You should not overload your appearance, especially with extended nails.
Geometric designs look great on long matte nails.

Required Tools

Matte nail polish can be purchased in stores, but its cost is much higher than regular polishes. There are several ways that allow you to create a matte effect even at home using regular varnish.

To create an attractive and mesmerizing effect of velvet nails, you need to prepare several items:

The most common household kitchen appliance is an electric kettle. It can be replaced with a small container where you need to boil water.
Product of the desired color or several different shades. This will depend on the girl’s desire to decorate her nails with additional decor.
Nail polish remover, as well as some cotton swabs and pads.
The most important thing is nails that have been prepared in advance before application.

Which design is suitable?

Almost any nail design ideas are suitable for a matte manicure.

It can be:

Matte French is always a trendy neoclassic.
Matte manicure with various designs.
With rhinestones. Shiny pebbles on a matte background look very impressive. These can be Swarovski rhinestones or liquid crystals.
Matte manicure with flowers.
Matte manicure with glitter in the form of fine star dust or large shimmering particles.
With drops. The natural effect of raindrops is a stylish accent.
Matte finish with inscriptions.
Lunar manicure. Extends the period of decoration. Even as they grow, your nails will look well-groomed.
Matte manicure with a glossy pattern. The background highlights the beauty and gloss of the design.
A manicure with branches is the personification of femininity and elegance.
With velvet sand made from acrylic powder. Attracts attention and further strengthens the nail plate.
A manicure with monograms is always stylish and festive. Application on a separate finger makes the right accents.
Drawings in various styles and designs on nails of any length.
Combined.
Powder and acrylic flour are an incredibly beautiful, universal nail art idea.
A gradient is a separate transition from one color to another, as a substrate for a pattern, rhinestones and crystals, stamping and sparkles.

Colors

There are a number of differences between matte and glossy manicure. The first gives a pleasant satin effect without a hint of shine

The velvety structure attracts the attention of others and allows you to create an unusual design. The shades of the coating are obtained as if sprayed

The color range of these products is varied. From various manufacturers you can find both light, pastel colors and rich, dark ones. The last option on nails looks quite impressive.

In the lines of most manufacturers you can find the following shade options:

transparent;
burgundy;
blue;
black;
white;
red;
green.

Recommendations from the experts

Matte manicure is not inferior to its leading position. It looks very elegant and suits any look, both in everyday life and for creating an evening out.

Even a simple plain matte finish always looks neat, not boring, unobtrusive and stylish.

The main condition remains thorough preparation of the nail plate before coating. Matte varnish tends to show all surface imperfections. Otherwise, this is the widest field for nail design ideas.

How to prepare the nail plate?

To prepare, you need to carefully examine the dorsal layer, which is responsible for adhesion.

Next, we proceed to preparing matte nails:

We do a hygienic manicure: remove the old coating; give shape; We treat the skin around the nails and nail plates.
Degrease the surface of the nails.
Let's start sanding. It should only be carried out in one direction.
We apply a dehydrator, which draws out moisture and excess oil from the nail plate.
If necessary, on nails with minor problems, rub the primer into weak areas to strengthen them. If everything is in order, then immediately proceed to applying the base layer. After applying the base, we carry out the design and apply a matte finish.

How to make a matte design last?

Matte nail designs are less durable than glossy ones, so experts suggest extending the life of a manicure with the following:

We use a matte top coat at the final stage.
Apply the varnish in several thin layers, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly.
Avoid oils and lotions on your hands before a manicure.
To make the coating last longer, carefully seal the free edge of the nail with varnish.

Performing a manicure - step-by-step instructions

Step 1. Hygiene procedures. Cuticle treatment and removal. Before removing, push back the cuticle using a spatula. To remove we use scissors/device or special gel.

Step 2. Correct the shape of the nails, get rid of hangnails, and level the surface of the nail. To do this, we use nail files, scissors or a machine and nippers.

Step 3. Degreasing, applying base coat. We dry our nails in a lamp. This coating will help not only preserve the design for a long time, but also improve the quality of the nail plate.

Step 4. Applying gel polish.

Apply polish at the base of the nail in the middle.
We stretch it with a brush to the bottom edge, then stretch it along the sides from top to bottom.
We fix the tip of the nail with varnish.
Drying the coating

The color coating can be applied in one layer or in several. It depends on what color you want: light or more saturated and bright.

Step 5. Fixing the coating.

Apply the last layer of varnish using a lamp dryer. In our case it is a matte top. The last layer of varnish will preserve the coating and protect your nails from scratches and damage. A fashionable manicure will delight you for several weeks if everything is done carefully and correctly according to the instructions!

Particular attention should be paid to the processing of tools; it is also necessary to follow the rules for storing them!

We use acrylic powder

Matte-velvet beauty on nails can be created using acrylic powder. As a rule, one jar of such powder lasts for a long time. The manicure is performed according to all the rules, but after applying the top, we do not dry our nails. Gently pour powder onto the coating, and only then place your fingers in the lamp. Remove the remaining powder with a brush.

We use matte dust

Apply to the sticky layer at the end of the manicure. Dust is applied with a brush! Afterwards, the marigolds are also dried in a lamp.

We use a fluffer

After the gel manicure procedure, you need to carefully remove part of the top layer with a cutter or buff. Then the coating will no longer be glossy, but matte. Afterwards we wipe the nail with a sponge and disinfectant. However, you should be extremely careful here so as not to damage the nail plate.

Matte manicure ideas (photo)

Preparatory activities

In order for the coloring composition to evenly cover the nail plate, and the manicure itself to last the maximum amount of time, it is necessary to carry out high-quality cleansing. This means that you need to remove the previous coating from your nails, and also degrease them using nail polish remover. An important point is that you should not use hand moisturizer, as this may negatively affect the uniformity of the varnish coating.

Any manicure and decor will lose its incredible effect on untidy hands. This is especially true for matte composition, since it always attracts increased attention. Therefore, it is very important to put your nails in order - carefully file and give the same shape, treat each nail.

To create a spectacular matte manicure at home, it will take approximately half an hour.

An important point - it is worth considering that in this situation it will not be possible to use a quick-drying fixative, since it will eliminate the entire velvet effect. In this regard, you need to be prepared for the varnish coating to dry completely on its own.

Patterns and ornament

Monograms and patterns are made with thin brushes. There are other techniques: stamping (using stamps) and dotting (with a dot, needle or any sharp objects).

For stamping you need a stamp, a metal plate with patterns, a stamp with a rubber surface, and a scraper for cleaning the disc.

Process of creation:

Shape the nails with a file, degrease the surface and cover with a base.
Apply gel polish of the main color and dry.
A stencil on a metal plate is coated with varnish of a contrasting color.
Remove excess from the stencil with a scraper, without touching the varnish in the recesses.
Capture the image with the rubber surface of the stamp, pressing it tightly against the stencil.
Using the stamp, the image is applied to the nail, pressing them tightly against each other.
Dry and cover with topcoat.

In the dot pattern technique, the basic tool is dots. They also use improvised materials: needles, hairpins, sharp wooden sticks.

Creations:

Nails are shaped, degreased with a primer, a base is applied, and dried.
Cover the gel with varnish of the main color, dry for 2 minutes in a lamp.
Using a dotz or other tool, a dotted pattern is made with gel polish in contrasting colors. Dry with a lamp.
Apply topcoat, dry, remove stickiness.

Don't miss the most popular article in the section: How to extend nails with gel polish. Nail extension instructions for beginners. Photo.

Making a matte finish using baking soda

Baking soda, like starch, can matte the most common nail coatings. Baking soda removes gloss from varnish in a matter of minutes. The matting process occurs very quickly. In order to perform a beautiful matte manicure, we will need:

soda;
sifting strainer;
manicure brush;
container with water;
nail polish.

Manicure is performed in several stages. First, we need to sift the soda through a strainer, because it tends to cake. And this way we will get rid of unwanted lumps that can ruin the entire manicure. Now you can start covering your nails with glossy varnish. To rid it of unwanted shine, we need a brush that needs to be dipped in soda. Gently coat the nails with the brush and hold the baking soda for a few seconds. This time is enough for the soda to be absorbed into the structure of the varnish, thereby destroying the shine. Excess soda must be shaken off. Finally, dip your hands in warm water to completely remove any remaining soda. The resulting matte effect can only be noticed after the varnish has thoroughly dried.

Matte coating

Matte manicure is the embodiment of femininity and sophistication. It looks very impressive and attracts everyone's attention, and in comparison with the usual glossy products it looks restrained and soft.

The main disadvantage of matte varnishes is the limited color palette, since with all the variety of choices, it is not always possible to choose the required shade among the offered assortment.

The solution is a matte coating, which is applied directly to the glossy varnish. After drying, a standard manicure will acquire the desired corduroy effect.

This product will allow you to diversify existing shades and make any manicure velvety in a matter of seconds.

The average cost of matte varnishes is quite high compared to standard coatings, so it is very expensive to purchase a matte varnish of the desired color every time. The solution is a matte coating that will allow you to create a stylish and sophisticated matte manicure at home using conventional products and a special coating, which will significantly save financial resources.

Matte manicure is another trend in the modern nail industry , the uniqueness of which has already been appreciated by hundreds of thousands of fashionistas who are not indifferent to style. Craftsmen who use this technique are not limited to using only one type of varnish. Their arsenal often includes matte coatings that closely imitate the texture of suede, sand, vinyl, plastic and even velvet.

Having decided to please yourself with matte nails one day, it is important not to make a mistake in choosing the shade and texture of the product used. This precaution will allow you to avoid emphasizing existing imperfections in the nail plate.

Gel polish: benefits

Gel polish, unlike regular polish, lasts on nails for 2-4 weeks without damage.

It has a number of advantages:

does not wear off at the ends;
retains shine during wear;
strengthens the nail plate;
no unpleasant odor;
the composition does not contain the harmful component formaldehyde;
You can create volume effects and decorate your nails with rhinestones and bouillons.

Manicure trends are moving toward nail motifs such as rainbow, amber, lace, geometric and floral patterns, and gradients.