You've seen the chrome and glazed doughnut manicures all over on social media. Now, a new contender is rising in popularity: the glass nails manicure. What is it? Perhaps an inevitable evolution/extension of the glass skin trend.
Glass nails capture the essence of clean girl beauty and minimalism, ticking all the right boxes for a fresh, polished look. “The idea around the glass nails comes from manicurists chasing techniques to achieve the most glossy, reflective finish they can,” explains celebrity nail technician Harriet Westmoreland . “The glass manicure is more subtle than a classic chrome , and the light reflects like glass rather than how a chrome effect looks—this is the next step on from chrome.
” Thought to have originated in Korea , the effect requires more technical prowess than you might think. “The key to a glass nail is correct application,” Westmoreland points out. “You apply the chrome as a base and then a fairly thick apex [nail enhancement] on top—this reflects the light catching the chrome but it’s more subtle, because the chrome is underneath the clear gel , instead of on top.
” To achieve the effect at home, Westmoreland recommends the following layering system: If you're looking for some glass nail inspiration, scroll on below: Also Read: 41 stylish wedding nail ideas for every bride, from Frenchies to minimalistic gold details 30 of the best ever celebrity manicure How to get lipgloss nails—this summer’s viral manicure trend.