This nail technician to the stars reveals the exact order of coats for a stunning mirror effect at home

This summer 2026, the glossy manicure is the must-have trend for elegant, sophisticated hands. Gone are the gaudy colors: make way for transparency and shine with the famous “glass manicure”, which offers an irresistible mirror finish. This technique, driven by the “clean girl” movement, is now winning over beauty aficionados in search of a sublimated, natural look.

The glass manicure: the secret of a luxurious glossy effect

After the success of “clean nails”, the glass-effect manicure offers an even more refined shine. This method remains natural and clean, while providing an ultra-chic glossy finish. Unlike the classic chrome finish, it plays on the subtlety of luminous reflections.

Nail technician Harriet Westmoreland, interviewed by British Vogue, explains the difference. She explains that the light is reflected here as if on glass, rather than a traditional chrome effect. It’s a real evolution in the world of high-end manicures.

“We apply chrome as a base, then a thick gel on top. This reflects the light onto the chrome, but more subtly, because the chrome is under the transparent gel, not on top of it.”

The technical principle behind this mirror shine

To achieve this glossy effect, chrome powder is encapsulated under a layer of thick transparent gel. This inverted superimposition filters and magnifies light reflections. As a result, the final effect appears softer and more sophisticated than classic chrome.

This technique requires a certain precision in its application. However, it is accessible to those who wish to reproduce it at home. The key is to carefully prepare the natural nail.

• A subtle, elegant mirror effect
• An alternative to the overly pronounced chrome finish
• Chromium powder under the transparent gel
• A natural look compatible with the “clean girl” style
• A technique that can be adapted to the home with the right equipment

How to reproduce this glossy finish at home

Manicurist Julia Diogo stresses the importance of an impeccable base for a successful application. She affirms that the cleaner the base, the better the final result, especially for a transparent effect. This preparatory step determines the quality of the glossy finish.

Start by applying a special emollient to cuticles. Gently clean the entire nail contour, then use a sharp cuticle cutter. This will ensure a perfectly clean edge before application.

Next, polish the nail surface with a polishing block. The aim is to achieve a smooth, even texture. Repeat this step as many times as necessary for a totally clean and well-groomed nail.

Layering steps for a professional result

Harriet Westmoreland recommends a precise order of application. First, apply your protective base coat to the prepared nail. This first coat ensures adhesion and protects the natural nail from pigments.

Next, apply a thin layer of chrome powder to this base. Then cover with a transparent or lightly colored gel, as you prefer. Shades of beige, peach or pink are ideal for a natural, luminous effect.

Tips for a long-lasting, flawless glossy effect

The final step is to apply a generous coat of high-gloss top coat. It’s precisely this finish that creates the sought-after mirror effect. Without it, the glossy finish loses intensity and depth.

This manicure style is part of the “clean girl” trend, carried by celebrities like Hailey Bieber. The American model embodies this clean philosophy through her Rhode brand. The brand is scheduled to launch in France in September.

With a little patience and the right products, this luxurious finish becomes accessible to all. The glass manicure proves that elegance and simplicity can coexist harmoniously. All that’s left to do is get out your gear and try out this technique that’s taking social networks by storm.

The “clean” movement continues to dictate beauty codes in 2026. This quest for purity now affects make-up as much as manicure. The natural glossy finish is becoming the new standard for discreet, refined chic.

• glossy