Now that minimalist manicures are making a comeback, so are high-shine variations on the trend like glass nails.
If the super-shiny aesthetic seems familiar, that’s because it probably is: Not only is it all over TikTok, but the now-trending manicure is a new-and-improved take on previous years’ biggest celebrity-approved nail trends. This time, however, Kylie Jenner serves as the blueprint; not Hailey Bieber.
“Glass nails, which are the latest must-try trend in nail art, are the 2024 edition of ‘glazed donut’ nails,” Juli Russell, DIY Nail Expert for Sally Beauty, tells Glamour. “They’re effortless, chic, and low-maintenance, and because of the natural nail base, grow-out is less noticeable.” And now that Kylie Jenner has posted a TikTok featuring her own glass manicure, NailTok is clamoring to recreate her look. (And doing a pretty good job.)
For those who have yet to see or attempt to DIY Jenner’s original mani, glass nails feature a glossy, chrome powder-created finish that strongly resembles “extremely shiny” glass, making an even shinier, sleeker, and quiet-luxury coded take on the glazed donut mani.
“By applying a white metallic chrome powder over your natural nail color, you achieve a super reflective, glass-like effect that’s both modern and elegant,” says Russell.
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“This sleek, high-shine finish catches the light beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication to any look,” Russell continues, adding that glass nails are perfect for anyone seeking a subtle yet striking upgrade to their manicure.
But that’s not even the best part! Despite seeming so luxurious and complicated, glass nails are actually shockingly easy to DIY at home—both with regular nail lacquer and gel polish, depending on your preference.
To DIY glass nail with traditional nail lacquer, Russell recommends starting with a base coat such as Nail Essentials by ASP: Artificial in a Flash. “This will protect your natural nails and help your manicure last as long as possible,” she says.
“Next you’ll need a ‘your-nails-but-better’ semi-sheer shade of polish,” Russell continues. “One of my go-tos is Kokie Professional Nail Polish Blossom. Depending on the coverage you prefer, apply one two to coats of polish.” Allow for each layer to dry, which usually takes somewhere from five to 10 minutes.
Once you’ve mastered your barely there base, it’s time for the glass magic effect. “To get the look, you’ll need a sheer metallic polish to use as a topper,” says Russell.
Her suggestion? “OPI Happy Anniversary Nail Lacquer has a subtle shimmer and gorgeous reflective finish just like glass,” she says. “Don’t forget to finish with an additional coat of extra glossy top coat, like Nailboo’s Max Gloss Top Coat to totally amp up the shine!”
Prefer gel polish? You’re in luck: “The gel method uses white metallic chrome powder to achieve the glass-effect,” says Russell. “The special pigmentation in chrome powder creates a smooth, extremely shiny and reflective surfaces when smoothed and buffed out.”
