Glitter nails are a true classic that gets reinvented every season – and perfect for anyone who wants their nails to shine. Whether for a wedding, New Year's Eve, a party or simply as a little everyday highlight: glitter always turns heads. In this article you'll learn which glitter options there are and how to create the look yourself step by step – with nail polish or with gel.

Glitter polish, glitter gel or loose glitter?

There are three common ways to get glitter nails. Which one suits you depends on how long the look should last and how much effort you want to put in:

What you need

• File and buffer
• Base coat, or bonding gel for gel
• Glitter nail polish, a glitter gel such as BNC Extreme Glitter Gel Silver or loose glitter such as BNC Glitter Stars Gold
• Top coat or finish gel
• A soft dust brush or a silicone brush for spreading and placing

You'll find more glitter and effect products in our effect gels and effects & pigments categories.

How-to: glitter nails with nail polish

1. Prep: File your nails into shape, gently push back the cuticles and degrease the nail plate so the polish adheres well. Don't cut the cuticles – care for them instead.
2. Base coat: Apply a thin layer of base coat and let it dry completely.
3. Glitter polish: Apply one coat of glitter polish and let it dry. For more intensity, add a second coat. Tip: dabbing instead of brushing distributes the glitter particles more evenly.
4. Alternatively, loose glitter: Apply a thin layer of clear polish and carefully sprinkle the glitter over it while the polish is still wet. Once dry, dust off excess glitter with a soft brush.
5. Top coat: Seal everything with top coat. With chunky glitter, apply two thin coats so the surface becomes smooth. Don't forget the free edge.

How-to: glitter nails with gel

1. Prep: Prepare your nails dry, buff lightly, remove dust and degrease.
2. Bonding gel: Apply thinly and cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Glitter gel: Apply a highly opaque glitter colour gel such as BNC Colour Gel Glitter Sparkle Extreme Red in thin layers and cure each one.
4. Finish: Seal with finish gel and cure. Read more about clean gel application in How to apply colour gel correctly.

Design ideas with glitter

• Accent nail: Only the ring finger in glitter, the other nails in a matching solid colour.
• Glitter ombré: Denser glitter towards the tip, fading out towards the cuticle.
• Glitter French: The French tip in glitter instead of white – you'll find guides for French and babyboomer in Babyboomer & French nails.
• Glitter half moon: A glitter arc at the base of the nail looks elegant and modern.
• Seasonal: Gold and silver for the holidays, rosé and champagne for weddings. For current inspiration, see our nail design trends autumn/winter 2026.

Tips for long-lasting glitter nails

• Avoid contact with hot water right after painting.
• After a few days, apply an extra layer of top coat to renew shine and protection.
• Wear gloves when doing housework.
• Glitter polish is easier to remove if you let a pad soaked in remover sit on the nail for a moment instead of rubbing.

You'll find more tricks for better wear in Make colour gel & shellac last longer.

FAQ: Glitter nails

Why does my glitter polish feel rough?

Larger glitter particles stick out slightly. Two thin layers of top coat or a finish gel will smooth the surface.

What's the best way to remove glitter polish?

Place a cotton pad soaked in remover on the nail for a few minutes, wrap it in foil if you like, then pull it off in one go.

Can I use loose glitter with gel too?

Yes. Sprinkle the glitter into the uncured gel layer or mix it with clear gel, cure, then seal with finish gel.

Do glitter nails work for everyday wear?

Absolutely – for example as a single accent nail or as a fine shimmer over a nude shade.