This is what nail colour you should get based on your mood
• Editor's picks
Back when I was an innocent 10-year old, mood rings were the accessory. I’d put on every mood ring I owned (minimum of three at any given moment) and stare impatiently waiting for the colour to settle so that I could really determine how I was feeling that day – I “studied my moods” religiously for a good 6 months.
If you’re looking for something a bit more legit, scientific research (told you it was legit) indicates that colours can affect physiology, behaviours and mood. Our emotional response is impacted by things like how the colour is recognised in nature – amazing, right? Here’s how to hack your mood with a nail appointment. Like a mood ring, but better.
By Ashlyn Howie
Blues
Navy, cornflower, classic baby blue; blues are noted for their calming and cooling effect. It’s been seen to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Breathe by Blu Cantrell makes so much more sense now.
Reds
Red is a colour of power that brings feelings of strength but this sultry shade also has a playful side. It’s said to have a physical trigger (rather than mental) why is why it’s used in traffic signs and romantic imagery.
Yellows
The marmite of the colour wheel. While some of us find yellow bright and cherry, the high saturation of the colour can actually set some people on edge. Pick wisely, friends. On a brighter note (see what we did there?) it has been seen to energise and increase metabolism.
Purples
Purple is used to represent wisdom and spirituality and can incite feelings of creativity, daydreaming and happiness. Fun fact: Pantone introduced a shade of purple called Love Symbol #2 that was created in memory of Prince; The Purple One.
Greens
My favourite colour – and the best flavour of Wine Gums in my opinion – increases productivity and is said to have a peaceful effect as the eye focuses the colour directly onto the retina (see, science). Chill hack: mint green mani and home screen to match.
Oranges
The colour of early mornings, orange juice and Vitamin C oil (my saviour). Orange is a stimulant colour linked to feelings of excitement and increased enthusiasm. And Halloween, duh?
White
We’ve come along way from when white was only for French tips (bless the 90s). White evokes feelings of safety, purity, freshness, quietness and concentration. Not to mention it looks great on warmer skin tones.
Black
Shout out to the Goth Gang – black is associated with comfort, boldness, formality and mystery. Black is a classic take on a statement look. Opt for a gel mani to avoid awkward chips (the MySpace look should be left in 2007).
Though this piece has referenced the research currently available, it is well noted in much of the research that feelings or responses to colour are very personal and come from individual experience or culture.
Heading for a mani or just fancy a timeout? We’ve launched Mindful Mani, a campaign with just one thing in mind; giving you some well-deserved me-time. Just book a mindful mani, plug-in and switch off.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Find amazing salons in your area.
