10 Nail Polishes I Rely on to Get a Salon-Quality Manicure at Home

There’s nothing like looking down and seeing your nails freshly painted. Whether you’re sporting a dark moody shade or a classic nude, the feeling of a new manicure is unmatched. Most of us rely on salons to keep our nails looking fresh. To be honest, there is a level of self-care and relaxation that comes with getting a manicure from a professional. However, sometimes it’s nice to DIY. From press-on extensions to semi-cured strips, there are tons of ways to get a sleek manicure at home. But I’ve found that, more than anything, investing in salon-quality nail polishes can go a long way. 

As someone who loves to change up their nail looks frequently, traditional polishes are essential. With long-wearing formulas, intense pigments and trendy colors, getting a salon-quality look at home is easier than ever. Over the years, I’ve gathered a few favorites that never fail to get me compliments every time I wear them. Gel manicures are nice, but when you need to give your nails a break, these bottles are ideal for creating a chic manicure. Ahead, the 10 salon-quality nail polishes that have become staples in my manicure routine.

Salon Quality Nail Polish Products We Love

1 / 10

Essie Expressie Nail Polish in Taxi Hopping ($5)

This interesting shade falls somewhere between a citrus yellow and green chartreuse. It may sound unusual, but the unique color complements a variety of undertones and pops on every complexion. Plus, the quick-drying formula goes on smoothly, leaving you with a sleek manicure that feels quirky and high fashion.

• BUY NOW – $5

2 / 10

JinSOON Nail Polish in Muse ($18)

I love the quiet luxury look of this polish. One coat gives you a sheer, silky manicure, but it can also be layered for a more intense look. The finish is also interesting—it’s much more glossy than other sheer polishes and has a gel-like appearance.

• BUY NOW – $18

3 / 10

Color Dept. Nail Polish in Wisteria ($10)

Lilac nails are such a fun look in spring. This polish stays in my rotation because it has great color payoff and doesn’t look washed out, thanks to a subtle hint of shimmer.

• BUY NOW – $10

4 / 10

OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish in Not Afraid of the Dark ($10)

A good dark brown polish is essential for fall, and this one never disappoints. The color is as deep as it is rich. One coat has more than enough coverage, but two coats will ensure that your manicure stays chip-free with maximum shine.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $14.50
• BUY ON ULTA – $14.50

5 / 10

Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Triple Cherry ($16)

To be fair, I rotate between a few red polishes. Still, I always come back to this one. The formula is long-wearing, and the color is punchy but not overly bright. The consistency is also perfect for layering and leaves a glossy finish.

• BUY NOW – $16

6 / 10

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Color in Jealous Boyfriend ($10)

Ask anyone—a forest green manicure always looks high-end. This creamy formula is so deeply pigmented that it delivers that effect with just one coat. The brush is also perfect for DIY manicures since it’s flat and slightly curved to hug the contours of the nail.

• BUY ON TARGET – $10
• BUY ON AMAZON – $8

7 / 10

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Blushing Terracotta ($9)

I recently purchased this bottle after seeing so many chic terracotta nail looks on Instagram. The color is on the lighter end and has a soft, earthy feel. To enhance that, I’d add a matte topcoat for a finish reminiscent of claypots.

• BUY NOW – $9

8 / 10

J.Hannah Glacé Tint Nail Polish in Gamay ($22)

I like to think of this shade as the manicure equivalent to berry-stained lips. It delivers a sheer wash of color that clings to nails for a naturally blushed look. The subdued shade is also perfect for every complexion and every season.

• BUY NOW – $22

9 / 10

Dazzle Dry Nail Polish in Space Lemon ($12)

Like the name suggests, these polishes dry fast. This bold lemon hue is nice and opaque and is perfect for limoncello nails or for creating fun nail art.

 

 

• BUY NOW – $12

10 / 10

OPI Nail Lacquer in Funny Bunny ($10)

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention this classic color. Where some white nail polish can be too harsh, this one is soft enough to complement my brown skin and looks even better when I’m a little tan.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $12
• BUY ON ULTA – $12