We believe nail art can be both beautiful and meaningful. For example, take a look at Earth Day nails. They highlight nature’s beauties all around us with designs that celebrate flowers, insects, greenery, and more. They remind us how stunning the planet really is and why it’s worth protecting. Earth Day began in 1970 as a call to care for our environment and our health. Now it’s a chance to slow down, look around, and create something that honors the world we live in. We hope these stunning Earth Day nails inspire you to love the planet all the more and defend it, too!
All the Living Things Around Us
It’s crucial to have an honest assessment of what’s happening in our environment. However, sometimes the news is overwhelming, and we tune it out. This Earth Day we want to include good news to remind ourselves that many people all over the world are making sincere efforts to improve things. For example, have you heard about the fish doorbell in the Netherlands? The city of Utrecht controls their water flow with locks. Each spring when the fish migrate upstream, people can watch live on camera and ring the doorbell so that the lock keeper opens the gates to let the fish through. It’s a fun way for humans to help other living creatures thrive in the environment we’ve altered around them.
Here’s a playful manicure with a positive outlook. The lively design reflects on the flowers, insects, and fruits we love and depend upon. It’s a gentle reminder that we are part of a much larger ecosystem.
LDS Nail Lacquer - 050 Ladyfingers
What about Sustainable Nail Art?
If you follow environmental news, you’ve heard about the big problem of microplastics. Sadly, nail products contribute to plastic pollution. However, some solutions are already available. We stock over 170 shades of LDS Nail Lacquer that’s 9-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. It doesn’t require animals to be sacrificed for fashion, plus it’s safer for humans and the environment without all those toxic chemicals.
As an artist, there are many steps you can take to protect the planet. For example, reusable press-on nails, since they aren’t single-use, cut down on pollution. Some brands are also working on recyclable and biodegradable nails.
You can even make custom reusable press-on nails with soft gel tips. Instead of adhering them with gel adhesive that requires soaking in acetone to remove, use nail glue that soaks off in warm, soapy water. No, the manicure won’t last as long, but variety is one of the best spices of life! And since you haven’t used polish remover on the nails, they will still be beautiful for the next application.
Earth Day, Literally
Our fungi friends don’t get as much love as they deserve. Without them, the giant forest trees wouldn’t have the nutrients they need to grow so tall. Moreover, humans would miss out on medical benefits and vitamins from diverse kinds of mushrooms. The root system of fungi, called the mycelium, is already being used to create biodegradable shoes, clothes, and packaging.
Which Nail System is Best for the Environment?
It feels hypocritical to write about Earth Day nails when most nail products, especially acrylic nails, can be harmful to the environment. But what’s the solution? Should we go back to basic manicures without polish? To be honest, some activists have done just that. In Japan, some manicurists offer waterless manicures that beautify natural nails with spa treatments only.
But if attractive nail designs are just something you can’t give up, then follow in the footsteps of eco-conscious salons instead. Health restrictions require a lot of single-use products like nail files, soak-off pads, and gloves. But wherever possible, you can switch to reusable tools like metal or crystal nail files.
Furthermore, push for better ways to recycle plastic in your area. Demand that your favorite brands release biodegradable products with safe formulas. And always take care with how you dispose of toxins like monomers so that they don’t end up in waterways.
Builder Gel Nails are a Step in the Right Direction
Yes, builder gel in a bottle is plastic. However, when you create a structured manicure with it, it doesn’t need to be removed completely in a few weeks – it can be backfilled instead. That lowers the amount of plastic being used, and each little drop adds up. It also cuts down on the amount of acetone and single-use wipes.
Does Nail Art Affect the Climate?
We don’t know if anyone has specifically studied whether nail art affects the climate. But definitely Earth Day nail designs can help people be more climate conscious. Here’s a gorgeous “April showers bring May flowers” manicure that makes us smile. Just look at the detail on those tulips!
Whimsical Frog Nails
When you scroll through Earth Day nail images, you’ll see lots of plants and the planet itself. Some manicures are stamped with “reduce, reuse, recycle” and similar messages. But how many times have you seen amphibians and their eggs on someone’s fingertips? This look is definitely a conversation starter!
Instead of using acrylic to create nail art, give poly gel a try. Since it’s premixed, you don’t need to worry about what to do with leftover monomer because there won’t be any to throw out. Plus, it’s odorless and easy to work with, and you’ll have all the time you need to sculpt it.
Tree Nails for Earth Day
Here’s an unusual manicure that resembles bark and tree rings. It’s going to get second glances, so you may find yourself answering questions about it. You could say that 80% of the world’s land-living species live in forests. Or you could mention that simply being able to see green spaces from your office window can boost your mental health. Or that when you go out into nature, trees literally reduce your stress level and boost your immune system.
Bee Nails for Earth Day
Bees have been in the news lately because their existence is threatened. If the bees disappear, so will a lot of plants, animals, and even humans. More than three-quarters of what we eat depends on pollinators like bees.
What’s wild is that bees live almost everywhere, from the Arctic Circle to the deserts in Africa. Many even live underground. What’s more, they are very smart creatures! They can count, use tools, tell time by the sun, and communicate by dancing to tell other bees where to find food.
LAVIS 00 Clear - Builder Gel In The Jar
Conclusion
Earth Day is about caring for the planet and for all the living things that share this space with us. Nail art is one way to express that care and spark curiosity. Every time someone asks about mushroom nails or 3D frog eggs or tree-ring tips, it’s a chance to talk about what matters. When you’re ready to create your own Earth Day designs, shop our store for products to bring your ideas to life.
Sources:
https://www.earthday.org
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/are-acrylics-gel-press-on-nails-bad-for-environment
https://www.euronews.com/green/2025/03/07/solar-grazing-tile-whipping-and-whisky-positive-environmental-stories-from-2025
https://www.decadeonrestoration.org/stories/benefits-fungi-environment-and-humans
https://www.sciencefocus.com/nature/bees