Finding the perfect nail polish is about more than just color. High-quality lacquer, stellar staying power, a flawless finish – these are the marks of a great nail product. I‘ve rounded up and reviewed the 12 best nail polish brands to help you achieve stunning DIY manicures that will last over a week without chipping.
What Makes a Great Nail Polish?
Before diving into reviews of the top nail polish brands, it helps to know what makes an excellent nail lacquer. Here are the key features I looked for in my selections:
Ingredients: Many leading nail polish brands now formulate polishes that are 10-free or higher, meaning they are free of 10+ harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and parabens that can be harmful. Vegan and cruelty-free options also available.
Formula: Good nail polish contains pigments that provide true color depth without needing many coats. Thicker formulas have better adhesion for fewer chips. Quick dry options allow customization.
Brush: The right brush makes application easier. Tapered brush heads allow precise polish placement without flooding cuticles. Densely packed, synthetic bristles prevent clumping.
Finish: Does the polish dry to a glossy, shiny or matte look? Are special effects like glitter or iridescence available? Lots of options allow creativity!
Longevity: Excellent nail polish lasts 7-10 days without chips or fading. Quick dry formulas help strength and durability. Base and top coats optimize wear time.
Keeping those considerations in mind, check out my list of the absolute best nail polish brands available right now:
1. Essie
Perhaps the most iconic drugstore nail polish, Essie is beloved by professionals and amateurs alike. Their enormous color selection spans nudes, bolds, sheers, glitters and more. With over 2.1 million Instagram followers, Essie‘s popularity speaks for itself!
Best For: Iconic, salon-quality polish at affordable drugstore prices
Vegan: Yes
Price: $8-$12
2. OPI
When you think professional quality nail polish in wild colors and aptly amusing names, OPI comes to mind. Trusted by manicurists everywhere, OPI gels polish the nails of celebs like Kim Kardashian.
Best For: Salon-standard lacquers to DIY celebrity nails
Vegan: No
Price: $10.50-$13
3. Deborah Lippman
If you‘re seeking luxury, look no further than this eponymous brand by celebrity manicurist, Deborah Lippman. The fashion-show inspired colors make you feel runway ready. Expect excellent pigment payoff, even application and serious shine.
Best For: High-fashion forwarding colors in upgraded packaging
Vegan: No
Price: $20
4. JINsoon
Jin Soon Choi is one of the most influential nail artists today with her own successful salons. Her namesake lacquers echo her skill with intense pigments and serious staying power. The color selection has something for everyone.
Best For: Richly-pigmented polish by a celebrity manicurist
Vegan: Yes
Price: $18
5. Tenoverten
Tenoverten began as a single New York City nail salon before expanding into a full line of clean, non-toxic polish and nail care. Their sheer neutral polishes are perfect for minimalists, while the opaque colors make statements.
Best For: Non-toxic polish focused on natural nail health
Vegan: Yes
Price: $12
6. Zoya
Zoya prides themselves on their "6-free" polish formulas that never contain nasty ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene and parabens. Beyond being safe, these polishes also dry quickly and maintain excellent shine with no chips.
Best For: Non-toxic shades in both matte and glossy finishes
Vegan: Yes
Price: $10
7. Smith & Cult
This brand turns polish into an elevated, luxury experience. From the weighted caps to the custom brush shape, every detail is carefully crafted. The top-notch formula delivers serious shine and stubborn lasting power across over 100 colors.
Best For: Polish perfected as a meticulous luxury experience
Vegan: Yes
Price: $18
8. Olive & June
Olive & June mani-pedi salons feel like you‘re pampering with close friends. Their nail polish embodies the same close comforts with charming brushes and names. More than just polish, they offer tools and tips for total nail care.
Best For: Sweet as a salon pedicure polish made for DIY self-care
Vegan: Yes
Price: $8
9. Ella + Mila
This relative newcomer polish brand focuses on delivering vegan and toxin-free lacquer, meaning you can feel good about everything that goes onto your nails. With the addition of a wide shade range at drugstore prices, they‘ve become a fast favorite.
Best For: Affordable clean colors ranging from brights to nudes
Vegan: Yes
Price: $7.50-$11
10. Lights Lacquer
Started by a dentist, Lights Lacquer polishes promote nail health with nourishing ingredients like tea tree oil and biotin right within each formula. More than merely cosmetic, these polishes actively improve the condition of nails.
Best For: Polish with built-in nail care benefits
Vegan: Yes
Price: $12
11. Base Coat
On top of their extensive color selection of quality lacquers with serious shine, Base Coat also offers treatments that repair dry nails and stimulate growth. It‘s full nail care wrapped up in pretty polishes.
Best For: Polish with treatments to resolve specific nail issues
Vegan: Yes
Price: $15-$18
12. Cirque Colors
Cirque Colors makes polishes specifically designed for nail art. From color shifting chromes to thermals that change from heat, their innovations turn manicures into art gallery masterpieces. Even beginners can get creative!
Best For: Nail art polishes for creative manicures
Vegan: Yes
Price: $13-$15
How to Shop for Nail Polish Like a Pro
Now that you know today‘s top nail polish brands, here are some insider tips for picking the perfect colors and finishes:
- – Sheers work well for French manicures or those new to polish
- – Neutrals like nudes and blushes are office-friendly go-tos
- – Bolds and dark vampy shades make the biggest statements
- – Pastels say springtime and look great on short nails
- – Glitters add sparkle for nights out; avoid large glitter
- – Iridescents and holographics bring color-shifting effects
Also be sure to have a base coat and top coat on hand for maximum polish protection against chips! Applying correctly helps too – swipe on thin layers and wrap tips.
With this guide to finding amazing nail polish by today‘s top brands, you have all the tools to take your at-home manicures to salon-perfect works of art!
