The Watery Nail Trend Is Replacing Milk Nails This Summer

Over the last few months we’ve seen a surge in creamy, milky nail looks—think Selena Gomez’s viral lavender milk nails, blueberry milk manis, strawberry milk nails, and even milky white looks. While the soft and creamy aesthetic holds strong, we’re seeing the opposite shift into focus and take the lead as summer draws nearer. The watery nail trend is sheer, glossy, and cool—a barely-there, glistening layer that catches the light and doesn’t feel fussy or overdone.  

What Is the Watery Nail Trend? 

Watery nails are a fresh, translucent nail look that mimics the look of water, says Lily Nguyen, celebrity manicurist and founder of Labo Beauté Salon. Its sheer, color-diluted layers and glossy sheen reflects light like a sunlit pool, which is where the trend gets its name. It’s basically the perfect manicure for warm weather.

“Milky nails had their moment with soft, cozy vibes, but watery nails feel lighter and more breathable. Plus, they offer a fun and creative nail without heavy color commitment,” Nguyen says. ‘“People are wanting something fresher and more fluid, especially for spring and summer.” 

She tells us that she loves that the look is minimalist while still making a statement. And the sheerness of the color means that it easily complements any skin tone and plays nicely with whatever you decide to wear for the day.  

The look is trending big time on TikTok and Instagram, Nguyen tells us, with nail artists showing off all sorts of watery designs featuring jelly tints, diffused hues, and rippling top coats. She adds, “Some K-pop idols and influencers have also been spotted with this trend. It’s also similar to nail styles seen on runways this spring, especially in minimalist beauty looks that lean into natural finishes with a twist.” 

How to Ask for Watery Nails at the Salon

If you’re heading to the salon for watery nails, start by asking for a “watery nail effect” with a translucent base. Nguyen says that many nail artists are tapped into this trend and should know what you’re talking about. However, if they’re not sure what “watery nails” are, you can request a jelly polish or a custom blend with clear gel and a touch of pigment. For an extra dose of the watery effect, Nguyen says to request subtle dimension via layered tints, soft swirls, or glossy 3D droplets. 

How to DIY Watery Nails at Home

More of a do it yourself person? Follow these steps, provided by Nguyen. 

1. Start with clean, shaped nails and a clear base coat. 
2. Apply a thin layer of a sheer polish, colors like pale blue, soft gray, or translucent white work well. Rose is another pretty option that has a more nude nail effect.
3. While the polish is still wet, you can add a drop of clear or lightly tinted polish to create a ripple or marbled effect.
4. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for that super glassy, water-like shine.