Published: March 26, 2024 Last Updated 6 days ago by FPN SEO
Jelly nails are regaining their popularity this year, taking the top spot in the nail trend department. This trend harkens back to the popular jelly sandals from the ’80s and ’90s, drawing nostalgic parallels to the iconic footwear.
The jelly nail trend involves using a special type of nail polish that imparts a semi-transparent, glossy appearance, akin to having a layer of glass on your nails. This trend, popularised in past decades, particularly in the ’80s and ’90s, is experiencing a revival. It’s part of a larger trend where elements from the past resurface in today’s fashion and beauty scene.
So why the sudden resurgence of interest in jelly nails? People seem to be embracing nostalgic trends with fervour nowadays, and jelly nails are no exception. Just like the recurring presence of retro jelly sandals in fashion, now it’s our nails’ turn to evoke nostalgia. On TikTok, the #jellynails tag boasts an impressive 427.4 million views and over 16 thousand videos, underscoring the trend’s popularity.
@sweetnailsbysab Blue jelly gel nail tutorial, saw a similar look that @Erika Titus wanted to get done and recreated that but made it blue 😚#jellynails #gelxtutorial #koreangelnails #douyinnails #kbeauty #diynailsathome #easynailart ♬ DARARI – ︎ ondu
The appeal of jelly nails extends beyond its classic look. Nowadays, nail artists are infusing creativity into their jelly nail designs, incorporating 3D elements and various artistic touches.
What’s even better? You don’t need to visit a high-end salon to embrace this trend. With some jelly nail polish and a steady hand, you can easily DIY your own jelly nails at home. Moreover, numerous brands offer a diverse array of jelly polishes in vibrant colours, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Whether you prefer understated, sheer nails or bold, intricate designs, the jelly nail trend offers versatility to suit every preference. As spring approaches, now is the perfect time to give your nails a playful, on-trend update.
Feeling inspired to try the trend? Scroll through for some jelly nail ideas that will infuse a dose of jelly attitude into your springtime look.
What Are Jelly Nails? Understanding the Trend
Jelly nails, sometimes called “glass nails” or “Korean jelly nails,” feature semi-transparent polishes that let light pass through, emphasising the natural nail beneath while adding a candy-like depth.
Nail expert Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse, describes them perfectly: “Jelly nails are all about translucent, high-shine colour. Think a sheer, glass-like finish where the nail is still visible beneath the polish… the key is that slightly see-through, almost ‘candied’ effect.”
The finish is buildable: one coat provides a subtle tint, while additional layers increase colour intensity without sacrificing translucency. This results in a dimensional, glossy look inspired by Korean nail art and reminiscent of hard candies or Jell-O desserts.
Jelly nails reflect a broader shift toward sheer, glazed, and glossy manicures, moving away from heavy or embellished styles. They complement clean nail shapes such as short rounds, almonds, or squares, making them suitable for any lifestyle.
Although sheer and translucent polishes have been available for decades, the modern jelly nail trend gained popularity in the mid-2020s, driven by South Korean beauty influences. By 2025 and 2026, the style became widespread on social media, with variations such as ombré, French tips, dots, and combinations with other techniques like aura or chrome accents.
Celebrities have contributed to the trend’s popularity. Emma Chamberlain wore a multicoloured jelly manicure featuring several shades, creating an eclectic look. Nail artists have also explored “jelly French” inversions and tortoise shell patterns over jelly bases.
Jelly nails remain popular due to their balance of playfulness and practicality. They offer colour without long-term commitment and feel lighter than traditional opaque lacquers, making them easy to coordinate with any outfit. As trends favour healthy, glossy nails, jelly finishes provide a lasting, salon-quality glow.
Why Jelly Nails Are Perfect for 2026
In 2026, jelly nails stand out for several reasons:
- Seasonal Versatility: Ideal for spring and summer in bright candy tones, and adaptable for fall and winter with cooler nudes, soft browns, cherry reds, or muted lavenders.
- Low-Maintenance Appeal: The sheer finish conceals minor growth or imperfections more effectively than solid colours.
- Customisation: The buildable formula allows for a range of looks, from subtle nudes to vivid pinks and oranges.
- Healthier Look: The translucent effect can make nails appear longer and more luminous, especially when used with strengthening base coats.
- Social Media Ready: They photograph well in various lighting, highlighting depth and shine.
Compared to related trends:
- Aura Nails: Focus on blended colour gradients, often with chrome or magnetic effects; jelly provides the base for many aura designs.
- Chrome Nails: Highly reflective metallic finishes; jelly offers a softer, more organic translucency.
- Glazed Donut Nails: These offer high shine but are typically more opaque or milky, while jelly nails emphasise a see-through effect.
Butterfly Jelly Nails
Upgrade your nail art with jelly nail polish. This manicure is hand-painted and features intricate butterfly designs, complete with rhinestones. It’s perfect for those who love bold nail art.
Jelly Aura Nails
Aura Nails are super trendy this season, thanks to social media. Here, the nail artist used an airbrush colour to create a whimsical, abstract look inspired by aura readings. Pairing this with a jelly background makes the design even more eye-catching and personalised.
Monochrome Jelly Nails
For a simple yet stylish manicure, try the monochrome jelly nails. It adds a splash of colour without being too bold, perfect for those who prefer a minimalist look. Choose light pink for a natural vibe or go for fiery red for a fun twist. If you want to hide your natural nails, opt for darker shades like navy blue or dark green.
Encapsulated Jelly Nail Art
With encapsulated nail art, you can embed charms like sequins or flower petals into your nail design using acrylic. When paired with a jelly base, this type of nail art looks stunning because it lets you see all the intricate details clearly.
Watercolour Jelly Nails
Watercolour designs go hand in hand with jelly nail polish because both have a natural, wet, and glossy look. Opt for shades of blue, white, and silver to create nails that resemble the beautiful colours of the ocean waves.
Citrus Burst Nails
These fun nail designs feature playful images of fruit, smiley faces, and other nostalgic stickers. The vibrant colours and summery vibes make these nails perfect for warm weather, but please resist the temptation to take a bite!
Geometric Shapes
To make your jelly nails pop, try this trick: Use a solid colour polish to create geometric shapes, leaving some areas transparent. This subtle contrast makes the jelly part of your nails really stand out while adding depth to the overall look.
Shimmering Rainbow Nails
Why not take your jelly nails up a notch with a rainbow gradient in your next nail appointment? Painting each nail with two different shades of the same color really brings out the rainbow effect and adds a fun twist to your manicure.
Glitter Flames
For a bold and fiery look, try painting neon green flames on your jelly nails. Clear acrylic is cool, but using glitter acrylic will make your nails stand out and sparkle.
Pastel Flowers
Instead of covering all your nails with colored polish, consider adding floral nail art or dried mini flowers to a few fingers or your entire hand for a soft and feminine touch.
3D Floral Nail Art
Make your jelly nails more unique with intricate 3D floral designs. Incorporate pearls and gold accessories to mimic the delicate pollen of a flower, adding a unique touch to your manicure.
Dreamy Cloud Jelly Nails
Why not bring the beauty of clouds to your fingertips? It’s a delightful design that’s worth trying out.
Blueberry Jelly Nails
Blueberry jelly nails are here to steal the spotlight. Embrace this cobalt blue shade for a playful twist.
Blended Marble Jelly Nails
Prepare to be mesmerised by these stunning blended marble nails. This viral trend involves blending two jelly paints to create a unique effect. With endless colour combinations available, the design possibilities are truly limitless.
Exotic Floral Nails
How to Achieve Jelly Nails: Step-by-Step Guide
Jelly nails can be done at a salon or at home. Below is a step-by-step at-home guide using gel or regular polish:
- Prep Your Nails: File to the desired shape, push back cuticles, and buff the surface lightly for better adhesion. Clean with alcohol or nail cleanser.
- Apply Base Coat: Use a strengthening base coat and cure (if gel) or let dry fully.
- Build the Jelly Effect: Apply 1-2 thin coats of a sheer jelly polish or mix clear top coat with coloured polish for custom sheerness.
For gel: Cure each coat for 60 seconds under a UV/LED lamp. Cap the free edge to prevent chipping.
Build layers gradually, starting with a sheer coat and adding depth as needed. Two to three coats usually achieve the desired candy-like translucency.
- Add Design (Optional): Create French tips, dots, or ombré before the final layer.
- Seal with Top Coat: Apply a high-gloss top coat for a signature shine. For added volume, use a plump effect or jelly-specific top coat.
- Cure and Finish: Wipe away tacky residue if using gel. Moisturise cuticles with oil.
Pro Tips:
- Thin, even coats prevent bubbling or unevenness.
- For non-gel versions, mix drops of clear polish with pigmented lacquer in the bottle for a DIY jelly formula.
- Use builder gel underneath for added strength and length if your nails are short or weak.
The process takes 30 to 60 minutes at home and can deliver salon-quality results with practice.
Best Jelly Nail Polishes and Products
Top recommendations include:
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Syrup Collection: Affordable drugstore option with quick-dry, buildable jelly finish.
- Townhouse polishes: Professional-grade buildable shades like Tomato for subtle luminosity.
- Nails Inc. Jelly Effect polishes: Excellent sheer options.
- OPI Make ’Em Jelly Collection (2025): Features translucent jellies in fun summer shades.
- Cirque Colours Glazed Collection: Highly praised for smooth application and perfect opacity, with shades like Blurple evoking taro milk tea.
- Essie Nail Art Studio Jelly Gloss: Versatile, buildable sheers available in multiple pastel and vibrant tones.
- Gaoy or other Amazon jelly gel kits: Budget-friendly for beginners.
- Press-ons: Kiss and Olive & June offer ready-made jelly styles for no-commitment trials.
For gel manicures, select kits with jelly-specific formulas and a quality LED lamp. Always choose reputable brands to minimise damage.
Maintenance and Aftercare for Long-Lasting Jelly Nails
To maximise wear (up to two to three weeks for gel):
- Avoid prolonged water exposure; wear gloves for chores.
- Apply cuticle oil daily to maintain hydration and prevent lifting.
- Touch up chips with a clear top coat if using regular polish.
- Remove gel properly with acetone soaks or professional help to avoid nail damage.
- Alternate with nail-strengthening treatments between manicures.
Jelly nails typically show wear less noticeably due to their sheer finish. Refreshing with a glossy top coat every few days helps maintain the wet look.
Pros and Cons of Jelly Nails
Pros:
- Extremely versatile and flattering on all skin tones.
- Youthful, fun aesthetic with sophisticated potential.
- Buildable for custom intensity.
- Photogenic and trend-forward.
- Often feels lighter on the nail than heavy pigments.
Cons:
- Requires precise, thin application to avoid streaks.
- Sheer quality may highlight nail imperfections if not prepped well.
- Gel versions need proper removal to prevent thinning.
Overall, the advantages of jelly nails outweigh the drawbacks for most individuals.
Enjoy summer with this vibrant nail set. Featuring intricate 3D floral appliqués and clear abstract lines, this design promises to evoke memories of your favourite vacation spot, no matter the season.
Photo Courtesy
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Esther Ejoh is a Fashion Editor at Fashion Police Nigeria, where she writes all things fashion, beauty, and celebrity style, with a sharp eye and an even sharper pen. She’s the girl who’ll break down a Met Gala look one minute, rave about a Nigerian beauty brand the next, and still find time to binge a movie or get lost in a novel. Style, storytelling, and self-care? That’s her holy trinity.
