18 November 24

How to create Tortoise Nails?

Close-up of a hand holding tortoiseshell pattern nails against a green background.

Tortoise nails are the ultimate trendy statement this season! Perfect for autumn, these chic nails bring warmth and sophistication to any look. The layered design captures the essence of contemporary style while offering a nod to classic elegance. Whether you're out for a day of shopping or attending a festive event, Tortoise nails are the on-trend choice to elevate your autumn vibe. Ready to turn heads with this must-have manicure?

First things first. Prepare your nails by filing them into the desired shape. Remove the natural shine from your nails with the polishing block. Use the Cleaner to clean and degrease your nails. Apply the Prep Booster and let it air dry for 30 seconds. Next, apply your favourite Base Coat.

Step by step

A hand with brown, marbled nail art, where the index finger is painted with a yellow nail polish brush.

Step 1

Apply a thin layer of 315 Camel Gold and cure it under the LED lamp for 60 seconds. This sets the perfect foundation for your Tortoise design.

Hand with tortoiseshell pattern nail polish, where a nail is painted orange.

Step 2

Apply a layer of Blooming Gel. Don’t cure yet – this layer will remain tacky for the design.

Close-up of hands with brown and black nail polish, with one of the nails being decorated with a nail polish tool.

Step 3

Using a Dotting Tool, apply random spots of 421 Mocha Brown gel polish across the nail to create the tortoiseshell effect. Gently blend the edges of each spot for a natural look. Cure the design for 60 seconds to set the first layer of the Tortoise pattern.

A person paints his nails with a dark nail polish, surrounded by a tortoiseshell pattern on a white background.

Step 4

Add another layer of Blooming Gel gel over the cured pattern, but don't cure this layer yet.

Person does nail art on short nails with a polished turtle pattern and uses a pink nail art tool.

Step 5

Using a Dotting Tool, apply other random spots with the 120 Beautiful Black. Cure the nails again for 60 seconds.

Close-up of a hand applying brown nail polish with a tortoise shell design to a nail with a brush.

Step 6

Finish by applying a Top Coat for a glossy, long-lasting finish. Cure for 60 seconds for a perfect, salon-worthy look.

Hands with brown and black, marble-like nails; one hand wears a gold ring.

Recreate these Tortoise Nails? Share your creation and tag us! Use @pinkgellac or #pinkgellac so we don’t miss out!