Minimalism is a trend nowadays, and natural nails are the best way to achieve it. You can easily style your natural nails at home when you are too busy to visit a salon and get your artificial nails done by a professional nail artist. Get a minimal look with natural nail shapes and you are good to go.
Nail experts advise you to choose natural nail shapes that are short and close to your nail beds. They are timeless and easy to maintain. To choose the optimal shape for your finger nails or toenails, it is better to consider your hands, finger, and toenail shapes. Moreover, proper nail care and using the right tools are essential to maintain health of your nails.
Tools to Shape Natural Nails:
Shaping your natural nails at home is easy with expert tips. Dermatologists recommend using a sharp nail clipper to cut your nails because they provide clean and precise cuts without causing damage and uneven edges. Moreover, use a glass nail file for a smooth finish. It is gentle on your natural nails. Similarly, an emery board with dual grit, usually 180-240 grit, is recommended to shape and smooth the edges. Dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology Association emphasize proper nail care and write, “Keep nails shaped and free of snags by filing with an emery board”.
How-to Guide for Short Natural Nail Shapes
Short nails are a more healthier and functional option to shape your natural nails. They need less time to file and shape with a professional look. Also, short nails need less care and are more practical to perform daily tasks such as cooking. So, here is a guide for short natural nail shapes to follow.
1. Round Nails
Round nails are one of the best natural nail shapes. These nails are more practical and easy to maintain. That’s why they are loved by most working women, housewives, and the ones who prefer a low-maintenance style.
How to Get Round Nails?
Cut your nails in a short length. Use a nail file and create a smooth curve around your natural nail bed. File your nails in one direction and maintain the natural width of your nails. This creates a soft and natural look.
2. Oval Nails
Oval nails are a bit elongated version of round nails. These nails have perfect round but elongated tips. This makes them more graceful and feminine. It is suitable for casual as well as formal events. If you want your hands to look more delicate, oval nails are the best choice for you.
How to Get Oval Nails?
First, trim your nails in a short length. Use a nail file to shape your nail tips in a round curve but slightly far from your nail bed. This creates a longer tip as compared to round tios. Then, use a buffer to smooth the edges.
3. Square Nails
Square nails have a bold and modish look, which makes them the best short natural nail shapes. Compared to round nails, square nails need more maintenance because of their sharp edges. These nails give a polished look best for formal events.
How to get Square Nails?
Trim your nails short and file the sides and tip flat and straight to get a box-like shape. This creates sharp edges and a bold appearance.
4. Squoval Nails
Squoval nails are the balance between square and oval nails. Instead of sharp edges of square nails, the tips of squoval nails are softly rounded. This nail shape goes well with both stylish and simple looks.
How to Get Squoval Nails?
Clean and cut your nails in a short length. First, create square nail tips and then file the sharp edges in a round shape. Finally, buff your nails for smoothness.
5. Almond Nails
Almond nails are one of the most attractive and elegant nails. You can get a soft almond tip with natural nails easily at home. Almond nails are the best way to get a refined and stylish look for any occasion without nail extensions.
How to Get Almond Nails?
Cut and trim your nails into a medium-short length. Then, use a nail file to create a gentle and tapered nail tip. Keep the tips rounded and soft like almonds.
Common Natural Toe Nail Shapes
Foot health is as important as hand health. Natural toenails have various shapes and need proper care. First, you need to understand the natural toenail shapes so that you can maintain their health and make them look more attractive.
1. Classic Square Shape
A square is a classic and common shape for toenails. They have a flat tip and straight edges which gives them a sharp look. It is best for those who have broad and wide nail beds.
2. Round Toe Nails
Round is the most natural nail shape. It follows the natural round curve of your toenails. This nail shape is best for a soft look. The round natural shape reduces the risk of breakage of nails.
How to Care for Natural Toe Nail Shapes?
Once you have identified whether your toenail shapes are naturally healthy or not, you must follow a proper nail care routine to maintain the health of your nails. Here are some tips by professionals to help you.
- Cut and trim your nails properly, not too short and not too long, using a sharp clipper. Keep the tips straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
- Wash and dry your feet regularly to keep them clean. Then, apply a moisturizer to keep your nails and feet hydrated.
- Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes to avoid pressure on your toenails.
- Avoid nail polishes with harmful chemicals for less damage.
- If you find any abnormal changes in your natural toenails such as ingrown nails or thick nails, consult a healthcare professional and get the treatment timely.
Conclusion
Natural nail shapes are a perfect way to achieve simple and elegant look. Shapes like round and oval are perfect for everyday lifestyle. With right tools and expert tips you can achieve healthy and attractive finger nails and toenails. Let us know your favorite natural nail shapes in the comments below.
FAQs
What nail shape looks most natural?
The most natural looking nail shape is usually round. It has a soft round curve following natural round curve of the nail bed. This makes it most natural. Moreover, squoval nails also look natural because of their soft and round corners.
What is the healthiest nail shape?
The healthiest nail shapes are round and square. This is because they have a strong nail structure which prevents them from damage. Secondly, these shapes are easy to maintain and are more comfortable for both fingers and toes. That’s why these shapes are considered healthiest.
Are natural nails in style in 2024?
Natural nails are definitely in style in 2024. This is because of the rising trends of minimalism. Celebrities, influencers, and nail experts are promoting minimal nail shapes and colors. Moreover, natural nails are more elegant and healthy. You can try some simple nail art with natural nails to get a sophisticated look.
How can I make my short nails look good naturally?
You can make your short nails attractive by following these steps below
- Trim and file your nails regularly to prevent breakage.
- Push back the cuticles and use cuticle oil to moisturize them.
- Use quality products and avoid harmful chemicals.
- Use a sharp clipper for the clean cuts.
- Choose simple nail art for your short nails.
What shape should toenails be?
Keep the shape of your toenails straight across. This will help you prevent the ingrown toenails. Ingrown nails occur when the nails start growing into the skin. Straight across nails prevent nail edges to grow into the skin and reduce pressure in the corners.
What do unhealthy toenails look like?
Unhealthy nails can be determined by following symptoms:
- Ingrown nails when corner of nail start to dig in the skin.
- Thick or curved nails because of fungal infections.
- Discoloration of nails due to fungal infections or other health issues.
- Pain or swelling in the skin around the nails.
Should toenails be flat or curved?
Toenails should be flat, following the natural curve of nails. The edges must not be very sharp because it can increase the pressure and ingrown nails. It is best to maintain the natural shape of toenails to prevent nail problems.