We round up the best of the best, plus the top nail polish tips you need in your life
gooInvesting in the best nail polish is more important than you might think.
There's nothing worse than spending an hour painting your nails, only to have it looking dull and chipped the next day. First of all, it doesn't look nice. And second of all, ain't nobody got time for that.
The requisites? To be considered the best, they must give great colour with just two layers, preferably just one. The colour also has to look even – none of this dark ends and light cuticles business.
They also mustn't chip easily (or peel for that matter) and, finally, they must keep their shine or remain matte depending on the formula type. There's no point in painting your nails a lustrous red only to have it dull down after half a day's work.
So, whether you're a one-colour or nail art kind of gal, these are the holy grail when it comes to nail polishes.
Gel nail polish
A fail-safe way of avoiding the dreaded chipped polish look is to invest in gel formulas. These are longer lasting than your run of the mill nail varnish, with that added level of shine that usually only a salon can offer, whether you prefer the best nude polish or a more risqué red.
When it comes to brands, the best buys are Sally Hansen, Nails Inc and OPI, while Barry M is your go-to for the drugstore choice.
Best nail polish remover
The only thing standing between you and the perfect manicure? Your old manicure. So he best nail polish remover is essential when you're bored of the colour of your nails, not only for taking your old colour off, but to nourish and strengthen your natural nails beneath.
Of course, these days there are several different nail polish remover formulas to choose from too. You can opt for nail varnish remover and cotton wool, pre-soaked remover pads (we recommend Quickies), or even sponge filled tubs that you dip your finger in and, voila, polsih-free.
Ready to shop the best nail polish? Keep scrolling for the Marie Claire approved buys.
A girl's nail polish collection isn't complete without a red, red wine shade (sorry). OPI's classic formula is super thick and pigment rich, so you can trust your colour will go the distance.
Greige is probably all over your secret Pinterest house board, but we think it should be on your nails too. Nails Inc are one of the biggest names in the nail varnish world and with good reason – this colour won't disappoint.
Arguably the king of the High Street when it comes to nails, Barry M have been churning out brilliant bargain nail polishes since 1982. It may well have been the first nail polish you ever bought – and tried to collect all of growing up – and is a formula that's stood the test of time when it comes to great colour and chip resistance. Now of course there's gel effect, quick dry and matte formula options to choose from, too.
If you want to feel a little bit luxe with your polish of choice, YSL offers a great shade range with good colour payoff and shine. And who doesn't love a classic deep pink?
If you prefer salon-worthy brights when it comes to your polish of choice, Butter London is quality for your buck. Great shine and deep colours, these polishes will last for the long haul.
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