Korean Jelly Nails: What They Are, Who They Suit, Why They Are Hard to Do Well

Jelly nails (also called syrup nails) are the most requested style in Korean nail salons in recent years: sheer colour you can partly see through, with a candy-like gloss. Here is what they are, who they suit, and why the same jelly shade looks different from salon to salon.

What jelly nails are

Jelly gel contains less pigment than regular gel, so light passes through. Built up in thin layers, the colour deepens with each layer and gains depth, like looking through clear candy.

At VESSCA, jelly gel is 150,000₫ for the colour, and premium Korean SWEET CANDY jelly is 280,000₫. Hand cuticle care is 60,000₫.

Why jelly is hard to get right

Opaque gel hides what's underneath; jelly does not. Every small flaw shows: an uneven nail surface, uneven layers, air bubbles, or leftover cuticle near the base. That makes jelly a good test of a salon's technique.

How VESSCA does a jelly set

1. Thorough cuticle and surface prep, because jelly hides nothing.
2. A thin base layer to even out the nail.
3. Colour in several thin layers, each cured. The number of layers sets the depth, and your technician will ask how sheer you want it.
4. A glossy top coat for the candy effect.

The gels are chosen by the salon and brought from Korea, including Kiss NY Tinker Gel and Snow Velvet Candy.

Who jelly nails suit

• First-timers — light, easy to get used to
• Short nails — sheer colour never looks heavy
• Office wear — sheer pink, beige and smoky grey look neat
• Anyone who wants regrowth to show less

Less ideal if your nails have white spots, ridges or stains; a thin milky base or a pearl finish works better.

Keeping jelly nails clear

Sheer colours show stains more easily. Limit contact with turmeric, curry, hair dye and dark foundation, and wear gloves for washing up. Services carry a 5-day warranty.

VESSCA is at 251/30 Le Quang Dinh, Gia Dinh ward (Binh Thanh), Ho Chi Minh City, open 9:00–20:30 daily.