13 Best Iridescent Nail Polish Options to Add That Extra Oomph

Best Iridescent Nail Polish Options

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We all want gorgeous and well-defined nails to accomplish our nail care goals. We spend thousands of bucks on professional manicures, however, there’s a more affordable option – the best iridescent nail polishes that offer detailed nail looks without shaking your monthly budget. 

These nail colors add the required fun and quirkiness to lifeless nails. They show a magical shifting of colors when seen from different angles. A couple of coats can add a sparkly glossy finish to endow you with super-dazzling nails that will make you the showstopper. 

After extensive research and product analysis, we have found some exclusive iridescent nail polishes that you can try this season. The given reviews are based on our first-hand experience that will help you gather detailed information while shopping for new formulas. So keep reading to get the best pick that matches your taste. 

Our top picks

Best Overall

Most Durable

Best Chip-resistant

Best Pink Lacquer

Best Low-odor Formula

Best Pearl Finish

Best Streak-free

Best Strengthening Formula

Best Travel-friendly

Best Shimmery

What Is Iridescent Nail Polish?

Iridescent nail polishes are popular for their color-shifting effects. When viewed from different angles, the nail colors appear distinct every time you change the visibility direction. It’s due to reflection, where the light strikes off the surface and reflects while producing different wavelengths. 

Iridescent nail colors have a shimmery and vibrant finish and include a base color with multiple eye-catching shades which are visible when observed under different lights from different directions. 

This glowing iridescent blue nail polish is perfect for welcoming the summer season. Featuring a blue and deep purple shade, the boutique nail lacquer preps you to spread your aura everywhere. With this, you can a bit of shine to your dull nails to amp up their look and add extra charm. Unlike regular polishes, this one dries quickly and promises long-lasting effects. Whether you’re going to a summer concert or planning a casual meetup, just apply a single coat of ILNP nail color, and you’re all set to fetch compliments. 

Pros

  • Vegan nail polish
  • Non-toxic
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Slightly light shade for some

  • 2

    Most Durable

    Born Pretty Gel Color



    Born Pretty Gel Color

  • For those who prefer iridescent gel nail polishes, this set will delight them. This holographic gel color set by Born Pretty has 6 popular shades, from pink to cherry blossom, so you can choose any to define your mood. Apply one or more layers and see the magical transition happening. When followed with a base and top coat on perfectly finished nails, the color stays long for up to 21 days without chipping. The polishes are infused with safe ingredients to prevent nail damage and provide a glossy shade on every application. 

    Pros

    • Durable
    • Intensely pigmented
    • Rightly priced
    • Stays long
    • Low odor formulas

    Cons

    • Some shades might require multiple coats

  • 3

    Best Chip-resistant

    RARJSM Professional Gel Polish



    RARJSM Professional Gel Polish

  • Get professionally styled nails right from the comfort of your home. This iridescent gel polish set contains multiple shades, including popular colors purple and pink. Each shade provides a pearl-like shiny finish that looks amazing from every angle. On proper application, it offers a long-lasting, vivid, and chip-resisting finish for more than 21 days. Cure the color under an LED lamp for at least 60 seconds or 2 minutes under UV light to extend its durability. The formula is free from nasty chemicals, adhesives, and strong odors and includes natural base materials like resin. 

    Pros

    • 6 color set
    • Toxin-free
    • Rich color payoff
    • Minimum chemical odor
    • Pretty shades

    Cons

    • Needs UV/LED curing

  • 4

    Best Pink Lacquer

    Mineral Fusion Nail Polish



    Mineral Fusion Nail Polish

  • Nail color trends come and go. But a few lovable shades like pinks are evergreen. This pink fire opal nail lacquer delivers a sheer finish for salon-like results. Now you don’t have to spend on expensive manicures to get flawless iridescent pink nails. Instead, bring this exclusive formula to your home and achieve flawlessly manicured nails in no time. Furthermore, each Mineral Fusion color formula is vegan and doesn’t contain irritating chemicals like formaldehyde, camphor, DBP, and toluene. 

    Pros

    • Sheer polish
    • Gluten-free
    • Carbon-free
    • Affordable
    • Includes a custom brush

  • 5

    Best Low-odor Formula

    Imtiti Glitter Gel Nail Polish



    Imtiti Glitter Gel Nail Polish

  • Imtiti glitter polish is here to spark your nail looks. The black glitter gel polish is ideal for those looking for a bold neutral color. Get ready to slay every occasion with this black iridescent nail polish. Whether it’s summer, spring, or winter, the shade is suitable for all seasons. The formula can last for 3 weeks and more when applied to properly maintained nails. Not just for home stylers, this polish is apt for anyone who loves DIY nail styling. The best part is- it’s toxin-free and crafted from natural resins. 

    Pros

    • Low odor polish
    • Glossy, matte finish
    • Easy to apply
    • Offers full coverage
    • Best for bold color lovers

    Cons

    • Might not suit hypersensitive skin

  • 6

    Best Pearl Finish

    Mizhse Pearl Gel Nail Polish



     Mizhse Pearl Gel Nail Polish

  • You would love to gift this Mizhse Pearl Gel Nail Polish to your mother, sis, or partner at any auspicious event. Any woman can apply this mermaid green iridescent nail polish irrespective of her age. Create your favorite nail art with ease without frequent salon visits. Using this formula isn’t mundane. Just brush a few strokes for a pearlescent effect. Besides, you can use a dotting pen to sculpt your nails with any pattern for shell thread effects. Drawing from our experience, the product needs a base and top coat application for more longevity and sheerness. 

    Pros

    • Imparts high gloss
    • Pearl finish
    • Maintains natural nail health
    • Healthy ingredients added
    • Forms dual effects

    Cons

    • Gooey texture

  • 7

    Best Streak-free

    essie Nail Lacquer Vernis



    essie Nail Lacquer Vernis

  • The essie lacquer is your on-the-go nail expert. Grab stylish and stunning nails without hassle, thanks to this magical iridescent nail polish. The shiny formula offers flawless coverage with utmost precision to define your nails. Featuring a universal brush that fits all nail sizes, the blend ensures a streak-free and smooth application. It glides easily like melted butter while providing an expert-like nail finish. Other than this all-daisy-long color, the brand offers a wide array of classic shades that will leave you tempted for more. 

    Pros

    • Formaldehyde free
    • Not tested on animals
    • Provides excellent coverage
    • Easy-glide brush
    • Quick and even application

    Cons

    • Transparent shade for a few folks

  • 8

    Best Strengthening Formula

    Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish



    Karma Hues Organic Nail Polish

  • There are various reasons to love this Karma Organic Nail Polish. The clean beauty iridescent white nail polish deserves to be in your manicure arsenal. Unlike other commercially available polishes, this one is infused with coffee and calcium that strengthen nails while boosting color shine. Additionally, the formulation doesn’t chip or turn yellow. The fine color particles dry quickly in seconds. It is also organic which makes it safe for children, allergy-prone folks, and pregnant women.  

    Pros

    • Includes soy-based ink
    • Toulene and paraben free
    • Suits sensitive skin too
    • Recyclable packaging
    • PETA certified

    Cons

    • A little less sheer

  • 9

    Best Travel-friendly

    Cirque Colors Fairy Floss



    Cirque Colors Fairy Floss

  • Available in a jelly-like format, this pink iridescent nail polish features an opaque and buildable base. It’s picked from Cirque Color’s classic candy coat collection and includes iridescent flakes to form subtle and chic nail effects. The shade is rich in color and ensures high performance. Our analysis of the product shows that applying Cirque Color’s holdfast base coat and liquid laminate top coat provides a long-lasting manicure. Also, don’t forget to shake it well before using as particles may settle down.

    Pros

    • Unique shade
    • Travel-friendly
    • Easy application
    • Ultra sparkly
    • Creates a shimmery blue base

    Cons

    • Needs 2-3 coats for better visibility

  • 10

    Best Shimmery

    Gaoy Gel Top Coat



    Gaoy Gel Top Coat

  • Dive into the world of glittery and extraordinary beauty that celebrates your youth. These black and silvery-white iridescent nail polishes need no extra top coat for accurate nail styling. Layer the nails with 1 or 2 coats to produce smooth and attractive effects. Follow with a UV light curing for one minute to dry it. The scientifically designed polish protects the gel from environmental stressors like air pollution and everyday wear and tear for a long staying time. 

    Pros

    • Paraben-free
    • Adds shimmer
    • No wipe clear gel
    • Brush glides smoothly
    • Works with acrylic or fake nails

  • 11

    Ozzeal Gel Nail Polish



    Ozzeal Gel Nail Polish

  • Ozzeal’s nail polish glams up your boring nails with a refreshing and cool rainbow shimmery effect. This iridescent green nail polish perfectly sculpts nails with a glossy matte finish in just 2 coats. The summer polish is meant for all seasons you can wear it anytime, anywhere. This versatile wearable is ideal for parties, get-togethers, girls’ nights, and more. When brushed on well-maintained nails, including base and top coat application, the color stays intact and chip-resistant for more than 21 days. Also, it can be a superb gift for your near and dear ones. 

    Pros

    • Economical
    • Giftable
    • Smooth brush
    • High durability
    • Easy application formula

    Cons

    • Pack doesn’t include a base and top coat

  • 12

    Skiajewl Professional Gel Polish



    Skiajewl Professional Gel Polish

  • Bring on your nail game with this super-classic purple pearl polish. Embedded with 3D sparkles, the color adds definition and shows a color shift from purple to silver while being white nude on nails. Don’t worry about color peeling off due to sheer stress, the pigment lasts long for 3 weeks and more when following the correct coloring steps. This purple clear iridescent nail polish is made with pure ingredients without chemicals that don’t damage nails. 

    Pros

    • Soaks off easily
    • Health ingredients
    • Versatile shade
    • Pearly shimmery finish
    • No harsh adhesives added

    Cons

    • Not for dark shade lovers

  • 13

    Double Rhythm Jelly Glitter Gel Polish



    Double Rhythm Jelly Glitter Gel Polish

  • Double Rhythm’s reflective color formula is specially designed for women slightly biased to clear gel polishes. Achieve clear iridescent nails with this blue and sparkly shaded lacquer. It offers a hassle-free application with a smooth and stunning finish. The formula extends the color’s lifespan and withstands pressure and roughness. It includes an ultra-smooth brush with fine hair that offers full and precise coverage. It does not chip off easily so you can go about your busy schedule worry-free!

    Pros

    • Vegan nail polish
    • Glossy shade
    • Non-yellowing formula
    • 28-days color hold
    • No frequent touchups needed

    Cons

    • Requires several coats

    Now that you have seen our top recommendations for the best iridescent nail polishes. Let’s jump to our user guide below to learn how to get the most suitable pick. 

    How to Choose the Perfect Iridescent Nail Polish?

    Here are some factors you can look for while shopping for your next iridescent nail color. 

    Ingredients 

    Our nails go through a lot of stress all day. Therefore, it’s crucial to pamper and show them some extra love by using natural and healthy nail care products. Choose toxin-free iridescent nail colors that are gentle on the skin and nails. Extra points if they are infused with nourishing and strengthening ingredients like calcium, caffeine, natural resin, etc. 

    Sensitivity 

    When it comes to sensitivity, you must find a non-irritating formula that doesn’t trigger allergic symptoms. The formula should be safe to use and should be soothing. 

    Application 

    An easy-to-use nail color ought to have a better application that gives us a great manicure experience at home. You can get your hands on a perfect iridescent nail color formula that offers complete, flawless coverage with an exceptional finish. The consistency should be neither too thin nor too thick. Moderate consistency just goes well. Also, additional features like an easy glide brush, and easy-to-remove formula, not only seem lucrative but are also beneficial.  

    Color And Occasion 

    You obviously can’t ignore the nail color. Iridescent nail colors are available in different shades and textures, from glittery vibrant blues and pinks to pearly or shimmery neutrals. Radiant and strong shades are perfect for special occasions, parties, get-togethers, and more. Neutrals and subtle shades are best for workplaces. However, you can apply any color that illustrates your style and fashion taste. 

    We hope the above pointers will help you find the right pick. Let’s know some tips on how to apply iridescent nail polishes correctly. 

    Tips for Applying Iridescent Nail Polish

    Follow the given tips to apply the nail color accurately.

    1. Pick an iridescent nail polish that suits your style. 
    2. Prep your nails and shape them properly. 
    3. Wipe the powder or remnant and form a smooth canvas. 
    4. Apply a layer of base coat and follow with your favorite iridescent nail color.
    5. Cover it with a top coat and let the formula dry. This may require a UV or LED depending on the formula you choose. 
    6. Match the nail color with your outfit. Dark shades go well with neutral-colored outfits and vice versa. 
    7. Go minimalistic with outfits and do light makeup that compliments the nail color. 
    8. Wear accessories like a ring, bracelet, belt, or necklace to amplify your overall look. Pair bright, warm-colored jewelry with cool-toned outfits for a contrasting effect. 
    9. As far as footwear is concerned, you may try neutral-colored shoes, sandals, etc., for better color alignment. 

    Conclusion 

    Everyone wants beautiful and lively nails that we can show off. Our nails may become dull and lifeless with all that they endure through the day. That is why it’s important to take care of them. The good news is that you don’t have to burn hefty amounts on expensive salon treatments. Upgrading your manicure kit with the best iridescent nail polishes seems more economical. These special formulas offer glossy nails with a perfect finish while amping up your nail look. They also boost nail nourishment and strength while leaving a rich color behind. When shopping for an iridescent polish, you can check out the ingredients, colors, and method of application, to make sure you don’t err and pick the best for yourself! 

    FAQ’s

    How are iridescent and holographic nail colors different?

    Iridescent nail polishes show color shifting based on different light and viewing angles. The effects can be seen under natural light. In contrast, holographic effects are created by light diffraction under specific light conditions.

    Are pearlescent and iridescent colors different?

    Pearlescent polishes produce a pearl-like effect and reflect light in white, while iridescent polishes show an array of color-changing effects like lustrous and rainbow colors.

    What colors do iridescent polishes show?

    Iridescent polishes emit colors like gold, purple, blue, green, pink, etc.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Iridescent nail polishes are for those who love playing with colors. These add a quick boost of vibrance and revive dull and lifeless nails. Sayantani Deb, our beauty expert, likes adding some spice to her regular nail looks with iridescent nail polishes. After analyzing multiple options, she found that formulas like Skiajewl Professional Gel Polish are super-chic and transform pale nails into bright nails like a manicure expert. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More

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