Bubble nails: the next big trend for fall?

A controversial trend in the nail industry has finally bubbled up to the surface, and it is dividing opinion.

"Bubble nails" first appeared in the US a few years ago, but they have been getting serious Instagram attention in the last few weeks. Also referred to as "hump nails" (if they boast an elongated tip), the trend involves sculpting acrylic gel onto the nail to create a dome shape which is then filed down to create a short, square and very arched shape.

Typically, the bubbles (or humps) are painted in bright bubblegum colors and adorned with glitter, shimmer or, in some cases, fake pearls and gems.

One of the most prominent advocators of the trend on social media is Texas-based salon Nails By Ann, which regularly shows off its innovative decorative techniques for bubble nails. Bows, studs and plastic flowers are all added to the already weighty-looking extensions. Some nail fans have been going crazy for the look, with users such as @coco_datvirgo_bihh posting messages of support to the salon such as "These are perfect #humpnails #bubblenails @nailsbyann I'm in love".

However, not all beauty lovers agree on this. User @shes_sharkastic said: "Yall are seriously getting your nails done like this on purpose tho?! For real? Like, really? #bubblenails #humpnails #acrylicnails #grosstrends #thingsthatarentcute #nasty" while @_aleko_okela_ took it even further, saying: "These nails are absolutely disgusting. wth is a humpnail? like what can you do with these? Who would want this on their hands? Who even thought to try this? I can't even! #ICantEven #humpnails".

One nail artist, @kbfancy_wancy, even posted a message asking clients to stop requesting the service, saying: "Attention clients...oval, stilleto, square, coffin is the nail trend but DAnnG check out these bubble nails?! #won'tdothem #urexcusedtogoelsewhere #gumballs" .