Using Pigment Powders for Ombre and Aura Nails

If you’ve scrolled through Instagram or Pinterest for nail inspiration, chances are you’ve come across mesmerizing aura nails and classic ombre nails. These gradation nail looks are popular for good reason–they’re expressive, customizable, and timeless. Typically, they are created using an airbrush machine or using high pigmented gel and a sponge. Using syrup gel and a blending brush is another technique to create gradation designs. However, these methods are time-consuming and can be challenging to execute. If you’re looking for an easy way to achieve aura or ombre nail designs, Sweetie Nail Supply has just what you need to effortlessly create these beautiful designs. Dive in to learn how to use pressed pigment powders to master the art of beautiful and seamless gradations. 

Aura designs mimic the soft, radiant glow of an energy field, blending vivid, halo-like colors on a very light base color over the nails. Inspired by aura photography, this trend radiates personality and mood, making it perfect for anyone seeking a unique, statement-making manicure. These auras can consist of a single color or multiple colors. 

Similarly, ombre nails feature a seamless gradient of color that transitions from light to dark or vice versa. This versatile design can be subtle and classy or bold and edgy, depending on your color choices. Ombre designs are a popular choice. As simple as it may look, ombre nails can be challenging to achieve. 

Pressed pigments have revolutionized how nail artists create aura, ombre, and other gradation style nail art. Unlike airbrush machines—which can be expensive, a hassle to use, and pose respiratory health risks due to airborne particles released into the air during use—pressed pigment powders offer a more efficient alternative. Their high color pigmentation delivers intense and saturated colors with minimal product, ensuring vibrant results. With no need for fancy machinery, pressed pigments allow for seamless blending using a soft sponge applicator or brush, making professional-looking designs more accessible and achievable while reducing gel waste commonly produced with other gradation techniques. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of how to use pigment powder to create gradation designs: 

Aura Nails: 

1. After nail prep and base coat, apply a neutral gel base color and cure for 60 seconds in a nail lamp.
2. Apply a matte topcoat and cure for 60 seconds in a nail lamp. 
3. Lightly dab the sponge applicator into the pressed pigment powder color of choice. You won’t need a lot of powder as a little goes a long way. Lightly dab the sponge applicator onto the center of the nail. Apply slightly more pressure for more color concentration. Gently dab the outwards to create a hazy effect or use the backside of the sponge applicator to blend the pigment outward to make the gradient more seamless. 
   
   
   
4. Once the desired look is achieved, apply a coat of top gel. Float the gel on the nail rather than applying pressure to prevent smearing. Cure for 60 seconds. 

Ombre nails:

1. After nail prep and base coat, apply a neutral gel base color and cure for 60 seconds in a nail lamp..
2. Apply a matte topcoat and cure for 60 seconds in a nail lamp. 
3. Lightly dab the sponge applicator into the pressed pigment powder color of choice. Apply powder at the free edge of the nail. Use light and gentle movements to bring the color towards the center of the nail. 
   
   
   
   
   
4. Once the desired look is achieved, apply top gel by lightly floating the gel on the nail. Avoid applying pressure to prevent smearing. Cure for 60 seconds. 

Aura and ombre nails offer a timeless appeal, blending colors seamlessly for a soft and dreamy effect. With pressed pigment powders, you can craft effortless gradients with different color combinations. Pair these beautiful gradations with hand painted designs and other elements for unique and captivating nail art.