Let’s be honest: there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a fresh manicure to lift your spirits after a long week filled with chaotic kids, demanding work, and family drama. Picking out your favorite shade, pampering your hands, and giving your nails a flawless finish is a lovely form of self-care. However, scheduling a visit to the salon isn’t always possible, and that’s where drugstore nail polishes come into play. You can find many budget-friendly options that rival those high-end brands without breaking the bank.
To help you look polished (pun intended) without overspending, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 best drugstore nail polishes that you should try. Whether you’re in the mood for a vibrant color, a shimmering metallic, or something that dries quickly before the kids wake up from their nap, we have the perfect picks lined up for you. Don’t forget to check out some trendy nail stickers to elevate your at-home manicure game!
Bright & Focused 7-Free Nail Polish
This vibrant yellow from Olive & June is described as “a beaming yellow that ignites creativity.” It applies smoothly without any streaks, achieving salon-quality results in just a few coats. Pair it with our favorite Olive & June nail stickers for an adorable at-home mani/pedi. All you need is a cute bikini or trendy sandals to complete your summer look. $8 AT OLIVE & JUNE
ella+mila Nail Polish
Looking for a pink that embodies everything summer? Look no further than the shade “Pinkterest” from ella+mila. This cruelty-free polish is perfect for those who love all things pink. One happy customer shared their experience: “I found this polish during the pandemic and I’m so glad I did! It doesn’t chip after just a few days like most polishes. I can keep my nails looking good for over a week.” $8 AT AMAZON
essie expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish in Orange
Ready for a splash of color? This playful orange from Essie’s expressie line brings a summer vibe. Its quick-drying formula and easy-application brush make it a breeze to use. One reviewer noted, “I was able to apply two coats quickly while my son was napping, and it dried completely without any mess!” $9 AT AMAZON
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure
Imagine a salon experience in a bottle! This polish combines a base coat, topcoat, and nail strengthener all in one. The shade “Blush Against the World” is a versatile neutral that suits all skin tones. $6 AT AMAZON
essie Gel Couture 2-Step Longwear Nail Polish
This gel-like polish offers salon-quality shine with a long-lasting formula. A satisfied user said, “I wanted a polish that lasts longer than two days, and this is perfect! I can do chores and still have beautiful nails a week later!” Make sure to use the topcoat for the best results. $9 AT AMAZON
butter LONDON Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer
If you’re in search of a high-gloss polish with fast-drying capabilities, this is the one for you. It lasts up to 10 days with just one coat. A fan raves, “The color is stunning, and it lasts a really long time without chipping.” $18 AT AMAZON
ILNP MEGA – 100% PURE Ultra Holographic Nail Polish
This holographic polish offers a dazzling, opaque finish without needing a base coat. One delighted customer mentioned, “It applies easily, dries quickly, and has an eye-catching sparkle that gets compliments everywhere I go!” $10 AT AMAZON
CND Vinylux Weekly Nail Polish
Frustrated by quick chipping? This polish’s ProLight technology increases chip resistance with exposure to natural light. One user shared, “It glides on effortlessly and dries quickly. Even without a topcoat, it’s more chip-resistant than most.” $11 AT AMAZON
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Nail Coat
A favorite among nail artists, this fast-drying topcoat ensures your manicure stays fresh for days. One loyal fan stated, “It sets quickly and hardens the layers of polish underneath, so your nails are truly dry and smudge-proof.” $6 AT AMAZON
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In summary, choosing drugstore nail polishes can save you time and money while still providing that salon-quality finish. From bright colors to quick-dry options, these picks will keep your nails looking fabulous without the salon price tag. For more insights on beauty and pregnancy, visit this link and this excellent resource for additional support.