We know by now that not all nail polishes are created the same. And you might have your own particular preferences when it comes to your favorite brands and shades. Some of you might gravitate toward the “cleaner” organic options that are free from toxic ingredients. Others might prioritize the shade range. And some people want something that’s no-fuss and quick-drying.
For me, since I don’t paint my nails that often, I just want a formula that is easy to apply, long-lasting, and has a rich color. Thankfully, there are a lot of brands that offer this, but one that I consider a go-to is Tom Ford’s collection of polishes. They are just so luxe. The finish is glossy and shiny but not overbearing, and I find that I can go for a week without any chipping. My at-home manicures always look fresh and professional, even with my shaky hands and impatient technique.
Take a look at some of the most popular shades below, based on my internet trolling. And consider putting them on your wish list for your next manicure.
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Everyone needs a classic red in their polish inventory. This one is a juicy crimson with lots of gloss.
This darker red is so timeless and works with just about any season, I think.
And you should probably consider adding a nude or neutral shade to your polish stash, too. This one has a pinkish tint to it.
For a little bit of drama, reach for this wine red. I love wearing deeper colors on my toes, so this is a shade I’d choose for a pedicure, too.
Are you sensing a theme here? Yes, Tom Ford just does a crazy good job with red nail polishes. This one balances warm and cool tones, and you really only need a coat or two and you’re set.
Tools for Your At-Home Manicure
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You’ve got everything you need here for your at-home manicures and pedicures. The kit includes a cuticle nipper, an angled nail clipper, scissors, a nail clipper, a double-ended cuticle trimmer/pusher, a cuticle trimmer, and a toe nail clipper.
A two-in-one, this tool can be used to clean your nails and also push back your cuticles.
Give your cuticles some TLC by moisturizing it with oil. This one is infused with vitamin E.
Filing your nails will prevent any snags. These gritty emery boards are made from recycled paper.
Our hands can get really dry, especially if you’re washing yours a lot. Make sure to keep them moisturized throughout the day. This rich cream is formulated with vitamin C to enhance the skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
For impatient people like myself, a quick-drying topcoat is a must. This one leaves a high-shine finish.
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If you’re dealing with yellowed or stained nails, you’ll want to apply this base coat first. (Don’t worry about the vivid purple color in the bottle—it goes on very transparently.) It has sheer ultra-violet pigments to neutralize. It’s also formulated with nourishing ingredients like biotin, green tea, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E.
Some nail polish removers can really dry out your nails, but not this one. Tenoverten’s formula is non-toxic and free of acetone and parabens. It’s infused with rose hip, horsetail leaf extract, aloe, and vitamin E.
The Poppy polish bottle handle makes painting your nails so much easier. It helps you get a firm grip so you have more control and precision when you’re applying the polish. Plus, it works with any nail polish bottle top.
Speed up the drying time with these drops. They’ll protect the nails from smudges or scratches while also conditioning the cuticle thanks to coconut and avocado oils.
Here’s another option for an acetone-free polish remover. It’s enriched with vitamins A, C, and E, plus grapefruit essential oil, so it smells good, too.
This product is described as “green juice for your fingertips,” and we’re sold. Apply the celery oil to your nails daily to repair and restore. It has ingredients like celery seed extract, plus meadowfoam, evening primrose, chia seed, and rose-hip oils.
Next: I Never Really Gave Much Thought to Vegan Nail Polish Until I Learned This Fact