How to choose the best neutral nail polish for your skin tone

18 June 2023 – 3 min read

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Despite being defined as impartial, pale, or without any strongly marked characteristics, neutrals carry a quiet power.

Understated, sophisticated and effortlessly stylish - neutral tones will always be in vogue. And when done right, neutral nail polish makes for a dependable manicure that complements any outfit. But finding the right shade for your skin tone isn’t always straight forward.

And while we’ve been searching for ways to create the best neutrals to suit every skin colour and tone, we’ve rallied the following tips to bring you closer to shades that match your birthday suit. Hip, hip, hooray!

Cool, warm, warmer…

No, we’re not playing hot-cold. We’re talking undertones. And we’ll start by observing them to figure out what colour temperature your skin might be. Undertones affect how skin colour appears under natural light. This explains why your skin might look different under changing-room lighting than it does under pure sunshine. Undertones are generally classified as warm (yellow or golden), cool (red, pink or blue), or neutral (a blend). So, how do you figure out which one you are and which ones to pair with?

Get acquainted with your skin under bright natural light, paying attention to the colour of the veins on your wrist. If they look bluey-purple, you’re most likely cool-toned. If they appear greener you’re warmer toned, and if it’s difficult to tell, you may be neutral. Hold that thought.

Another good indicator is your jewellery. If your skin is complemented by silver jewellery you're likely cool-toned. But if gold really glows on your skin, you may be warm-toned. And for those versatile complexions that look great in both, count yourself lucky and neutral.

It pays to be picky.

When choosing your neutral nail polish, the trick is to stick to your temperature/tonal range (warm, cool or neutral). To offer a bit of contrast to your complexion, experiment with colours that are a touch deeper or lighter than your actual skin colour within your tonal group.

Top neutrals for cool undertones

Babe - This translucent, pinky beige carries cool undertones. It works best as a match for alabaster skin or as a striking contrast for darker skin. If you love Babe, but have a warmer disposition, we recommend Blossom.

SHOP BABE

Top neutrals for the neutral undertones

Blossom - This polish blooms with neutral peach undertones. Blossom is summery sweet on medium skin tones and makes for an excellent team player in French manicures, merci beaucoup.

SHOP BLOSSOM

Top neutrals for warm undertones

Back to Basics - Like a freshly-picked apricot, Back to Basics is soft and a little juicy. There’s a cheeky warmth to this colour that works with neutral and warm skin tones.

SHOP BACK TO BASICS

Candid - Pretty and peachy, with a tint of pink, it’s an ideal shade for warm skin tones. Wear as a sweet neutral on light to medium skin or as a rose-tinted neutral with darker skin.