You probably already know that maximalism is the new trend in nails. In a way that makes their nails look like an extension of the jewelry they wear, everyone has different patterns and textured designs on their nails. As a beauty editor, I always notice one thing when I look at all the new colors and designs that are coming out. No matter how strange some trends are, people will always go back to a simple clean look at some point.
Even though people aren’t going for bold designs these days, they still want their nails done in a way that isn’t just plain and without polish. Instead, they’re choosing colors that are almost invisible but still look classy without much work. Think of tiny French tips, milky nails, short nail designs, and, of course, soap nails. Even though clean girl makeup may have gone out of style in 2025, soap nails feel like a continuation of that look, but with a new twist for 2026.
The good news is that soap nails are very easy to do at home, unlike some other trends. That means you won’t have to wait long for your nails to be done and you won’t have to pay a lot. I talked to nail artist Koti Sixxx and nail expert and teacher Radina Ignatova to get all the details for a full, in-depth breakdown. Read on to find out their best advice.
What are nails made of soap?
You might be wondering what soap nails are and why they’re so popular if you’ve never heard of them before. According to Ignatova, “Soap nails are a clean shiny manicure that makes it look like you’ve just washed your hands.” “Usually, they are done in sheer pinks or soft nudes with a shine that looks like glass.” The main goal is to look stylish and put together without putting in too much effort.
What makes soap nails and milky nails different?
Milky nails and soap nails may look the same at first, but they are not quite the same. Sixxx says, “The difference is in the opacity and undertone.” “Soap nails are very sheer and have a finish that is almost invisible. Milky nails, on the other hand, are more opaque and lean toward soft pastel colors.” One example she gives is how OPI’s Bubble Bath for soap nails is different from Funny Bunny.
How to Do Soap Nails at Home
No joke, these might be the easiest nail trends to do at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get the look without any more fuss.
The tools you will need
- File for nails
- Push cuticles
- Base coat for the buffer
- Nail polish in sheer, blush, or French pink
- Topcoat with shine
- Optional Cuticle oil
Step 1: Get ready
You’ll need to get ready once you have all your materials in front of you. “Ignatova says to start by shaping the nails into a soft square or round shape. Then, gently push back the cuticles and buff the nail surface lightly to make it smooth.”
Step 2: The First Coat
You’ll need to start with the first coat of paint, just like you would with any other manicure. “Apply a structured base coat to give the nails shape and make them look the same on all sides,” says Sixxx. “This is what makes the illusion of being seamless and not there.”
Step 3: Add a second coat and shine
The third step is more like two steps in one. “Ignatova says to apply one to two thin coats of a sheer, pale polish, keeping the layers light rather than thick.” “Put on a glossy topcoat to get that shiny look.”
Step 4: Optional Final Touches
There are a few more things you can do to finish everything off once your nails are dry. Ignatova says you can use cuticle oil but if your nails are damaged, Sixxx says you should use tinted builder gel instead. It should have a slightly yellow or cream color along the free edge to look like a natural nail.
