Nail salons are specialized shops for artistic nail design and nail care. You can find them not only in Japan but all around the world. Japanese nail art is often praised as the best in the world due to its meticulous techniques and unique aesthetics.
Nail Artists Caring for Your Delicate Fingertips
At nail salons, nail artists meticulously care for and design each fingertip according to the customer's wishes. Japan's first nail salon opened in the early 1980s. Although the history of nail art in Japan is relatively short, the techniques are considered world-class. Customers first choose their preferred design from samples of nail art and gel nail designs, then receive hand care from the nail artist in individual or comfortable rooms. In addition to daily use, you can come here to take care of your delicate fingers before weddings or events.
Anime Character Nail Art: “Pain Nails”
Western nail art trends differ from Japanese nail art in taste. In Japan, gel nails that don't damage the nails, are resistant to bubbling and peeling, and remain glossy and moisturized (using soft gel such as Bio Sculpture Gel or Calgel) are common, with plain nail polish being rare. Japanese nail art often features intricate designs with layering, rhinestones, or glitter on a base color, preferring bright and detailed designs.
Westerners, however, tend to prefer healthy nails, promoting basic nail care and typically applying nail polish or using hard gel without damaging the natural nails. Career-oriented New York "power women" generally prefer beautiful yet simple nail designs.
The Birth of Japan's First Nail Salon in the Early 1980s
Nail art has a long history, with evidence of nail dyeing customs in ancient Egypt. Over time, nail art evolved as a cultural element, with modern nail culture emerging in the United States in the 1920s. Inspired by the fast-drying, water-resistant automotive paint, Americans invented nail polish, and as it hit the market, the profession of nail artists emerged.
However, American nail culture didn't reach Japan until about half a century later, in the late 1970s.
DIY Nail Care Recently, drugstores and 100-yen shops have started selling simple and convenient nail care products for beginners, leading more people to do their nails at home instead of relying on professional salons. The availability of affordable nail care products in local stores and online shops is another characteristic of Japan.
