The beauty game changer: Neon nails

When was the last time you went bolder than a striking red lip or a pop of blue eyeliner? While it might seem daring to try neon, Christian Louboutin Beauty’s Loubiflash is a luxe new collection of bold but beautiful nail polishes – and they’re perfect to experiment with. The collection has three vivid colors: hot pink, electric orange and peacock green, all formulated with unique pigments to enhance the colors’ vibrancy. “Neon nails are a great accessory to your summer wardrobe,” says celebrity manicurist Robbie Tomkins, who works with the likes of Hailey Baldwin and Liv Tyler. “Sunlight accentuates nail polish, so a bright color will really pop, and can even enhance a tan.”

Neon pinks are particularly flattering on lighter skins, while orange and greens look best on those with olive, tanned or dark skin tones. “To ensure neon polish glows, always start with a thin coat of white polish,” says Tomkins. A white base also stops the color from dulling. “As always, a shiny top coat will make your mani last longer.” If you find that your polish chips easily, the trick to making it last is to make sure your nail is completely dry before painting. “Use a pure acetone remover to take away any moisture or residue left on the nail, and then apply your base coat so that your polish has something to ‘grip’ onto. Most importantly, make sure your top coat is applied over the edge of the nail to seal it,” advises Tomkins.

A super-bright, eye-catching neon nail means a neat finish is a must. Use a flat concealer brush dipped in remover (and then blotted onto a tissue) to create a clean finish around the sides of the nail and along the cuticle line.