Image source: Natural Nails PinterestandRound Nail Pinterest
What are the go-to nail shapes that require minimal maintenance? Most people want to avoid breaking nails or ruining the design from hands-on work, whether it is at home, in the office, or at the gym. Choosing the nail length is just as important as choosing the correct shape for yourclients' fingers and lifestyle.
The longer the nail is, the more likely it will break or tear. Applying gel polish can help reinforce the nails, protecting them from external force while giving the natural nails underneath a chance to grow. Curing the nails in between gel layers with a UV/LED nail lamp will strengthen and protect the nails even more. Some nail shapes are sturdier than others and can last at longer lengths. Here are the top four common low-maintenance nail shapes.
Natural-Looking Shape
Image Source: @the_gelbottle_inc
The natural-looking shape is a low-maintenance option for clients as it follows their natural nail in a short length. This nail form is as close as possible to yourclient's regular shape, making it one of the strongest nail shapes. It requires minimal filing, just enough to make each nail uniform.
Square Nail Shape
Image source: @the_gelbottle_inc
Square nails are one of the most low-maintenance shapes for clients to have when they are short. It is also perfect for those with long and narrow nail beds and enjoy shorter lengths. The square nail shape is sturdier, making it less likely to break with overlays or tip extensions. This type of nail shaping is easy to do with minimal filing while creating a clean and professional look. For natural-looking nail extensions, consider trying ProForm™, an acrylic alternative that will provide diamond-like strength. If you want to strengthen and buildthe natural nail, try the cult classic BIAB™.
Squoval Nail Shape
Image source: @_by_shelley
The squoval nail shape is a rectangle with rounded edges. It combines the stability of the square shape and the soft corners of round nails. The squoval nails are low maintenance due to their durable shape, recommended for those who have weaker nails; “the straighter edge across the top reinforces the nail,” while the curved edges reduce the chance the nail tips will catch on something and break.
Round Nail Shape
Image Source: @the_gelbottle_inc
Round nails typically align with yourclient’s natural nail shape, serving as another low-maintenance option that offers a subtle appeal and works on all nail lengths. This nail-shaping method does require minimal to moderate filing, depending on yourclient's nail length.
Are Nail Shape and Size the Key to Low Maintenance?
Yes! Overall, the low-maintenance nail shapes are often the shorter, wider ones, without a narrow point like a coffin or stiletto. Having a longer or narrower point increases the chances of yourclient catching their nails on something and breaking it. The wider edges insquare or natural-looking shapes offer more support for the nail, androunded nails create a softer edge that is less likely to scratch and tear while doing everyday tasks.Withgel polish, a base coat likeRubber Base, and proper curingunder a UV/LED nail lamp,more nail stability and strength are possible.When you reviewyourclient’s fingertip length, hand proportions, and how long they want their nails,consider one of these four shapes forlow-maintenance nails.
FAQs
The wider edges in square or natural-looking shapes offer more support for the nail, and rounded nails create a softer edge that is less likely to scratch and tear while doing everyday tasks.
What nail shape is best for aging hands? ›
Opt for a slightly rounded or oval shape, as it can give the illusion of longer and more youthful-looking fingers.
What are the four general nail shapes? ›
The four basic nail shapes are square, round, oval, and squoval or pointed.
What is the most stable nail shape? ›
square nails
this timeless nail shape is also one of the strongest. because it respects the full width of the nail, those who wear a square shape often notice that their nails withstand bumps and stress much better than their curved or rounded counterparts.
What are the most low maintenance nails? ›
Although gel nails are the ultimate low-maintenance choice, there are still some things you'll want to do to look after your nails. Cuticle oil is a must-have to look after your natural nails. It's worth applying your cuticle oil every few days to help prevent chipping and keep your nails hydrated.
What are the lowest maintenance fake nails? ›
Wraps and silks provide a natural look with minimal effort; plus, they last longer than regular nail polish, so you can enjoy your manicure for as long as it takes to change your mind. A French manicure is a classic, simple look that is quite low maintenance compared to most other faux nails options.
Which nail shape is best? ›
Round nails are the classic nail shape and a great fit for natural nails. They're easy to create at home and a great length and shape for those of you who like fuss-free nails that are less likely to break.
What is the most feminine nail shape? ›
Oval-shaped nails are considered classic and feminine, being similar to an almond but a bit more blunt. They have softly rounded edges that follow the natural shape of the fingertip, helping elongate nails in both width and length. Square-shaped nails have straight, flat edges and sharp corners.
What nail shape is best for chubby fingers? ›
For chubby fingers, you can opt for these nail shapes: oval, round, almond, and coffin. These nail shapes will make your nails and fingers look longer as well as hide the chubby fingers underneath the tip of your nails.
What nail shape is best to avoid chipping? ›
What Nail Shape Is Most Durable? If your nails are prone to breakage, it's best to keep them short and round. “You still have options,” Tuttle says.
Round Nails
This style keeps the natural shape of your nails and can help strengthen your nail beds. If you want healthy nails that are less likely to break, then round nails are a must-have style.
What is the most healthy nail shape? ›
Of all of the shapes, round and square are best for nails that are sturdy and healthy. If you are on your way to achieving proper nail health with the help of one of our amazing technicians, or if you have “fake nails”, there is no reason to forgo your desires.
What nail shape is easiest to type with? ›
There are a couple of shapes that are easier to type with than others. These include oval and flat-shaped nails, such as a square shape. The nail shapes that are the hardest to type with are sharp-edged shapes and pointy shapes, such as the almond or cat nail shape.
What is the least damaging nail style? ›
Overall, Dip Powder Manicures are a great way to get a healthy manicure that will protect and strengthen your nails without causing any damage. Just like any nail treatment, you do have to make sure you properly remove it to keep your nails safe and healthy – Don't pick at your manicure!
