Mint has always had a way of feeling instantly refreshing, whether it’s mixed into a creamy scoop of ice cream or painted across newly filed nails. For summer 2026, that same crisp shade is emerging as one of the most popular nail polish colors, appearing in everything from sheer, jelly manis to decadent, crème nail art.

While the shade of the leafy, aromatic garnish is a deep, earthy green, the version seen on nails is much lighter—somewhere between aqua and sage. How we wear mint today is a far cry from the 2010s version. Instead of pairing it with loud, chunky necklaces and chevron nail art, we’re creating micro-French manicures and wearing it with simple blue-and-white linen dresses. Taylor Swift was seen with this look in mid-April.

The hue remains beloved by nail artists and their clients. “There was a period where I had to consciously make sure I was choosing nail colors other than mint because it was always my go-to,” says Stephanie Stone, an editorial nail artist and Sally Hansen ambassador. Part of mint’s appeal lies in its range: Some versions of the color skew so pale they’re nearly white, while others lean bold and vibrant. “Any complexion can pull off mint,” says Stone.

For those still holding onto spring’s demure pastels, Sarah Chue, a nail artist in Los Angeles, says mint offers the perfect transition into summer’s brighter palette. “It gives a soft, quiet luxury to the fingertips,” she adds. If you’re looking for a mani (or pedicure) that’s shimmery, neon, or offers a contrast to tanned skin, mint can check those boxes, too. Ahead, find inspiration for every aesthetic, plus the polishes experts recommend for wearing the shade this summer.

Micro French mint

“A micro French is playful,” Betina Goldstein, a nail artist in Los Angeles, previously told Allure. While the look is inherently subtle, using mint polish gives your manicure a boost of energy, resulting in a summery, spirited manicure.

Light mint almond-shaped nails