15 Best Nail Polish Brands of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Nail polish is basically mood lighting… for your hands. One swipe and suddenly your “I’m just answering emails” day becomes
“I’m answering emails with presence.” But here’s the annoying truth: not every bottle earns a spot in your at-home
manicure lineup. Some formulas chip if you so much as look at a zipper. Others dry at the speed of a
dramatic pause.

This guide rounds up the nail polish brands that beauty editors, testers, and pros kept reaching for in 2024whether you
want a shiny, salon-y finish, a cleaner ingredient profile, a quick-dry miracle, or a color lineup that makes decision fatigue
feel personal. We focused on brands consistently praised for wear time, brush design, opacity, dry-down, and overall ease of
getting a good-looking mani without a cosmetology license.

How these brands made the list

“Tested and reviewed” doesn’t mean one person’s opinion after painting one nail at midnight. For this article, we synthesized
patterns from multiple U.S. beauty outlets’ editor testing and review criterialooking for repeat mentions of:
chip resistance, smooth application, color payoff in 1–2 coats,
finish quality, and real-world durability (think dishes, typing, laundry, life).
We also considered product lines that explicitly target long wear or gel-like shine, plus “cleaner” formulas and treatment hybrids.

A quick note on “gel”: true gel polish generally needs a UV/LED lamp to cure. If a bottle promises “gel-like” shine but doesn’t
require curing, it’s usually a long-wear lacquer system, not a traditional salon gel. That difference matters for performance and
removalso read labels and follow directions like your manicure depends on it (because it does).

Quick pick list (so you can scroll with purpose)

• Best all-around: Essie
• Salon classic with iconic shades: OPI
• Best drugstore workhorse: Sally Hansen
• Best for cleaner formulas & big shade libraries: Zoya
• Best for long wear at Target prices: Olive & June
• Best “tough topcoat” system: CND Vinylux
• Best pro-friendly brush + color variety: Orly
• Best for ultra-fast routines: Dazzle Dry
• Best “gentler gel” concept: Manucurist
• Best luxury lacquer splurge: Chanel
• Best luxury alternative (high-shine): Dior
• Best editorial color curation: JINsoon
• Best “treatment meets polish” vibes: Deborah Lippmann
• Best for fashion-forward finishes: Nails Inc
• Best non-toxic-friendly, everyday wear: Ella+Mila

The 15 best nail polish brands of 2024

1) Essie Best overall for easy, flattering manicures

Essie is the friend who’s always on time and somehow never flakes. In 2024, it continued to dominate “best of” lists thanks to
foolproof application (especially for beginners), a giant shade range, and specialty lines that solve specific problemsquick dry,
gel-inspired shine, or color-plus-care hybrids.

• Why it wins: Smooth brush control; consistent opacity; dependable shine.
• Try if you want: a clean, glossy look that doesn’t require salon skills.
• Pro tip: Pair long-wear lines with their matching top coat for best durability.

2) OPI Best salon staple with legendary reds and nudes

If nail polish brands had a “Hall of Fame,” OPI would have a wing. Editors and celebrity nail artists keep citing OPI for classic
shades that look good on basically everyone (yes, even the tricky “not too pink, not too beige” nude).

• Why it wins: Reliable wear; huge shade catalog; salon heritage.
• Try if you want: timeless colors and consistent performance.
• Watch-outs: Some shades are sheerplan on 2–3 thin coats for glassy nudes.

3) Sally Hansen Best drugstore brand for real-life durability

Sally Hansen is for the “I need this to survive my entire week” crowd. Quick-dry options and long-wear lines make it a standout
when time is short but you still want a manicure that doesn’t quit before Tuesday.

• Why it wins: Accessible price; strong wear claims; quick-dry heroes.
• Try if you want: fast results that can handle typing, chores, and errands.
• Tip: Thin coats + a glossy top coat dramatically improve longevity.

4) Zoya Best for “cleaner” formulas without sacrificing shade options

Zoya has long been known for “free-from” positioning and an enormous shade library, which is exactly what you want when you’re
hunting for the perfect muted mauve that matches your vibe and your skin tone.

• Why it wins: Wide range; cleaner-leaning formulas; smooth finish.
• Try if you want: a big palette that includes subtle neutrals and bold color.
• Bonus: Great for building a cohesive “capsule” polish wardrobe.

5) Olive & June Best for long-lasting, user-friendly at-home manis

Olive & June built its reputation on making DIY manicures less chaotic. The brand’s long-lasting lineup and easy-to-shop sets
are designed for people who want a polished look without a learning curve.

• Why it wins: Strong shade selection; wear claims; approachable systems and sets.
• Try if you want: dependable, glossy color for everyday wear.
• Tip: Cap the free edge (a tiny swipe across the nail tip) to reduce early chipping.

6) CND Vinylux Best “salon system” polish for chip resistance

CND Vinylux is popular for people who want polish that behaves more like a system: color + top coat designed to work together.
When applied correctly, it can hold up well in real lifeespecially if you’re hard on your hands.

• Why it wins: System-based durability; sleek finish.
• Try if you want: a longer-wear manicure without a lamp.
• Pro move: Don’t skip the top coatthis line really wants it.

7) Orly Best for pro-style brushes and big, fun color drops

Orly is the “you can absolutely pull this off” brand. The brush feels manageable, the bottles are generous, and the colors range
from office-appropriate to weekend-chaos in the best way.

• Why it wins: Easy application; good value; strong color variety.
• Try if you want: bright seasonal shades and comfortable handling.
• Tip: Use a ridge-filling base coat if your nails have textureit makes color look more “pro.”

8) Dazzle Dry Best for people who want speed without “wet polish anxiety”

Dazzle Dry shows up in long-wear conversations because it’s built for fast routines and hard, shiny results. If you’ve ever ruined
a manicure by daring to put on jeans five minutes too early, this category is your emotional support polish.

• Why it wins: Fast dry-down; durable-feeling finish; system approach.
• Try if you want: fewer smudges and a quicker return to normal life.
• Watch-outs: Best results typically come from using the full system.

9) Manucurist Best “gentler gel” approach for glossy, modern finishes

Manucurist gets attention for a more modern, “cleaner” vibe and a focus on manicure systems. If you like the look of gel but want
to be thoughtful about what you’re using and how you remove it, this brand is often part of the conversation.

• Why it wins: High-shine look; system-driven results; fashionable color edits.
• Try if you want: a polished, glossy finish with a brand that leans “clean.”
• Note: Some gel-style lines require curing; check product directions before buying.

10) Chanel Le Vernis Best luxury lacquer for that “rich shine” look

Chanel polish is the manicure equivalent of an expensive coat: you don’t need it, but you understand it immediately. The finish
tends to look ultra-smooth and glossy, and the shades are famously chic (especially the neutrals and reds).

• Why it wins: Luxe finish; elegant color stories; “expensive-looking” shine.
• Try if you want: a splurge bottle for special occasionsor daily main character energy.
• Tip: Apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat for a cleaner, glassier result.

11) Dior Vernis Best luxury option for glossy, modern neutrals

Dior’s polish line is another “treat yourself” contender, often praised for shine and a refined color selection. It’s especially
appealing if you like soft neutrals, milky pinks, and wearable statement shades.

• Why it wins: High-shine finish; fashionable color direction.
• Try if you want: a luxe bottle that looks great in photos and real life.
• Watch-outs: As with many luxury formulas, you’re paying for the experiencechoose shades you’ll actually wear.

12) JINsoon Best for editor-loved colors and smooth, pro-level payoff

JINsoon often appears in trend roundups because the shades feel curatedlike someone already did the hard work of making sure the
colors look expensive on nails (not just in the bottle).

• Why it wins: Beautiful color curation; smooth application; fashion/editorial credibility.
• Try if you want: seasonal shades that still feel wearable.
• Tip: If a shade is bright, use a whitening base coat to make the color pop.

13) Deborah Lippmann Best “treatment-meets-polish” feel

Deborah Lippmann is frequently mentioned for gel-like systems and formulas that aim to look glossy and plush. If your nails tend
to look dull or you want that thicker, cushiony finish, it’s a strong candidate.

• Why it wins: Gel-like shine; polished finish; often positioned with nail-care benefits.
• Try if you want: a manicure that looks more “salon” than “I did this in the car.”
• Note: Let coats dry a bit between layers to avoid dents later.

14) Nails Inc Best for trend-forward finishes and playful sets

Nails Inc is a fashion brand at heartexpect finishes, effects, and seasonal drops that make you want to coordinate your nails
with your playlist. It’s great when you want your manicure to feel current without requiring nail art skills.

• Why it wins: Fun finishes; stylish shade stories; giftable sets.
• Try if you want: shimmer, gloss effects, or trend-inspired shades.
• Tip: Top coat can smooth out shimmer textures and amplify the glow.

15) Ella+Mila Best for non-toxic-friendly polish that still looks cute

If you prefer a “free-from” direction and still want trendy shades, Ella+Mila is a popular pick. It’s especially appealing for
everyday wearers who like a comfortable formula and easy removal.

• Why it wins: Cleaner positioning; stylish colors; beginner-friendly wear.
• Try if you want: a less fussy polish that still feels modern.
• Watch-outs: Use a good top coat to maximize shine and reduce chipping.

How to make any polish last longer (even the good ones)

Prep like you mean it

Longevity starts before color. Clean nails (no lotion residue), gently push back cuticles, and lightly buff only if needed.
Swipe nails with remover or alcohol to remove oilsyour polish wants a clean canvas, not a skincare routine.

Thin coats beat thick coats

Thick coats feel efficient, but they dry slower and dent easier. Two to three thin coats usually look smoother, last longer,
and dry more predictably.

Use base and top coat strategically

Base coat helps with adhesion (and can prevent staining from deep pigments). Top coat is your armor. Reapply a thin layer of top
coat every 2–3 days if you want to stretch wear time.

FAQ

Is “gel-like” the same as gel?

Not necessarily. “Gel-like” typically describes shine and wear in a regular lacquer system. Traditional gel usually requires a
curing lamp and has different removal needs. Always follow the product’s instructions.

Why does polish chip at the tips first?

Because your nails are tiny tools. Tip wear happens from frictiontyping, opening cans, shampooing hair, living your life. Capping
the free edge and using top coat helps a lot.

Real-world experiences: what people notice when they switch to better polish (about )

The biggest “aha” moment people describe isn’t a fancy colorit’s the first time a manicure survives an ordinary day without
looking like it fought a raccoon. With a higher-quality brand (or just a better formula line), the polish tends to level out more
smoothly, so the nails look shinier and cleaner even before top coat. That matters if you’re not a pro painter: tiny streaks
don’t scream as loudly, and the finish looks more intentional.

A lot of at-home manicure fans also notice brush differences immediately. A good brush can feel like it’s guiding your hand:
wider, flatter bristles that fan out slightly can cover the nail in fewer strokes, which reduces streaks and helps the color dry
more evenly. People who used to “fix” everything with extra coats often realize they needed better application control, not more
polish.

Another common experience: the surprise power of a matching system. Folks who swear they “can’t keep polish on” sometimes switch
to a long-wear line (think gel-inspired lacquers or system polishes) and suddenly get a respectable five to seven days. It’s not
magicit’s chemistry plus instructions. When you use the base and top coat designed for the formula, you’re basically letting the
product perform the way it was built to perform, instead of making it freestyle.

Then there’s the shade journeyspecifically, the hunt for the perfect nude. People often talk about buying three “almost” nudes
before landing on the one that makes their hands look polished, not washed out. In 2024, the trend toward milky pinks, soft
beiges, and sheer neutrals turned that search into a personality trait. The practical lesson: sheers are gorgeous, but they’re
unforgiving if your nail prep is rushed. Many people find a ridge-filling base coat makes a sheer shade look instantly more
expensive.

Finally, there’s what happens when you start treating your manicure like a tiny ritual instead of a rushed chore. People who
build a quick routineprep, two thin coats, top coat, and a little cuticle oil latertend to report less peeling and less
“polish regret.” They also get better at choosing finishes for their lifestyle. If you type all day, you might fall for a durable
crème. If you want maximum forgiveness, you might become a shimmer person because it hides tiny imperfections like a soft-focus
filter.

The takeaway isn’t that you need the most expensive bottle on the shelf. It’s that when you pick a brand known for smooth
application and solid wear, your manicure stops feeling like a gamble. And that’s the real luxury: nails that look good while you
do literally anything else.

Conclusion

The best nail polish brands of 2024 weren’t just about trendy colorsthey were about performance you can feel:
brushes that behave, formulas that level, finishes that shine, and wear time that doesn’t collapse the moment you wash a dish.
Whether you go drugstore, salon staple, clean-leaning, or luxury, the winning strategy is the same: pick a reputable formula,
apply thin coats, and protect it with a good top coat. Your future self (and your cuticles) will thank you.