Thanks to TikTok, we're in the age of the "aura." Nowadays, when scrolling through your FYP, you're destined to see dozens of videos discussing losing or gaining "aura points" or watch users test out the color of their aura with AI filters. Not only are users focusing on maximizing their aura output, but they're also translating the concept into their beauty looks, especially in the world of nail art. Celebrities are getting in on the fun, too—Dua Lipa’s grungy "aura nails" are a perfect example of the trend in action.
With the rise of the aura trend, we've also seen an increase in the popularity of airbrushed manicures. While airbrushed nail art is nothing new, CEO of Nailing Hollywood Mazz Hanna explains that "airbrushed manicures have been rising in popularity, particularly with the aura nail art trend," detailing that "this technique involves using an airbrush machine to create a soft, blended effect on the nails. What makes airbrushed manicures so exciting is the endless possibilities for color combinations and designs. You can go for an aura nail, where the main color is concentrated in the center of the nail and gradually fades outward, or try an ombré or gradient effect where one color seamlessly transitions into another."
Intrigued? Check out 10 of our favorite airbrushed manicures ahead that are bound to gain you major aura points.
The Best Airbrushed Manicures to Maximize Your Aura
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Airbrushed Hearts
Are you a queen of hearts like Sabrina Carpenter? Consider your manicure found. Nailing Hollywood artist Rachel Joseph (@rachelsuenails on IG) brought this nail look to life using a light pink base with a darker pink airbrushed design in the center of the nail, topped off with a tiny white heart in the middle.
2 / 10
High Tech Holo
If you're into edgier styles, this set from Vanity Projects artist Andrea Palacio (@andreabook_ on IG) is a great option. It features a soft, mauve and lilac airbrushed design outlined by a chic, silver, holographic line. Now that's what we can high-tech, holographic chic.
3 / 10
Classic Airbrushed Aura Nails
This classic style from Vanity Projects artist Emily Loureiro (@glam.by.ems on IG) is the perfect example of quintessential aura nails created using an airbrushed technique. By airbrushing a dark pink shade over a light pink base, Loureiro creates the illusion of an extending "aura," capturing that perfect, it-girl energy.
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Farmer's Market Airbrushed Nails
One of the hottest nail trends this summer has been Hailey Bieber's farmer's market mani. This style by Joseph perfectly combines the viral farmer's market mani with the airbrushed nail technique, featuring teeny tiny watermelons and watermelon-red splotches of airbrushed paint, too.
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3D Airbrushed Nails
Textured nails have also been a huge hit these past several months, and as this watermelon-inspired design by Joseph proves airbrushed nails complement textured details. For this set, Joseph creates a dual-toned airbrushed base on each nail and adds textured gel accents to create an under-the-sea landscape.
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Airbrushed Neutrals
Many people mistakenly equate nail art with maximalist designs. However, this nail look by Vanity Projects artist Laysa Cazares (@nailbruja on IG) proves that airbrushed manicures can also evoke an understated vibe with the help of a neutral-toned, earthy color palette and short, rounded shape.
7 / 10
Intergalactic Airbrushed Gels
Another style by Vanity Projects' Laysa Cazares, these airbrushed nails feature a black base with space-inspired blues and greens on top, making for a design reminiscent of outer space. Let's be honest; this airbrushed design is truly out of this world.
8 / 10
Snow Queen Airbrushed Nails
Pairing the airbrushed nail technique with intricate, hand-painted designs, Joseph's snow queen airbrushed nails are serving Elsa Queen of Arendelle in the best way.
9 / 10
Airbrushed Pastels
Now, let us be clear—an airbrushed technique does not an aura nail make. Essentially, not all airbrushed nails are aura nails, so if you're not looking for an aura design but want to experiment with the airbrushed technique, check out these perfect pastel nails from Vanity Projects' Manami Takaji (@Lucky__Pool on IG).
10 / 10
Emo Aura Airbrushed Nails
If you're in your Reputation era or just looking for a moodier style, this gray, black and beige airbrushed design by Vanity Projects' Stephanie Rodrigues (@Wavytrouble on IG) might just be perfect for you.
