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How To Do Galaxy Nail Art Even If You're Not A Pro

Get out-of-this-world nails at home with a few steps.
June 13, 2022

Galaxy nail art has continuously captured our attention on social media for its eye-catching sparkle, ethereal design and out-of-this-world charm. Wearing like mini pieces of art on each nail, it often features a wash of sky colored hues, glitter, stars and stellar (no pun intended)  attention to detail. 


It's worthy of its viral status and admired by nail art junkies and purists alike. Contrary to belief, you don't have to be pro-status to get picture-perfect galaxy nail art. Read more to learn how to get the perfect galaxy nail art at home.


How To Do Galaxy Nail Art

While it can look intimidating, galaxy nail art is actually quite easy when you follow a simple formula that includes a sky colored base, stars and a glitter top coat. Get creative and follow this foolproof tutorial to achieve stunning, DIY galaxy nails.


1. Prep the Nails

You want to start with clean nails free of polish, dirt and oils. Prep the cuticles and file your nails to the shape of your liking. This prep will ensure that your intricate galaxy nail art will last. 


2. Apply a Base Coat

Apply a light layer of base coat onto each nail. Applying a base coat protects your natural nails from staining and prolongs your manicure. It’s a simple step that really pays off in the long run.

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3. Choose a Base Color

Most galaxy nail art starts with a navy, black or purple base to mimic an outer space setting. Some galaxy looks include a wash of multiple colors, and while it sounds intimidating to execute, it’s really not.  


If you’re going with one color, simply pick a color and paint a light layer onto each nail as you normally would. If you’re choosing multiple colors, try this easy hack for a salon-worthy look:


First, grab a clean makeup sponge that you no longer need, then, paint the colors onto the sponge. Next, press the sponge into the nail for an ombré wash of color. Grab a nail brush and some acetone to remove any paint that gets on the skin. You can apply this hack to every nail or just a few to add a vibrant accent. No need to make it look perfect or get technical.


Editor’s tip: Adding pink tones is a gorgeous complement to blues and purples for a colorful galaxy inspired look. You can even add a few lines of white nail polish to mimic the Milky Way.
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4. Apply a Glitter or Shimmer Top Coat

We’re gonna let you in on a little secret — a light coat of glitter, shimmer or holographic nail polish is the secret to bringing your galaxy manicure to life. If you choose a few colors for your base, it will help to blend all those colors together seamlessly. It will also hide any imperfections and add a star-like, ethereal shine to your nails. It’s a win-win.

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5. Add Stars

Painting on stars is a simple way to upgrade your galaxy inspired nails. Don’t be nervous about this step — all stars look different and come in tons of different shapes, so have fun with it. 


Grab a silver or white shade of nail polish so it pops on your dark background. Then, dip a line brush in a little bit of nail polish and draw out the shape of a star. Go for a five point star or map out a starburst shape with lines for an easy design. Little dots can also map out the shape of a constellation and adding a crescent moon is a perfect way to set the starry sky.


Editor’s tip: There is no pressure to paint designs onto each nail. A galaxy manicure with a mix of accent nails, artwork and solid nails is a perfect and wearable way to add your own spin on the look. And if you really want to bling it out with stars, nail stickers will do the trick too.

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6. Get 3D With It

All the glitter, sparkle and shine is a big yes for any galaxy-inspired manicure. If you have rhinestones, nail stickers or any other 3D appliques, you’ll want to add those after you're done painting and before applying the top coat. Use a pair of tweezers and some nail glue or top coat to attach them to your manicure. Rhinestones mimic stars and are perfect for adding light-catching sparkle and 3D texture. Moon or star shaped sequins are another stellar way to give your nails a galaxy-inspired look without having to paint on a design.


7. Apply the Top Coat

Once you're finished with the design, rhinestones, glitter and any other stickers you want to add to your galaxy manicure, sealing it with a top coat is a must (even if you used a glitter top coat). Applying a clear top coat will smooth out the texture of glitter, protect your manicure and leave you with a high-shine and oh-so glossy finish.


Next: 5 Types Of Landscape Nails We’re Loving Right Now


Written by: Reece Andavolgyi; Photo credit: IG/the_beauty_fountain

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