9 Steps That Prove We've All Been Applying Glitter Nail Polish Wrong

When I stumbled upon a YouTube video stating that there was a right way to apply glitter nail polish, I obviously had to tune in. I hardly ever use glitter polishes because they always tend to turn out looking dull, thin, and definitely not what the bottle had promised. But after watching this video, my hope in glitter polish has definitely been restored. It turns out that I've been applying glitter polish the wrong way for essentially my entire life, and chances are, so have you. So if you're looking to take your glitter polish game to the next level, keep reading for a list of steps that'll show you how to apply glitter polish to achieve some seriously sparkly results. 

What Not To Do 

So this is definitely how I've been applying glitter nail polish forever, and it's so ineffective. Simply swiping on glitter polish will leave the sparkles dull-looking and spread out. 

Step 1

The first step towards glittertastic nails is to choose a good quality glitter nail polish in your desired color. I love this silver one that she uses. 

Step 2

Glitter polish tends to be hard on nails, so it's important that you apply a clear base coat before getting started. 

Step 3

Liquid latex will be your best friend when it comes to potentially-messy manicures. Invest in a good bottle and you'll definitely get your money's worth.

Step 4

Apply the liquid latex to the skin around your nails. This will contain any potentially-glittery messes! 

Step 5

Instead of applying glitter polish to your nails, apply it to the corner of a cosmetics sponge. These are extremely cheap, and can be found at your local drugstore. 

Step 6

Once you've applied the glitter polish to the sponge, dab it onto your nails. The sponge soaks up the excess polish, leaving behind an amazing concentration of just glitter.

Step 7

Once your polish has dried, peel off the liquid latex from around your nails. Am I the only one who thinks this stuff is amazingly cool?

Step 8

Grab yourself a good quality, clear top coat. Rapid-dry top coats are excellent for those of us with little time to sit still! 

Step 9

Swipe on your clear top coat. This will seal in your manicure, and prevent it from chipping. 

Before & After

The difference between the wrong and right way to apply glitter nail polish is seriously crazy! The glitter is so much more concentrated and eye-catching when applying it with a sponge. 

Voila! 

And there you have it! A perfectly sparkly, disco ball-inspired manicure! I don't know about you, but I'll definitely be trying out this new and improved glitter application method. 

Want to see some examples of glitter polish success? Keep on reading! 

Green With Envy 

These glittering, deep green nails are so mesmerizing. This is such a perfect polish shade for fall! 

Gold Glam

Glittering gold nails are an excellent way to add a little glam factor into any look. 

Rose Accents 

Is the glitter look a bit much for you? Choose a more neutral base polish, and add in one or two sparkling accent nails instead! 

Once you've mastered glitter nails, try them out with this amazing nail shape!