Bottom line: Did you know that the K-pop jelly nails that garnered 380 million views on TikTok can be recreated at home for less than $$10? Check out the 9 trends for 2025 and the foolproof DIY secrets from Blackpink’s dedicated nail artist.
1. The state of K-pop nail art trends in 2025
K-pop nail art in 2025 9 key trends predicted by BlackPink’s Lisa and the Index’s dedicated nail artistsK-pop nail art in particular is characterized by a “hyper-clean but hyper-detailed aesthetic,” with minimalist yet sophisticated designs becoming increasingly popular.
1. Clear Gel/Gradient Nails: Translucent, candy-like texture garners 380 million views on TikTok
2. Cat Eye Effect: Elegant Mirror Finish with Magnetic Gel
3. 3D Minimal Embellishment: Tiny crystals and pearls for a sophisticated look
4. Mix-and-match nails: a variety of styles with different designs for each finger
5. Glass Nails: An evolution of chrome nails with a clear, glossy finish.
2. K-pop Nail Art: The Difference Between Clear Gel and Gradients
Clear gel nails and gradient nails both feature a translucent texture, but they differ in color and application. Clear gel nails often use bright, neon colors, while gradient nails favor natural colors in nude and berry tones.in the file.
Jelly Nail Features:
1. Encapsulating translucent colored gel into clear gel
2. Use bright candy colors like bubblegum pink, neon green, etc.
3. Y2K sentimentality inspired by ’90s jelly shoes
Syrup Nail Features:
1. Darker tips with the Ombré Gradient technique
2. Natural tones like nude, berry, chocolate brown, etc.
3. An Asian trend that started in Korea and spread to Japan
3. DIY methods to follow at home
K-pop nail art is easier to replicate at home than you might think. Step-by-step DIY methods recommended by professional nail artiststo master the core techniques of K-pop nail art.
Prerequisites:
1. Base coat and top coat
2. Shea jelly polish or translucent nail gel
3. Makeup sponge or small brush
4. Cuticle oil and nail lamp (if using gel)
Jelly nail DIY process:
1. File nails and apply base coat and let dry completely
2. Repeat 2-3 thin layers of jelly polish (drying is required for each step)
3. Finish with a glossy top coat for a jelly-like shine
4. Massage the nail bed with cuticle oil for a healthy finish
Syrup nail DIY process:
1. Apply a Clear or Sheer Base
2. Apply a darker color to the sponge and dab on the tip to create a gradient effect
3. Repeat 2-3 times for natural blending
4. Finish with a glitter top coat or clear polish
4. K-pop nail art essential products and brands
Choosing high-quality products is key to perfecting the K-pop nail art trend of 2025. Brands and products recommended by expertsto create authentic K-pop nail art.
TOP Korean brands:
1. Finger Suit: K-pop idols love the Sanrio collaboration, a must-have brand for K-pop idols
2. Dashing Diva: Glaze & Magic Press launches summer marine theme with collection
3. Ohora: Specializes in understated patterns under the Zenji target brand.
Global brand recommendations:
1. Essie Jelly Gloss Nail Polish: Get the perfect jelly effect with the Art Studio line.
2. Sally Hansen Instagram-Dry Syrup Collection: $8 is a great value
3. Le Mini Macaron Les Jellies: 3 candy-colored shades in one package
Compare ingredients and duration:
1. Gel type: Lasts 2-3 weeks, requires UV/LED lamp, professional results
2. Polish type: 5-7 days long, easy to remover, beginner friendly
3. Press-on type: lasts 1-2 weeks, instant application, multiple designs
5. Analyze K-pop idol nail art
In 2025, K-pop idols’ nail choices have become more than just a fashion statement; they’ve become a major factor in global K-pop nail art trends. Let’s analyze the K-pop nail art styles of major idols.
Nail features for each member of BLACKPINK:
1. Lisa: Leading the omakase trend with mismatched freestyle nails, working with dedicated artist Juan Alvear
2. Index: Hyper-clean, detailed aesthetic, utilizing small crystal accents
3. Jenny: Leading the glass nail trend that evolved from glazed donuts
Espa & Newzine style:
1. Ning Ning: Gradient French Nails with Waterglow Effect
2. Karina: Multidimensional look with cat-eye effect and glitter combination
3. Newzines: Zen-esque with minimal lines and geometric patterns
Trend spread path:
1. Matching music videos and stage costumes
2. Show detail with Instagram close-up shots
3. DIY recreation and social media viralization by fans
6. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q1. Which is easier for beginners: jelly nails or syrup nails?
A1. Syrup nails are easier – you only need to master the gradient technique, and they look natural even if you make mistakes.
Q2. What is the average duration of K-pop nail art?
A2. The gel type lasts 2-3 weeks and the regular polish lasts 5-7 days. If you apply cuticle oil consistently, it will last longer.
Q3. What’s the biggest DIY mistake you make at home?
A3. applying too thick of a layer and not following the drying time for each step – multiple thin coats is the key.
Q4. Do I need special tools for the cat-eye effect?
A4. Yes, you will need magnetic gel polish and a magnet. Hold the magnet over the nail and move it around to control the direction of the metallic particles.
Q5. Can I buy Korean branded products overseas?
A5. Yes, you can buy it from authorized importers like Zillabeau in the US or online K-beauty stores.
7. related reading
1. K-Face and Mirror Skin Trends – The Perfect Match for Global Beauty Innovation in 2025
2. Sunscreen Guide: 7 Steps to a Complete Microbiome SPF Routine
3. The Future of K-Beauty in 2025: AI Skincare, PDRN, and Hydrogel Mask Innovations
5. The Science of Korean Skincare Routines | 10 Step Guide from a Korean Dermatologist