TRENDS
April’s Juiciest Nail Trend Is Korean Jelly Nails JELLY NAILS
by Irene Coltrinari
ROM GLASS SKIN TO THE meticulous 10-step skincare routine, many of today’s most buzzed-about beauty innovations can be traced back to the creative, trendsetting world of South Korea. It’s the birthplace of so many beauty phenomena that have gone global— and this season, another deliciously playful trend has emerged: Korean jelly nails. Sweet, shiny, and downright delightful, jelly nails are taking over spring and summer mood boards with their candy- colored charm. These nails are more than just a passing trend—they’re an aesthetic mood. At first glance, jelly nails are irresistibly cute, but their real magic lies in their texture and finish. They boast juicy, translucent tones that resemble everything from gummy bears to fruit jam and sparkling F
unapologetically fun.
hard candies. The polishes used are often sheer but thick, layered using heavyweight gels or builder formulas that create a plush, rounded, almost glass-like dome on the nail bed. The final look? Like your fingertips were dipped in a magical syrup—shiny, squishy, and oh-so-yummy. Part of the appeal is their nostalgic, almost edible appearance. With shades ranging from strawberry pinks and peachy oranges to grape purples and lime greens, jelly nails feel like a sugary treat for your hands. They also shine (literally and figuratively) in natural light, making them perfect for sunny weather and selfie-ready moments. Think soap nails or lip gloss nails, but turned up a notch with bold saturation, intense color payoff, and an extra layer of depth. The result is a look that’s playful, polished, and
Social media has helped catapult the trend into international stardom. On TikTok, the hashtag #jellynails already has tens of thousands of entries, with users showcasing pastel palettes, ombré finishes, embedded glitter, and even fruit slice decals. From DIY tutorials to professional salon inspo, it’s clear that people aren’t just loving jelly nails—they’re customizing them in increasingly creative ways. And unlike more complex nail art trends, jelly nails offer a vibe that’s both nostalgic and low-maintenance—no intricate designs required to make a bold statement. The roots of jelly nails, however, go far beyond K-beauty salons and trending hashtags. Their resurgence seems to mirror the comeback of another iconic Y2K staple: jelly shoes. Remember those colorful,
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EC Magazines | Los Angeles Edition 2025
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