Japanese Gel Is the Longer Lasting, Easier to Remove Alternative to Regular Gel (2025)

There's more than one way to get a gorgeous manicure. You can choose to go with traditional polish or take the dip powder route if you want to work with your natural nail. Or, if you're looking for a dramatic increase in length, you can apply acrylic nails or gel extensions. As if those weren't enough options, you also have international methods—like a Russian manicure, which caters to your cuticles. But if you want to create some fabulous, long-lasting nail art, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the Japanese manicure and Japanese gel nails, in particular.

Nail artist Yukie Natori notes that Japanese gel nails are different from the standard treatment in the West. Natori also points to three main characteristics of a Japanese gel manicure, which include: product differences, technique differences, and a distinct sense of design. Fellow nail artist San Sung Kim joins Natiro in breaking down what a Japanese gel manicure is, elaborating on what sets it apart from a standard gel mani, and discussing its pros and cons.

Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about the Japanese gel manicure.

What Are Japanese Gel Nails?

Japanese gel manicures are nail treatments that use a specific, Japanese-made gel nail polish. This type of formula "usually comes in a pot or bottle and is made with high-quality ingredients," says Kim. "The colors are very pigmented and easy to use for art or for a full-coverage nail."

As a result, you can expect a thicker nail polish that is made with 100 percent gel. While it has a softer feel than the gel polishes stateside, it's still very durable, making the Japanese gel manicure ideal for out-of-the-box designs and bold nail colors. "A Japanese gel manicure has a higher viscosity and adheres more closely to the nail," notes Natori.

Japanese Gel vs. Regular Gel

It Lasts Longer

Japanese gel nail polishes can last a lot longer than regular gel manicures, which usually start chipping at the three-week mark. "The best gel nail polish is applied to each client by using different base coats to suit the client's nail condition, or by layering for greater strength," Natori says. "The nails last longer—from three weeks to over a month—and the shine lasts longer."

It's Easier to Remove

Another advantage: Because they're softer than traditional gel polish formulas, Japanese gel nails can be more easily filed down and removed without damaging the nail. Otherwise, there isn't much of a difference between Japanese gel and traditional gel manicures. In fact, the application and removal process are largely the same.

The Application Process Is Similar

During a nail appointment, Kim says, expect the basic nail and cuticle prep. Your nail technician will cleanse and file the nail before applying the base gel. Then, they'll apply your Japanese gel shade of choice before curing it with a UV light. Whether you're just doing one shade or an intricate nail-art look will ultimately determine how many times you'll have to cure your nails. As the final step, your technician will seal it with a top coat.

They Can Be More Expensive

As far as prices go, a basic gel manicure is typically between $50 and $70. If you get designs, this will go up—maybe to $150 or so. At Yukie Natori, a Japanese gel manicure with one color is $60. But it may cost up to $250 with hand-drawn designs, says Natori. "We can paint any design with a brush, whether it is a painting imitation, anime cartoon, landscape, or logo." All in all, though, the only real downside to this nail treatment is that it could run up the tab.

Aftercare

When it’s time for a change or your nails have grown out, removing your Japanese gel manicure is just as simple as with any other gel polish. You just have to file off the top coat, soak the nails in acetone, and gently scrape the polish off. However, it’s always best to consult with your technician for proper removal techniques. This way, you don’t harm your natural nails. For those looking to get creative, Kim suggests experimenting with Japanese gel polishes for more intricate, one-of-a-kind designs. From detailed portraits and 3D designs to fun, sunny-themed nails perfect for the summer, the possibilities are endless with Japanese gel manicures.

Our Japanese Gel Looks

Elevated French Tips

Upon first look, this mani by Natoriis minimal. It appears to only feature pink French tips on an otherwise neutral nail. However, when you look closer, there is a flame French tip on the ring finger. This is the type of detail we love from a Japanese gel manicure—especially one you can wear all year long.

Abstract Patterns

This nail art is the definition of intricate. The more time you spend gazing into the pattern, the more you realize that they're essentially like fingerprints. Each one has its own beautiful pattern that perfectly complements the next.

Make It Fruity

Perfect for summer because of its fruity essence, we love the cohesion of this design. The almond nail shape allows each fruit the space to shine and the colors are fresh and vibrant. Each fingernail will have to be hand-painted, though, so you'll be at the salon for a lot longer than if you were to get a solid color.

Textural 3D

These cherry red nails are the stuff manicure dreams are made of. Their almond shape is delicate, while the nail polish is vibrant and elegant. To bring texture to this design, the artist added 3D accents to each nail. Some are squiggles, others are circles, but they're all super chic.

Charmed to Meet You

Remember, Japanese gel polish is great for longer-lasting designs. This means that it's great to use if you have something particularly intricate, like these forest-inspired baby pink nails by Kim. The beauty is in the details of this manicure—like the golden butterfly charm hanging off the ring finger nail or the pearl glued to the bottom of the thumb.