Whether prepping your nails for an event, ensuring they’re polished to perfection before an important meeting, or applying your favorite jewel tones before an upcoming vacation, there are many reasons beauty enthusiasts embrace nail care.
To put this into perspective, research states that 100.89 million women in the U.S. used nail polish or nail care products in 2020. This figure is likely to increase to 102.13 million this year alone.
In the industry? You should be doing everything you can to stay on top of the latest trends. Aside from furthering your education, knowing what’s hot and what’s not will allow you to provide exceptional service to your clients.
In recent years, nail polish has experienced impressive growth. From innovative formulations to new shades, textures, and tones, various options exist. There has been a surge in skin and environmentally-friendly products. In this guide, we detail six key trends shaping the industry. Read on to discover more.
1. Innovative Formulas and Skin-Friendly Ingredients
Beauty enthusiasts are becoming more conscious of what goes on their bodies and skin. This has led to a rise in demand for gel polish boasting more natural ingredients that are better for the environment and, of course, you!
To illustrate this, the clean beauty market is skyrocketing in value with each passing year and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Statista Research shows this market is expected to reach £22 billion by 2024. To cater to this demand, trending nail polishes all share one thing. They are free from toxic chemicals! These include toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). On top of this, many formulations are offering hydrating, strengthening, and quick-drying benefits.
2. Nail Art and Creative Designs
A trend that never disappears, only evolves? Nail art and creative designs. As technology advances, nail art and embellishments are reaching new heights! Today’s unique polish and gel products allow for creative expression through intricate designs. One of the latest trends to take center stage? Collections to take inspiration from runway trends, cultural influences, and seasonal motifs. The result? Endless opportunities for nail art enthusiasts and a must to add to your nail education program. Some more avant-garde designs even feature foils, gemstones, ombré-style builder gel, and decals.
3. Color Diversity and Customisation
Another prominent trend in the nail polish world causing a storm? A new variation of hues and finishes. From stylish metallic designs to matte shades, vibrant neon hues and mirrored or ombre effects, gel nail polish brands are expanding their colour offerings constantly! Adding this to your arsenal will allow you to tailor your products, services, and knowledge to more diverse consumer preferences.
Another color trend is proving big in the beauty world. Customisable options allow you to mix and match gel colours and products. The result? Unique designs and nail art that are exclusive.
4. Social Media Influences
Social media is a massive influence in the beauty world today. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest all affect gel nail polish trends. Why? Many influencers promote their preferred products or styles. To ensure you stay ahead of the competition, take note of this. Many brands even partner with celebrities and influencers to endorse services and products. Want to embrace the trends millions of social media followers are viewing? Stay up to date with what’s hot on your socials. The best way to do this? Follow your favorite beauty influencers and gel polish brands.
5. Health and Wellness
Eco-conscious fashionistas are now seeking nail products that boast additional health benefits beyond cosmetic enhancement. Want to stay ahead of this trend? Educate yourself on polishes brimming with nourishing ingredients. These include oils, vitamins, and botanical extracts. One of the latest gel nail trends for embracing a healthy approach is BIAB, which mimics the durability and strength of SNS and acrylic nails but is much healthier for your nail plate.
As well as making nails look picture-perfect, these products are often vegan, breathable, and cruelty-free. Ethical beauty choices are something we all need to take note of.
On top of this, you need to learn more about products and brands that have environmental sustainability high on their agenda, including eco-friendly practices and packaging.
6. Beauty Products that are Inclusive and Diverse
Now more than ever, the beauty industry is embracing inclusive beauty, with consumers searching for products that cater to various preferences and skin tones. Gel nail product manufacturers are increasing their shade selections, releasing new colors suited to every skin tone. Educating yourself on all of the shades available, as well as the hues your demographic wants to invest in, is key!
The Bottom Line
The nail polish industry continues to grow every day. The latest trends focus on innovative formulations, color diversity, nail art, social media influence, sustainability, inclusive beauty, and health and well-being.
To meet evolving demands, you must incorporate the above into your beauty and nail education. Being aware of these trends and the meanings behind them will help you to embrace creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Most importantly? You can cater to a wider audience.
