It’s Official: The Ultra-Long Nail Trend Is Over, Short Nails Are In Style

When it comes to nails, Jessica Suchanek, a Canadian medical aesthetician currently offering services out of JUN Studios in Vancouver, has seen many trends come and go, but one that’s been steadily gaining momentum as of late is the short nail trend. Over the past year, Jessica’s noticed a significant increase in clients opting for shorter nails over longer ones, and she’s got a few reasons why she thinks that this trend has become so appealing:

• Practicality: Short nails are inherently practical. They’re not so prone to breakage, making them an ideal choice for busy individuals.
• Clean and Polished: Short nails exude a clean and polished appearance, promoting excellent nail hygiene.
• Low-maintenance Elegance: They require minimal upkeep, providing an elegant, hassle-free choice.

According to Jessica, maintaining healthy nails—short or long—is a must. With that in mind, she’s got a few useful tips and tricks to help maintain that healthy look:

• Nail and Cuticle Oil: Regularly apply a nourishing nail and cuticle oil containing ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, or almond oil to keep your nails and cuticles hydrated and healthy.
• Nail Strengthener: Use a nail strengthener as a base coat to reinforce your nails and reduce breakage. Look for products with strengthening ingredients like keratin or calcium.
• Nail Polish Remover: Choose acetone-free nail polish removers to prevent drying out your nails and cuticles. Gentle, non-acetone options are available and are less harsh on your nails.
• Nail File and Buffer: Invest in a quality nail file and buffer. A gentle nail file helps shape your nails without causing damage, and a buffer can smooth the nail surface.
• Hand Cream: Regularly moisturize your hands and nails with a high-quality hand cream containing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid to keep your skin and nails hydrated.
• Cuticle Pusher: A cuticle pusher or wooden stick can help gently push back cuticles to maintain a tidy appearance. Avoid cutting cuticles, as this can lead to infection.
• Nail Brush: Use a soft nail brush to clean your nails and remove dirt and debris from under the nails, promoting nail health and cleanliness.
• Calcium Supplements: If your nails are persistently weak or brittle, consult a healthcare professional about calcium supplements. Adequate calcium intake can contribute to nail strength.
• Biotin Supplements: Biotin, a B vitamin, is known to support healthy nails. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
• Nail Polish with Strengthening Ingredients: Some nail polishes are formulated with ingredients like biotin or keratin to promote nail strength while adding colour.
• Gloves: Protect your nails during household chores or when working with harsh chemicals by wearing gloves. This helps prevent nails from becoming weak or brittle.
• Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including biotin, calcium, and protein, contributes to overall nail health. Incorporate foods like eggs, dairy products, nuts, and leafy greens into your diet.

As for trending fall colours, Jessica’s noticed people are choosing colours that capture the cosy and warm vibes of the season. Here are 10 popular colours she recommends trying out this fall:

• Deep Burgundy: A timeless fall favourite, deep burgundy or wine-red nails evoke the rich hues of autumn leaves.
• Earthy Browns: Warm brown shades, from creamy latte to deep chocolate, bring a comforting feel to your nails.
• Olive Green: Muted olive or sage green nails are perfect for adding an earthy and sophisticated touch.
• Mustard Yellow: This bold and cheerful colour mimics the golden leaves of fall trees.
• Rust Orange: Rusty orange shades capture the essence of the season, reminiscent of pumpkin spice and falling leaves.
• Plum Purple: Deep plum or eggplant shades add a touch of mystery and sophistication to your nails.
• Navy Blue: A rich navy blue is a versatile choice that complements many fall outfits.
• Taupe: A neutral taupe colour is a subtle and elegant option that goes well with any fall look.
• Terracotta: Terracotta hues bring warmth and a touch of rustic charm to your nails.
• Metallics: Consider metallic shades like copper, bronze, or gold for a bit of glamour and shine.

Will you be switching to shorter nails this season? Let us know in the comments below! —Ashley Harris