The never-ending stream of nail inspiration from celebrities and content creators overwhelms us in the best way. Though each dessert-named trend is unique, they all require the best long-lasting nail polish to keep working hands from denting their perfectly manicured nails. The best long-lasting nail polishes glide, spread, and dry quickly. While the finish you choose (matte, cream, sheer, or metallic) is determined by your nail goals, some finishes help nail polish last longer. For example, “shimmer, metallic, and glitter finishes stay on a bit longer due to added texture,” says celebrity nail artist Michelle Saunders James.
Although we’ll never give up our nourishing cuticle oils and strengthening treatments, it’s also beneficial if their formulas include ingredients that promote nail health. Maybe one day the argument in favor of peeling, flaky polish will gain traction, but for now, we’re sticking with what we know works: a streak- and smudge-free finish that lasts long enough to make it from Monday morning conference calls to Sunday brunch debriefs.
Why We Love It: Essie’s line of long-wear polishes has a stellar reputation among professionals and novices alike, and it is quick-drying, durable, and looks far more luxe than its low price suggests. Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez have both been spotted wearing beige-pink shades. Swoon over the artist’s wheel of pastel, deep-hued, shimmer, and glossy varnishes that apply cleanly and easily, leaving no globby trail behind.
Who It’s For: Thanks to its two-step system, the gel polish can last up to two weeks, making it one of the safest ways to achieve the enviable, high-shine finish of a fresh gel manicure without being exposed to harmful UV light.
It’s worth noting that lighter colors may require multiple coats to reveal their true shade.
Why We Love It: We’ve seen Jennifer Coolidge wearing this polish on the Golden Globes red carpet. It’s one of the best options for color payoff with just one coat. Furthermore, the gel-like formula provides the same super glossy and long-lasting finish without the harmful effects of a UV lamp.
Who It’s For: This polish comes in an impressive 54 colors, so there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer pastels, vibrant shades, or a true black manicure.
Why We Love It: CND’s rich color payoff, ease of use, and luxe finish helped it become a salon favorite and celebrity-worn (hi, Rihanna) polish brand. Its rosy color palette is super sweet, and we think Candied is the perfect baby pink for a strawberry milk mani or as an everyday neutral. Thanks to this two-step, non-gel system, your manicure will last seven (or more) days while maintaining its glossy appearance.
Who It’s For: Because the polish hardens immediately, you don’t have to worry about your freshly painted nails getting damaged while they dry. It also contains vitamin E, keratin, and jojoba oil, which nourish the nail bed and promote growth, giving your nails a healthier appearance and feel over time.
It is important to note that in order to reap all of the benefits, you must apply the top coat.
