Irish Presenter Angela Scanlon Quits Manicures, Sparking Conversation on Beauty Norms

Scanlon's decision highlights the growing trend of women reassessing long-held beauty routines and expectations.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Irish presenter Angela Scanlon has sparked a conversation about the subtle pressure women face to maintain certain beauty standards, even when they no longer serve them. Scanlon recently announced she's stopped getting regular manicures, not because she dislikes them, but because she realized she was doing it out of obligation rather than enjoyment. This decision taps into a broader trend of women questioning long-held beauty 'rules' and reclaiming their time and energy.

Why it matters

Scanlon's experience reflects a growing awareness of the 'women's time tax' - the significant amount of time women spend on appearance-related tasks that aren't necessarily expected of men. This conversation extends beyond nail care to encompass makeup, hair removal, and other beauty treatments, as women increasingly ask themselves why they engage in these practices and whether it's for self-expression or to meet external expectations.

The details

For years, Scanlon routinely had her nails done, following whatever the beauty industry promoted, not out of a love for the aesthetic but a feeling that it was simply 'what you do.' This sentiment echoes a broader trend, as women question the long-held beauty 'rules' and reclaim their time and energy. Scanlon's upbringing in Europe presented a different perspective, where manicures were reserved for special occasions, not a default expectation.

  • Scanlon recently announced she's stopped getting regular manicures.

The players

Angela Scanlon

An Irish presenter who has sparked a conversation about the pressure women face to maintain certain beauty standards.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

Scanlon's decision highlights a growing trend of women reassessing long-held beauty routines and expectations, prioritizing authenticity and self-care over superficial appearances. This shift is fueled by increased awareness of feminist issues, a desire for greater authenticity, and a growing emphasis on mental and physical wellbeing.