TikTok is a hotspot for discovering emerging beauty trends, particularly when it comes to manicure inspiration. For nail technicians, it’s the go-to platform to stay ahead of evolving nail art trends. The latest nail style racking up views is surprisingly understated – it doesn’t even have a lick of colour in sight. In fact, to the untrained eye, it looks like a natural-looking virgin nail.  

What are hyperreal nails?

As the name suggests, hyperrealistic nails have a lifelike appearance. it’s all about creating the illusion of naturally long and healthy nails.  

If the millions upon millions of views are anything to go by, there’s a significant market for manicures that, ironically, resemble unmanicured nails. Appealing to those who struggle with achieving length, such as nail biters, a hyperreal manicure combines the strength and durability of BIAB with elongated acrylic tips.

Nails are meticulously sculpted and coloured to mirror the nuances of real nails, focusing on intricate details like slightly yellowed tips—rather than bright white—and realistic nail grooves. TikTok nail DIYer @natoridoesnails notes that nail artists may even go as far to “accentuate the lunula, which is the half-moon shape at the base of the nail” to enhance realism.

Achieving the hyperreal nail look might seem straightforward, but it requires a skilled hand, presenting a great opportunity for nail salons.

The process typically begins with prepping the natural nail, which includes filing down the cuticle. Next, nail extensions are customised to match the unique shape of each nail. These extensions are then sculpted using gel or acrylic to achieve a lifelike contour. The secret lies in the precise blend of colours—often a mix of cream, taupe, and pastel yellow—and applying them in thin, translucent layers to capture the depth and variations of a real nail. Once a thin layer of the custom nail colour is applied, a glossy top coat is added to finish. Cuticle oil is recommended for aftercare to preserve the integrity of the manicure, alongside regular infills to keep them looking perfectly unpolished.

Main image: @sadiejnails