It can be tricky to give yourself the perfect at-home manicure. In addition to time and a steady hand, you also need a long-lasting polish. Traditional nail polish may seem like the simple answer, but it’s known for chipping within a few days. Why put in the time and effort for a mani that won’t last? That’s where gel nail polish comes into play.
“Gel polish lasts longer than a traditional polish and dries instantly,” says Abby Gatlin, a nail artist at Poppy & Monroe in Nashville. “People prefer gel polish because they can wear it for weeks and it gives the nails a sturdy finish.”
With the right products and a little patience, you can achieve a long-lasting gel manicure at home. To help you get started, we tested 20 gel polishes for a two-week period and evaluated them on application, overall look, longevity, and ease of removal. Using Gatlin’s expert advice and our testing results, we compiled a list of the best gel nail polishes to give you a salon-level mani in the comfort of your own home.
Madame Glam
Madam Glam’s Soak-Off Gel Polish had one of the best consistencies of all the gel nail polishes we tested. Although it appears thick and jelly-like at first glance, we actually found that it’s the perfect thickness to avoid runoff and a streaky finish. We also love the thick base coat which creates a smooth, solid foundation for the colored gel.
This pick requires a UV lamp, but that ensures that your nails will be durable and long-lasting. The polish remained perfect for nearly two weeks with no chips or dullness. The only giveaway that it wasn’t a fresh manicure was the new nail growth. We also loved that this polish is easy to remove unlike some cured gel polish. We simply applied acetone cotton balls to each nail and wrapped them in tin foil; after 15 minutes, the gel peeled away with minimal scraping.
Gatlin says that Madam Glam is a favorite at Poppy & Monroe. This brand stands out from the rest because of its 21-free formula, which means it’s free from 21 of chemicals commonly found in nail polish. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and palm oil-free. We love that it’s available in both mini and full size options so you can test out several colors. We think the brush could benefit from a more curved tip to perfectly line up with the cuticle, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker for this polish.
Size: 0.11-0.5 fluid ounces | Finishes: Jelly, matte, milky, neon, opaque, sheer | UV/LED Lamp Required: Yes
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Amazon
Those looking for quick-drying gel polish that does not require a UV lamp will love the Essie Gel Couture. It has a thin yet full coverage formula that goes on smoothly when applying. Some may prefer two coats of gel color for full coverage, but one coat is enough for certain shades.
We love the tapered brush which helps create a clean application along your cuticles. As for longevity, the polish held up well. We noticed very minimal chipping by the end of week one, and the polish retained most of its shine. Though most gel polishes last longer when cured with a UV lamp, we were impressed by this pick.
During our testing, we found that the gel polish can be removed similarly to regular nail polish; no scraping or soaking was required. However, our nails were deeply stained after removal and needed buffing to remove the color. Essie does not recommend a base coat, but we found it to be necessary to protect our nails.
Size: 0.46 fluid ounces | Finishes: Cream, glitter, metallic, pearl, sheer, shimmer | UV/LED Lamp Required: No
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Nordstrom
For those willing to spend a little more, we recommend Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro. Though it’s on the pricier side, keep in mind that the formula was created with nail health in mind. This vegan polish is 21-free, which means it’s free from 21 chemicals commonly found in nail polish. Instead, it has ingredients including keratin, biotin, bamboo, and nylon to promote health, wear, and shine.
This pick is beginner-friendly and does not require a UV lamp or other special tools. It has a creamy consistency, so it’s thick enough to provide opaque coverage without being difficult to spread or looking uneven. We noticed that the brush was just the right size on the base coat, gel polish, and top coat. Keep in mind that the base coat and top coat are sold separately.
Since this pick isn’t cured with UV light, its longevity isn’t the best. After about five days, we noticed several chips around the edges of each nail as well as very fine cracks in the surface of the polish. We also noticed that the polish’s shine had diminished over the five-day period. When removing the polish, we appreciated that it was a quick process and did not require scrapping.
Size: 0.5 fluid ounces | Finishes: Creme, glitter, shimmer | UV/LED Lamp Required: No
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Beyond Polish
If you’re wanting the look and feel of a professional gel manicure at home, opt for OPI GelColor. It’s one of three picks on our list that requires a UV lamp, which adds shine, strength, and durability to your nails.
You’ll be able to find your perfect polish with over 250 shades. We were a fan of the short brush of the base coat which helped with applying a thin, even coat. However, we found the gel polish itself to be thick and a bit difficult to apply. It’s possible to adjust to this learning curve over time, but this product may not be friendly for those new to at-home gel manicures.
Once the polish was fully dry, it appeared smooth and wearable. It lasted for a week and a half, standing up to baking, washing dishes, and gift wrapping. This product was simple to remove and required very little scraping. We loved that it did not leave our nails feeling damaged; in fact, it left them feeling stronger.
We loved that the accompanying UV lamp turns on automatically when you put your hand underneath and shuts off when the timer is up. It’s important to note that the lamp is a bit bulky and can be difficult to store. We also noticed that the lamp’s timer and buttons are located on the back of the machine, which can make it difficult to operate by yourself. This is likely because OPI gel polish is a salon-grade product, and the UV lamp is mainly operated by professionals sitting across from you at the salon.
Size: 0.5 fluid ounces | Finish: Creme, glitter, holographic, metallic, neon, pearl, sheer, shimmer | UV/LED Lamp Required: Yes
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
ORLY
This vegan and cruelty-free polish is relatively easy to apply, though it’s especially important to apply thin, even coats with this pick. It requires a base coat, a few gel coats, and a top coat, which can add up quickly. We also noticed that the polish’s consistency is a bit thicker than normal nail polish, so expect a bit of a learning curve when applying. Beginners will appreciate the brand’s clear step-by-step instructions to help you along the way. We love that the instructions even mention how the polish will feel on your nails throughout the process, explaining that it’s normal to feel a bit of tackiness until the top coat is applied and cured.
This is the perfect pick for those who want to protect their nails. Its formula has vitamin A and E to promote nail health and vitamin B5 to protect nail structure. We love the Orly gel lamp because it automatically turns on and starts the timer once you insert your hand. The countdown is displayed on top of the machine, and the lamp automatically turns off after two minutes when your nails are fully cured.
Overall, we enjoyed the shine and durability this polish brought to our nails. We noticed that some of our nails with thicker coats began lifting off after a few days, but with thin coats and proper curing, the gel polish lasted almost a full week with very minimal chipping.
Size: 0.3 fluid ounces | Finish: Creme, glitter, shimmer | UV/LED Lamp Required: Yes
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Dazzle Dry
We are big fans of this Dazzle Dry polish’s longevity; it lasted over two weeks during our testing with no chipping, just some minimal wear at the tip of the nail. This is pretty rare for non-UV light polishes, but we think it’s partially due to all the prep work that goes into the manicure. We also love that it can be removed just like normal nail polish and doesn’t leave our nails feeling dry or damaged.
If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to gel polish, you’ll love this pick. It’s formulated without 20+ chemicals that are found in traditional nail polishes, plus it comes in over 150 shades. Make sure you dedicate time and patience to get the best results with this polish. It’s sold in a kit that comes with a nail prep scrub, base coat, gel polish, top coat, and revive drops to thin out the consistency of the polish if needed. The base and gel require two coats each, so you’re looking at a six-step process with this pick. It doesn’t have a UV lamp to help with dry time, but we found that each coat fully dried within two minutes.
Size: 0.5 fluid ounces | Finishes: Creme, frost, glitter, metallic, shimmer | UV/LED Lamp Required: No
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
The Bottom Line
Of all the gel nail polishes we tested, the Madam Glam Soak-Off Gel Polish is our top choice. The consistency is creamy enough to give you full color payoff with a few coats and won’t leave a streaky finish. If you’re looking for a non-UV light option, go with the Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish. We love the tapered brush which helps create a clean application along your cuticles, plus we found the shine to last for several days.
Our Testing Process
We evaluated all products based on their application, overall look, longevity, and ease of removal. Our Lab process was split into two categories, UV and non-UV light polishes.
We started with clean nails that were prepped and ready for polish. For gel polish that requires a UV light, we first applied a dehydrator, primer, and thin base coat when applicable. Each coat was fully air dried or cured before moving to the next step. We then applied a thin layer of gel polish and cured it under a lamp for the recommended time on the label. Finally, we applied a thin layer of top coat and cured it under the UV lamp.
For gel polish that doesn’t require a UV light, we applied a thin layer of a base coat, when applicable, and allowed our nails to fully dry. Next, we added a thin layer of gel polish and allowed it to fully dry before adding a second coat. Finally, we added a thin layer of top coat and left it to dry.
For both UV and non-UV gel polish, we took a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol across the nail bed if the nails felt sticky or tacky. We also applied nail oil to the cuticles and moisturizer to our hands. After the application process was complete, we took the products home and continued to use them for two weeks to evaluate the products’ longevity and ease of removal. A second application took place to test previous findings.
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Tips for Choosing the Right Gel Nail Polish
Color Range
Like traditional polish, gel nail polish comes in hundreds of different shades. Certain brands are known to have more shades than others, such as the OPI GelColor, which is available in more than 250 shades. Most brands average 80+ shades, so you’re sure to find the perfect color.
Finish
A gel polish’s finish determines how it’ll appear on your nail and how many coats you’ll need. Creme is one of the most popular finishes and has a classic, glossy shine. Though it’s easy to apply, keep in mind that it typically requires two coats for full coverage. Glitter and shimmer finishes can require multiple coats but leave you with a shiny, elevated look. Other popular finishes include matte, metallic, milky, opaque, pearl, and sheer.
UV Lamp
Unlike salon gel polish, not all at-home gel polish needs a UV lamp to dry. In fact, three out of six of the gel polishes on our list do not require a UV lamp. Gel polishes that need to be cured with a UV lamp are typically more durable and have a stronger finish. Non-UV light gel polish requires less prep work and is more beginner-friendly; just keep in mind that you’ll have a longer dry time.
Top Coat
A top coat isn’t always required for at-home gel polish, but it’s always recommended. When you finish with a top coat, you’re adding an extra layer of protection to your nails. A thin layer of top coat will protect against chips and add longevity to your manicure. Some products, including the Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish, recommend adding another top coat after one week to further protect your color. Though it can be a pain to add yet another step to your gel polish routine, top coats can take your nails to the next level with added shine and a professional-looking finish.
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
More Gel Nail Polish to Consider
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish: We noticed very minimal chipping over the two-week testing period. The polish retained its shine and continued to have a professional look. We also liked that this polish does not need a base coat or a UV lamp. However, we found the application process to be a bit tedious due to the polish’s thick consistency. It’s important to apply this polish in thin, even coats to avoid a messy look, so it’s not ideal for those in a hurry or people who are new to gel polish.
Essence Gel Nail Color: This polish has an easy three-step application process, fast dry time, and does not require a UV lamp. It wasn’t runny or streaky and provided full color payoff with one coat. However, it chipped within two days, and by one week, the polish was almost completely gone. Overall, its longevity does not compete with gel polishes that have been cured with UV light.
Southern Living / Jhett Thompson
Questions and Answers
What is the difference between gel and traditional manicures?
Each type of manicure has its pros and cons. Traditional manicures are easy to do at home and don’t require a UV lamp. However, normal nail polish isn’t durable and typically chips within a few days. Gel manicures were once a salon specialty but can now be done at home with the right products.
Most gel polishes require a base and top coat, and some require a UV lamp to cure the polish. These extra steps may take longer than a traditional manicure, but they help make your polish last longer. In addition, most gel polish that has been cured needs to be soaked in acetone to remove. This along with the occasional scraping can be harsh on your nails. Gatlin also points out the difference in dry times, saying that gel is completely dry after the manicure with the help of UV lamps, while traditional polish can take a few hours to completely dry.
How long do gel manicures last?
Gel manicures typically last two to three weeks before they start to chip. This is a major improvement from traditional manicures that are prone to chipping within the first week. Keep in mind that people who use their hands more often or have fast-growing nails will likely need a fresh set before three weeks.
What is the most common gel polish used in salons?
OPI GelColor is common in salons. Funny Bunny and Bubble Bath are two of the brand’s most popular shades, but there are over 250 colors to choose from. Gatlin shares that Poppy & Monroe favors our best overall pick, Madam Glam. This option is great because of its 21-free formula, which means it’s free from 21 chemicals found in nail polish.
How do you remove gel nail polish?
Gel polishes that haven’t been cured with a UV lamp can be removed with regular nail polish removal and a cotton ball. However, gel polishes that have been cured with a UV lamp require a few extra steps.
To remove your gel polish like the salons, Gatlin recommends starting by buffing off the shiny layer of polish. “Next, we get a cotton ball with acetone and place it on top of the polish and secure the cotton with clips. Lastly, we push the remaining gel off of the nail plate with a gel removing pusher.” It’s important to remove cured gel polish the right way to protect your nails’ health.
Why Trust Southern Living
Addie Morton is a contributing writer for Southern Living who specializes in home decor and lifestyle content. To compile this list, we tested 20 gel nail polishes in our Lab and at home over a two-week period, evaluating them on application, overall look, longevity, and ease of removal. Morton spent several hours sifting through the results of our testing and researching products that made the cut. She also spoke with Abby Gatlin, a professional nail artist at Poppy & Monroe in Nashville.
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