All You Need to Create Snakeskin Nails: Soapy Bubbles?

It feels like glazed-doughnut manicures have been number one for so long, it's about time a hot new nail trend came along — and we know just the thing that has the potential to overthrow the long-time favorite. If you've been asking your manicurist at the salon week after week for one of the countless variations of the glazed nails that have been dominating Instagram, get ready to request snakeskin nails — with a twist.

The name, though seemingly self-explanatory at first glance, doesn't fully capture the magic that goes into creating this look. We've all seen snakeskin nails before — the animal print has been a popular choice on and off for years — but this version of snakeskin is completely innovative, using bubbles (like the kind that form when you suds up your hands with soap) to create the texture. Sounds wild, right? You just have to see it for yourself.

Here's how it's done: After your nails are prepped and painted in your gel color of choice, you can apply an optional layer of chrome powder to create a reflective shine. Then, using whatever tool you want (a small detail brush, a spoon — the choice is yours), you apply soapy bubbles on the surface of each fingernail and cure under an LED light. Something about the nail lamp reacting with the bubbles causes them to leave behind a scaly texture, creating the most realistic snakeskin pattern we've ever seen.

The nail trend can be done in any color of your choice, which helps make it suitable for year-round wear. In fall, especially around Halloween, opt for a spooky shade like neon orange or emerald green; in the summertime, a bright hot pink or white base makes the look feel fresh.

Though the trend is still in the early stages, we feel a social media takeover coming very soon.