When it comes to nail color, women over 50 are embracing shades that flatter their skin tone and give their hands a fresh look. While trends change fast, the right polish never goes out of style. Celebrity nail artist Jolene Brodeur—whose clients include Angelina Jolie and Tina Fey—says the secret isn’t following viral nail trends, but choosing tones that enhance your natural beauty.
In the following sections, we’ll look at the nail polish shades Brodeur recommends most for mature hands, and a few easy tips to keep your nails looking smooth, elegant, and healthy.
Nail shades that flatter at any age
Brodeur believes the best nail colors for women over 50 are light, soft, and neutral tones that bring brightness to the hands. These shades visually smooth the skin and make hands appear more youthful. Here are her top picks:
- Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slippers ($10): A timeless pale pink that flatters nearly every skin tone. Brodeur likes this one because it reads as a soft nude rather than a pastel. It’s subtle, classic, and has been a best-seller for decades.
- Dior Nail Glow Polish ($34): This sheer polish gives nails a clean, glossy finish that mimics a professional French manicure.
- OPI Nail Lacquer in Bubble Bath ($12): A fan favorite for a reason. This barely-there pink is flattering on everyone and makes nails look smooth and healthy without overpowering. Brodeur notes that lighter neutrals like this one always enhance the hands’ natural tone.
- ZOYA Naked Manicure Perfector in Nude ($12): Designed to complement your skin tone, this shade enhances natural nails rather than covering them.
- Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor ($13): A sheer nude pink that gives a gel-like shine without the UV lamp. Brodeur warns that “UV light from gel lamps can potentially age” the skin on your hands, so this formula is a safer, easier choice.
- Nails Inc. Speedy Gloss in Knightsbridge Nights Out ($8): A sheer peach polish that dries quickly and strengthens nails with calcium and magnesium. This kind of formula is perfect for women whose nails have become more brittle over time.
- ORLY Nail Retouch ($13): A soft, blurring matte finish that makes nails look smooth and even. While darker polishes can draw more attention to flaws, a natural matte finish keeps the hands looking refined.
More tips for healthy, youthful nails after 50
Beyond color, maintaining your nails and hands is as important as the polish you wear. Here are a few suggestions:
- Moisturize often. Use hand cream and cuticle oil daily. Brodeur recommends massaging cuticle oil to boost hydration.
- Shape softly. Opt for an almond or round nail shape to visually soften your hands and fingertips.
- Protect from UV light. Always apply sunscreen before a gel manicure or use UV-free options at home.
- Keep nails neat. Regular maintenance and touch-ups keep your hands looking clean and polished.
- Avoid dark or neon colors. Brodeur says these shades can make hands look older and emphasize discoloration.
Your nails should express your personality while still flattering you. With the right shades and a bit of care, your hands can look as vibrant as you feel at any age.