How To Get The ‘No Make-Up Make-Up’ Nail Look

“This nail trend is huge right now because there’s been a shift towards embracing and enhancing your natural beauty – a bit like skin tints over full-coverage foundation. Also, this look falls into that popular category of ‘high maintenance to be low maintenance’ treatments and because of the milky, natural-looking finish, regrowth is less obvious so you can go longer between appointments.” – Georgia Rae, manicurist 

“Soft shapes like almond or ‘squoval’ work best because they mimic the natural shape of your nails, creating that seamless, understated look. Plus, they keep things looking elegant rather than too sharp or dramatic.”– Iram Shelton, nail artist

“Short to medium length is ideal. Super long nails can make it look more statement than minimalist. Keeping them on the shorter side also helps maintain that clean, natural aesthetic that never goes out of style.” – Iram 

“On short nails, I like to keep it natural yet glossy, so I’ll do either one or two coats of Chanel’s La Base Camélia. The slight tint blurs any imperfections and smooths any ridges in the nail, giving you that your-nails-but-better look. On a slightly longer nail, I like a little more coverage, so I always reach for Le Vernis in ‘Ballerina’ – this looks different on every skin tone but is universally flattering.” – Georgia 

“The best neutral shades are the ones that enhance your nails rather than cover them up. I’m an ambassador for OPI and, for a classic sheer pink, I rate its ‘Bubble Bath’. Then there’s Essie’s soft, delicate ‘Mademoiselle’ and ‘Sheer Fantasy’ – both look really polished.” – Iram 

“The ‘naked French’ trend was my go-to last year, and I reckon it’ll be popular for the foreseeable. It’s a quieter interpretation of the classic French, still giving that natural look but blurring any discolouration for a fresher, more refined effect. I like to use all sheer shades: pink for the base, and milky white for the tips to colour correct and brighten.” – Georgia 

“The trick for achieving milky tips is to use a sheer white rather than an opaque, stark white. I like OPI’s ‘Funny Bunny’ or Essie’s ‘Marshmallow’ – both give that slightly diffused effect. Use a fine nail art brush or a make-up sponge to lightly fade the white into the nail, so it looks soft rather than harsh. The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity, so don’t overdo it with too many coats or a super bright white tip. Keep it understated and natural-looking.” – Iram 

“No manicure is complete if the cuticles aren’t clean. For at-home use, I recommend a quality curved cuticle tool and a cuticle nipper. My favourites are the ‘Doris’ and ‘Katey’ tools by Navy Professional – they’re perfect for nipping away any dead skin, which will reduce the temptation to pick or irritate the skin around your nails.” – Georgia 

“If your cuticles are hydrated enough, you won’t actually need to use tools much. I’m never without a cuticle oil; I keep one on my bedside table and in every bag. Chanel’s L’Huile Camélia  doesn’t have a greasy texture, so it’s very easy to top up throughout the day, but I apply it religiously every evening as a final step to allow it to soak in and get to work overnight. Aside from eating well, cuticle oil is key for keeping your nails hydrated and looking healthy. Massage it in thoroughly to stimulate growth, ensuring you get underneath the edge of the nail.” – Georgia 

“Healthy nails are the foundation of this look, so a little daily care goes a long way. Alongside cuticle oil and nail prep, I swear by a high-shine top coat. Essie’s Gel Couture version is excellent. The combination of these three key steps will make your nails look like you have just walked out of a salon.” – Iram 

Follow @RAELONDONNAILS & @IRAMSHELTON