How to do the Icy Nails Trend At Home: Step-by-Step Instructions

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The "icy nail" aesthetic is taking over social media. This frosted, high-shine look features cool tones and iridescent finishes that mimic the look of fresh snow or ice. If you're hesitant to drop $60+ at a salon for this look, you can easily recreate this style at home with the right tools.

Follow this guide to achieve the perfect icy nail manicure:

Step 1: Prep Nails

A clean base is the key to making shimmery polish look expensive rather than messy.

  • Remove and clean: Clear off any old polish using a nail polish remover. I recommend this gentle, vitamin- and essential oil-infused formula. 

  • Shape: Use a high-quality file to create an almond or square shape. These shapes provide a good amount of surface area so that light hits the shimmery finish.

  • Prep cuticles: Gently push back cuticles with a cuticle tool like this $4 option to ensure the nail polish lays flat against your nail bed.

Step 2: Create the Icy Color

The icy look relies on layering cool tones and reflective particles.

  1. Apply a base coat: Use a quality base coat/primer (I recommend this one) to prevent staining and create a level surface. 

  2. Choose Your "icy" nail polish: Look for polishes with blue, silver, or pearlescent undertones. I love this iridescent blue one. For a more subtle look, you can also use a solid white, blue, or silver polish first and layer an iridescent one on top.

  3. Apply in thin layers: Apply two thin coats rather than one thick one. This prevents bubbles and allows the translucency of the "ice" to show through.

Step 3: Seal it in with a High-Shine Finish

The "wet" look of icy nails comes from a heavy-duty top coat.

  • Apply top coat: Apply a generous layer of top coat. This one is amazing because it provides a gel-like effect and high shine. 

  • Maintain your gorgeous nails: Apply a drop of cuticle oil daily to keep the skin around the nails hydrated, which makes your manicure pop. I recommend this natural oil that comes in 11 scents.


I love this trend because it works on every nail length and skin tone. Whether you prefer a clean girl aesthetic or a maximalist glitter finish, icy nails can be customized to a look you will absolutely love. I hope you found this tutorial helpful!

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