Japanese manicures: The rise of natural elegance in 2025

Enthusiasts of well-maintained hands are more willing to experiment. For years, gels, acrylics, and hybrids have been in vogue—bold, durable, and impeccably smooth. However, the trend is now shifting towards a more natural look. Women are beginning to prioritize care, nail health, and a minimalist aesthetic. Japanese manicures align perfectly with this approach—not only do they enhance the condition of the nails, but they also impart a stunning shiny, pink sheen.

This is a ritual originating from Japan, rooted in traditional care techniques. Both salon professionals and increasingly women at home are performing this treatment to nourish, strengthen, and polish the natural nail plate. Two products play a key role: a wax paste enriched with vitamins and minerals, and a protective powder.

Both ingredients are massaged into the nail plate using special chamois buffers, which not only nourish but also mechanically polish the nails, giving them a glass-like finish. Japanese manicures stand out because they do not cover the nail with any polish layer—it works from within, allowing the nail plate to "breathe."

To achieve the perfect effect, it's important to follow a few basic steps. First, clean the nails thoroughly and gently matte them with a file. Next, apply the nourishing wax paste to the nail plate—rub it in with energetic, circular motions using the buffer.

The paste contains ingredients such as keratin, vitamin A and E, and beeswax, which strengthen the nails from within. Once the plate absorbs the paste, it's time for the powder. Apply it in a similar way—press it into the nail to secure the active ingredients and give the nails a distinct shine. The entire process takes about 30 minutes, and the effect lasts up to two weeks.