Red nails were just the latest addition to a never-ending list of accessories to wear on social media, and so the red nail theory was born. TikTok is both a blessing and an exhausting search for a cure; The app has an overabundance of, let’s face it, nonsensical pointers for getting noticed in an instant. Everything from monochrome makeup latte makeup looks to trend-defining must-have products – TikTokers are able to turn even the most classic beauty into a red-tagged viral sensation.
Most, if not all, nail theories need to be followed from start to finish, because why would anyone want to put on a polish remover, right? There is more to the red theory than there seems, its charm captures the attention of many providing the polish cannot be taken off until all goals are achieved.
So you probably heard about red nail theory by now. Anna Yusim MD, Mazz Hannah and Leatrice Eiseman literally help us analyze red in ‘The Magic of Red’ and talk about and support the reason why red is a captivating color in functions of the human brain.
Red Nail Theory Origins
In early 2022, Red nail theory gained popularity when a public relations expert, Robyn Delmonte, noticed that guys were particularly attracted to red nails, which led her to make a TikTok about it. “I know guys are attracted to red nails, and I’ll tell you why,” she says while imitating the gesture with her red polish. “Every time I have red nails […] a guy comments on it.” She believes that the positive association stems from the red lipstick and beauty eras of the ‘90s and the fact that many of the red rocking caretakers were also caretakers.
Eiseman agrees with the hypothesis. “Much of color association starts in childhood,” she explains. “It is a logical conclusion that men would be attracted to red nail polish as a reminder of the colors their mothers wore on their nails at a significant time when they were strongly connected and dependent.”
Now the trend has gone viral, with creators on TikTok painting their nails the hottest red shades to prove Robyn’s theory.
How the Red Nail Theory Works
“Associations with red can be culturally significant, thereby evoking specific emotions and perceptions,” Dr. Yusim states. Further explaining, “In many cultures, red bears the weight of love, romance, and passion.” She goes on to remark that since red signifies blood, which brings to mind vitality and energy—all of these associations can, indeed, affect how people psychologically view someone wearing red polish on their nails.
“I kind of believe that the red nail theory is a real thing because from a psychological point of view, we tie the color red to love, passion, and power,” says Hanna. “There might not be scientific evidence to support that red nails make someone attractive, but you do come off as more confident and appealing.”
When red occurs naturally, it further proves the theory’s broader point due to the strong stance red takes. “Red is like a signal from mother nature—hummingbirds and their love for red comes to mind,” notes Eiseman. “It’s a dynamic color that is impossible to ignore.”
Advantages and Disadvantages
Whether true or not, red nail polish surely boosts self confidence. “Wearing red nail polish can, in some cultures, be perceived as showing an assertive side of oneself that is ready to go against the norm,” says Dr Yusim. “Being confident can enhance attraction: people tend to be more attractive when they radiate self-love and comfort in their body.”
All that said, there is absolutely no guarantee that the ‘red-nail reaction’ is a cross-cultural phenomenon—and that first count of attention can only take us so far into the relationship. “What is perceived as attractive or not differs greatly based on individual preferences, and on top of that, it is very important to note that personal characteristics and interpersonal dynamics are fundamental in drawing people in, rather than just the color of nail polish,” explains Dr. Yusim.
Controversy and Criticism
In 2008, a study published by Journal of Personality & Social Psychology claimed that red color, in comparison to other colors, makes men see women as more beautiful and sexually appealing, even if they do not realize it. It is almost the same as what Delmonte had in mind when he thought of the red nail theory. Although it may succeed in grabbing a finger’s attention, it is more reasonable to say that a bold color influences both sides much more than a subject’s mother or any previous maternal figure does.
“Feeling quite literally, self-explanatorily—and figuratively—good looking and at ease with oneself paired with the ability to freely express one’s identity and encouraging good traits is mostly sure to charm many more than overwhelmingly patching over pores with brightly colored lacquer,” comments Dr. Yusim. Furthermore, she stated what caretakers a person has had dramatically alters the individual’s understanding of colors, emphasizing the foundational flaw of the original theory, is reliable on a case by case basis.
5 Red Nail Aesthetics To Try Out For The Theory
In order to perform the test for the red nail theory, an appropriate manicure must be performed. “Red nails work best as there are so many shades and undertones that can be paired with any skin tone or preference. Truly timeless and chic,” red nail theory expert Hanna says.
Firecracker Red
Shimmery red nail polish is an eye catching take on the red nail theory. The shimmer extenuates some of your fiery personality, and pairing the color with a longer nail shape like the one in the image adds to the dramatic flair.
Red Swirls
The red nail theory can actually be applied across all red nail looks and not just a solid coat of the color. This design is one of the many ways to wear red and not tone down its boldness, which remains a challenge for many nail artists.
Red French Tip
For further boost in confidence, grab that red nail polish and use it for a classic nail French tip. Sometimes all you need is a little burst of color to reignite that inner confidence.
Vampy Red
The red nail theory does not exempt different shades of red such as oxblood or coral. This moody, deeper shade is sure to catch some eyes and maybe, a few hearts.
A Dual Charm of Gold and Red
As always stunning is the combination of colors like red and gold, so they these are complimented on the nails. This combination gives off a sense of self-assuredness and luxury style while offering a smile cherishing your persona.
The Final Takeaway
Ultimately the outcomes of the red nail polish linked to its ‘theory’ boils down to the person wearing it. Like with everything else they might decide to grab more attention on one day and then go unnoticed the next day. Sure, one could reason scope of attention correlates with wearing red and love, passion, and confidence, but it might not signify something romantic at all. Saying so, if wearing red polish brings you self-appraisal, most likely its the mood you bring to the surroundings and not the polish color which is doing the magic.
