Noah Sinclair
Italy is known for its flourishing nail art, design, and care industry. One of the first companies in the Italian nail business, Ladybird House, was founded in 1992, and since then, nail services have become increasingly popular in the country. In fact, nail salons are prevalent in Italy, and gel nails are commonly offered. One popular nail-painting technique in Italy is the Italian manicure, which makes short nails appear longer and can be achieved using traditional gel or regular nail polish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gel nails in Italy | Available |
| Italian manicure | A subtle nail-painting technique that makes short nails appear longer |
| Builder gel | More durable than typical nail polish |
| Italian nail-painting technique | Usually done on short, square, or squoval (square oval) nails |
| Other names | Mediterranean technique |
| Most effective on | Wider nails which "fan out" or have sides that are not straight or parallel |
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What You'll Learn
Nail salons in Italy
Italy is known for its unique nail salons, which offer a range of services, from simple manicures to more specialized treatments. Nail salons in Italy typically require appointments in advance, differing from the walk-in culture of nail salons in countries like the United States. These salons are often locally owned and operated by Italians, providing an authentic experience and insight into Italian culture and lifestyle.
One notable nail painting technique that has gained popularity in Italy and beyond is the Italian Manicure. This technique, popularized on TikTok by manicurist Alexandra Teleki (@thehotblendofficial), is designed to make short nails appear longer. It can be achieved with traditional nail polish or builder gel polish, creating the illusion of a more slender and longer nail bed. This method is particularly effective for wider nails that "fan out" or have non-parallel sides.
When it comes to specific locations, cities like Rome, Florence, and Ortigia, Sicily, offer a variety of nail salon options. In Rome, you can find nail spas that offer acrylic, gel, and shellac services, providing a range of long-lasting manicure options. Florence is home to charming nail salons, including small, well-lit spaces nestled in picturesque pedestrian alleyways. Ortigia, Sicily, boasts nail salons like "Comfort and Beauty," owned by the welcoming and competent Simone, who offers a range of nail and skin treatment services.
Italian nail salons vary in their offerings, with some focusing solely on nail services, while others provide a diverse range of products and treatments, including jewelry, shoes, and health foods, creating a unique salon experience. It is always a good idea to research and communicate your specific needs and preferences when visiting a nail salon in Italy, as the services and culture may differ from what you are accustomed to in other countries.
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Italian manicure
The Italian manicure is a nail-painting technique that makes short nails appear longer. It is achieved by painting polish onto the nails in a way that gives the illusion of length. Manicurist Alexandra Teleki (@thehotblendofficial on TikTok) explains that the technique involves getting as close as possible to the cuticles without touching the skin and then painting a vertical line up the nail, leaving a small gap between the edge of the nail wall and the gel. This method can be used for a full-colour classic manicure or painted tips.
The Italian manicure is particularly effective for those with shorter, square, or "squoval" (square oval) nails. It can also work well on wider nails that "fan out" or have sides that are not straight or parallel. The technique is popular among clients with busy lifestyles or jobs where long nails might be impractical. It can be achieved using traditional gel or regular nail polish, although gel polish is more durable. When using gel, it is important to avoid heat for the first 24 hours to allow the gel to set fully.
To create an Italian manicure, first push back your cuticles as far as possible to create length on your nails. Then, start applying your chosen nail polish shade, avoiding covering your entire nail with colour. Leave a little space on the sides and near the cuticle for an elongated look. This technique creates an illusion of a narrow and lengthened nail bed.
While the Italian manicure is a great way to make short nails appear longer, some people may prefer full-coverage colour. As the nail starts to grow out, the space at the sidewalls can look unfinished or untidy, especially if cuticle oil is not applied regularly.
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Nail art trends
Italy is witnessing a resurgence in nail art, especially among the younger generations, influencers, and celebrities. One of the pioneers in the Italian nail business, Ladybird House, based in Modena, imports and distributes major nail brands. Its president, Libera Ciccomascolo, recalls that when the company was founded in 1992, nail services were almost non-existent in Italy.
Nail salons are prevalent in Italy, and gel nails are commonly available. In fact, the Italian manicure, a viral nail-painting technique that makes short nails look longer, uses builder gel polish. This method, also known as the Mediterranean technique, was first observed in Milan by London-based nail artist and technician Metta Francis. The Italian manicure is usually done on short, square, or squoval (square oval) nails and can be used for a full-color classic manicure or painted tips. It is achieved by creating a gap between the nail polish and the nail wall, giving the impression of longer nails.
Italian manicures are often done with traditional nail polish that can be easily removed, rather than more permanent options like gel polish or nail dipping powder. However, gel manicures are also popular in Italy, with TikTok users offering tips on making gel manicures last longer. For instance, Alexandra advises avoiding heat for the first 24 hours after application, as the gel takes time to fully set.
In terms of colors, pink nails are trending in Italy, while other colors like red in France, milky white in Portugal, and nude in the UK are also popular across Europe. Additionally, bow nails and green chrome nails are the fastest-growing nail art designs, according to Spate.
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Nail gel brands
Gel nails are offered in Italy, with some nail salons in Rome providing acrylic, gel, and shellac services. One popular nail trend in Italy is the Italian manicure, which uses a nail-painting technique to make short nails appear longer. This can be achieved with traditional gel or regular nail polish. Builder gel polish, a type of gel that is more durable than regular nail polish, is commonly used for this manicure.
Nailover is a prominent nail brand in Italy, offering a range of products including semi-permanent gels, builder gels, and nail art accessories. The brand is known for its high quality, elegance, and style, and is a favourite among professionals in the nail industry.
Another Italian nail polish brand that has been recommended for its solid quality is Layla. They were the first brand to introduce holos, chromes, and magnetics to the Italian market. Faby is another Italian nail polish brand that has a good reputation.
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Nail services in Italy
Italy is a country where a lot of time and money is spent on beauty products and treatments. Nail art, nail design, and nail care are not new to Italy, and manicures and pedicures have gained popularity over time. One of the first companies in the Italian nail business is Ladybird House, which imports and distributes major nail brands such as CND, ORLY, ibd, EzFlow, and SpaRitual. Nailover is another Italian nail brand that offers semi-permanent gels, builder gels, nail art accessories, and more.
Nail salons are prevalent in Italy, and you can find various services, including acrylic, gel, and shellac nail treatments. While dark nail polish is available in Italy, it is generally worn by young women aiming for a punk look. The Italian manicure, a technique that makes short nails appear longer, has also gained popularity. This technique can be achieved using traditional gel or regular nail polish and is particularly effective on wider nails that "fan out."
TikTok has played a significant role in popularizing the Italian manicure, with manicurist Alexandra demonstrating this technique on her account, @thehotblendofficial. She recommends using builder gel polish, which is more durable than traditional nail polish, and advises avoiding heat for the first 24 hours after application to allow the gel to set fully. Additionally, she suggests keeping cuticles and hands hydrated using oils and creams to prevent lifting and maintain the manicure's perfect condition.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, gel nails are available in Italy. Nail salons are common in Italy, and gel nail services are offered at many of them.
The Italian manicure is a nail-painting technique that makes short nails appear longer. It can be achieved using traditional gel or regular nail polish.
Nailover is a popular nail brand in Italy that offers a range of gel nail products, including semi-permanent gels and builder gels.
Nail art is popular in Italy, especially among the younger generations, influencers, and celebrities. One unique trend is the Italian manicure, which originated in Milan and is known for making short nails appear longer.
