It goes without saying that here at Team ELLE, we’re all big fans of eye-catching, attention-grabbing gel manicures with minimalist nail art and punchy colours including the micro-French, cobalt blue and cat-eye effects. But we’re also the first ones to admit that sometimes, a polish-free manicure with immaculate cuticle work and a healthy, naturally-glossy finish is just as elevated and impactful as a fresh set of acrylics. Plus, it feels nice to give our nails a break.
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Malene Birger
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Enter: the Japanese manicure, which takes bare nails to the next level through careful shaping and a focus on improving the health of your tips. At Copenhagen Fashion Week, the no manicure-manicure is fast becoming the It girl look du jour both on and off the runways. It’s easy to see why: the polish-free, impeccable manicure promises to complement every outfit, is easy to maintain and feels understated for the summer.
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
‘We are seeing a major shift towards wellness and natural health in beauty, and nails are finally having their moment,’ Yana Galiyeva and Maria Sharova, co-owners of So.Shell, previously told ELLE UK. Of course, trimming your cuticles, shaping and buffing the nails can be done at home, but if you’re looking for a professional finish and stronger nails, an in-salon Japanese manicure is the way to go.
Umberto Fratini//LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Gestuz SS27
Umberto Fratini//LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Gestuz SS27
‘Unlike traditional polish or gel systems, the Japanese manicure or P.Shine [as it is known in So.Shell] uses a two-step process: a vitamin-rich paste is massaged into the natural nail using specialised leather buffers, followed by a protective powder that seals in nutrients,’ says Galiyeva. ‘The result is a natural pink-pearl lustre that becomes part of your nail structure, growing out with your nails rather than chipping away.’ The paste contains nourishing ingredients such as beeswax, keratin, and vitamins.
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
Skall Studio SS27
LAUNCHMETRICS SPOTLIGHT
This conditioning treatment is ideal for summer too, when nails are likely to be ravaged by drying air-conditioned environments and salty sea water on holidays. Consider it a reset for your manicure.
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