(Photo : Getty Images/Robyn Beck / AFP)
British actress Cynthia Erivo (detail nails) arrives for the 92nd Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on February 9, 2020.

It seems that 3D nails are here to stay.

According to Pop Sugar, 3D nail art has been around for decades, but it has surged in popularity in recent years.

In 2019, celebrity manicurists Gina Edwards and Leanne Woodley foresaw its rise, predicting it to be a major trend -- a prophecy that has undeniably materialized.

Nowadays, 3D nail art can range from understated styles like pearl and water-droplet nails to bolder options like the jelly styles.

For those still on the fence regarding this beauty trend, read on to learn more about 3D nail art.

Understanding 3D nail art

Originating from the Harajuku fashion movement, the trend was popularized in Japan and South Korea, according to Glamour.

In an interview with the magazine, Isa Rodriguez, a Tokyo-trained celebrity nail artist, attributed the allure of 3D designs to their ability to elevate nail creativity and offer a unique platform to convey "visual stories."

Rodriguez, who has worked with celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski and manicurists at New York Fashion Week, emphasized the personalized nature of these designs.

Another nail artist, Miki Higuchi, who has worked with Ariana Grande and Liz Gillies, told Glamour that she draws inspiration from nature, vintage items, and jewelry to craft playful and ethereal designs using gems, stones, and textures.

Crafting 3D nail art

One method to create three-dimensional nail art is to attach nail charms, which come in all kinds of shapes and designs, from gems to gummy bears, using adhesive to nails already coated with polish.

Another technique is to use a thick gel polish to create a 3D design, as seen in a video posted by an X user.

Rodriguez told Glamour that her "go-to technique" is to flash-cure 3D textures using a handheld UV LED light immediately after sculpting to preserve the design's integrity and durability. She also said she seals in charms with a layer of soft builder gel before the top coat to ensure the longevity of the charms and textures.

"The double coat is the ultimate key to having charms last a month or more," she told the magazine.

For those who don't want to commit to a style for that long, 3D manicures can also be built on to press-ons.

Costs and maintenance

The prices of 3D manicures can range from $75 to $300, contingent upon the intricacy of the design and duration of the session.

According to Glamour, professionally-done 3D nails can last up to three weeks, while press-ons can last up to two weeks if you take good care of them.

To ensure the longevity of the manicure, limit the use of hand sanitizers, moisturize regularly, and protect nails from potential damage.

Celebrity influence

Celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion, Kylie Jenner and Cardi B continue to champion 3D nail art, rocking it on red carpets and their social media.

Last year, Cardi showed off on Instagram a creative nail design that featured a large 3D cherry and red and silver heart accents.  

Machine Gun Kelly was also spotted sporting $30,000 diamond nails at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards. The manicure, designed by Nails of LA founder Brittney Boyce and Marrow Fine Jewelry creative director and founder Jillian Sassone, featured 880 diamonds and took over 10 hours to complete, according to Pop Sugar.