What Is Black Nail Theory? The Trend That Can Affect Your Confidence

If you're a manicure person, you already know that nothing feels quite as good as the first couple of hours after a new mani. Your nails look flawless, shiny, and you feel fantastic. There's a lot of power and confidence that comes with doing something to spruce up your appearance. It can be an instant game-changer.

But manicures aren't just about a fresh coat of lacquer and perfectly trimmed cuticles; color plays a big role too. What we choose for a manicure color can say a lot about who we are and what we want to convey to the world around us. It's a matter of color psychology and how it impacts us. Because of this, color-related trends and theories, like that of the "red-nail theory" as a way to procure a partner, often go viral on TikTok and everyone wants in on the action. But if you love TikTok-viral beauty trends and you're not a fan of red, then there's another route: consider the black nail theory.

According to TikToker Divashay888, black nails "promote confidence, you seem bold, you seem daring, and a hint of mysteriousness." While this is just one take — although the trend has taken TikTok by storm — the real question is if there's any truth to this theory. If all it takes is some black polish to feel more confident, that's a lot cheaper than therapy.

Throughout time, black has been considered a rebel's color. From witches and the Hell's Angels to the reformed goth kid in your heart, the absence of light has always been considered a bit murky and preferred amongst those who don't fit the mold. In color psychology, black represents strength, protection, comfort, as well as seduction, mystery, and sophistication, per Color Psychology. It's a strong color and even those who wear a lot of black clothing don't always tread into black nail territory. But those who do rock black nails are saying something about themselves that they want others to hear. 

"I feel that a beautifully painted black manicure is extremely chic," manicurist Gerry Holford told HuffPo. "Having said that, most gals wearing a black mani are creative types that think out of the box — and a little bit of a rebel. I think it takes a lot of confidence to wear a black manicure, and for most women that do wear one, it's their signature look." Color expert Amy Wax and color psychologist Caroline Shaw echoed the thinking that black is fiercely chic, telling Real Simple that it's "all about luxury and elegance," while highlighting the power and mystery of a black manicure. When we feel mysterious, it gives us the upper hand in our encounters — that's empowerment right there. 

While there's no science behind the black nail theory, there is evidence that manicures in general are good for mental health. According to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, nail care can boost self-esteem, positively affect mood, and inspire motivation. "Our research suggests that engaging in salon nail care, coupled with light self-disclosure, can provide a positive boost to one's psychological state," the author Atsushi Kawakubo told PsyPost. "This practice offers a tangible way for individuals to promote their mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the potential benefits of sharing personal thoughts in a comfortable setting."

There's also the fact that black, as far as psychology goes, carries a heavy, deep meaning. "The black-nail theory does have some merit, as the color can make you appear more confident and powerful," manicurist Mazz Hanna told POPSUGAR. "It follows the line of thinking from the red version where people claimed that the color made them more attractive."

Color, even if we don't realize it, is an instrumental part of life. It's not just something we see, but it even has sound and vibrations that influence everything that comes in contact with it. While you may not be able to hear your nail polish color, its effect on you can't be denied. So if you're feeling a little low, book yourself a nail appointment to go back to black. Not only will you feel more confident and sophisticated, but you'll be in style.