Create the Perfect Starfish Nails This Summer

Bring a touch of the ocean to your fingertips this summer with a shimmering starfish nail design that’s as beachy as it is beautiful. Whether you're hitting the beach, jetting off on holiday, or just want to bring a little sunshine to your everyday look, this ocean-inspired mani is your go-to.

Created by HARA Professional Brand Ambassador Katie Lou Pritchard, as featured in Scratch Magazine, this design blends texture, sparkle, and elegance using HARA’s high-performance gel products, known for their durability, pigment-rich formulas, and salon-quality finish.

Why HARA Professional?
Trusted by nail technicians across the UK, HARA Professional offers a premium range of gel polishes, nail art tools, and accessories designed for professional use. From ultra-smooth application to vibrant colour payoff and long-lasting wear, HARA products empower nail artists to create with confidence and creativity. 

SHOP HARA

1. Build your Base

Start by prepping your nails — push back the cuticles, buff the nail surface, and cleanse thoroughly. Apply HARA Professional Ultra Bond Nail Primer and Gel Polish Base Coat and cure. Follow with two even coats of your chosen gel base colour. Katie used HARA Gel Polish Marshmallow. Cure between each layer for a flawless, chip-resistant foundation. 

2. Begin Formation

Using the HARA Detailing Tool, place a small gold dot using HARA Gel Polish Golden Sands, where you want your starfish to sit. Then, with a fine liner brush like the HARA Liner Gel Brush, paint five delicate lines extending from the centre to form the starfish shape. 

3. Adding Texture

Before curing, thicken each arm of the starfish with more polish. Don't stress over symmetry; starfish are organic in nature, and a slightly imperfect look feels more authentic. 

4. Sparkle Time

Once cured, apply a layer of gold glitter polish over the starfish for added dimension and a dazzling summer shimmer. We recommend HARA Gel Polish 18 Carat for a luxe, metallic finish.  Cure again under the HARA LED/UV Nail Lamp. 

5. Dot the Detail

Using a dotting tool, add a white dot to the centre of the starfish. Then, place progressively smaller white dots along each arm. This mimics the starfish’s textured appearance and adds depth to the design. HARA Gel Polish French White is perfect for this step. 

6. Seal and Shine

Cure your detailed design, then apply HARA Gel Polish No Wipe Top Coat to seal in your artwork and add long-lasting shine. Cure one final time, and you’re ready to go!