In the world of nails and nail art, long nails have always reigned supreme. Those blessed with naturally long nail beds and healthy nail fibre have been at the top of the pack, while those with shorter nail beds, either naturally or due to excessive biting, have been relegated to the drudging bottom of the manicuring hierarchy.
But to do much more with less is a sign of a truly skilled artist. There is much a talented manicurist can do to restore bitten off short nail beds and enhance the look and style of naturally short nails and nail beds without using extensions.
Two accomplished nail artists speak to StyleSpeak about their top tips for extension-free short nail beds.
1.Elongate the Natural Nail Bed
“If the nail bed is small genetically, there is not much we can do to make it longer,” says Gurpreet Seble, International Educator & Nail Expert, NSG Nail Spa by Gurpreet. The natural nail bed is mostly immutable. However, pushing back the cuticles as a part of an efficient nail prep routine can slightly increase the workable surface of the nail.
For some, the nail bed may be naturally long, but cut down in size due to routine nail biting, fungal infections, or other circumstances. While infections must be addressed by a licensed dermatologist, taking proper care of over bitten nails may restore some of the original length of the nail bed. Regular use of cuticle oil, growth serum, and nail brushes can catalyse the growth of your nail.
2.Create Illusions of Length
As they say, fake it till you make it! There are certainly ways to create the impression of having longer nails, even if your natural nail may not be genetically blessed. “For those with shorter nails or wider nail beds, choosing the right nail shape can make a significant difference. Round nails, with their soft, rounded edges, are ideal for creating the illusion of longer, more slender fingers. Alternatively, oval nails, which feature a slightly pointed tip, offer a similar effect while adding a touch of elegance,” says Dina Umarova, Bluesky Ambassador Asia Pacific and Founder of Bluesky Nail Academy, India.
A bit of colour theory magic can go a long way in making the nail look longer to the eye. Gurpreet adds, “Doing a gel polish in solid colour will give the illusion of length.” Dina concurs, saying “When it comes to colours, nudes and pastels are the most flattering for short nails. They create a clean and sophisticated appearance that works well for any occasion.” The plain design, while being chic and elegant, creates an elongating effect, a quick visual illusion for those with short nail beds.
3.Choose Your Favourite Designs
Once a client is satisfied with the shape of their nails, it is now time to let their creativity shine with ingenious designs. Gurpreet advises against the traditional French tip for clients with short nails, saying, “Definitely, French is not an option as it divides the nail bed.”
Yet, simple variations of this traditional look can be perfect for short nail beds. “Short nail beds can still shine with the right design. Emphasizing the area near the cuticle with a half-moon or negative-space look can create a visually appealing contrast. Another excellent option for short nails is the micro French manicure. By keeping the line super fine, this classic style becomes a chic, modern choice that suits shorter nails perfectly,” Dina suggests.
4.Enhance the Nail Look with These Additions
Lastly, even if a client may choose to opt out of full gel extensions, there are plenty of other ways to enhance a nail look. “For those who want the look of long nails without the commitment of extensions, soft gel tips or press-ons are a great solution. These can be applied quickly and easily, and using nail stickers instead of glue allows for hassle-free removal at home,” says Dina.
With the use of a little creativity, ingenuity, and effort, there is no nail challenge which cannot be overcome. These four tips are a sure-fire way to enhance any short nail look without using extensions. Ultimately, well-manicured nails are an automatic boost to anyone’s confidence. There is no doubt that these nails will leave anyone feeling their best.
