10Best.Guide

Nude Nail Polish

Top Picks

Last Updated: September, 2023
Pros
  • Goes on smooth and has good coverage.
  • Dries fast.
  • Beautiful colors.
  • Long-lasting.
  • Flattering shades.
Cons
  • Takes a while for topcoat to fully dry down.
  • Gummy formula.
Bottom Line
Essie nail polish is a great choice for those looking for beautiful, long-lasting, and flattering shades. However, be aware of potential issues with the formula and packaging.
Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Great coverage
  • Cute color selection
  • Dries quickly
  • Lovely neutral color
Cons
  • Streaking
  • Needs multiple coats
Bottom Line
Essie nail polish has a great color selection and is long-lasting, but some colors may streak or require multiple coats. Some colors may also not match their advertised color and may chip easily. Additionally, some colors may leave marks on surfaces and be difficult to remove.
Pros
  • Quick-drying formula
  • Beautiful colors
  • Smooth and long-lasting finish
  • Elegant and subtle shades
  • Good coverage with multiple coats
Cons
  • Chips away easily
  • Streaky application
Bottom Line
Essie's quick-dry nail polish series offers beautiful and elegant shades that dry quickly and last for more than 7 days. However, the formula can be streaky, thin, and may require multiple coats for full effect. The polish is also pricey and may arrive old and dried-out.
Pros
  • Beautiful pastel colors with a nice sheer sparkle
  • Easy to use for beginners
  • Vibrant colors that go well together
  • Easy to build up intensity
  • No odor
Cons
  • Inconsistent durability
  • Yellow color is translucent
Bottom Line
Beetles Gel Nail Polish is a good option for those looking to do their own gel nails at home. The colors are beautiful and easy to use, but durability can be inconsistent and a UV lamp is required for drying.
Pros
  • Color-changing effect is cool and works well.
  • Easy to use and apply.
  • Lasts for a solid week without chipping.
  • Great value for the price.
  • Good coverage and levels well.
Cons
  • Colors are not true to the advertisement.
  • Some colors are very sheer and require a base coat.
Bottom Line
The Modelones gel color-changing nail polish is a fun and affordable option for at-home manicures, but be aware that the colors may not match the advertisement and some colors may require a base coat.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Nude Nail Polish: Best Shades, Brands, and Tips

Overview

Nude nail polish is a classic and versatile choice that complements any outfit and occasion. Whether you prefer a subtle matte finish or a shimmery sheen, there are plenty of nude shades to choose from. In this buying guide, we'll explore the different types of nude nail polish, key considerations when choosing a shade, features to look for in a formula, and prices to expect. We'll also share tips on how to apply and remove nude nail polish, as well as answer frequently asked questions.

Types

- Matte nude nail polish: This type of nail polish has a flat finish without any shine or gloss. It's a great choice for a subtle and sophisticated look.

- Shimmery nude nail polish: This type of nail polish has tiny glitter particles that reflect light and add a subtle sparkle to your nails. It's perfect for a special occasion or a night out.

- Sheer nude nail polish: This type of nail polish is translucent and allows your natural nail color to show through. It's a great choice if you want a subtle and natural look.

- Opaque nude nail polish: This type of nail polish is completely opaque and covers your natural nail color completely. It's a great choice if you want a more dramatic and bold look.

Key Considerations

- Skin tone: When choosing a nude nail polish, consider your skin tone. Fair skin tones look best with light pink or beige shades, while darker skin tones look best with darker nude shades like caramel or mocha.

- Occasion: Consider the occasion you'll be wearing the nail polish for. If it's for a formal event, a subtle matte finish may be more appropriate, while a shimmery finish may be better for a night out with friends.

- Outfit: Consider the outfit you'll be wearing with the nail polish. If your outfit is bold and colorful, a more subtle nude shade may be better, while a bolder nude shade may work better with a neutral outfit.

Features

- Long-lasting: Look for a formula that is long-lasting and won't chip or fade easily. Some formulas are designed to last up to two weeks without chipping.

- Non-toxic: If you're concerned about the chemicals in traditional nail polish, look for a non-toxic formula that is free of harmful ingredients like formaldehyde and toluene.

- Vegan and cruelty-free: If you're a vegan or animal lover, look for a formula that is vegan and cruelty-free.

Prices

Nude nail polish prices vary depending on the brand and formula. You can expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $50 for a bottle of nude nail polish. Drugstore brands like Essie and OPI typically cost between $5 and $15, while high-end brands like Chanel and Dior can cost up to $50.

Tips

- Apply a base coat before applying the nail polish to prevent staining and extend the wear time.

- Apply two coats of nail polish for a smooth and even finish.

- Use a top coat to add shine and protect the nail polish from chipping.

- Use a nail polish remover that is designed for the type of nail polish you're using to avoid damaging your nails.

FAQs

Q: Can I wear nude nail polish to a job interview?

A: Yes, nude nail polish is a safe and professional choice for a job interview.

Q: How do I choose the right nude shade for my skin tone?

A: Fair skin tones look best with light pink or beige shades, while darker skin tones look best with darker nude shades like caramel or mocha.

Q: How do I remove nude nail polish without damaging my nails?

A: Use a nail polish remover that is designed for the type of nail polish you're using and avoid using harsh chemicals or tools that can damage your nails.

Q: How long does nude nail polish last?

A: Nude nail polish can last up to two weeks without chipping if you use a long-lasting formula and take proper care of your nails.

Q: Are there non-toxic and vegan options for nude nail polish?

A: Yes, there are many non-toxic and vegan options for nude nail polish available on the market. Look for formulas that are free of harmful ingredients like formaldehyde and toluene, and that are labeled as vegan and cruelty-free.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to apply
  • Beautiful sheer colors
  • Decently sized bottles
  • Great for professional settings
Cons
  • Inconsistent color payoff
  • Small bottles
Bottom Line
These jelly gel nail polishes are great for those looking for sheer, natural-looking nails. However, they may require multiple coats and have inconsistent color payoff. The bottles are small and the polish may chip easily.
Pros
  • Color matches salon gel color.
  • Quality and color are perfect for holidays.
  • Easy to apply and get a great sheer look.
  • Beautiful shade of natural.
  • Great for working in a business setting.
Cons
  • Streaks and doesn't go on smoothly.
  • Goes on very opaque.
Bottom Line
OPI Bubble Bath nail polish is a great option for those who want a natural and classy look. However, it may require multiple layers for even color and may streak or dry chunky. Overall, it is a good quality product at a reasonable price.
Pros
  • Nice and rich shade
  • Good formula
  • Great for French mani designs
  • Pretty base color
  • Easy to use gel polish
Cons
  • Color on nails looks different from the listing
  • Turns white or milky after curing
Bottom Line
This gel polish brand offers a variety of shades with a good formula and easy application. However, some colors may not turn out as expected and some may have issues with coverage. Overall, it is a good option for those looking for affordable gel polish.
Pros
  • Goes on smoothly and dries quickly
  • Wide array of beautiful colors to choose from
  • Covers peeling and uneven nails nicely
  • Lasts for a full seven days
  • Neutral color complements skin tone
Cons
  • May not stay on nails for two days
  • Some colors may not match the image
Bottom Line
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure offers a wide array of beautiful colors to choose from, and the polish goes on smoothly and dries quickly. It covers peeling and uneven nails nicely, and some colors are holy grail for customers. However, it may not stay on nails for two days, and some colors may not match the image. It is difficult to remove with regular nail polish remover, and it may not be as long-lasting as some other brands.
Pros
  • Pretty colors
  • Dries quickly
  • Long-lasting
  • Smooth application
  • Nice brush
Cons
  • Brush not good for some
  • Polish did not stay on for some
Bottom Line
Sally Hansen Color Therapy nail polish offers a range of pretty colors with smooth application and long-lasting wear. However, some colors may not be as opaque as expected, and the brush may not work for everyone. It is recommended to use a Revlon quick dry base coat and extra life no chip top coat for best results.
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