Category: THE-BEAUTY

I’m Convinced Doja Cat Time Traveled from 1986 With This Hairstyle—See the Photos

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A new era is on the horizon for Doja Cat, and if her look at the 2025 Outside Lands music festival is any indication, she may be taking us back to the '80s.

Doja threw it back to the decade of glitz, glamour, and Aqua Net with her performance look, which was dripping in the maximalism and flash of the era. Her long, wavy platinum blonde wig, styled by hairstylist JStayReady, was teased all over for tons of superstar volume. A small portion of her hair was chopped into shorter layers and pinned for extra oomph, creating a mullet-esque silhouette that flowed all the way down her back to brush the waistband of her zebra-print pants. And in true ‘80s fashion, Doja’s bangs were also teased into a towering fringe that brushed her face as she sang. You could easily see her onstage with Vanity 6 or fronting a hair metal band with this sky-high hair and that animal-print crop top and leggings ensemble. Are we sure she didn't time travel out of 1986?

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Makeup artist Ivan Núñez kept the ‘80s vibes going with Doja’s glam, sculpting her lids with soft shadows and defining them with a sharp cat-eye liner, then brushing a hot, magenta-pink blush across her cheeks and up towards her temples. Her bright, cherry red lips perfectly matched her square-shaped scarlet manicure.

Doja recently told V Magazine that her forthcoming album, Vie, was inspired by the liminal spaces and nostalgic feelings of the ‘80s, though it will sound more synth-pop than Lita Ford-style hair metal. “I wanted to play with that nostalgia by using these Lo-Fi sounds and samples and things that reminded you of something from your childhood, but it wasn’t on the nose ‘80s," she said. She also channeled an ’80s aesthetic when teasing “Jealous Type,” the first single from Vie, complete with frosty blue eye shadow and mall bangs. Looks like it's time to invest in a teasing comb, some hot rollers, and a new extra-hold hairspray!

June 27, 2025
8 Best BHA Toners That Smooth and Clear Skin
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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

The best BHA toners have officially redeemed toner’s reputation. Once known for being stingy and skippable, today’s formulas are hardworking must-haves that exfoliate, decongest pores, and smooth skin, without stripping it dry. BHA (a.k.a. beta hydroxy acid—most commonly in the form of salicylic acid) is oil-soluble, meaning it can dive deep into pores to clear out gunk and excess oil. That makes it especially helpful for breakout-prone or oily skin types, but even dry or sensitive skin can benefit with the right formula.

Our Top BHA Toners
- Best Overall: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment, $25
- Best for Combination Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $37
- Best Toner Pads: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads, $28
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner, $44
- Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Face Toner, $17
- Best for Dry Skin: Alpyn 2% BHA Pore Perfecting Liquid Exfoliator, $39
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner, $17
- Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner, $10
Over time, these toners can help reduce blackheads, minimize the look of pores, and improve overall tone and texture. Some even go the extra mile with soothing or hydrating ingredients, proving that toners aren’t just a throwaway step anymore—they’re an essential part of your skin-care routine.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron
Is it okay to use a BHA toner every day?
Which ingredients shouldn’t be combined with BHA?
Is there an ideal percentage of BHA?
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
Our staff and testers

Best Overall: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment

Image may contain: Bottle, Cosmetics, Perfume, and Lotion

Cosrx

BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment

$25 $18 (28% off)

Amazon

$25

Nordstrom

$25

Revolve

Why it's worth it: If you’re chasing that glass skin glow (and who isn’t?), COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment is the one to beat. This K-beauty classic is our best overall pick because it does everything you can ask for in a toner: It exfoliates, clears pores, smooths texture, and calms skin. It uses a gentle duo of BHAS with niacinamide (without a harsh sting) to keep breakouts under control and skin looking radiant and healthy. Even if you’re not following a whole 10-step routine, this toner works hard to brighten dullness, balance oil, and prep your skin to soak in whatever comes next.

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Han before applying COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment

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Han after three weeks of applying COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“This COSRX toner, much like their snail mucin essence, is what I like to call an oldie-but-a-goodie. It’s been around since I got into K-beauty over nine years ago, and whenever my blackheads are looking extra prominent, I reach for this trusty toner and spend some extra time post-double-cleanse to work it into my T-zone and on/around my nose (the biggest culprit!). I switch up the a.m. vs. p.m. application on the days I use a retinol serum at night, so COSRX goes on in the morning after splashing my face with water. I’ve noticed that my nose blackheads are less prominent and, well, dark, and some discoloration from self-inflicted picking (I know, I know!) has faded, which is an unexpected but welcome win!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Sarah has combination skin and her biggest concerns are blackheads and excess oil in her T-zone. She’s been using the COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid every day (either morning or night, but not both) for three weeks.

More to know

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Key ingredients: willow bark extract, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Combination Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Grey Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant bottle with white cap on light gray background

Paula's Choice

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

$37

Amazon

$37

Dermstore

$37

Paula's Choice

Contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Why it's worth it: Paula’s Choice built its reputation on no-BS, research-backed formulas, and the 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is arguably the brand’s most-loved product. The viral toner uses salicylic acid to dive deep into pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin buildup that can lead to breakouts. “It’s well tolerated by nearly all skin types, easily incorporated into a routine, and quite effective,” says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology based in Toronto, Canada; it’s one of the few viral products that she actually recommends in her practice. It also contains green tea, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps calm the redness and irritation often seen in hormonal or inflammatory acne. For those with sensitive or reactive skin, this lightweight mist keeps things simple with just nine ingredients.

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Pai before applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

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Pai after three weeks of applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I haven't used toner in ages, but when faced with pretty rough hormonal acne on my chin and jaw, I reached for this. I alternated it at night with Shani Darden Rescue Serum With 10% Azelaic Complex right after cleansing, and just smoothed it into my skin; it absorbed quickly without any need for a cotton pad. I've found that this seems to be my magic combo for controlling breakouts. And when the occasional cystic zit did pop up, it didn't get as red or as big as it typically might have. I'm happy to report that it lives up to the hype." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

Pai has combination skin and her biggest concerns are hormonal acne and hyperpigmentation. She’s been using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant once a day for three weeks.

More to know

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Key ingredients: salicylic acid, green tea, methylpropanediol
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Toner Pads: Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

Innisfree

Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

$28

Amazon

$28

Sephora

Contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

Why it's worth it: You probably already know we love a good swipe-and-go situation, and Innisfree’s Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads are ideal for those who want to specifically reduce redness. As with many K-beauty products that prioritize calming care, these pre-soaked pads are all about getting results without irritation. You have salicylic acid to unclog pores, a gentle dose of retinol to smooth texture, and soothing ingredients like cica and green tea ceramide from Korea’s Jeju Island, known for its mineral-rich soils. “These toner pads are not only convenient, but they’re always popular because they say it gives people such a clean-skin feel,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. It’s our favorite, one-step shortcut to calmer, more balanced skin.

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Lee before applying Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads

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Lee after using Innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads for two weeks

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’ve been a fan of Innisfree’s Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Toner Pads for a while—they’re gentle yet brightening, and pair perfectly with my morning SPF routine. The K-beauty brand is well known for their sensitive skin-friendly formulas, so I knew the Gentle Retinol Salicylic Daily Toner Pads wouldn't freak out my skin. These retinol pads were (believe it or not) my first foray into retinol, and after two weeks of nightly use, I noticed my skin texture start to smooth out. Even though I don’t deal with breakouts, the combo of gentle retinol and salicylic acid made a visible difference in softer, more even skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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Key ingredients: retinol, salicylic acid, green tea, cica, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner

SkinCeuticals LHA Toner white bottle with black cap on light gray background

SkinCeuticals

LHA Toner

$44

Dermstore

$44

Bluemercury

$44

SkinCeuticals

Why it's worth it: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner is an exfoliating toner that means business. “This formula combines two forms of salicylic acid—standard and capryloyl salicylic acid, a gentler version—with glycolic acid at a low pH for potent exfoliation both at the skin’s surface and within the pore,” says Yadav. “That makes it effective at addressing all forms of congestion, including whiteheads, blackheads, and deeper blemishes.” The glycolic acid also helps fade post-acne discoloration over time. Because of its low pH and formulation, it’s best suited for those who aren’t dry or sensitive.

Editor's tip

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Don’t be thrown off by the alcohol-like scent: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner contains denatured alcohol to help its exfoliating acids (salicylic and glycolic) penetrate more effectively. While the scent is a little astringent, the formula dries down quickly and doesn’t leave behind any greasy or sticky residue.

More to know

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Key ingredients: caproloyl salicylic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Face Toner

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

La Roche-Posay

Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

$17 $16 (6% off)

Amazon

$19

Dermstore

$21

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Next time you’re at the drugstore, do yourself a favor and grab La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Clarifying Solution, particularly if excess oil and breakouts are your main skin concerns. “This product is great for acne-prone skin, and I often recommend it with the Effaclar Purifying Foam Gel Cleanser, which also contains purifying properties,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. Along with exfoliating acids, it’s made with La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water. “Thermal spring water contains minerals, trace elements, and a high concentration of selenium. These are prebiotics that are helpful for the skin’s microbiome,” she says. (Prebiotics, for the uninitiated, are materials that nourish the beneficial bacteria on your skin.) Each swipe gets you closer to more balanced skin.

Editor's tip

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Oily skin often goes into overdrive when it’s dehydrated. The glycerin in this toner acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin to help keep it hydrated and balanced.

More to know

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Key ingredients: lip-hydroxy acid, glycerin, thermal spring water
Fragrance-free: no

Best for Dry Skin: Alpyn 2% BHA Pore Perfecting Liquid Exfoliator

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Alpyn Beauty

2% BHA Pore Perfecting Liquid Exfoliator

$39

Amazon

$39

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Finding a liquid exfoliant that unclogs pores and doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight or flaky is no small feat, but this Best of Beauty winner pulls it off. “Alpyn Beauty’s 2% BHA Pore Perfecting Liquid Exfoliator is an excellent choice for dry skin due to the inclusion of ingredients like glycerin, aloe, squalane, and jojoba, all of which hydrate and nourish without congesting pores,” says Dr. Yadav. Tremella mushroom (a humectant even more powerful than hyaluronic acid) keeps moisture levels up, while vitamin C helps brighten and fade post-acne discoloration. Dr. Yadav also points to calming ingredients like borage and tea tree oil, plus gentle astringents like tea tree and witch hazel, making it ideal for anyone dealing with dryness, dullness, large pores, or stubborn breakouts.

Editor's tip

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Just when you thought this formula couldn’t be more stacked, it’s also got phytic acid, which is a gentle exfoliant that helps boost cell turnover.

More to know

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Key ingredients: salicylic acid, vitamin C, tremella mushroom, tea tree oil, borage, witch hazel extract
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner

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Farmacy

2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner

$34

Amazon

$34

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If your skin panics at the mere thought of exfoliation, Farmacy’s Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner is gentler than you’d expect. The alcohol- and fragrance-free formula uses 2% salicylic acid (the standard amount found in over-the-counter products) to clear out pores and papaya enzymes to brighten, while moringa seed extract and antioxidant-rich chlorella help hydrate and calm. It even includes peony root extract, known for its anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing properties, making it a rare exfoliant that plays well with sensitive, breakout-prone skin. In short, it keeps oil and blackheads in check without leaving your face feeling tight, stripped, or angry.

Editor's tip

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For extra-sensitive skin, start using this toner every other night to let your skin adjust, then work up to daily use.

More to know

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Key ingredients: salicylic acid, moringa seed extract, papaya enzymes, chlorella
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner

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Neutrogena

Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner

$10

Walmart

Why it's worth it: If you’re stressed about breakouts (or breaking out because you’re stressed), Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner keeps excess oil at bay. “This product uses MicroClear Technology proven to dissolve oil and also improve the penetration of salicylic acid,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “It’s great for patients who are very concerned about excessively oily skin.” The formula combines 2% salicylic acid with calming green tea and cucumber extracts, plus glycerin to lightly hydrate so your skin feels refreshed, not tight. As the name suggests, this toner does triple duty: It treats acne, cuts down on oil, and soothes stressed-out skin all in one refreshing swipe.

Editor's tip

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This toner is great for keeping skin balanced, even when you're not breaking out. It helps maintain clear pores and prevent future flare-ups.

More to know

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Key ingredients: salicylic acid, cucumber extract
Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use a BHA toner every day?

BHA usage depends on your skin type. “Yes, it is okay to use a BHA daily for people with normal to oily skin,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “People with dry skin may need to decrease the frequency of use.” Because BHAs like salicylic acid help unclog pores and reduce excess oil, they’re often well tolerated by acne-prone skin types. That said, if you’re new to chemical exfoliants or have sensitive skin, it’s smart to start slow and build up to daily use. And don’t forget sunscreen, as BHAs can make your skin more sun-sensitive.

Which ingredients shouldn’t be combined with BHA?

While BHA can be paired with many ingredients, certain combinations may be too harsh. “People with dehydrated or sensitive skin may experience excessive dryness if they combine a salicylic acid toner with other drying or exfoliating ingredients, such as other acids, retinol, or benzoyl peroxide,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. That said, “for people with normal to oily skin, these combinations of ingredients are very common.” Another combo to be cautious with is vitamin C and acids like BHA, since “vitamin C stability is pH-dependent,” she adds. To minimize irritation, consider alternating active ingredients or using them at different times of day.

Is there an ideal percentage of BHA?

There’s no one-size-fits-all ideal percentage of BHA—it depends on your skin type and what you’re using it for. “The concentration that is typically used for acne is 2%,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “For general use, concentrations range from 0.5–2%.” If you have sensitive skin, she notes that “lower concentrations may be better,” since tolerability can vary based on strength. “It really depends on the formula, but theoretically, the higher the percentage, the greater the exfoliating effects,” she adds.

Meet the experts

Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology based in Toronto, Canada

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best toners for sensitive skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

May 10, 2025

fall nail art trends 2025 mixed metals lace designs 3d chrome drips Source Images: Courtesy of Hang Nguyen, Jennifer Graylock, and Vanity ProjectsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Fall is a textural season. Close your eyes and think about it: dry, crunchy leaves strewn all over the sidewalks; plush, cozy sweaters; fuzzy socks we wear to shuffle around the house; the knobby gourds and stringy fake cobwebs we use to decorate our front porches. This fall’s biggest nail trends seem to capture this abundance of texture, says Marnae Orton, nail artist and educator at The Nailsaloon in Washington, DC. “Velvet nails, 3D embellishments, and abstract designs using chrome will have their moment as a fashion accessory,” she says.

Rita Pinto, founder of Vanity Project salons, has a similar prediction across her client base in New York City and Miami: “We’ll continue to see a trend toward a more textured, 3D chrome look with jewel tones and cat-eye gel this fall.”

And speaking of cat-eye nails, magnetic polish will remain a favorite among nail art lovers, says San Diego-based nail artist Alora Reyes. “It’s a design we incorporate into ‘crazier' sets as a pop of something interesting,” she explains, “but I also have clients that are obsessed with it as one color.”

But telling you cat-eye nails are “in” is no news flash, especially if you're someone with a standing salon appointment. What is fresh for fall, though, is taking some of the year’s biggest trends and giving them a sumptuous, autumnal twist. Nail artists are using chrome finishes and builder gel to create bespoke, mixed-metal manicures that flout old-school fashion rules and echo what’s happening in the jewelry space. They’re breaking out the biggest, flashiest crystals for dazzling designs that border on the baroque. They’re using animal prints on the tips of nails and dreaming up aura designs in rich fall shades like mauve, plum, and apricot.

But it’s not all bold bling and flashing metallics. On the other side of the nail art spectrum are a growing number of trends that rely on subtle, neutral tones while still managing to capture that textural element we’re loving this fall. Expect to see tiny, flat-back studs on nude nails, nail art designs done entirely in luxe neutral tones, and sheer textile prints layered over a pale nail that look as delicate and diaphanous as expensive lingerie. When it comes to nail art, there’s so much beauty to choose from; you just have to know where to look.

Meet the experts:

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Rita Pinto is the founder of Vanity Project nail art salons in New York City and Miami.
Alora Reyes is a nail artist based in San Diego.
Hang Nguyen is a Los Angeles-based nail artist.
Marnae Orton is a nail artist and educator at The Nailsaloon in Washington, DC.
Bana Jarjour is a Los Angeles-based nail artist.
Julie Kandalec is a New York City-based nail artist and Kiss brand ambassador.
Maki Sakamoto is a New York City-based nail artist.
Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.
Julie Kandalec is a New York City-based nail artist and Kiss brand ambassador.

Mixed metals

This fall, nail artists are tossing out the old-school fashion rule that says you shouldn’t wear silver and gold at the same time. “Mixed-metal nail art has been my latest obsession,” says nail artist Hang Nguyen. “I used to think they’d clash, but turns out they look amazing together. I mean, why choose one when you can have both?”

Nguyen finishes her mixed-metal designs with a no-wipe topcoat (her favorite is the Kupa Gelfinity Gel Top), which eliminates the step of having to remove the sticky layer that’s typical with traditional gel finishes. This makes a no-wipe gel topcoat an ideal option when using builder gels and gems—both often used in mixed-metal designs—as it keeps you from disturbing those 3D elements underneath.

There’s no right or wrong way to try the mixed-metal trend. “You can keep it minimal or add more 3D designs for a more dramatic look,” says nail artist Bana Jarjour. Both Nguyen and Jarjour use builder gel and chrome powders to create unique and maximalist mixed-metal manicures. Nguyen considers OPI to have some of the best chrome powders for this type of manicure, while Jarjour gives a shout-out to The Gel Bottle Mirror Chrome Studio Gel.

A hand with a palm faced up and fingers curling up to show blue and gold metallic nails with gem and metalswirled details. Courtesy of @thehangedit

You can stop at using builder gel and chrome powder or you can go even more maximalist by adding appliqués or colored crystals, says Nguyen, who did just that for the look above. “This look feels perfect for fall,” she says. “It gives off a witchy, celestial vibe with the mix of gold and silver, and the deep blue gems feel almost like little galaxies on my nails. Kind of moody, kind of magical, and I’m obsessed.”

Silver and yellow gold shiny metallic almondshaped nails. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmia Interlocked fingers showing nude almond shaped nails with wavy metallic middle section that flows from gold to silver. Courtesy of @vanityprojects Maroon and nude glossy nails with gold and silver puffy crosses. Courtesy of @aurakanailsCourtesy of @nailsbymh Fingers layered to show cool white base nails with large gold and silver star designs. Courtesy of @vanityprojects

Understated elegance

For those who prefer a more subdued level of sparkle for fall, there’s plenty of inspiration coming from the red carpets, with dozens of celebrities opting for delicate crystals atop sheer, nude polish. Marc Jacobs experimented with the look for the Met Gala, as did Olympian Gabby Thomas (below). Sabrina Carpenter is also a fan. “We always see the return of understated elegance during the fall,” says Jarjour, “so something simple like this is much more wearable for people who want to add a little pizzazz without going overboard.”

Ombre nude nails with silver gems and swirly silver lines. Courtesy of @makinaill sabrina carpenter with chrome nails with gems Getty Images

For Thomas’s classic look, but “with a little extra zhuzh,” nail artist Maki Sakamoto used Kiss Classy Premium Nails in Stunning. “They were perfect, with their chic crystals and glitter, yet still neutral,” she says.

You can also reach for any natural-toned base color and flat-back crystal studs from Amazon. Says Orton, “Camel and neutral pink tones provide a versatile foundation for any skin tone, making the crystals and gems the star of the manicure.” The design can be done with traditional lacquer or gel, explains Jarjour, who recommends Essie Nail Lacquer in Fairy Tailor (for a traditional lacquer) or The Gel Bottle in Dune (for a gel formula).

Fingers on one hand curled upwards to show silver gems in polka dot fashion on nude nail base. Courtesy of @banicured_ One hand layered on the other to show almondshaped acrylic pinky nude nails with interspersed silver gems. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmi

Transparent textiles

Another subtle nail art trend features designs you might expect to find on racks at Wolford or Agent Provocateur (and not your fingertips). Textile-inspired prints such as lace and snakeskin laid over a nude nail created a lingerie-like effect at runway shows like Kim Shui and The Blonds—and manicurists nationwide are already getting requests. Says Reyes, “I've been doing a lighter nude base and using lace nail transfers to achieve a subtle but stunning nail look.”

lace nails at the blonds FW 2025 Jennifer Graylock

Reyes likes sweeping on a sheer, pale shade like DND Gel Polish in Team Time #870 before using Daily Charme Transfer Foils. If that sounds like too much effort (we hear you), you can opt for press-ons. Paintlab offers a beautiful beige and white lace press-on set that’s perfect if you like a long, almond nail shape.

Raised silver design over white and black micro polka dot nail base. Courtesy of @cocamichelle, @bish.op, @rahulxciv

'80s French

Pinto noticed throwbacks to the ’80s (like shoulder pads and crocodile textiles) all over fall runways. “That said, I think a white French manicure is going to be in the narrative,” she adds. And let’s be real, a French manicure never goes out of style; it’s been a go-to design since Jeff Orly created the two-toned look for Hollywood movie sets in 1976. But we’re already seeing celebs like Jenna Ortega and Ariana Grande embrace a bolder, chunkier version that pays homage to long-nail queen Barbra Streisand or Pamela Anderson in Barbarella.

Nail artist Thuy Nguyen used Aprés Gel Couleurs in Maybe and Cloud Nine to achieve Ortega’s “clean, chic, and effortlessly elegant” classic French tips at the Met Gala, but press-ons are an easy, temporary alternative if you want to try the squared-off style for size. Kiss and Glamnetic both have loads of square and squoval options in a variety of lengths and opacities.

One hand layered flat on the other showing classic square cut French tip manicure. Courtesy of @thuybnguyen One hand showing nude nails with square cut French tip details. Courtesy of Getty Images

Dripping chrome

Nail artists and nail art lovers are still having fun with chrome powder and 3D gel, and Orton predicts that abstract designs using both elements will have their “moment as a fashion accessory” this fall. The options are endless with this trend—the only possible limitations are your or your manicurist’s imagination.

Our best advice is to search for inspiration on Instagram and TikTok, and not just from nail art accounts but also from jewelry brands, as a lot of the designs we’re seeing reflect trends happening concurrently in the accessory space. Orton likes the juxtaposition of a high-shine silver chrome with a matte-black base (try Mooncat Nail Polish in Emo For Life), but you can use colorful chrome powders and builder gel to create abstract French tips or slapdash metallic blobs on a neutral base.

Nude almondshaped nails with raised yellow gold drip design. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmia Roundshaped matte nude nails with raised silver chrome drip design. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmia Silver chrome drip on long acrylic squareshaped nails with nude base. Courtesy of @vanityprojects

Cozy aura

Aura nails are still a top request at salons around the country, and for fall, they’re getting a cozy, autumnal twist. “Everyone is always so blown away by the optical illusion it creates,” says Reyes, who notes you can play with different color combinations to create soft and bold versions of this dreamy design.

For fall, that might mean using mauve as a base color and mixing up a white or light pink polish into the airbrush machine to create a subtle aura effect, explains Reyes, who likes DND Diva Gel Polish in 179 Dusty Mauve Diva. For clients who want a bolder aura look, Reyes loves using Aprés Gel Couleurs in Never Bordeaux You as a base shade. “This color is such a gorgeously rich plum red that works on every client,” she says.

To create the “ultimate cozy fall nail look,” Reyes suggests using a burnt orange (like Aprés Gel Couleurs in Autumn Apricot) in the middle of each nail. For something a little louder, she recommends a teal blue aura (DND DC Duo in Beautiful #126). “Plum and teal blue isn't a color combo most people would think of,” she notes, “but the contrast is so yummy and irresistible to look at.”

Achieving aura nails at home requires having an airbrush machine in addition to an at-home gel kit. If you don’t own any of that equipment, your best bet is to head to the salon, although a few brands like Paintbox and Manisfest have press-ons and nail wraps that are aura-like and come with everything you need to apply them.

Light blue aura nails with mauve center and small silver balls on the sides. Courtesy of @sansungnails Glossy almondshaped nails with light pink blooming from crimson border. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmia Multicolored aura squarecut nails with sparkle design. Courtesy of @afreshset Neutral nude brown and mauve soft aura nails with gold sparkle icons in the center of the nail. Courtesy of @afreshset

Animal print

Animal prints are still going strong, according to the manicurists and salon owners we spoke to, and show no sign of slowing down since we predicted this would be one of the year’s biggest trends. This fall’s take on the look, however, is scaling things back slightly, with animal prints limited to the tips and top half of nails.

Channeling her inner Fran Drescher in The Nanny, nail artist Miss Pop has been playing with cheetah-print tips (Salon Perfect makes a press-on version of the look if you want to try it at home). At the same time, Orton says, croc-print French manicures have been a popular design at Vanity Projects in New York and Miami.

cheetah french manicure by miss pop nails Courtesy of @misspopnails Realistic snake skin overline French tip design. Courtesy of @banicured_

But our favorite version of this look is an ombré, snakeskin effect created by Jarjour. “This design works best with gel, so I’d use OPI’s Put It in Neutral and a snakeskin nail foil on top using The Gel Bottle Foil Glue,” she explains. “Apply the foil glue gel on the top half of the nail, ombré-style, and cure. Then apply the foil on top of where you placed the glue.”

Matte cheetah print French tip almondshaped nails. Courtesy of @nailsbymh Interlocked almondshaped nails with multicolored snake skin overdrawn French tip design. Courtesy of @vanityprojects Multicolored snake skin French tips on nude glossy nails. Courtesy of @nailsbymh Layered hands showcase almondshaped nude nails with gray and cream snake skin French tips. Courtesy of @vanityprojectsmia

Chunky crystals

When it comes to sparkly nails this fall, the bling-ier the better, says Miss Pop. “When I first started my career, I wanted to prove that nail art wasn’t just a bunch of rhinestones,” she says. “And now, over a decade into my career, I can’t get enough of them. I especially love ones that are so big, they shoot rainbows.”

Miss Pop got to indulge her current rhinestone obsession backstage at Alice + Olivia’s fall 2025 show. “This past season was truly an over-the-top extravaganza, so I wanted to make sure the nails earned the extra in extravaganza,” she says of the designs she created.

3D chromatic gem nails displayed on a black dress with gemencrusted bows. Courtesy of Rebecca Maynes Folded fingers showing chromatic 3D gem nail designs in tear drop shape. Courtesy of Rebecca Maynes

For the custom nail jewels, Miss Pop sourced elements from around the globe, then designed and crafted each piece using Salon Perfect Heavy Metal Solid Chrome and Magnetic Silver press-ons, adhering the flat-back crystals and pearls with Salon Perfect Gel Adhesive (the brand sponsored the show). “There is nowhere you can buy them….” says Miss Pop. “The hundreds of pieces used in the show were all built in my studio with my team.”

Adding large crystals to your nails can make a big visual impact. Says Orton, “It’s not just a manicure—it’s an accessory, like jewelry.” That being said, the runway look may not be entirely suitable for some people IRL, especially if you have weak nail beds or a proclivity to pick. Taking a page from Miss Pop’s book, we recommend trying the trend with press-ons.

Nude shimmery nails with featured designs of gem stones in a tear drop shape encircling a large pearl. Courtesy of Rebecca Maynes Gemencrusted teardrop nails with large pearl detail over lace. Courtesy of Rebecca Maynes

Nude-on-nude

This nail art trend is striking in its simplicity. On the runways and red carpets, we’re spotting a growing number of nail art designs done entirely in neutrals, and—like many of fall’s nail art trends—there are hundreds of ways to wear it.

Long neutral nails with a few polka dots displayed at the collar of a jacket. Courtesy of Julie Kandalec Sharp acrylic nails in glossy nude with two large brown polka dots. Courtesy of Julie Kandalec

At Christian Cowan’s fall 2025 show, nail artist Julie Kandalec created tonal polka dot designs using CND Shellac in Bouquet, Powder My Nose, Bare Chemise, Wrapped in Linen, Field Fox, and Willow Talk—all luxurious nudes. “We didn’t match the nude base exactly to the models’ skin tones because the point wasn’t to create a mannequin-hand effect but rather an elegant, tonal design,” explains Kandalec, who free-painted the oversized dots onto the nail using the brush that comes with the bottle. “Instead, we chose nudes that flattered their undertones.” For example, a model with cool undertones might get a pinky-nude, while one with warm undertones might get something more beige or camel-colored.

Hand holding a clutch monogrammed with JR showcases long nude nails with thin white stripes in abstract design. Courtesy of Getty Images

For Jordan Roth at the Met Gala, nail artist Elle Gerstein created a manicure that featured faint silver lines over a beige base, mimicking a couturier’s pattern paper. “Skin-toned hues are trending, so it's only natural to make a design entirely out of neutral colors,” says Orton. Whether on the red carpet or in everyday life, “it makes for an effortlessly elegant look that doesn’t overpower an outfit.”

Matte nude nails with multicolored neutral French tips and half daisies. Courtesy of @vanityprojects Interlocked fingers feature cream nail base with brown and black cow hide spots. Courtesy of @vanityprojects