I tried cat-eye nails
29/10/2025
Translation: Veronica Bielawski
Pictures: Natalie Hemengül
I never found magnetic nail polish particularly appealing. But I gave it a try anyway – with a drugstore product, no less. My verdict? It don’t impress me much.
I wouldn’t have bought this polish myself. Sure, the colour is nice enough, but I’m not exactly a huge fan of magnetic effects. The Bold Magnetic polish in shade 020 Don’t Be So Clingy is part of Catrice’s new permanent range. I received it as part of a test package, so why not give it a go?
How it works
Magnetic nail polishes contain fine metallic particles. While the polish is still wet, they can be moved around with a special magnet. Hover it over the nail and the particles realign themselves within the polish, creating a three-dimensional pattern. This can be waves, for example, or a cat-eye pattern – so called because the streaks of light resemble a cat’s slit-shaped pupils. Once dry, the pattern stays put.
How to apply
Since this was my first time creating this effect, I did some research and went at it as follows:
Step 1
Shake the polish thoroughly so the particles mix evenly.
Step 2
Apply a clear base coat first. Next, apply one coat of magnetic polish and let it dry completely.
Step 3
From here on out, work on one nail at a time for best results. Brush on a second, generous layer of polish.
Step 4
While the polish is still wet, hold the magnet as close as possible to the nail for 60 seconds. Catrice recommends just 15 seconds, but that short a time didn’t create any visible pattern for me. So on the second try I followed the otherwise common one-minute rule. Side note: it’s really not easy to hold the magnet perfectly still without touching the wet polish.
The effect tool is double sided with one rectangular and one small round magnet. The rectangular one creates lines, the round one circles.
Step 5
Let the polish dry thoroughly.
Step 6
Optional: finish with a clear top coat (I skipped it).
So, how does it look?
I have to look very closely and wiggle my fingers around to see any effect. The pattern created by the rectangular magnet is the clearest, while the round magnet’s effect is much softer. The design looks best in sunlight or low light with flash.
In normal daylight, it all but disappears. But I’ll give unexpected bonus points for quick drying and nice wear. The polish feels light yet makes the nails harder and thicker than normal polish – almost like a thin layer of gel.
After four days it begins to chip. Not bad for such a thick formula. It comes off with nail polish remover, though you’ll need some patience.
In a nutshell
High effort, low effect
At a minute per finger plus prep time, is it worth it? Nope. The effect is too subtle. Still, my curiosity is piqued. If you know brands that do it better, share them in the comments.
Pro
- Strengthens nails
- Dries quickly
- Good coverage
- Wide, flat brush
Contra
- Time-consuming
- Effect barely visible
Header image: Natalie Hemengül
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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