The 2026 Nail Trends You Need to Know
Lynn Mason, in-house expert at multi-award winning Swiss nailcare brand, Mavala reveals her expert predictions for the nail trends that are likely to be big in 2026. Lynn says:
“2026 is shaping up to be the year of short, healthy nails. Consumers are moving away from gels and acrylics and gravitating toward products that support natural nail strength and growth. With this wellness-focused shift, shorter lengths will rise in popularity, offering a look that’s classic, refined, and effortlessly elegant. And as nail shapes become simpler, we can expect self-expression to flourish through colour instead, ranging from bold, deep hues to soft, timeless summer tones. Layering shades to create custom, unique colours will also be very popular in 2026.”
As leaders in natural nail care, Mavala’s ethos has always been care before beauty, and for over 60 years, Mavala nail products have been ‘13 Free’, and vegan making them a great choice for the more mindful consumer.
Here, Lynn details the must have colours and trends that we will be seeing in 2026.
The Rise of Naturally Healthy Nails in 2026
As awareness increases around the impact of gels and acrylics, and with harmful chemicals like TPO expected to be banned in the UK in 2027, 2026 marks a shift towards healthier nails and natural growth.
TPO is likely being banned in the UK due to concerns over its potential toxicity, making traditional nail polish a safer alternative as it does not require chemical photoinitiators or UV curing.
As leaders in natural nail care, Mavala has long championed this philosophy, offering expert solutions for those ready to embrace the trend. From cuticle maintenance to hydration and strength, here’s how to get ahead of the curve with your nail game:
- Clean Cuticles, Clean Slate
Gently lift away dry skin and create a smooth, clean nail plate for perfectly prepped cuticles which are non-negotiable for naturally beautiful nails. Apply Mavala Cuticle Remover, £15.65, to achieve a flawlessly manicured nail plate.
2. Daily Nourishment for Lasting Elegance
Maintaining hydrated cuticles is essential, and Mavala Cuticle Oil, £16.95 is an ideal everyday essential. A quick swipe keeps nails looking healthy and polished, no effort required.
3. Strengthen Your Foundations
Reinforce nail strength and prevent flaking for weak, brittle nails that have no place in 2026. Enter Mavala Scientifique K+, £21.00, a weekly treatment for strong nails.
4. Flexibility + Hydration = Perfection
Provide a much-needed boost of hydration and flexibility. Nails that bend without breaking are the ultimate sign of health. Mavala Mava-Flex Serum, £24.50, gives your nails a resilient, glowing finish.
With the beauty world shifting towards minimalist luxury, healthy, natural nails are the ultimate accessory for 2026. Make this trend work for you with Mavala’s tried-and-true approach to nail care—because simplicity has never looked so chic.
Pantone Colour of the Year Nails
‘Cloud Dancer has been named the colour of next year, and we have matched the shade to one of our popular nail polishes. Shade ‘Icy Dusk’, £6.80 is the perfect match; it’s not flat white, but a luminous, almost opalescent finish that shifts with movement. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard.
PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is described by the Pantone Colour Institute as a lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.
Layering Colours
Layering two different shades to create custom colours has become a major trend and is likely to continue into 2026. It adds depth, richness, and a unique, personalised finish.
For example, to achieve a gorgeous chocolate-cherry tone, start with a base of ‘Durban’, £6.80 and top it with a thin coat of ‘Nile’, £7.00.
Short Nails
We’ve spent years in the era of long, almond-shaped nails, but 2026 is set to bring a noticeable shift: short nails are taking the spotlight. Not only do they align perfectly with the rising trend of natural, healthy nails, but they also offer a look that’s clean, classic, and effortlessly elegant.
All colours look great on short nails, but there’s nothing quite like a soft baby pink for a clean, put-together look. We recommend the shade ‘Wichita’, £6.80 ,a delicate pink that perfectly embodies the ultimate “clean girl” aesthetic.
MAVALA Expert Tips: Match colours with…
For a long-lasting manicure Mavala’s 002 base coat, £18.50. Finish with Mavala’s Gel Finish Top Coat, £20.00 which will leave nails with a quick-setting glossy gel effect.
All products are available to buy at www.mavala.co.uk
