This ultra-clean, natural, and effortlessly chic look is making waves in the beauty world—even actress Selena Gomez showed it off on manicurist Tom Bachik’s Instagram channel. It’s a big hit, especially among those who prioritize healthy, low-maintenance beauty routines.
So what are these soap nails anyway?
This minimalist manicure emphasizes clean, healthy nails with a glossy, translucent finish. They were inspired by the fresh, just-washed look of nails after using a gentle, hydrating soap. This trend is all about subtle, understated beauty. Unlike traditional nail polish or gel manicures, soap nails rely on a natural, high-shine effect achieved through extra hydration, buffing, and lightweight nail treatments.
Regular nail polish and gel manicures—while often attractive—can damage your nails over time. Traditional polishes often contain harsh chemicals that can dry out and weaken the nail bed, particularly with repeated applications. Gel nails and acrylics require strong adhesives and removal processes that involve soaking in acetone, which strips moisture from both the nails and the surrounding skin.
Most people gravitate toward soap nails because they are a cleaner, healthier version of the traditional manicure. But there are other reasons to love this trend, too.
Soap nails create a fresh, dewy look that complements any outfit or occasion.
Unlike gel nails or acrylics, which require frequent salon visits (and extra expense), soap nails are easy to maintain at home.
Because this trend emphasizes natural shine over artificial coatings, your nails can breathe and stay strong. In addition, you are encouraged to take better care of your nails to maintain this look.
If you’re reading this blog, you’re most likely someone who prefers beauty routines with minimal chemicals and a focus on natural ingredients. That means this trend is perfect for you. You get pretty, shiny nails without the unhealthy polishes or high maintenance requirements.
Fortunately, getting this look at home is easy! You don’t need a lot of tools or products. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving this clean and glossy manicure.
Start by thoroughly cleansing your nails. Use a gentle nail brush and mild soap to remove any dirt or oils. Pat your nails dry with a soft towel.
This part is similar to your traditional manicure. Use a nail file to gently shape your nails into your preferred style. Short, rounded, or soft square shapes work best for the soap nail trend.
Next, use a fine-grit buffing block to smooth the nail surface and create a natural sheen. Don’t skip this step! It’s crucial for achieving that soft, dewy finish.
Moisturization is key to this look. Healthy nails need hydration, so apply a nourishing cuticle oil or our multi-tasking Restorative Skin Balm.
You can skip this step if you like, but if you’re looking for extra, longer-lasting shine, use a lightweight, clear nail treatment or nourishing, strengthening serum. Look for formulas with natural ingredients like keratin, biotin, and plant-based oils that promote nail health. A thin layer of a glossy top coat can also enhance the natural soap-like effect, but it’s optional.
To keep your nails looking their best, reapply our Restorative Skin Balm daily. Gently buff your nails every few days to maintain the shine, and keep your hands moisturized (our Body Repair Lotion makes a great hand lotion!) to enhance the fresh, hydrated appearance.
It makes sense that the healthier your nails are, the better your soap nails will look. Strong, hydrated nails prevent breakage, reduce the risk of nail infections, and improve the overall polished appearance.
To keep your nails in top condition, trim them regularly to prevent splitting. Avoid using your nails as tools to open or scrape things. Wear gloves when doing household chores, such as washing dishes or using cleaning products.
Moisturizing your nails and cuticles daily is absolutely necessary to keep them strong and healthy. Apply our Restorative Skin Balm to hydrate the nail bed and prevent cracking.
Maintaining healthy and beautiful nails is an essential part of overall self-care and grooming. While there are numerous nail care techniques and trends out there, one interesting and unique method that has gained popularity recently is soap nails. This innovative nail art technique involves embedding a small piece of soap into an acrylic nail extension, creating a stunning and eye-catching design.
However, while soap nails can be a fun and creative way to enhance your nails, it is important to remember that nail health goes beyond just aesthetics. Taking care of your nails on a daily basis is crucial to ensure they remain strong, healthy, and beautiful. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a balanced, vitamin-rich diet can also contribute to overall nail health.
In addition to following a healthy lifestyle, there are several simple yet effective ways to care for your nails on a daily basis. Regularly moisturizing your nails and cuticles can help prevent dryness and brittleness, while trimming and shaping your nails properly can prevent breakage and promote healthy growth. Using a gentle nail polish remover and avoiding harsh chemicals can also help maintain the natural strength and shine of your nails.
Whether you choose to try out the latest nail art trends like soap nails or prefer a more natural look, incorporating daily nail care into your routine is essential for maintaining beautiful and healthy nails. By taking the time to care for your nails, you can achieve that natural beauty look that shines from within.
So, have you tried soap nails yet? Whether you’re a nail art enthusiast or simply looking to enhance your nail care routine, experimenting with new trends and techniques can be a fun and exciting way to express yourself and boost your confidence. Remember, healthy nails are beautiful nails, so make sure to prioritize your nail care and enjoy the results of your efforts.