The Most Attractive Nail Polish Colors, According To Science And Social Media

Much like the colors of the clothes we choose to wear, the nail polish color we choose for our nails is a deeply personal choice and a reflection of our individuality and personality. However, there are certain nail colors which might be more attractive than the rest. This has been certified by science, as well as the court of popular opinion that is social media.

According to a 2008 research study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, when it comes to attractiveness, red reigns supreme. In particular, the study found that the color makes a woman more sexually desirable in the eyes of straight men. However, regardless of what science points to, remember it is important to stay true to yourself. When a Redditor flocked to the site's male population, asking what nail color they prefer to see on women, many of them said they didn't have one as long as the nails were kept clean and healthy. As a take-away lesson, let's keep this Redditor's answer in mind: "[The color] that makes them feel good about themselves" is the best one of all.

The American fashion designer Bill Blass once said, "When in doubt, wear red." Red is the ultimate sexy color and the epitome of femininity in both the colors of our clothes and our nails. "Many men find red nail polish enticing due to its long-time connection with sexuality and eroticism," psychologist Carla Marie Manly, PhD, tells Well+Good. "In fact, research shows that men unconsciously find women more attractive when they wear red. Just as men are drawn to the beauty of a shiny red sports car, they seem to have an affinity for women who wear shades of red nail polish."

Even though research data focuses on heterosexual men, Dr. Manly confirms that "the allure of red can be enticing regardless of gender." This could explain why the #RedNailTheory has been spreading on TikTok, with one particular video causing a sensation. In it, the TikToker claims that every single time she has red nails, a man comments on them. So, empirically and scientifically speaking, red is the most attractive color for your next mani.

Even though science suggests that red is the way to go — if you want to slay the attractiveness game that is — we can understand that not everyone is a red-nail fan. As such, you should definitely not embrace the trend just because science (and social media!) says so. "If someone dislikes red nail polish and wears it solely to attract men, it might be time to take a step back to focus on self-love," Dr. Carla Marie Manly cautions (via Well+Good).

So, what other options do you have? Judging by the videos of men talking about the most attractive nail color on TikTok, it's clear that there is not one uniform answer. However, some videos indicate that white is a favorite. After all, milky white nails are the sleek alternative to bold and bright warm-weather manis.

White is possibly considered attractive because it accentuates tanned skin, or because it symbolizes purity. And of course, according to WikiHow's TikTok video, white nails look neat, healthy, and well-taken care of. If you do decide to hop on the white-nail bandwagon, bear in mind that according to TikTok's white nail theory, this hue means that you are single (and ready to mingle!), which could potentially be why men find this color attractive.

The hashtag #lightbluenails has over 40,000 posts on Instagram and more than 2000 videos on TikTok. According to one TikTok video, blue in general is also a favorite nail polish color among men. Light blue, in particular, evokes positive emotions in others (such as calmness and peace) irrespective of one's gender, per Color Psychology.

Pantone Color Institute director Leatrice Eiseman told Women's Wear Daily, "[Blue] is very reassuring. Blue from many standpoints has positive reactions. In general terms, based on the studies we've done, it's more than likely going to be positive." And this makes perfect sense if you think about it. As she explains, this is a hue that reminds us of the sky and is closely associated with happy memories from childhood.

However, just like with white, there is a hidden meaning behind choosing this color for your nails. According to the light blue nail theory, the shade may indicate your relationship status, or more specifically, that you are in a committed relationship.

We predicted that the butter nail trend would be huge for summer 2024, and we were not wrong. Different shades of yellow, including the butter-y hue, are a favorite amongst the manis of daring fashionistas. Plus, it's also a top choice among men, if TikTok is anything to go by. According to a Verywell Mind podcast hosted by psychotherapist and best-selling author Amy Morin, LCSW, colors can affect how we feel. "Yellow: cheerfulness and joy," she says, explaining what emotions people associate with "the color of the sun." As such, this could explain why men like yellow nail polish.  

Because of yellow's positive vibes,warmth and energy, this zesty hue is associated with confidence and serenity, and those who wear it give the impression that they're ready to enjoy life and have fun. If you are not into yellow, you can tone it down a bit by changing up the traditional French manicure. For instance, yellow French manicures are a classy twist on the butter nails trend. Simply swap the classic white tips with yellow ones instead and incorporate the attractive color in your manicures without compromising your own personal style.

While other nail trends (like the glittery, metallic, and bright neon ones) come and go, soft pastel shades never go completely out of style. Baby pink, lavender, periwinkle blue, and minty green are colors that are often associated with girly, romantic, and innocent, sweet vibes, since they're widely linked with all things maternal.

According to TikTok, pastel colors, including soft pink and violet, are viewed as attractive when worn as nail colors on women. On the plus side, you can match almost any outfit with these softer hues, which makes them a great go-to option, year-round. The "soft Skittles" manicure is one of best the subtle rainbow nail trends to try, so if you want to go the extra mile and add a little bit more dimension and playfulness to your pastel nails, this is the aesthetic to go for.