"Dopamine Nails" Are the Perfect Extension of the Dopamine Fashion Trend

It's not uncommon for fashion and beauty trends to overlap, but the latest crossover will have you welcoming summer with open arms (and very well-manicured hands). Introducing "dopamine nails."

This colorful nail-art trend has been making rounds on social media in recent months, and its popularity stems directly from the rise in dopamine fashion over the last few months. Like the look it's inspired by, the execution of this manicure is totally up to the wearer. "The idea is to choose colors and/or designs that bring a rush of joy — like a hit of dopamine — specifically for you," Rita Remark, Essie's global lead educator and nail artist, tells POPSUGAR. "They may be on trend or they may not be, but if they genuinely make you happy, that's the main point."

This can be a source of comfort during difficult times. "People are trying to temper the anxieties of 2020 and looking for lightheartedness and fun in all aspects of life, but especially in regards to beauty," Remark says. What better way to boost your mood than by looking down at your hands and seeing personally curated shades of bright colors on each finger?

If you're looking to try this trend at home, Remark has one main piece of advice: go bright, or go home. "Choose bright, bold colors," she says. "Essie's summer-trend nail-polish collection is a hit of vibrant, happy hues, like the hot-pink shade Isle See You Later ($9) and the metallic-lime Tropic Low ($9). Nail stickers or even nail jewels can also be used for 'dopamine' nails. It's all about whatever makes you happiest."

If you're ready to try out the "dopamine" nail trend for yourself, take a look at some inspiration photos below.