If you’re looking for an edgy, glamorous, and slightly magical manicure, cat-eye nail polish is a trend you should try. Popular on TikTok and in nail salons, the effect mimics the multi-dimensional brilliance of a real cat’s eye, hence its name. While the effect may seem complicated, it’s actually easier to pull off than you think, even at home.
The secret? Finding the right magnetic nail polish. The key to creating a cat-eye manicure is finding polish that’s infused with tiny magnetic metal particles.
After applying a new polish, hover a magnet over it while it’s still wet, and the particles move to form a three-dimensional pattern that shimmers in the light. The result is a sense of movement and depth—as if your nails always catch the light just right.
The classic cat-eye effect is often presented as an angled glitter, but newer variations feature swirling patterns and gradient colors. (It’s no secret that any beauty trend is always evolving.) Whether you prefer rich jewel tones or understated chrome, there’s a manicure for you.
To create a cat-eye manicure at home, the right polish and tools are essential. If you’re heading to a salon, just ask for a cat-eye manicure and they’ll probably know what you mean. After all, it’s already a top manicure trend for 2025.
Bold yet surprisingly versatile, a cat-eye manicure is a sure-fire way to add a pop of color to your next manicure. Try Born Pretty Magnetic Nail Polish or Inlp Magnetic Series Nail Polish, both of which have magnets to help you create the perfect eye look. We did the research, so read on to shop our cat-eye nail picks.
Mooncat
Mooncat’s magnetic nail polish is both magical and sentimental. This creamy white polish glides on smoothly and deforms under the pull of a magnet to create a dazzling, three-dimensional shine.
Forbidden Fruit, $18, Mooncat
Born Pretty
Born Pretty has quickly become the go-to brand for recreating the cat-eye manicure trend on TikTok with products like its Moonlight Cat Magnetic Gel Polish. Available in eight shimmery shades, the washable gel polish uses magnets to create a signature multi-dimensional effect and cures easily under LED or UV light.
Moonlight Cat Magnetic Polish, starting at $7, Born Pretty
Cirque Colors
Lush Magnetic Polish by Cirque Colors is a dreamy lavender periwinkle with a silvery sheen that comes to life with a puff of air. Simply hover the magnetic wand over wet polish for a stunning three-dimensional effect.
Lush Nail Polish, $15.50, Cirque Colors
Inlp
If you want your cat-eye manicure to have a dreamy, pastel color, look no further than Rainshower by Inlp. This creamy periwinkle blue polish is packed with shimmering orange-green pearlescent that plays beautifully in the light—perfect for pairing with magnets to create a signature cat-eye effect and a whimsical, sky-like finish.