The Best Gel Nail Polishes of 2024
Gel polishes have become increasingly popular because of their longevity and chip-free finish. Gel manicures can last up to 2-4 weeks on average, so you can go longer between touch-ups while still having beautiful nails. Of course, not all gel polishes are created equal, so we’ve reviewed some of the best gel nail polishes on the market. Our favorite is the Beetles Gel Nail Polish because of the matte & glossy polish options, self-leveling formula, and 28-day wear time.
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Best Overall
Beetles Gel Polish Nail
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Most Color Variety
Modelones Gel Nail Polish
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Great Value
Mefa Gel Nail Polish
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Most Eco-Friendly
Memeda Gel Nail Polish
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Best Pastel Colors
GAOY Gel Nail Polish
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The Best Gel Nail Polish Buying Guide
When choosing the perfect gel nail polish, the abundance of options available on the market can make it easy to get confused. That's why we’ve curated a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Things to Consider When Shopping for Gel Nail Polish
Ingredients: What to Avoid
The best gel polishes are made with non-toxic, natural, and organic ingredients that are safe for your nails and the environment. Take some time to read the label of any product you’re considering and check that it meets your standards for quality. Also, look out for polishes free from dibutyl phthalate (DBP), formaldehyde, toluene, and other harmful chemicals to ensure they won’t cause any allergic reactions.
Ease of Application: Does It Clump?
Nail art itself can be a struggle. Nobody wants to apply nail polish that is hard to spread and smooth out on top of doing an intricate design. So, take a look at how easy it is to spread and smooth out the product and check to see if the applicator is easy to hold.
Color Selection & Finishes: Does It Match Your Style?
Gel polishes come in basically all colors and finishes (matte, shiny, metallic, shimmery, etc.), so make sure you choose one that suits your style and taste. If you're looking for something bold, look out for unique metallic shades, pearlescent tones, and neon hues (my personal favorite nail colors are bright reds and pearlescent golds).
Durability: It Should Last At Least 2 Weeks
High-quality gel polishes should not easily chip or fade. Before buying, go through reviews from customers who have purchased and tested the product, or even try out a sample at home or in-store to get an idea about the wearability of the polish. You should pick a long-lasting product that won’t chip or fold after curing.
Removal Method: Soak or File?
Depending on the type of product used, removing gel polish can often be difficult and damaging to nails if done improperly. Look at the methods the manufacturer recommends to safely remove their product without damaging your natural nail plate or skin around them. You can simply soak off some gel with acetone, while others may require filing down instead. So, knowing this information beforehand is essential to safely and quickly remove gel nail polishes.
The Best Gel Nail Polishes That Won't Chip
Beetles Gel Polish Nail
Pros
- Free from harmful toxins and chemicals
- Odor-free formula that's safe to use
- Comes in a beautiful gift box
Cons
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
Looking for a modern and trendy way to adorn your nails? The Beetles gel nail polish is the right choice for you. This kit comes with 20 mini gel polishes in popular shades that are suitable for giving your nails a unique and modern look. Additionally, it includes three top and base coats to ensure you get flawless coverage and chip-free results.
This gel nail polish needs to be cured under an LED nail lamp for about 60 to 120 seconds, allowing you to achieve the perfect finish every time. The shades are modern and trendy, and the gel glides on easily on your nails, giving them a matt or glossy shine finish with an even and smooth look. Not only is this kit great for using in your at-home manicures, but it also makes an ideal holiday or special event gift. It's perfect for achieving any look you have in mind with its great selection of colors and chip-free application, making it the best pick.
Modelones Gel Nail Polish
Pros
- Both glossy and matte finish polishes
- Highly pigmented colors
- Color-lock and anti-fade technology
Cons
- Not completely chip-free
The Modelones gel nail polish set is the perfect nail set for those that want to keep up with the latest trends in beauty. This set is an excellent alternative for at-home salon-quality gel manicures as it comes with high-quality, long-lasting colors that resist chipping, peeling, and fading for up to 28 days. It's designed with 36 colors, ranging from nudes, pinks, grays, blues, and glitters, so you can’t go wrong with these classic and trendy pigments.
Another great thing about these nail polishes is that they're cruelty-free and suitable for vegans, so your nails will look amazing and you’ll feel good about using them. Additionally, these polishes are made with safe ingredients, and the formula is free from 11 toxins. It’s low-odor and skin-friendly, offering you a healthier and safer manicure experience. Not only is this set perfect for changing up your look to match your style, but it’s also a great gift for family and friends who enjoy expressing themselves through their nails.
Mefa Gel Nail Polish
Pros
- Highly pigmented for a perfect look
- Single-stroke, smooth application
- Long-lasting pigment without fading
Cons
- Some may find the bottles too small
If you’re looking for an all-in-one kit, the Mefa gel nail polish kit is for you. This product has been formulated with toxin-free ingredients, making it safe to use for even sensitive skin. With a proper application, you can expect to get three to four weeks or more of wear without fading. The nail polishes are easy to apply, and it takes just 60 to 120 seconds for the LED nail lamp to completely dry the nails to prevent chipping.
What’s more, no matter what color you choose, you will be able to have an impressive look with either a glossy or matte finish. The set includes 20 colors, one base coat, one glossy no-wipe top coat, and one matte top coat. Each polish is made of natural resin, which has a low odor and won’t irritate your skin. With this gel nail polish set, you can freely express your creativity with endless possibilities.
Memeda Gel Nail Polish
Pros
- Smooth appearance and flawless coverage
- Highly pigmented with good tenacity
- Offers an excellent glossy finish
Cons
- Too thick for some
The Memeda gel nail polish offers a great solution for those who want to keep their nails looking beautiful without spending a lot on salon visits. This neutral set is a must-have to create a natural nail look, with long-lasting results of up to 21+ days. One of the great features of this product is that it can be cured under LED light for between 60 to 120 seconds, and you can get salon-like results with just a base and top coat.
These gel nail polishes are made using natural resin, making them safe to use. As they don’t contain any toxic substances, you don’t have to worry about them causing irritations or reactions. The ingredients are sustainably sourced with minimal impact on the environment, so you can feel good about your nail touch-ups. The colors also have a brilliant shine finish.
GAOY Gel Nail Polish
Pros
- Long-lasting (up to 28 days)
- Beautiful pastel “jelly” colors
- Large variety of colors & shades
Cons
- If the polish is layered too thick, it can bubble up during UV curing
The GAOY Gel Nail Polish has a sheer gel formula that allows you to create a wide range of looks, from subtle to bold. Each set of polish has six polish colors, and there are over 25 sets to choose from! With proper manicure maintenance, this polish can last up to 28 days. Follow our pro tip: lightly buff your nail bed before applying it to create the perfect canvas to adhere to the polish.
The formula is free from toxic chemicals, and all ingredients strictly comply with the FD&C Act and are SGS certified, so rest assured that these polishes prioritize both performance and safety. If you love subtle, nude manicures with the option of having a bold color, you’ll love the GAOY polishes!
People Also Ask
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Q: What is the difference between regular nail polish and gel nail polish?
A:Regular nail polishes are made with nitrocellulose resins, while gel nail polishes are made with polymers that must be cured with a UV or LED light. Gel polishes last longer than regular polishes and produces a glossy finish without requiring a top coat. Gel nail polishes can be easier to work with than regular nail polishes, as they typically aren’t as runny and require a smaller amount of product to achieve the desired finish.
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Q: When should I use gel nail polish?
A:Gel nail polish is a great choice for longer-lasting manicures, as it generally provides more protection from everyday wear and tear than regular polishes. With proper maintenance, gel nails can last up to two weeks without chipping or fading, so they are ideal for special occasions or events where you want your manicure to look perfect and un-smudged!
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Q: Is gel nail polish safe for my nails?
A:Yes! Most leading brands offer professional salon-grade gel nail polishes that are safe for your nails if you use the right application technique and remove them within two weeks or according to directions provided on the product packaging. It’s important to follow the manufacturers’ instructions for proper application and removal of any type of manicure to prevent damage to your nails or surrounding skin tissue.
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Q: Can I remove my gel nail polish at home?
A:Yes, you can remove your gel nail polish at home with an acetone-based remover or remover wrap specifically designed for this purpose. However, it’s important to take caution when using removers as they may cause dryness or irritation if not used properly. If you’re unsure how to remove your gels safely, it’s better to consult a nail tech. Sometimes, they’ll remove the polish for you for a low price or for free!
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Q: Are there any tips for applying gel nail polish?
A:Yes! To ensure your manicure lasts longer and looks better, you should always start with clean, properly prepped nails. Then, apply thin layers for maximum coverage and cure each layer with a UV/LED light. After that, seal the gel nail polish with a top coat. You should avoid warm temperatures when curing and make sure your hands are completely dry before application.
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Q: What else do I need for a gel manicure besides the polish?
A:You’ll need a base & top coat to prime & set the polish, a UV or LED Lamp to cure/harden the polish, nail prep products like nail polish remover, rubbing alcohol, a nail file, a buffer, and cuticle pushers, and lint-free wipes or cotton pads.
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