wondering how in the world magnetic nail polish works? we’ve got you.

whether you’re completely new to magnetic nail lacquer and interested in learning the basics or an experienced mooncat who’s interested in simply looking for a refresher, you’ve come to the right place. we’re rounding up our top magnetic nail lacquer tips, plus how to create easy cat eye nails and velvet nails.

but before we dive into our favorite magnetic nail techniques, a few CRUCIAL tips to always keep in mind:

MAGNETIC MUSTS:

• always work one nail at a time.
• magnetize your nail *immediately* after painting it.
• use borderline *ridiculously* thick coats of lacquer.
• (why? to allow the magnetic pigment in your lacquer to “flow” more readily into your desired design)
• ALWAYS magnetize each nail after applying top coat.
• (why? your top coat will temporarily reliquify the magnetic pigment in your lacquer, so using your magnet with your top coat helps prevent your magnetic design from “spreading apart” and softening while your top coat dries)

now *drum roll* for the fun part… our three favorite magnetic nail techniques:

FOR THE FIERCEST CAT EYE NAILS

our #1 most recommended magnetic technique; perfect for achieving the sharpest cat eye effect.

STEPS:

1. apply a very thick coat of magnetic lacquer to one nail.
2. immediately hover your magnetic wand at an angle, as close to your nail as possible, without touching it.
3. hold for ~ 30 seconds, while your nail dries. no peeking.
4. repeat steps 1-3 across all of your nails.
5. repeat steps 1-3 with additional coats of lacquer, until you reach your desired opacity.
6. once your nails have dried, apply SPEED DEMON TOP COAT to one nail. immediately hover your magnetic wand at an angle, as close to the nail as possible. hold for ~ 30 seconds, while your nail dries. repeat across all nails. using your magnet with your top coat will help prevent your magnetic design from “spreading” apart and softening.

FOR THE EASIEST CAT EYE NAILS

a technique best for anyone newer to nail art, looking for a softer effect, or with shaky paws.

STEPS:

1. place your magnet at an angle under one nail.
2. apply a very thick coat of magnetic lacquer.
3. hold for ~ 30 seconds, while your nail dries.
4. repeat the process across all of your nails.
5. repeat steps 1-3 with each additional coat, until you reach your desired opacity.
6. lock in your look. be sure to place your magnet under each nail while applying SPEED DEMON TOP COAT, too. using your magnet with your top coat will help prevent your magnetic design from “spreading” apart and softening.

FOR VELVET NAILS

use this technique if you’re looking to branch out from the cat eye design and create a softer, but equally captivating look

STEPS:

1. apply a thick coat of magnetic lacquer to one nail.
2. immediately wave the round end of your magnetic wand back and forth along the side of your nail. continue for ~ 30 seconds, while your nail dries.
3. repeat the process across all of your nails.
4. repeat steps 1-2 with each additional coat, until you reach your desired opacity.
5. once your nails have dried, apply SPEED DEMON TOP COAT to one nail. immediately wave the round end of your magnetic wand back and forth along the side of your nail. continue for ~ 30 seconds, while your nail dries. repeat on all of your nails.

• using your magnet with your top coat will help prevent your magnetic design from “spreading” apart and softening.

those three techniques are just the beginning. practice each (don’t get discouraged!), perfect the essentials, and the magnetic possibilities are truly endless…

now: ready to conjure a magnetic nail look all your own at home? summon a few of our favorite magnetic nail lacquers into your galaxy. shop all the best mooncat magnetics here.