Brighter than a classic nude and less intimidating than a full neon, they promise to inject a real shot of color into our seasonal manicures. In recent weeks, these ultra-glossy translucent nails have been everywhere on social media and in salons. The promise is tempting.
Very popular in Asia for several years, these syrup nails play on transparency and layers of color to create a juicy, almost gourmet finish. Orange has a star place this spring, but that’s only the beginning of the story.
Syrup nails: an ultra-shiny jelly manicure from Asia
The principle of syrup nails: lightly tinted varnishes or gels, applied in thin superimposed layers, concentrated towards the free edge of the nail for a gentle internal gradient. Expert Daisy Kalnina sums up the trend in the magazine:
Appearing in Japanese salons around 2015 before being taken over by Korean K-beauty, this manicure then exploded on TikTok: the hashtag #syrupnails already has several million views, fueled by slow-motion tutorials where the color seems to flow like syrup.
Why syrup nails are electrifying the spring 2026 nail trend
After winter, we want light, but without completely abandoning soft manicures. Syrup nails reveal the natural nail while providing a very shiny colored veil, like fruit juice. The effect remains chic on short nails and goes easily with gold jewelry and silver rings.
This season, the key shade spotted by is a vibrant orange reminiscent of orange syrup or ripe apricot. But the technique also works with other fresh spring colors, especially the already ubiquitous jelly pinks, pastels and lavender.
How to adopt syrup nails in the salon or at home
In institutes, the pro will often work with transparent jelly gels. She applies a very thin first coat to the entire nail, then builds the color towards the free edge with one or two additional coats, before sealing everything under a high-gloss top coat for a long-lasting glassy effect.
For a DIY version, simply mix one or two drops of colored varnish in a bottle of base or transparent top coat, until you obtain a “syrup varnish”. We then apply two to three very thin coats, allowing it to dry well between each pass, to regain that characteristic translucent shine.
How long do syrup nails last?
In gel, they last about three weeks; in varnish, five to seven days.
What is the difference between syrup nails and jelly nails?
Jelly nails are uniform; syrup nails create a gradient.
Can we wear syrup nails on short nails?
Yes, transparency visually lengthens the nail and remains very discreet.
What color to choose for spring syrup nails?
Vitamin orange works on all skin tones, just like pastels.
