Squoval Nail Shape: How To Achieve It + Nail Care Tips

Squoval nails may sound funny, but it's actually a pretty universal nail shape that can be created in three simple steps. We tapped a celebrity manicurist to get the scoop on this trend nail shape, plus a few bonus tips on how to keep nails healthy and strong. Keep reading to learn more. 

The final two: Stiletto and coffin-shaped nails have a bit more pizzazz and spunk—they also usually need professional tools to achieve them. "Stiletto nails are similar to almond nails, but with a much more drastic point," Lippmann says. You may not find this nail look at your 9-5, but it's certainly a hit among the A-listers. And the same goes for coffin-shaped nails. This is a squared nail with a tapered end, but Lippmann says it's not ideal if you use your hands a lot. But it may be a good option if you have weaker nails that tend to break since it will protect them from breaking or bending. 

Squoval nails are exactly what you think, a mix between a square and oval shape. "It's similar to the square nails, but the edges are a lot softer," Lippmann says. It's basically a good in-between if you're not sure which nail shape you like most and it's great for nail shape that looks natural since it follows the natural shape of the nail bed. 

The great news is achieving a squoval nail is really simple and easy to do at home with three simple steps: 

Lippmann says the best way to create any nail shape is after proper cuticle care. "You want to round your nail based on your individual nail bed and mirror the shape of the tip of your nails to the shape of your cuticles. This is also a great time to pull out that luxury cuticle oil to keep them softened and hydrated and create your very own DIY manicure experience. 

Next, it's time to file. If you're new to nail care, slow and steady is best because unfortunately, you can't unfile if you overfile. To start, file the edges of the nail at an angle. The goal here is an oval shape. 

And voilà! You've got squoval nails. 

Now that you've mastered the nail shape, let's brief you on a few quick tips for having healthy, strong nails. 

Much like your skin and hair, your nails can be an exterior expression of your inside health. Meaning, if you want healthy, strong nails, you need to care for yourself and feed your body adequate nutrients. In addition to lifestyle habits, you can add nail supplements to your routine. Studies indicate that collagen supplements can support healthy nail growth.* One study found that when patients took collagen daily for 24 weeks, their nail health was better maintained1, including faster growth rates, reduced breakage, and improved appearance.* The same goes for biotin, a form of vitamin B that is often used in hair growth supplements.* Biotin has been shown to support the thickness and firmness of nails2.*

Lippman says one key to healthier nails is proper exfoliation of both the nail and hand. "Similar to your facial skin, your nails need to be exfoliated. Using a gentle scrub will lift dead skin cells and clear pores (yes, hands have pores, too)." 

The truth is even nail polish and nail shapes can't hide untreated cuticles. "Apply a cuticle remover and use a cuticle pusher to gently push the cuticle toward the knuckle," Lippmann suggests. "You'll need to go around the cuticle area several times to get a clean outside and then wipe clean with a piece of cotton." 

There's not much explanation needed for this one. Moisture is key to any skin, hands included. There's nothing appealing about dry, cracked hands—we recommend always keeping a hand cream, well, handy. Apply it throughout the day as you feel you need, but always after washing or sanitizing, as both actions can dehydrate skin.