For chip-free colour and shine that lasts, you can’t beat a gel manicure. But if you want to avoid an expensive trip to the salon and the hassle of a UV lamp, then you need to know about the new gel generation.
Long-lasting nail varnishes, they offer the benefits of a gel but are lamp-free, perfect for the ultimate low maintenance at home manicure. These are our pick of the best gel nail polishes for a quick and easy nail transformation…
OPI Infinite Shine Lacquer in 'Stick to Your Burgundies', £13.95, at opiuk.comCheat fresh salon nails with OPI’s 3-step system. Simply prime your nails with the Primer Base Coat, £13.95 and slick on two coats of your favourite shade of Infinite Shine. With so many gorgeous shades to choose from it’s hard to pick, but we’re coveting this rich burgundy nail varnish for the autumn months. Complete your manicure with OPI’s Gloss Top Coat, £13.95, for a high shine finish that lasts up to 10 days.
Nails inc Gel Effect Nail Polish in 'Hyde Park Court', £15.00, at nailsinc.comFor a super shiny gel-like finish without a UV lamp, we love these Nails inc polishes. Their innovative formula helps to boost keratin production for strong, healthy nails and they’re easy to remove too (no soaking required.) Use with a base and top coat for long-lasting results and try this khaki shade for a chic military manicure.
Essence The Gel Nail Polish in '16 Fame Fatal', £1.60, at wilko.comGet gel effect nails for under £2 with this budget beauty buy from Essence. At such a bargain price, you can splash out on several shades from their ultra colourful range. Team with their The Gel Nail Polish Base Coat and accompanying top coat (£2.50 each) to make your mani last up to 60% longer. This classic red is our pick for bright shiny nails that won’t break the bank.
butter LONDON Patent-Gel Top & Tails Set, £29, at butterlondon.co.ukThis innovative duo can be used alongside all existing butter LONDON nail lacquers to create a sleek, shiny finish and safeguard your nail polish against chips. The set includes a base and top coat free from harsh chemicals for a high-end manicure you can recreate again and again.
Mac Factor Gel Shine Lacquer Nail Polish in 'Gleaming Teal', £7.99, at boots.comA one-coat wonder, this Max Factor polish is the ultimate in hassle-free nail colour. Its thick gel effect formula combines with high shine shades for a manicure that’ll get you through the working week. We love their ‘Gleaming Teal’ shade for a chic on trend nail look.