Chrome powder is a fine pigment rubbed onto a cured, no-wipe gel surface to turn it into a mirror, pearl or holographic finish, which is then sealed with top coat. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks mirror, pearl, aurora and glass-effect chrome powders, plus matte top coats made for chrome, from ONME, OPI, DND, Cre8tion, YHH, JING and MNBS.
Types of chrome powder
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror chrome collections | Classic metallic mirror nails, chosen shade by shade. | ONME CT Collection, ONME W Collection, ONME T Collection, ONME K Collection, ONME C Collection, ONME M Collection |
| Pearl and moonlight powder | A soft pearl or glazed sheen that lets the base colour show, popular over nudes and whites. | DND White Pearl 1g, DND White Silk 1g, Pearl Moonlight Powder, Moonlight Chrome Powder, Ice Pearl Chrome Powder, YHH Silk Moonlight Powder |
| Glass, shell and cat eye effects | Glass, shell and magnetic cat eye chrome looks. | Glass Effect Chrome Powder, Pigment Shell Powder, Mirror Moon Powder, ONME 2in1 Cat Eye Chrome Powder 3g |
| Single jars | Topping up one favourite shade. | SS Chrome Powder 0.5g, Chrome Powder #01 (3g), Chrome Powder #24 (3g), Chrome Powder #26 (3g), Chrome Powder #34 (3g), ONME S2 |
How to choose chrome powder
- Mirror or pearl. Mirror powders cover the nail in metal; pearl and moonlight powders add a soft sheen that lets the base colour show through.
- The base colour changes the result. The same powder looks brighter over black and softer over white or nude, so test it over the colour you plan to use.
- Pick the finish. Seal with a glossy top coat, or with a matte top made for chrome such as Cre8tion Chrome Matte Top Gel, which seals without dragging the powder.
Related: Gel top coat, Gel base coat, Nail art powder, Cat eye gel, All nail art
Chrome powder FAQ
How do you apply chrome powder on gel nails?
Apply and cure your gel colour, then a no-wipe top coat, and cure it. Rub the powder onto the smooth, cured surface with a sponge applicator or silicone tool until it turns mirror-like, brush off the loose powder, then cap the free edge and seal with top coat.
Why does my chrome look patchy or dull?
Usually the surface underneath is the cause: a top coat that leaves a sticky layer, bumps in the colour, or a coat that is not fully cured stops the powder from lying flat. Use a no-wipe top coat, cure it fully, buff the powder in with light pressure, and keep dust and oil off the nail.
Can I put a matte top coat over chrome?
Yes. A matte top gives chrome a satin, brushed-metal look. Choose one made to go over powder, such as Cre8tion Chrome Matte Top Gel, and apply it with a light touch so the brush does not lift any powder before it cures.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.