Glass Nails is a minimalist glossy nail style started by Korean nail artists around 2022 that has spread globally. The key feature is a smooth, glass-like shine, with the main difference from regular glossy nails being the depth of reflection and the transparency of the color.
The core technique involves a four-step process: (1) applying two layers of base coat for thickness, (2) adding one or two thin layers of color, (3) applying mirror or chrome powder with a gloss enhancer, and (4) finishing with a thick glass-effect top coat. It takes about 30% longer than a regular manicure but lasts an average of over 14 days.
According to Pinterest data, searches for 'glass nails' rose by 240% year-on-year from December 2025 to April 2026, and the #glassnails hashtag on TikTok surpassed 1.8 billion views. The most popular colors are light beige, pale pink, ice blue, and sage green, especially suited for spring and summer.
Tips for self-application include: Mirror powders from Korean brands ANC, Le Mini Macaron, and Japan's Swallow offer the highest clarity. For weak nails, add a calcium booster to the base coat. In environments with frequent handwashing or sanitizer use, use a dedicated long-lasting top coat. Service costs range from 60,000 to 120,000 KRW in Korea and $70 to $120 in the US.
As Glass Nails spread globally, derivative trends are rapidly diversifying. In Korea and Japan, 'Glass Ombre'—a color gradient finished with a glass tone—is emerging, while in Europe, more subdued 'Matte Glass' tones are popular. At New York Fashion Week 2026 backstage, many looks featured light beige glass nails with subtle chrome accents, praised as a blend of minimalism and functional modernism. Based on search data, the fastest-growing demographic is women in their 30s (+180% year-on-year), expanding the trend from Gen Z to include office-working women in their 30s and 40s.
From a consumer perspective, there are three considerations when adopting Glass Nails for daily wear: (1) Nail thickness — fragile nails may find the glass finish heavy, so calcium and biotin supplements are recommended first; (2) Work environment — medical, food, and beauty professionals may face restrictions due to hygiene rules, so check workplace policies; (3) Maintenance cost — even with 14-day wear, twice-monthly salon visits can add up, making self-use mirror powder kits (about 30,000–50,000 KRW) more economical in the long run. In Korea, one self-kit application costs about 8,000–15,000 KRW, roughly one-eighth the price of a salon service.