‘Soap Pedicures’ Are the Sheer, Glossy Nail Trend That Makes Your Feet Look Naturally Expensive

2 min read

Sheer, dewy, and highly reflective, the “soap nail” trend is arguably the most coveted manicure of 2026. Think quiet luxury embodied in a watery, plush pink finish that prioritizes cuticle care and skin health for a naturally polished look. Now, the viral nail trend is coming for your feet, taking all the glossing, flattering effects of the look and applying them to prettify and perfect your summer pedicure.

So, what exactly is the “soap nail” trend, and what should you be asking your nail tech for at your next appointment? Here, we dive into the trend alongside some of the industry’s most sought-after experts to break it down, so you can achieve your shiniest, healthiest pedicure yet.

What are ‘soap nails’?

The “soap nail” trend, popularized by celebrity nail tech Tom Bachik, is defined by its ultra-shiny finish and impeccably groomed cuticles, which create a squeaky-clean look from which the manicure takes its name. Think quiet luxury in a manicure.

While the look can be achieved at home with traditional nail polish and high-quality hand and foot care, we would always recommend heading to the salon for a professional tidy-up with detailed cuticle care. Opt for gel or BIAB for a long-lasting finish and consider a Ukrainian or Russian manicure to ensure attention to detail.

In terms of color, always opt for something milky, translucent, and natural, as ORLY’s U.K. ambassador and nail expert Lou Stokes previously told ELLE: “‘Soap’ nails are essentially a very well-manicured nail, in creamy milky tones or soft pink shades with semi-sheer, neutral coverage that emulates that clean, fresh and glossy feeling.”

The high-shine ‘soap pedicure’ trend

Put simply, the “soap pedicure” is the soap nail trend replicated on the toes and feet. Think ultra-precise cuticle removal and shaping, followed by exfoliation for fresh, buffed skin, and a reflective polish applied to the nails for a high-shine, understated look.

“The ‘soap manicure’ translates beautifully to pedicures because it’s all about that clean, healthy, high-gloss finish,” says Townhouse founder Juanita Huber-Millet. “On toes, it looks especially fresh; a sheer, polished look that enhances the natural nail and feels low-maintenance but still incredibly put-together.”

She recommends using soft, milky shades like Coconut Milk or Strawberry Milk to add just enough tone while maintaining that “your nails but better” effect.