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The “red nail theory”, seen on TikTok, claims that by wearing red nail polish, women have every chance of attracting their suitor on a date. A fad? Not necessarily. Scientifically and culturally, this small detail could have a real effect on the interaction. Explanations.
Among the flirting advice found on the internet or elsewhere, one theory comes up regularly on TikTok. “The Red Nail Theory” actually states that if you wear red nails, you are sure to attract the attention of a potential suitor. Some TikTokers even go so far as to say that the opportunities pile up the weeks they get their nails done. An absurd and disconnected idea? Not so sure…
Red, a sign of fertility?
The magazine VeryWell Mind decided to verify this theory with a psychologist and sexologist. And it wouldn’t just be random.
Certainly, wearing nail polish, especially red, is a signal of seduction, and that the person has prepared themselves. “Red nail polish suggests confidence, femininity and sensuality, which can attract more attention from the opposite sex. explains sexologist Mélissa Cook. But that’s not the only reason.
For relationship expert and psychology professor Dr. Wendy Walsh, there’s also an evolutionary reason why we’re subconsciously drawn to red nails (hang in there!).All other primates have evolved to have a sexual communication system usually in the form of a swollen, red vulva. she indicates. A fact confirmed by several studies including one on men’s attraction to the color red. “Our penchant for red lips, red cheeks and, yes, red nails, may well be an unconscious way of signaling our fertility.” she continues.
Other cultural and societal factors too
Whether or not this biological fact is a declination, we must also admit that for decades, femme fatales in films have often sported bright red lipstick, long red nails or a glamorous red dress. “From Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind to Charlotte in The Lady in Red, the color red has always been associated with lewd, transgressive and sexual women.explains Dr. Walsh.
Culturally, red is therefore associated with power, seduction and femininity, adds Dr Cook. “These are all traits that can be considered attractive. Red nails continue to be a classic marker of beauty and self-confidence“.
But a theory that has its limits
The red nail theory would therefore not be absurd. However, for experts, it remains reductive and cannot truly predict the attraction between two people.
“Attraction is complex, varied and influenced by many factors beyond appearance. Focusing only on red nails can lead to superficial connections and mean you might overlook deeper elements of romance. compatibility“, warned Dr. Cook. It also warns against dating and relationship advice that draws on social media trends. “This can create unrealistic expectations and pressures about relationships and how people should present themselves. she regrets.
Ultimately, the red nail theory isn’t foolproof. There’s no guarantee that you’ll attract someone with red nails, much less a genuine mutual connection. That said, “If you want to attract someone, make sure you dress in a way that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident“, explains Dr. Cook. In short, be yourself through and through!
Slide: Hands, lips… Decode the signs during a first date!