Pro Tips for Handling Darker Nail Colors Like a Pro
Darker nail shades can be bold, dramatic, and absolutely stunning, but let's be real—they can also be a little trickier to handle than lighter colors. If you've ever applied a deep color like Livi's iconic "It’s Handled" and found yourself struggling with smudges, bubbles, or a less-than-perfect finish, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
As one of our darker shades, "It’s Handled" can be a bit temperamental, but with a few expert tips, you can apply it flawlessly, making those rich, sultry tones work for you. Here are our pro tips for handling darker colors and achieving a salon-worthy finish every time.
1. Be Precise When Placing the Sticker
Darker shades can be a bit unforgiving, especially if you need to reposition the sticker once it’s on your nail. Since some color can transfer when you move it around, take extra care to place the sticker perfectly on the first try. To get the best results, align it carefully with your cuticle and press it down gently but firmly.
2. Press Down Firmly to Avoid Bubbles
One of the biggest challenges with darker shades is that it's harder to see if the sticker is fully adhered to the nail. To avoid any bubbling or lifting, use your cuticle stick to aggressively press the sticker down along the entire surface of your nail, especially around the edges. A quick pro tip: flip your nail over and look at the underside to ensure everything is stuck down smoothly.
3. Keep the Protective Cover On
When removing the sticker from the sheet, keep the protective cover on until after you’ve placed it on your nail. This will help you avoid any accidental smudges or damage to the surface of the sticker. Only peel the cover off once the sticker is securely in place on your nail.
4. File at a 45-Degree Angle—And File Gently
Filing your nails the right way is key to getting a professional finish with darker shades. File at a 45-degree angle, using soft, smooth motions. Be sure to file in one direction only (left to right or right to left) to avoid jagged edges. This will ensure a clean, polished look that’s free from chips or tears.
5. A Quick Fix for Overheating
As darker shades tend to absorb more heat, they can sometimes become more fragile. If your "It’s Handled" shade seems to have overheated during shipping, don’t worry! Simply pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes and then massage it back to room temperature. This will reset the formula and make it much easier to apply smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Darker shades like "It’s Handled" can be a little high-maintenance, but with these tips, you'll be able to rock that deep, dramatic look with confidence. And if your mani gives you more trouble than expected, don't hesitate to reach out! We’re always here to help (and even replace colors if needed). At Livi, we believe that your nails should look as flawless as your busy life is—no compromises.
Got any other questions or pro tips for handling darker colors? Drop us a comment below! We’d love to hear from you.
