Meet the Other Phone. Protection built in.

Meet the Other Phone.
Protection built in.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Style and beauty

Looking for style advice? Chat all about it here. For the latest discounts on fashion and beauty, sign up for Mumsnet Moneysaver emails.

Best normal nail varnish

19 replies

Flopsy145 · 18/12/2024 06:18

I love getting my nails done, for years had acrylic or gels. But with a toddler and young baby I lack the time to get them done, and they're also quite pricey. I did them at home for a while but seen so many stories of how this can really damage nails, and UV lamp is very old so wouldn't want to use it.
So, what is the best "normal" nail varnish?
Essie, opi, something else?

OP posts:
Roselilly36 · 18/12/2024 07:19

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri range is the best I have found, really good coverage in a single coat.

khaitai · 18/12/2024 07:23

In my experience more expensive doesn't necessarily equate to better quality. The best one I have is from No7 (Stay Perfect range).

Youvebeenframed · 18/12/2024 07:25

The Essie range has been a game changer for me. It looks just like a gel manicure. The platinum top coat and gel setter are brilliant.
All dry really quickly

AuntieDolly · 18/12/2024 07:29

I like Barry M

Flopsy145 · 19/12/2024 07:14

Thank you all will look into these ☺️

OP posts:
WalterdelaMare · 19/12/2024 07:17

Essie for me. Stays perfect until removed. I don’t rate their base or top coats though. I use the Sally Hansen one for both.

LunaNorth · 19/12/2024 07:18

OPI Nature Strong. If you use the top coat it lasts a week, maybe longer for you as I’m clumsy.

bookmarket · 19/12/2024 07:22

Definitely Essie for me. It goes on easily, has a good finish and doesn't easily come off.

Soccermumamir · 19/12/2024 07:25

I like Rimmel Super Gel 👍💅

whosaidtha · 19/12/2024 09:40

I've been using sassy saints. it's a dip. Lasts around 2weeks with zero chips. I ordered on line and had excellent customer service too.

NotquitewhatImeant · 19/12/2024 09:41

another vote for Essie. But…if you don’t mind buying online ILNP is something else

BestIsWest · 19/12/2024 09:46

Essie Gel Couture.

EvelynRose3 · 19/12/2024 09:55

Honestly, I’ve been in the same boat—kiddos make it impossible to keep up with salon nails! I’d say Essie’s Gel Couture is amazing; it’s long-lasting and gives a bit of that “salon look” without needing a UV lamp. Just don’t forget a good top coat!

TanyaLoves · 19/12/2024 09:59

OPI is great! x

HelloNuttyDog · 19/12/2024 10:08

Jumping in to ask if any of the above mentioned brands do a particularly good transparent varnish?

Jeezitneverends · 19/12/2024 10:10

WalterdelaMare · 19/12/2024 07:17

Essie for me. Stays perfect until removed. I don’t rate their base or top coats though. I use the Sally Hansen one for both.

Are you me?😂 I came to say exactly the same thing!

Waterboatlass · 19/12/2024 11:27

Essie and Barry M.

Lovely DP bought me a Chanel nail polish as a treat and the colour is good but it's crap quality in comparison. Chipped to buggery the same day

luckylavender · 19/12/2024 21:10

Essie without a doubt

Flopsy145 · 20/12/2024 20:01

Thanks guys, bought an essie gel and the platinum top coat will give it a go next week ☺️

OP posts:
New posts on this thread. Refresh page