We know you’ve been dreaming of that beach escape–hearing the sound of the waves, feeling the sand between your toes, and showing off those pretty summer nails. So why not start soaking up the vibe with a 3D seashell nail look inspired by real conch shells? It’s the best way to bring a little ocean magic to your fingertips, plus it’ll complement any outfit you have in mind. Whether you’re a DIY queen or planning to visit your fave nail tech, this tutorial is super easy to follow and totally doable. Trust us, you’ll be amazed at how simple and fun it is to create this seashell nail art. Get those nails vacation-ready for an IT girl summer glow! Step 1: Apply White Base Color White is the ideal base color for your seashell nail design. Begin by choosing a solid, opaque white color such as the Rosé Duo - R001 All White, and apply 2-3 thin, even layers until you reach your desired opacity. Refrain from curing the base at this time, as we will require it to remain wet for the nail art. Note: An iGel Gel Base Coat 0.5 oz can be applied before the base color to improve adhesion and extend wear time. Step 2: Paint 4 slightly curved brown lines Next, we’ll focus on the brown shades: Dip & Dap Duo - DD248 Weekender, Dip & Dap Duo - DD249 Autumn Love, Dip & Dap Duo - DD299 Certainty, and Dip & Dap Duo - DD300 Chocolate Fix. These hues will help replicate the lines or patterns observed in a conch shell. Here’s how to achieve it: With a thin line brush, paint the first color in a gently arched stroke (like a parenthesis or a C) three times. Ensure there is sufficient space for the other colors after you finish with the initial color. The pigment or amount of polish doesn't have to be uniform; use a soft motion so that the strokes appear delicate and effortless. Just a quick reminder not to cure your nails at this point. Step 3: Draw conch patterns It's time to design the lovely pattern we see in seashells! We will start at the center, then move towards the edges. Using the line brush, exert light pressure onto the nail from the base to the top part while performing a line motion similar to that of a classic folding fan. Remember that they should meet at one point. Step 4: Seal design with No Cleanse Top Coat Lock in your nail art with the No Cleanse Top Coat, then cure for 30-60 seconds, depending on the strength of your lamp. Be careful not to overcure and wipe out what you just completed. Step 5: Create the 3D Seashell Who’s excited to turn this into 3D? Grab your clear builder gel to create a 3D effect on the nail. Clean your line brush, and then use the builder gel by spreading it in a gentle fan-shaped motion. To increase its visibility, apply it two times on the nail, following the orientation or placement of the original lines. We discovered that some nail enthusiasts are using a no cleanse or no rinse top coat to achieve a 3D effect. If you lack builder gel or any nail art gel, consider trying a no cleanse top coat to achieve this part. Step 6: Add pearl and other sea-inspired charms Let’s enhance the design through sea-inspired nail art accessories. Put a thin coat of Jewelry Gel - No Wipe to the spot where you want your placement, ensuring it’s neither too thick nor too thin. Next, pick up the gems or charms and secure them properly onto the nail. The pearl and various sea nail art charms are available here: Nail Art Charms - 027, Nail Art Charms - 032, and Nail Art Charms - 056. Step 7: Finish with a No Cleanse Top Coat To finish the nail, add a final layer of top coat. The glossy, durable finish will ensure you appreciate your nails all summer long (while keeping this simple nail care guide in mind, of course!). Having finished one nail, you are unstoppable in creating more! Shell-abrate good times, come on! 💃🎶 It’s time to share this tutorial with someone who loves diving into seashell paradise! How did this guide inspire your beach mani? Post your nail sets on Instagram, tag us at @igelbeauty, and don’t forget to mention the products for a chance to be featured in our next blogs. Collect seashells and memories this summer! ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── Written by Alyssa Bueno on July 23, 2025 Alyssa Bueno, a true beauty enthusiast, brings her passion for writing and beauty to life as a writer for iGel Beauty. With a diverse editorial background and industry expertise, Alyssa shares the latest trends and curates tutorials and tips to inspire nail lovers worldwide.
