Water Nails: The Nail Art Trend Taking Over 2025
Water nails are making serious waves across social media. With their liquid-glass finish, subtle ripples and barely-there shimmer, they look just like water dancing in the light. It’s no wonder water nails have become the ultimate it-girl manicure: fresh, minimal and magical.
In this blog, we break down what watery nails are, how to get the look and must-try designs worth adding to your nail art moodboard.
What is water nail art?
Ever found yourself mesmerised by the way ocean waves or pool water shimmer in the sunlight? That same radiant, liquid beauty is exactly what water nail art aims to capture. It plays with shades of blue, pearly pink and reflective finishes to mimic the look of glistening water. Some styles feature tiny droplets or realistic ripple effects, while others go for a more abstract feel. The sheer colours flatter every skin tone and pair smoothly with any look and outfit.
Other nail designs dive into mermaidcore with seafoam shades, holographic shine and shell or starfish decals. Some styles even use crushed shells or chrome powder to mimic underwater treasure. Whether you’re channelling siren glam or keeping it subtle with an ocean-mist glow, these nails bring a little under-the-sea magic to your manicure.
How to create 3D water drop nails
If you’re just starting out with aqua nails, 3D water drops are one of the easiest ways to get that signature wet-look effect. It’s a basic version of the trend, but still super cute and eye-catching.
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Pick your base colour — Go for a jelly polish for that barely there, watery aesthetic or choose any glossy shade of blue you love.
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Let it dry completely — Your base needs to be fully set before adding the drops.
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Create your droplets — Dip a dotting tool into clear builder gel (or a tinted one to match your base). Gently dot it across the nail to create mini water drops.
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Play with size — Vary the droplet sizes to make it look natural, like real beads of water sparkling in the sun.
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Cure under a lamp — Pop your nails under a UV/LED lamp to lock in those raised drops.
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Finish with a glossy top coat — This seals everything in and adds even more shine.
More DIY water nail designs to try
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, here are other nail art designs to play with:
1. Koi pond fantasy
With a dreamy mix of soft aqua and milky white swirls, these nails recreate the look of a tranquil koi pond right on your fingertips. Glossy 3D droplets and hand-painted goldfish add the perfect touch of whimsy and detail. You can also use koi decals to save time while getting the same results.
2. Under the sea daydreams
Featuring pearly pastels, soft blue sheers and glossy 3D accents, each nail brings a different underwater fantasy to life. From the iridescent starfish to the shell and mermaid tail details, these nails give ocean princess in the prettiest way.
3. Pearly mermaidcore nails
These nails are pure fairycore meets water queen. The translucent pink base is glazed to perfection while the 3D swirls, pearl accents and crystal droplets give it a gorgeous enchanted lagoon look. Plus, the almond-shaped nails add an elegant and spellbinding touch.
Create the prettiest ocean-inspired nails with NSI Nails Australia
At NSI Nails Australia, we’ve got everything you need to create the perfect wet-look nails. From sculpting tools and nail art kits to watercolour polishes and storage cases, you’ll find all the essentials to dive into this nail trend.
Whether you're DIY-ing at home or creating nail sets for clients, we have all the tools and polishes you need to make every mani feel like a masterpiece. Shop now and let your creativity flow!