Move over, chrome. See you, glazed. There's a new manicure in town, and it's giving fresh-out-the-shower energy. Introducing soap nails, the barely-there, ultra-glossy nail trend bubbling up all over Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram. Think of it as your nails' version of a gentle cleanser—minimalist, milky, and effortlessly clean.
Here's everything you need to know about the aesthetic that looks like your nails just had a facial, plus a foolproof guide to recreating the trend yourself.
What Are Soap Nails?
Soap nails are the perfect mash-up of the clean girl aesthetic and the dewy skin trend but for your hands. They're soft, translucent, and creamy, with a high-gloss shine that mimics the look of lathered-up hands mid-wash. The color is usually a sheer white or milky pink, with just enough pigment to give your nails a polished, hydrated appearance without full-on opacity.
Why Soap Nails Are Trending Right Now
Blame it on our obsession with looking effortlessly put together. The clean-girl era hasn't died; it's just evolved. Soap nails are a nod to wellness, simplicity, and skincare.
Plus, they're perfect for every season, go with any outfit, and are ideal for anyone who's into minimalist beauty or needs a palette cleanser after months of maximalist nail art.
What You'll Need to Recreate Soap Nails
You can totally DIY this trend at home with just a few nail essentials:
- A gentle nail file or buffer: Smooth out any ridges for that clean, even base.
- Cuticle oil: Hydrated cuticles are a must for the overall clean vibe.
- A milky or translucent polish: Look for shades labeled as "sheer pink," "milky white," or "jelly." Bonus points for those that say "buildable" — you'll want to layer it for the best effect.
A high-gloss top coat is the real MVP. A glassy top coat gives you that soap-slick finish.
Optional: A strengthening base coat. If your nails are feeling a little brittle, a nourishing base coat adds protection and longevity.
Step-by-Step: How to Nail the Look
Here's how to get soap nails in under 20 minutes
Soap nails are proof that sometimes less really is more. They're chic, simple, and surprisingly easy to do at home. Whether you're a minimalist at heart, in between salon appointments, or just craving something fresh and clean for your feed, this trend is one to try.