The skincare-inspired nail trend that's about to become your obsession
Forget everything you thought you knew about nail polish. The latest beauty export from Korea isn't another 12-step skincare routine—it's jelly nails, and they're about to revolutionize your mani game. This isn't just another fleeting trend; it's a sophisticated approach to nail care that marries style with substance, creating a translucent finish that catches light in ways traditional polish simply can't.
What Exactly Are Jelly Nails?
Picture this: the glossy, dimensional finish of your favorite childhood jelly sweets, but make it chic. Jelly nails deliver a unique translucent finish that creates depth and dimension while allowing your natural nail to peek through. It's playful yet sophisticated, casual yet elevated—basically, the perfect summer nail that works from beach to boardroom.
The magic lies in the translucent formula that builds beautifully with each coat. Start with one layer for that barely-there, "your nails but better" vibe, or build up to two or three coats for more intensity while maintaining that signature jelly transparency. It's customizable coverage at its finest.
Why Korea Got It Right (Again)
Leave it to Korean beauty innovators to crack the code on what we didn't even know we were missing. Korean jelly nails aren't just about the aesthetic—though that glass-like finish is undeniably gorgeous. They represent a shift toward nail care that actually cares for your nails.
Traditional lacquer sits on top of your nail like a mask. Jelly formulas? They work differently. The translucent nature means your nails can still breathe while getting the protection and treatment benefits they deserve. It's the kind of innovation that makes you wonder why we didn't think of this sooner.
The Treatment Revolution
Here's where butter LONDON's Jelly Preserve Strengthening Treatments absolutely shine. We've taken this trending Korean technique and infused it with serious nail-loving ingredients that actually improve your nail health while you wear them.
What makes our jellies different:
Keratin strengthens weak, brittle nails from the inside out. No more surprise breaks mid-picnic or pool party.
Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection, because your nails face environmental stressors too.
Tea Tree Oil revives dry nails and locks in moisture, keeping your nail beds happy and healthy.
Bamboo Extract prevents breakage and peeling—the ultimate wingman for nail growth goals.
The result? Visible improvement in nail health after just seven days. Your nails will thank you.
The Shades That Started It All
Our Jelly Preserve collection features four stunning shades that perfectly capture the Korean jelly nail aesthetic:
Strawberry Rhubarb delivers that perfect sheer pink that looks like you were born with naturally rosy nails. It's the "no-makeup makeup" of the nail world.
Victoria Plum brings sophisticated purple vibes that transition beautifully from day to night. One coat for daytime elegance, two for evening drama.
Orange Marmalade is your go-to for that sun-kissed glow that screams summer confidence. Perfect for vacation nails that photograph beautifully.
Bramley Apple offers a fresh green that's unexpectedly versatile. Trust us on this one—it's the shade that converts non-green nail polish believers.
Master the Look: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to join the jelly nail revolution? Here's how to get that coveted Korean-inspired finish:
Step 1: Start with clean, prepped nails using our
Nail Scrubbers for the perfect canvas. This step is crucial—jelly formulas highlight everything, so you want your nail surface smooth and ready.
Step 2: Apply one thin coat of your chosen Jelly Preserve shade. Don't worry if it looks too sheer—that's exactly what you want for the authentic jelly effect.
Step 3: Add a second coat if you desire more opacity, but remember: the beauty is in the translucency. Less is often more with jelly nails.
Step 4: Get creative with layering. Try applying jelly over traditional polish colours for custom effects that are uniquely yours.
Next-Level Jelly Techniques
Once you've mastered the basics, it's time to explore the advanced artistry that makes jelly nails so addictive:
The Layering Game: The translucent nature of jellies makes them perfect for creating custom shades. Try Victoria Plum over a neutral base for mysterious depth, or layer Strawberry Rhubarb over white for a milky pink that's pure sophistication.
Gradient Magic: Create stunning ombre effects by applying different jelly shades wet-on-wet, blending while tacky for seamless transitions. The key is working quickly and building gradually.
The French Twist: Use Strawberry Rhubarb or Victoria Plum as your base and apply
PS10X to the tips for a unique French manicure that's anything but traditional.
Why Jelly Nails Are Here to Stay
Unlike other nail trends that burn bright and fade fast, jelly nails have staying power because they solve real problems. They give your nails a break from harsh formulas while delivering the style you crave. They're low-maintenance but high-impact. They work with your natural nail, not against it.
Plus, in an era where authenticity rules, jelly nails celebrate the beauty of translucency. They're not trying to hide your natural nail—they're enhancing it, strengthening it, and making it the best version of itself.
The Bottom Line
Korean jelly nails aren't just another trend to try—they're a smarter approach to nail care that happens to look absolutely stunning. With butter LONDON's Jelly Preserve Strengthening Treatments, you're not just following a trend; you're investing in the long-term health and beauty of your nails.
Ready to make the switch? Trust us, once you go jelly, there's no going back to ordinary lacquer.
Shop the complete Jelly Preserve collection and join the trend that's taking over summer, one gorgeous nail at a time.