Incredible Japanese nail art

Nail painting is a true form of art in Japan! The originality of Japanese nail art (ネイルアート), which is completely different from other styles, has made this fashion item highly popular elsewhere in the world as well.

There exists a number of professional nail designers who are true specialists in nail art, frequently taking part in domestic and international competitions. The Japan Nailist Association is a Japanese association of professional nail stylists. In Japan, you can find numerous nail art salons, especially around Tokyo and other big cities.

As is common in Japanese fashion, nailists often get their ideas from traditional Japanese paintings. Their creations, which sometimes include even real feathers and jewels, express rich imagination and artistic skill. Artificial nails are made using special tools and coated with acrylic or gel. Hardened nails have a very realistic appearance.

Besides making nails look pretty, Japanese nail artists place great importance on nail care and health. There is a special type of manicure — Japanese manicure — which is used by many nail salons in the country. The hands are put in the bath with mineral substances, cuticles are softened with special vegetable oils and the nails are covered by a coating made of bamboo, minerals or pearls to make the nails look shiny. The relaxing massage also includes aromatic additives such as jasmin or other flowers.

Let’s check out some of these creations! If you think your aunt’s bloody red nine inch nails are a bit extreme, see what Japanese come up with:

Wide selection of nail art. Just a few among thousands.

Hello, Kitty.

The photos are from the annual Tokyo Nail Expo 2009.

Need more nails? Browse through this catalog of one of Japanese online nail art stores.