The popularity of nail colours has grown rapidly over the past few years, and the global nail beauty market is expected to grow at around 8% over the next decade, according to Transparency Market Research (TMR). As consumers embrace nail care and nail colour as a key aspect of their beauty routines, Perfect Corp. tried to identify the emerging trends in nail colours and textures using data sourced from their YouCam Nails app.[1] The app features thousands of AR-powered filters that allows users to virtually try-on nail colour and nail art effects in real time. According to Perfect Corp., the YouCam Nails app cumulates over 7 million virtual nail colour try-ons per year.
Neutral nail colours are the most popular globally
According to Perfect Corp., globally and across many markets, neutral nail colours have emerged as the most popular and most-frequently tried-on shades. Furthermore, the company’s data revealed a trend towards edgier neutral tones, with black nail polish taking the top spot as the most frequently tried-on shade globally. This bold and versatile tone began to rise in popularity over the past year as celebrities stepped out at award shows and on red carpets wearing this striking nail colour in both high-shine and matte finishes.
The trend toward neutrals observed in the big data continued with Pearl White and Sand also emerging as some of the most popular nail colour shades globally.
Black nail polish and light neutral shades were also confirmed to be top trending nail colours in regional data observed for the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Brazil, France, Japan, China and Mexico.
Red and metallic tones
Red nails, such as Cherry, Crimson and Sparkle Red were also among the most popular nail colour shades globally. These tones emerged as top shades across all regions analysed, with a significant trending popularity toward red shades and bright tones across the Middle East regions including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman.
High shine, metallic and chrome tones such as Metallic Rose Gold, Foil Gold, and Foil Silver were also observed among the top 10 most tried-on nail colours globally. These tones trended in all key markets analysed, with a significant preference observed in China, Mexico, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
Cream nail polish tops global texture trends
As far as textures are concerned, cream nail polish was the top tried-on texture across all global markets, followed by jelly, matte, and sheer nail colour formulas, confirming the recent dramatic transformations in this area, with new and innovative finishes taking the beauty world by storm.
The full Global Beauty Trends Report is available to download here.
Footnotes
[1]In its newest “Global Beauty Trend Report,” Perfect Corp. analyses global trends and user behaviour observed during the 6 month period October 2022-March 2023 to project the top global nail trends of the year. The findings also explore major nail trends in key markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Mexico, China, Japan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman.
FAQs
Globally and across many markets, neutral nail colours have emerged as the most popular shades, with black nail polish taking the top spot, according to a recent report by Perfect Corp., a global provider of artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) beauty and fashion tech solutions.
What is the most popular nail polish shade globally? ›
The most popular nail polish color worldwide is ... black.
What is the most popular nail polish color right now? ›
What Color Nail Polish Is In Right Now? (2024 Trending Nail Polish List)
- Lavender: Lavender nail polish is a soft and soothing shade that is making waves in 2024. ...
- Neutral Pink: Neutral pink nail polish is a classic and versatile option that never goes out of style.
In ancient Egypt, black was always seen as a color of power and strength, and because of that, black nail polish has become a statement color for fashion-forward thinkers. However, one of the main reasons black nail polish is so popular is because it's so versatile.
What do they say about black nail polish? ›
In recent times, wearing black clothing or black nail polish is seen as less of a symbol of rebellion, and more of a representation of confidence and empowerment in women and of masculinity and strength in men.
What is the blackest nail polish in the world? ›
Description: Vantablack® is a striking jet black nail polish that becomes opaque in just one coat. Please note that this a 1 coat black nail polish inspired by the name Vantablack (world's blackest black color), but it does not contain actual Vantablack pigment.
What nail color is most attractive? ›
In a representative survey, the German Paint Institute found that men generally likeblue , but also likegray , black and brown . Both sexes like green about equally, while women are more likely to like red ,yellow ,beige and orange .
What color nail polish makes hands look younger? ›
Sheer pink is best. While Lippmann says, a clean beige can also slim the hands. For those with medium skin tones: Lippmann likes more opaque, full-coverage, yellow-based taupe, which works well.
What color nail polish is most professional? ›
What type of color will be professional in your workplace? Don't use any bright neon colors, glitters or eye-catching effects. You shouldn't mix the colors for example multichrome nails, you should pick a nice and delicate tone, light pink or nude shades will be the best choice.
What nail color is on trend in 2024? ›
The Prettiest Nail Polish Colors For Spring 2024. Soft peach, bold yellow, and fiery red are all in store. Spring breathes new life into everything from the greenery you see outside to beauty trends.
– Black is always elegant — you just can't beat perfectly manicured black nails for that super chic look. – They are also striking. It's a relatively new trend, so it's going to look edgy and a little bit different.
Why do guys use black nail polish? ›
Since society generally sees painted nails as a feminine accessory, a man with a manicure definitely goes against the grain and makes a nonconformist statement. Black represents strength, confidence, and power—a perfect color for a man who wants to project his status as “outside of the rules.”
Why do athletes wear black nail polish? ›
According to a source via German outlet Bild, athletes paint their nails or cover it with a protective layer to prevent their nails from fungi and bacteria. They said: 'Many top athletes do this to protect their nails from fungi and bacteria when they are stuck in sweaty shoes for hours. Even Mike Tyson.
Is black nail polish professional? ›
Black Nail Polish in Professional Settings
It can be the perfect accompaniment to your professional ensemble, too. Black's universal charm makes it suitable for formal settings, allowing it to convey a sense of sophistication and professionalism that few other colors can match.
Why do fighters wear black nail polish? ›
Following the example set by MMA fighters, it turns out that painting toenails black can help prevent the nails cracking or splitting during combat, making the choice a functional one rather than aesthetic.
What is the black nail theory? ›
The idea behind black nail theory is that a shiny black manicure can boost your confidence, which is not unlike the purported effects of a classic red mani. However, the goal of painting your nails black is not to attract attention from men. It's about doing it as an act of empowerment for yourself.
What is the trending nail color for 2024? ›
Summer 2024 Nail Trend: Pastel Nail Colors
“This summer, soft and delicate pastels will gain popularity with baby pink, mint green, and soft lemon leading the palette,” says Walton. It's fresh and fun for summertime without the intensity of the brights and neons we're used to seeing in the warm months.
What is the least popular nail color? ›
Yellow is the least popular nail color.
According to the data, yellow is the least popular color of the 10 most common colors.
