Beauty’s pendulum has been swinging wildly for years – from maximalist nail art and chrome finishes to barely-there ‘clean girl’ manicures – but for summer 2026, it’s leaning firmly toward a quiet gel rebellion. After years of peeling off BIAB in the back of taxis and pretending another layer of shellac counted as nail care, beauty insiders are embracing something softer, shinier and significantly less high-maintenance: the Japanese pedicure.
Personally, I’m all for it, largely because I developed a gel nail allergy courtesy of a haphazard, sleepy Monday-night at-home mani session – a cautionary tale with cuticle oil. And it seems the internet agrees. TikTok is currently awash with users declaring themselves officially “anti-gel” nails, with the Japanese technique emerging as the chic, healthier alternative.
But what actually is the Japanese pedi? Well, according to Susan Carroll, founder and director of Young LDN, the treatment focuses entirely on restoring the natural nail rather than covering it up. “A Japanese pedicure is a treatment centred around the condition and appearance of the natural nail, rather than covering it with polish or gel,” she explains. Originating in Japan, Susan shares that “the ritual uses mineral-rich pastes, nourishing powders and precise budding techniques,” all of which restore strength, softness and shine naturally.
Side note: The technique can, of course, be used on your fingernails too, but as we edge into sandal territory and the vaguely euphoric (?) return of exposed toes, it’s pedicures leading the charge.
The finish is subtle but chic – think pearly, glossy, healthy nails. And the appeal isn’t purely aesthetic. “Unlike gels, there’s no repeated soaking in acetone, aggressive filing or long-term product wear,” Susan says, making it a gentler option for anyone whose nails are feeling dehydrated or weakened after years of gel loyalty. “Many clients are moving towards Japanese pedicures because they’re far gentler on the natural nail,” Susan adds.
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In other words, the Japanese pedicure taps directly into beauty’s latest obsession: understated luxury. The goal is no longer toes that look freshly painted, but toes that look like they’ve never once touched pavement. Ancient Egyptian Princess who refuses to walk anywhere unless carried on a chaise longue, kinda energy.
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