Short nails are brilliantly low maintenance, and yes, you can still do incredible nail art

As glamorous as long nails may make anyone feel, once you get a single one broken, that’s the sort of thing to put a downer on anybody’s day. One sure way to avoid that, is to not have them long in the first place.

“You don’t have to have long nails to look good,” says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder of London nail salon Townhouse. “Short nails paired with bold colours or nail art can look incredible.”

Aside from looking cute and put-together, polished short nails are also far more hygienic. “Long nails are a perfect hideout for pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, that get trapped under there,” says Dr Soma, expert dermatologist. “I also recommend clear polish or translucent finishes on nails. This allows us to be able to see when our nails are dirty and serves as a visual reminder to wash our hands.”

Juanita agrees: “Our customers are leaning more towards natural beauty and trends. Everyone is very health conscious and it has affected the way we want to wear our nails. Plus, short nails are chic, professional and stylish.”

With that in mind, here are the expert approved ways to make the most out of short nails…

Take care of cuticles

The short nail trend is all about having healthy nails – and that applies to your cuticles, too. Make sure you keep the skin around your nail bed moisturised with a nourishing cuticle oil (especially if you’re using a lot of hand sanitiser).

Jessica Phenomen Oil Intensive Moisturiser

Cienna Rose The Elixir Nourishing Cuticle Oil

Go oval

In line with the natural look, opt for a rounded, oval shape to nails. A great nail trimmer / clipper and file will help you achieve a smooth and even finish.

Tweezerman Combo Clipper Set

Leighton Denny Small Crystal Nail File

Experiment with Colours and Patterns

Dramatic or experimental nail art designs will still look demure on short nails, so it’s worth letting your artistic side free. “Dark reds and blacks look very chic on short nails, but natural pinks and nudes also look beautiful,” says Juanita. “We love delicate, negative space nail art and colour pops for designs on short nails, too.”

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour

Here are some short nail inspo to take to your next nail appointment:

Bubblegum nudes