Nail polish has become an essential beauty accessory for many individuals worldwide.

With a plethora of brands available in the market, finding the best one can be challenging.

Factors such as longevity, color range, safety, and the finish of the polish play a vital role in determining which brand stands out from the rest. Let's explore some of the top nail polish brands and why they are considered the best.

1. OPI

OPI is a household name in the world of nail polish. Founded in 1981, the brand is widely regarded for its high-quality products, vibrant colors, and creative collections. OPI offers a wide range of shades that cater to various skin tones and preferences. What sets OPI apart is its durability; their nail polishes last up to two weeks without chipping, especially when paired with their top coat.

Another key factor in OPI's popularity is the smooth application. The brush is designed for precise and even strokes, ensuring a professional-looking finish at home. Additionally, OPI nail polishes are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP (dibutyl phthalate), making them a safer choice for those concerned about the ingredients in their cosmetics.

2. Essie

Essie is another iconic brand known for its salon-quality nail polish. Founded in 1981 by Essie Weingarten, the brand gained prominence for its sophisticated shades and glossy finish. Essie is particularly popular for its neutrals and pastel shades, offering a polished and understated look.

Essie is praised for its chip-resistant formula, which ensures longevity and maintains the polish's glossiness over time. The brand is also cruelty-free, making it a favorite among ethically conscious consumers. While Essie's regular line is beloved for its color selection and quality, their gel couture line has garnered attention for delivering long-lasting results without the need for UV light.

3. Sally Hansen

Sally Hansen is a drugstore favorite known for affordability without compromising on quality. The brand offers a variety of nail care products, but their nail polish is particularly well-regarded. Sally Hansen’s Complete Salon Manicure line is a top pick because it combines several benefits in one bottle—base coat, strengthener, growth treatment, and top coat—along with a rich color.

What makes Sally Hansen stand out is the range of finishes they offer. From matte to glossy, and glitter to metallic, there is something for every occasion and style. The brand’s polishes are also known for their wide brushes, which provide an even application, minimizing the streaks that can sometimes occur with cheaper brands. Sally Hansen is also free of toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, making it a safe option for frequent users.

4. Zoya

Zoya is a vegan and cruelty-free brand that has gained a reputation for being one of the safest nail polish brands on the market. The brand boasts a 10-free formula, meaning its polishes are free from the top 10 harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional nail polishes, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and parabens.

Despite its clean formula, Zoya does not compromise on performance. The polishes offer excellent coverage, smooth application, and impressive staying power. Zoya is also known for its vast selection of shades, with over 400 colors to choose from, including stunning neutrals, pastels, and bold hues. For individuals who prioritize health and safety without sacrificing style, Zoya is a top contender.

5. Chanel

Chanel is synonymous with luxury, and its nail polish is no exception. The brand’s Le Vernis line offers a high-shine finish and a formula that resists chipping for days. While it may come at a higher price point compared to drugstore brands, Chanel’s nail polishes offer a luxurious experience in both application and wear.

Chanel's color selection is more limited than some other brands, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality. Each shade is carefully curated, often reflecting seasonal trends and timeless elegance. Chanel nail polishes are known for their fast-drying formula, making them a go-to for individuals who need a quick yet polished manicure.

6. Deborah Lippmann

Deborah Lippmann, a celebrity manicurist, launched her eponymous nail polish brand with a focus on high fashion and luxury. The brand is renowned for its innovative formulas and stunning, fashion-forward shades. Deborah Lippmann polishes are 7-free, ensuring they are safe to use without compromising on quality.

What makes this brand unique is the dual-patented brush, which is designed to create an even, streak-free application. The formula itself is infused with ingredients that promote nail health, such as biotin and green tea extract. Although priced higher than many other nail polish brands, Deborah Lippmann is favored by professionals for its smooth finish and long-lasting wear.

7. CND (Creative Nail Design)

CND is a professional-grade brand best known for its Shellac line, which offers a gel-like finish that lasts for weeks without chipping. CND is particularly popular among those who want the longevity of a gel manicure but prefer to avoid UV light or salon visits. Their Vinylux line offers long-lasting results and a wide variety of colors.

CND’s products are easy to apply and offer a quick-drying formula that reduces the risk of smudging. The brand is also 7-free, ensuring a safer and healthier option for those concerned about harmful chemicals. While CND may be a bit pricier than drugstore brands, its professional-grade quality makes it worth the investment for many.

Choosing the best nail polish brand ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. Brands like OPI, Essie, Sally Hansen, Zoya, Chanel, Deborah Lippmann, and CND offer top-notch quality in terms of durability, application, and color selection. Whether you're looking for an affordable option, a luxury experience, or a clean and safe formula, these brands offer something for everyone. With such a wide range of choices, finding the perfect polish has never been easier.