Low-maintenance manicures are here to stay, and they’re more stylish and versatile than ever! Whether you're looking for something simple that lasts or a polished look that doesn’t need weekly upkeep, minimalist manicures make it easy to keep your nails looking fresh and low key. Below, we'll dive into some of the top low-maintenance manicure trends of 2024, including the trending “Soap Nails,” the ultra-popular “My-Nails-But-Better,” or "BB Cream" nails and a selection of chic, natural designs.
What Is the Lowest Maintenance Manicure?
When it comes to low-maintenance nails, simplicity is key. The best low-maintenance manicures are styles that require minimal upkeep, are easy to recreate at home, and look naturally beautiful as they grow out. “Soap Nails” and “Your-Nails-But-Better” nails are two top options in this category, focusing on natural beauty with a sleek, glossy finish.
Let’s look at each of these trends in detail!
Soap Nails: The Top Low-Maintenance Manicure of 2024
What Are Soap Nails?
Inspired by the “soap brows” trend, Soap Nails are all about keeping things clean and glossy. This style focuses on a smooth base with perfectly trimmed and buffed nails, paired with a high-shine top coat to create a “wet” look. Think of it as the ultimate minimalist manicure that looks fresh out of a bubble bath! Soap Nails work best with see-through pinks or milky nude shades, which mimic natural nails with a super-sleek gloss.
How to Get the Look
Getting the Soap Nail look is more about nail health than heavy polish. Start by carefully prepping your nails—trim, file, and buff them until they’re as smooth as possible. Hydrate your nails and cuticles with a hand scrub or a rich moisturizer, then apply a clear or sheer polish and finish with a super glossy top coat. Recommended polishes include:
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OPI Bubble Bath – A classic pink shade that adds just the right hint of color.
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Manicurist Green Flash in Beige – A natural nude that lets your nails shine.
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essie Gel Couture in Sheer Fantasy – For a delicate pink tint.
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OPI Brilliant High-Shine Top Coat – Essential for that signature Soap Nail gloss.
Shop The Top Low-Maintenance Nail Polish Shades
OPI Bubble Bath
Manicurist Green Flash in Beige
essie Gel Couture in Sheer Fantasy
OPI Brilliant High-Shine Top Coat
The My-Nails-But-Better (BB Cream Nails): How the Natural Manicure Trend Took Over
The “My-Nails-But-Better” manicure is part of the “quiet luxury” trend taking over beauty. This style is the perfect balance of elegant and effortless, with semi-sheer or nude polish that makes your nails look naturally flawless. It’s all about embracing a healthy nail look with a sophisticated, glossy finish.
Why This Trend Works for Everyone
This look is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for any occasion—from casual days to black-tie events. Celebrities love it because it enhances any outfit without taking over. A high-gloss or sheer nude polish, paired with hydrated, healthy skin around the nails, creates a polished appearance that’s always in style.
Tip: The Your-Nails-But-Better look works best with a soft squoval (square-oval) or rounded shape to mimic the natural curve of your cuticle, keeping the vibe easy and elegant.
Nail Designs for the Manicure Minimalist
If you’re looking for more ways to keep things simple yet stylish, natural nail designs offer plenty of options. Here are a few favorites that combine minimalism with a touch of flair:
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Abstract Lines: Add a playful twist to your nails with subtle white lines on a neutral base.
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Dotted Gold Accents: Gold dots add a hint of glam without overpowering a milky nude background.
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Matte Abstracts: Swap out gloss for matte finishes with soft peach or metallic details.
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Natural Tips: A barely-there French tip in a sheer nude is an effortless classic.
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White Outlines: Frame each nail with a thin white line for a unique, modern look.
- Hearts, Stars, Moons: Little charms that can be painted on some or all nails.
These designs are easy to create at home, require little maintenance, and match any outfit, making them perfect for minimalist manicure lovers.
FAQs About Low-Maintenance Manicures
What Is the Lowest Maintenance Manicure?
The lowest maintenance manicures focus on simple, natural styles like Soap Nails or Your-Nails-But-Better. These styles let your nails grow out gracefully without looking “undone,” and only need occasional touch-ups to maintain gloss and cuticle care.
What Is the Most Popular Nail Trend Right Now?
The “quiet luxury” trend, often seen as the Your-Nails-But-Better manicure, is incredibly popular. This trend highlights natural nail beauty with a polished finish that suits every occasion. Soap Nails are also trending for their “wet” look that stays fresh for days.
What Manicure Looks Most Natural?
Both the Soap Nails and Your-Nails-But-Better of BB Cream nail styles are designed to look naturally beautiful. They enhance the natural color and shine of your nails with clear or sheer polishes, allowing your nails to look clean and healthy without heavy colors or embellishments.
By keeping your nails simple, polished, and healthy, you can rock a low-maintenance look that’s both on-trend and easy to manage. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek Soap Nails or the understated elegance of Your-Nails-But-Better, these top low-maintenance manicures are sure to elevate your style with minimal effort.