Soap nails are the kind of trend that sneaks up on you. It’s simple, seemingly effortless, yet suddenly everywhere. One minute, it’s just Selena Gomez flashing fresh nails, and the next, Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, and half of Hollywood are wearing the same barely-there look. No shimmer, but plenty of gloss like that “I drink plenty of water and always have hand cream in my bag” kind of glow. Let’s see what soap nails can do for your manicure.
Soap Nails: The Delicate Trend Making Waves in 2025!
Soap Girl Mani on Selena Gomez
It’s Tom Bachik’s fault. He called this look the “soap girl mani” when he created it for Selena Gomez. He gave her immaculate cuticles, moisturized skin, and most importantly, shiny clean nails with just a hint of tint. It looks like she spent time at the spa getting pampered. However, this look isn’t just for relaxing at home. Stars are wearing it on the red carpet and salons around the world are getting requests for soap nails manicures. Everybody wants it because this versatile style suits any event or ensemble.
How are soap nails different from other trends like milk bath nails, nude nails, natural nails, mannequin nails, or lip gloss nails? First, a soap nails manicure requires meticulous attention to every part of the fingertip. The idea is to achieve a natural appearance that’s as close to perfection as possible. Second, the shade needs to be a close match to the wearer’s tone. And third, the finish needs to be glossy as if the person still had damp skin after washing their hands.
Here, the artist applied Spring Sigh from Aprés Gel Couleurs because it highlights Selena Gomez’s natural coloring.
Apres Gel Polish - N05 Spring Sigh
Super Glossy Squoval Soap Nails
What’s the secret to flawless soap nails? Beyond careful skin care and cuticle oil, it’s essential to have a smooth surface to start with. Buffing ridges out of nails isn’t always the best solution because it can thin and weaken them. Instead, apply a coat of ridge filler or rubber base gel.
The LDS Rubber Base Collection saves a step because it doubles as base coat and colored polish. It smooths the surface and protects the natural nails to make the manicure last longer. Then, all you need to finish the soap nails look is a glossy top coat. Moreover, there are shades to match every skin tone.
What shape is best for soap nails? In keeping with the minimalist vibe, shorter nails with rounded tips seem to suit the style better. Squoval nails are an excellent choice if you like square tips that are resistant to chipping. An almond shape will make fingers look more elegant. Or oval nails are a natural shape that’s been trending lately.
DIY Soap Nails
Essie’s Global Ambassador recommended a consistent care regimen for your nails, especially if you love minimalist styles like soap nails. It’s crucial to have well cared for cuticles and healthy skin in order for this natural nail style to stand out.
She recommends treating your nails with cuticle oil throughout the day. Keep a bottle handy at home and on the go. Each day take a couple of minutes to gently push back your cuticles after your shower and take care of hangnails promptly.
One of the reasons soap nails are so appealing is that it’s a low-maintenance manicure. It’s a tidy look that most people wear on their natural nails, so it’s less expensive, too.
To do soap nails yourself, start with an extra detailed manicure. Clean the nail bed and underneath the tips, care for the cuticles, and shape everything to perfection. Use a smoothing base coat for a sleek finish. Then apply a sheer shade that complements your complexion. It can match the nail bed color or go slightly lighter. Wrap up with a glossy top coat even if you’re using lacquer instead of gel polish and apply cuticle oil. Aim for a fresh, clean finish where the fingertips look well hydrated and flawless.
Additionally, feel free to innovate a bit. This may be a minimalist style, but there’s nothing wrong with expressing yourself. Here, the artist has followed a French manicure template where the off-white tips are visible but carefully blended into the base color.
Tiny Dots on Bubble Bath Nails
Can you believe that OPI’s Bubble Bath polish is nearly a quarter century old? We’ll be shocked if they ever retire the color! If somehow you’ve missed it, it’s a sheer pink shade that’s an all-time favorite for a “your nails, but better” manicure style.
Here the artist has customized soap nails by adding a single speck of white polish at the base. Otherwise, the sheer, glossy color blends perfectly into the skin. There’s just the tiniest hint of natural white at the tips.
Soap Nails are for Everyone
Have you seen the LDS Color Craze Collection? The nude section alone has seventy-two hues! We’re certain there’s a match for every skin tone on the planet. All you need for soap nails is a glossy, sheer shade that brings out the natural beauty of your complexion. And anyone can wear soap nails because this manicure style makes everyone look effortlessly put-together.
LDS Color Craze Gel Nail Polish - Set 72 Color Nude Collection - 0.5oz
For nail pros, painting soap nails is just part of the job and no big deal. But for ordinary folks who don’t hold a nail brush every day, it might be challenging to achieve flawless results. Let’s be honest, we’ve all flooded cuticles or had to clean up a mess. But don’t let the fear of failure stop you!
When doing soap nails, spend the necessary time perfecting the nails’ appearance even if it feels boring. Be cautious clipping cuticles – push them out of the way instead or use cuticle remover cream to avoid breaking the skin. Apply a base coat even if you’re using lacquer to create a sleek surface and a longer lasting manicure.
If you get polish on the skin, use a skinny brush with acetone to clean it right away. You’ll find that sitting comfortably and stabilizing both your painting hand and the hand being painted on a firm surface will help immensely. Make sure you have enough light, too. Let soap nails be your excuse for boosting your manicure skills!
Conclusion
Will soap nails be your next go-to manicure? Stock up on all the supplies you need in our store and enjoy impressive discounts plus free shipping!
