As a beauty enthusiast, over the years, I’ve tried different gel polishes from more than 100+ nail polish brands, so I’ve got some favorites (and a few misses) up my sleeve.
Whether you’re a seasoned gel pro or just starting, I hope this helps you find your perfect match!
With that said, let’s go!
1. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel is a true OG in the gel polish world!
This was one of the first at-home gel manicures I ever tried, and it’s still a great option if you’re new to the whole gel polish thing.
What I love:
No UV lamp needed: This is a huge plus for me. Who wants to mess around with a whole lamp situation?
Miracle Gel cures with just a top coat, which is way more convenient.
Easy to apply: The polish goes on smoothly and evenly, which is important for avoiding those dreaded streaks.
Removal is a breeze: Unlike some gel polishes that seem welded to your nails, Miracle Gel comes off pretty easily with regular nail polish remover.
No soaking required!
Cons
Wear time: As I mentioned, it won’t necessarily last a full two weeks without a tip chip.
But, hey, a good 7-10 day stretch is pretty darn good in my book, especially for the ease of use.
Not the shiniest: Some gel polishes have a super high-gloss finish that looks amazing.
Miracle Gel’s shine is good, but not mind-blowing.
2. Essie Gel Couture
This is another oldie but goodie that I absolutely love.
They call it a “two-step system” for a reason – it’s super easy to use, even for gel polish newbies
Pros
Salon-worthy shine: This polish seriously delivers the shine, your nails will look like they were done by a pro, with that gorgeous gel-like gloss.
Long-lasting: Essie Gel Couture boasts up to 14 days of wear.
It can definitely live up to that claim if you take good care of your manicure (base coat is optional with this one, but I still like to use one for extra staying power).
Surprisingly easy removal: No need for harsh soaking or scraping!
This polish comes off pretty easily with regular nail polish remover, which is a major plus in my book.
Wide color selection: Essie is known for their amazing color range, and Gel Couture is no exception. There’s a shade for literally everyone, from classic reds and nudes to trendy brights and holographics.
3. OPI GelColor
OPI GelColor! This is a big name in the gel polish world for a reason, girl.
They offer a salon-quality gel experience that you can do at home, and trust me, their colors are iconic.
Here’s the breakdown on OPI GelColor:
Pros:
Super long-lasting: We’re talking up to 3 weeks of chip-free wear with proper application and care. That’s seriously impressive!
High-gloss shine: OPI GelColor gets major points for its shine factor. Your nails will be gleaming like polished gemstones.
Huge color variety: OPI is known for their massive color selection, and GelColor is no exception. There’s a shade for every mood and occasion, from timeless classics to trendy brights and everything in between.
Quality formula: This polish applies smoothly and evenly, which helps prevent streaks and makes for a flawless manicure.
Cons to Consider:
Needs a UV/LED lamp: This is the trade-off for that extended wear time. You’ll need to invest in a good quality lamp to cure the polish properly.
Not the most budget-friendly: OPI GelColor can be a bit pricier than some other drugstore brands, but the quality and wear time often justify the cost.
Removal process: Be prepared to soak your nails in acetone for removal. While not the worst, some gel polishes remove a bit easier with a peel-off method.
4. CND Shellac
Now this is where it all began, honey.
Shellac is the OG gel polish, the original formula that launched the whole at-home gel manicure craze.
Pros
Pioneered the game: Shellac basically invented the convenient gel polish experience we know and love today.
The formula is tried-and-true, offering a reliable chip-resistant manicure.
Salon-quality results: Your nails will look absolutely flawless, with a high-gloss shine that rivals professional manicures.
Decent wear time: You can expect 14+ days of wear without chipping or peeling, which is pretty darn good.
Wide range of colors: CND Shellac boasts a massive color selection, so you’re sure to find the perfect shade for any occasion.
Cons
Needs a UV lamp: Just like OPI GelColor, you’ll need to invest in a UV lamp to cure the polish.
Removal process: Acetone soaking is the way to go here.
Price point: Shellac can be on the pricier side, but again, the quality and wear time often justify the cost.
5. Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish
This is a popular choice for a reason, it hits a lot of high notes for gel mani enthusiasts.
Here’s the inside scoop on Gelish:
The Good Stuff:
Long-lasting wear: Gelish boasts up to 3 weeks of chip-free wear, which is awesome for anyone who hates mid-week touch-ups.
Soak-off removal: Unlike its Shellac cousin, Gelish offers the convenience of soak-off removal with acetone. No more harsh scraping or buffing required!
Applies like a dream: The polish goes on smoothly and evenly, making application a breeze.
This is a big plus for anyone who struggles with streaky at-home gel manicures.
Massive color selection: Gelish has a seriously impressive range of colors, from classic cremes to trendy glitters and everything in between.
You’re guaranteed to find the perfect shade to match your mood or outfit.
Things to Consider:
Needs a UV/LED lamp: Curing requires a lamp, so factor that into the cost if you’re new to gel polish.
Base and top coat: For the best results, you’ll want to use a Gelish base coat and top coat along with the color polish.
6. LeChat Perfect Match Gel Polish
LeChat Perfect Match Gel Polish is all about convenience and coordination, girl!
This brand offers a unique twist on gel polish – it comes paired with a matching traditional nail lacquer.
Here’s what makes LeChat Perfect Match special:
Pros:
Perfect Mani-Pedi Match: Forget scrambling to find a matching polish for your toes!
LeChat Perfect Match comes with a complementary regular lacquer that’s the exact color of the gel polish.
Instant pedicure perfection!
Good Wear Time: The gel polish itself boasts a respectable wear time, lasting up to 14 days with proper application.
Easy on the Wallet: LeChat Perfect Match tends to be priced a bit lower than some other high-end gel brands, making it a budget-friendly option.
Soak-Off Removal: Hallelujah for ditching the scraping! LeChat Perfect Match removes with acetone soaking, just like some other gel polishes.
Cons
Color Selection: While LeChat offers a decent range of colors in their Perfect Match line, it might not be as extensive as some other brands.
Needs a UV/LED Lamp: Curing the gel polish requires a lamp, which is an additional cost if you’re new to gel manicures.
Regular Polish Match Might Not Be Perfect: While the colors are intended to coordinate, some users find the regular lacquer shade isn’t an exact 1:1 match to the gel.
7. DND Gel Polish
DND Gel Polish, also known as Daisy Nail Design Gel Polish, is a brand that caters to both quality and affordability in the world of gel polish.
Here’s the breakdown on what you can expect with DND:
Pros
Budget-Friendly: DND Gel Polish is known for being a more affordable option compared to some high-end gel brands.
This makes it a great choice for budget-conscious gel enthusiasts or those new to trying gel polish at home.
Good Color Variety: DND offers a decent selection of colors, with everything from classic nudes and reds to trendy brights and glitters.
You’ll likely find shades you love without breaking the bank.
Claims Long-lasting Wear: DND advertises chip-resistant wear for up to two weeks, which is pretty standard for gel polish.
Cruelty-Free: For those who care about ethical practices, DND is a cruelty-free brand that doesn’t test on animals.
Things to Consider:
Mixed Reviews on Wear Time: While DND claims up to two weeks of wear, some users report chipping happening sooner.
Individual results can vary depending on factors like nail prep and how hard you are on your hands.
Availability: DND Gel Polish might not be as widely available as some other major brands.
You might have to do some searching online or at specialty beauty stores to find it.
8. Red Carpet Manicure Gel Polish
Red Carpet Manicure Gel Polish is all about achieving that salon-quality gel manicure from the comfort of your own home!
The ease of use, affordability, and all-inclusive kit are major perks.
However, if you’re a seasoned gel user with a favorite lamp or crave the widest variety of colors, you might want to explore other brands.
Also, keep in mind that the wear time may vary depending on your personal habits.
9. Bio Seaweed Gel
Pros: No base coat needed, free from harmful chemicals, water-based formula.
Cons: Requires UV/LED lamp, shorter wear time compared to traditional gels.
10. Kiara Sky Gel Polish
Kiara Sky Gel Polish is a popular choice for both at-home manicures and nail professionals.
Pros:
Massive Color Selection: We’re talking tons of shades, from creamy nudes and classic reds to trendy neons and glittery goodness.
You’re guaranteed to find a color (or ten) to suit your mood and style.
Long-lasting Wear: Kiara Sky boasts up to two weeks of chip-free wear with proper application.
This is pretty standard for gel polish, but hey, two weeks of flawless nails is nothing to scoff at!
Shine Factor: Kiara Sky polishes are known for their beautiful, high-gloss finish that rivals a salon manicure.
Your nails will be gleaming like polished gems.
Soak-Off Removal: Hallelujah for ditching the scraping!
Kiara Sky polishes typically come off with acetone soaking, which is a much gentler removal process on your nails.
Things to Consider:
Needs a UV/LED Lamp: Curing Kiara Sky polish requires a lamp, which is an additional investment if you’re new to gel manicures.
Separate Base and Top Coat: For the best results, most users recommend using a Kiara Sky base coat and top coat along with the color polish.
This helps ensure maximum wear time and shine.
While not a huge deal, it adds a couple extra steps to the manicure process.
11. Beetles Gel Polish
Beetles Gel Polish is another popular brand that offers salon-quality gel manicures at home without breaking the bank.
Here’s the nail polish tea on Beetles:
Pros:
Budget-Friendly: Beetles Gel Polish is known for being an affordable option compared to some higher-end gel brands.
This makes it a great choice for budget-conscious gel enthusiasts or beginners who are dipping their toes (or should we say, fingernails) into the world of gel polish.
Wide Color Variety: Beetles offers a seriously impressive range of colors, with everything from on-trend neons and glitters to classic cremes and chic nudes.
You’re sure to find the perfect shade to match your personality and outfit.
Long-lasting Wear: Beetles advertises up to three weeks of chip-free wear with proper application. While results may vary, that’s pretty good for a more affordable gel polish!
Soak-Off Removal: Beetles polishes typically come off with acetone soaking, which is a plus for easy removal without damaging your nails.
Things to Consider:
Potential for Base and Top Coat: While some users report good results with just the color polish.
For the best possible wear time and chip resistance, you might also want to consider using a Beetles base coat and top coat (sold separately).
12. Madam Glam Gel Polish
Madam Glam Gel Polish caters to the fashion-forward mani enthusiast who likes quality at a fair price.
Pros:
Vegan and Cruelty-Free: Major points for those who value ethical practices!
Madam Glam is committed to being vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about your mani choices.
21-Free Formula: This means that Madam Glam polishes are free of 21 common toxins found in some nail polishes.
This is a big plus for anyone concerned about harsh chemicals near their nails.
Long-lasting Wear: Madam Glam boasts up to two weeks of chip-resistant wear with proper application.
That’s pretty standard for gel polish, but two weeks of gorgeous nails is always a win!
Glossy Finish: Madam Glam polishes are known for their beautiful shine that gives your nails that salon-quality look.
Soak-Off Removal: Hallelujah for ditching the scraping! Madam Glam polishes typically come off with acetone soaking, which is easier on your nails.
Things to Consider:
Needs a UV/LED Lamp: Curing Madam Glam polish requires a lamp, which is an additional investment if you’re new to gel manicures at home.
Color Selection: While Madam Glam offers a decent variety of colors, it might not be as extensive as some other major gel polish brands.
13. IBD Just Gel Polish
This one is a true OG in the gel polish world, known for its user-friendliness and focus on healthy nails.
Here’s the breakdown of what you can expect:
Pros:
Super Easy Application: IBD Just Gel Polish is formulated for smooth, even application, which is a major plus for beginners who struggle with streaky at-home manicures.
No more patchy nails!
Gentle on Nails: Unlike some gel polishes that can be harsh, IBD Just Gel prioritizes nail health.
They use a nourishing formula that’s easier on your natural nails.
Soak-Off Removal: Say goodbye to scraping!
IBD Just Gel polishes come off with acetone soaking, which is a gentler removal process on your nails.
Decent Wear Time: While not the absolute longest-lasting out there, IBD Just Gel boasts up to 2 weeks of chip-free wear with proper application.
Things to Consider:
Needs a UV/LED Lamp: Curing IBD Just Gel Polish requires a lamp, which is an extra cost if you’re new to gel manicures.
Limited Color Selection: Compared to other brands, IBD Just Gel does not have the most expansive color variety.
Not the Shiniest: While IBD Just Gel offers a good gloss finish, some gel polishes are known for their super high-shine look.
This one might not be the absolute winner in that category
14. Modelones Gel Polish
Modelones Gel Polish is a popular brand known for its affordability, wide range of colors, and decent wear time.
Pros:
Budget-Friendly: Modelones Gel Polish is a great choice for those who want to try gel polish at home without breaking the bank.
It’s a more affordable option compared to some high-end brands.
Huge Color Variety: Modelones offers a massive selection of colors, including everything from classic nudes and reds to trendy brights, glitters, and holographic effects.
You’ll find the perfect shade for any occasion.
Long-lasting Wear: Modelones advertises up to 3 weeks of chip-free wear with proper application.
While results may vary depending on user habits and nail prep, that’s a good chunk of time to enjoy your manicure.
Fast Drying: The polish cures quickly under a UV/LED lamp, which helps to minimize smudging and allows you to get on with your day faster.
Things To Consider
Base and Top Coat Needed: For the best wear time and chip resistance, some users recommend using a Modelones base coat and top coat along with the color polish (these are sold separately).
15. AIMEILI Soak Off UV LED Gel Nail Polish
Pros: Affordable, decent lasting power, wide range of colors.
Cons: Requires UV/LED lamp, can be difficult to remove.
Conclusion
So, you’ve dipped your toes (pun intended!) into the world of gel polish, but with so many brands and options out there, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
This list 15 popular gel polish brands has hopefully given you a better idea of what to consider and which might be the best fit for you.
Here’s a quick recap of some key factors to keep in mind as you make your decision:
Budget: Gel polish brands range in affordability, with some catering more to budget-conscious buyers and others offering premium options.
Color Selection: Do you crave a massive variety of trendy colors, or are you happy with a more classic core collection?
Wear Time: Everyone wants a chip-free manicure for weeks!
While many brands advertise impressive wear times, results can vary depending on application and how hard you are on your hands.
Ease of Use: Some gel polishes are formulated for smooth application, perfect for beginners. Others might require a bit more practice to achieve a flawless finish.
Nail Health: If you’re concerned about harsh chemicals, look for brands that prioritize gentle formulas and prioritize healthy nails.
Soak-Off Removal: No one enjoys scraping! Most gel polishes these days offer soak-off removal with acetone, which is much easier on your nails.
Happy polishing!
