White nail polish has a timeless charm that makes it a versatile and popular choice among many. While finding the perfect shade can be a challenge, considering factors such as your skin tone, wardrobe, and personal style can help you narrow down the options. In this guide, we’ll explore why white nail polish remains an eternal favorite and provide expert advice on how to select the best one for you.
From bold and striking to elegant and subtle, we’ll delve into the world of top-notch white nail polishes, including our top picks from leading brands like Essie, OPI, MEMEDA, Sally Hansen, Orly, Vishine, Duri, Zoya, and China Glaze. Whether you’re looking for a premium gel polish or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the best white nail polish for your unique style.
How to Find the Best White Nail Polish
White nail polish has long been a fashion staple, but its resurgence in popularity can be attributed to the influence of style icons like Selena Gomez, Khloe Kardashian, and Rihanna. What’s often overlooked is that this versatile shade has more to offer than just its aesthetically pleasing appearance. It’s finally receiving the recognition it deserves for its multifaceted appeal.
What to Consider When Selecting the Best White Nail Polish
When searching for the perfect white nail polish, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find one that suits your lifestyle. First and foremost, think about the quality of each bottle of polish. A low-quality polish can be clunky and detract from the elegance of the color. To ensure a high-quality finish, look for polishes with smooth brushes, sturdy bottles, and consistent colors. Next, consider the shade of white you’re looking for.
From classic white to off-white shades, there’s a wide range of options available. Once you’ve settled on a shade, think about the finish you want. Do you prefer a pearl, sheer, matte, cream, glossy, or shiny finish? Finally, choose a type of polish that suits your needs. Options include quick-dry, nail-growth-enhancing, strength-boosting, long-lasting, all-in-one, and gel polishes.
With so many options available, it’s essential to consider each factor carefully to find the best white nail polish for you.
Top 10 Best White Nail Polishes 2024
Best Overall Polish: Essie’s Blanc Nail Polish
Essie’s Blanc nail polish is a standout in the world of affordable white polish options. This bright, shining color is achieved without being overpowering, making it perfect for creating French manicure tips or applying a full coat. The high-quality brush glides smoothly across the nail, leaving behind no streaks and ensuring an even finish.
As part of the trusted Essie brand, which has been delivering signature shades since 1981, Blanc is infused with quick-drying ingredients that work in harmony to provide a flawless application. While it’s not marketed as a quick-dry polish, its speedy drying properties make it perfect for those who value efficiency. To get the most out of this shade, apply a base coat and follow up with one or two coats of Blanc, depending on your desired finish.
The glossy finish is so stunning that you may be tempted to skip the top coat altogether; however, keep in mind that Essie polishes tend to chip within a few days if not paired with a top coat. If weekly manicures are a challenge, consider opting for gel polish instead. For those interested, we recommend Vishine’s Pure White Gel Polish.
Best Premium Polish: OPI’s Funny Bunny Nail Polish
OPI’s Funny Bunny is a standout in the world of white nail polishes, exuding class and quality despite being slightly pricier than average. Its soft white hue is remarkably versatile, effortlessly complementing various occasions and outfits. Whether you’re heading to work or a party, this polish ensures you look polished without ever appearing out of place. The sheer finish makes it an excellent choice for layering over other polishes or wearing solo.
While it may not be as vibrant as some other whites, Funny Bunny’s subtle charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend into any aesthetic. The ProWide brush and rich lacquer formula make application a breeze, but to ensure the polish lasts up to a week without chipping, a base and top coat are essential. When factoring in these extras, an at-home OPI manicure can be a bit pricey. However, this is a small price to pay for the luxurious feel that OPI brings to the table.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Sally Hansen’s White On Nail Polish offers a similar neutral look at a fraction of the cost.
Best Gel Polish: MEMEDA’s Milky Nail Gel Polish
When it comes to MEMEDA’s Milky Gel Polish, the appeal lies in its ability to cater to busy individuals who don’t have the luxury of dedicating a significant amount of time to nail care. This gel polish boasts an off-white milky hue that exudes sophistication and elegance. While gel manicures do require a bit more effort upfront, such as curing each coat under an LED/UV light, the end result is well worth it – a long-lasting finish that can last up to a month without chipping or fading.
MEMEDA’s gel polishes are particularly appealing due to their non-toxic and odorless formulations, making them a popular choice among those with sensitivities. The Milky Gel Polish specifically offers a unique and classy shade that is not easily found in the market. However, it does have its drawbacks – the consistency of the gel is quite thick, which can make application a bit challenging. To achieve an opaque finish, up to 4 layers are required, which may be a drawback for some.
On the plus side, this polish’s non-toxic and odorless properties make it an excellent option for those with sensitivities. Additionally, its sophisticated milky white color is hard to find in other gel polishes.
Best Polish for Nail-Growth: Sally Hansen’s Well, Well, Well
Sally Hansen’s Color Therapy line is truly a game-changer when it comes to keeping your nails healthy. One of the standout features of this affordable polish is its argan oil formula, which not only moisturizes but also promotes nail growth. This unique blend means you can indulge in the benefits without sacrificing quality for price. The Well, Well, Well shade boasts a true white color with a slightly glossy finish – perfect for French manicure tips or a bold all-over look.
A wide and tapered brush makes application a breeze, even allowing for freehand designs if you’re feeling artistic. While it may require two coats for full coverage, the payoff is well worth the extra effort. With Color Therapy, you get the best of both worlds: nourished nails and stunning color.
Best Budget Polish: Sally Hansen’s White On Nail Polish
Sally Hansen’s White On Nail Polish stands out with its radiant glossy finish and genuine white hue. For those new to white nail polish or looking for an affordable option, this polish provides a great starting point without breaking the bank. The Xtreme Wear collection is renowned for its smooth application, courtesy of its easy-glide brush. Although it’s not particularly thick, White On boasts a potent color that dries quickly, making it a convenient choice.
However, it does have one major drawback – it tends to chip easily and requires a top coat or two to maintain its integrity. A slight yellow tone can also occur if the polish isn’t protected by a top coat. For those willing to invest in a higher-end option, OPI’s Funny Bunny Nail Polish is an alternative worth considering. In terms of pros, White On offers exceptional value for its price, and its easy application makes it a breeze to use.
The cons include its tendency to chip quickly and the need for additional top coats to preserve the color.
Best Pearly-White Polish: Orly’s Gogo Nail Polish
Orly’s Gogo nail polish is a standout in the world of beauty, and it’s easy to see why. This stunning shade boasts a quick-drying formula that allows for seamless application, and its rich consistency ensures an even finish. The pearl finish gives the polish a unique sheen that catches the light beautifully. When applied, Gogo takes on a gorgeous grey-white hue in darker settings, while a hint of glitter becomes apparent in brighter lighting conditions.
One of the best things about Orly’s Gogo is its ease of application. The small and thin brush makes it simple to create crisp white tips for a French manicure, or to freehand a design with precision. However, as with any polish with a small brush, be mindful of applying too little polish to avoid streaks. In terms of pros, the fast-drying formula is a major plus, as well as the polish’s nice consistency and beautiful pearl finish.
On the flip side, the small brush may leave streaks if not used carefully, and some may not appreciate the presence of glitter in the polish.
Best Affordable Gel Polish: Vishine’s Pure White Gel Polish
Vishine Gel Polish offers a game-changing solution for those seeking salon-quality nails without breaking the bank. Its long-lasting formula can remain chip-free for up to 21 days, making it an ideal choice for vacations or busy lifestyles where frequent touch-ups aren’t feasible. The polish’s glossy finish and light grey shade provide a versatile canvas for French manicures and other nail art designs.
While some users may find the gel polish’s consistency too thick when cold, a simple warm water treatment can help to thin it out. Additionally, curing the polish with an LED/UV light just a bit longer than recommended ensures a smooth finish. Overall, Vishine Gel Polish is an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting white gel polish.
Best Vegan Polish: Duri’s Ghost Nail Polish
Duri’s Ghost offers a unique off-white nail polish perfect for brides on their special day. This vegan shade can be used for wedding nail art or achieve a natural-looking French manicure. The semi-sheer finish provides an opaque yet subtle look, becoming more vibrant with additional coats applied. As a renowned choice for wedding nail art, this polish excels in delivering a sheer off-white appearance.
Notably, Duri’s Ghost has earned a reputation for being super runny, so it’s crucial to leave your nails to dry on a flat surface to avoid the polish running down to your cuticles. To prolong the life of your manicure, consider adding a top coat once you’ve finished painting your nails. While this polish is long-lasting on its own, an additional layer provides added protection. If you prefer a more opaque finish, Zoya’s Snow White Nail Polish offers a pure white color with a creamy finish.
Best Polish for Pregnant Women: Zoya’s Snow White Nail Polish
Zoya’s Snow White vegan nail polish stands out for its commitment to safety and quality. As one of the first companies to adopt the Big-10 Formula, Zoya forbids the use of harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and lead in their products. This makes it a great option for pregnant women or anyone looking for a chemical-free beauty solution. The Snow White polish is a stunning pure white shade with a creamy finish that can be enhanced with a top coat.
What’s more, the formula is quick-drying and long-lasting, with some colors lasting up to 5 days without chipping. However, it does require multiple coats to achieve an opaque finish, which may not be ideal for those looking for a French manicure tip. Additionally, the thin brush can leave streaks when trying to cover larger areas.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Zoya’s Snow White polish is a great choice for anyone seeking a vegan and chemical-free option that still delivers salon-quality results.
Best Matte Polish: China Glaze’s White On White Nail Polish
China Glaze’s White On White nail polish boasts a stunning white cream color with a matte finish that not only maintains its vibrancy but also strengthens and protects the nails. Although it may contain some chemicals, it is free of the toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and added formaldehyde. One of its most impressive features is its ability to dry in a beautiful matte finish, which can be easily transformed into a glossy sheen with a top coat if desired.
The key to achieving full coverage lies in applying at least two coats, as the polish has a relatively thin consistency. Additionally, it’s essential to keep the bottle tightly closed after each use to prevent the polish from drying out, as this can affect its performance. Pros include the polish’s beautiful white cream color with matte finish, strengthening and protective properties for the nails, and its free-from toxic trio status.
Cons, on the other hand, are the need for multiple coats to achieve full coverage, the thin consistency of the polish, and its tendency to dry out in the bottle.
Guide to Buying the Best White Nail Polish
White nail polish may seem like a simple shade, but its versatility knows no bounds. From classic white nails and tips to wedding manicures and intricate nail art designs, this timeless color can elevate any look. And the best part? It’s a universally flattering choice that suits everyone, regardless of their skin tone, nail length, or shape.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll tackle common questions and misconceptions head-on, shedding light on the differences between traditional nail lacquer and gel polish.
Is Nail Polish Bad for You?
While it’s well-known that some nail polishes contain harmful ingredients, the risks are generally mitigated by using them in moderation. Nonetheless, it’s still advisable to seek out formulas that avoid the toxic trio of dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde, as these chemicals can pose health risks – particularly for pregnant women, frequent polish users, and nail salon workers.
To minimize exposure, consider applying a chemical-free base coat like Zoya’s Naked Base Coat before painting your nails. While wearing a face mask while doing your nails is a professional necessity to limit dust and vapor intake, it may not be as crucial for occasional at-home use. However, if wearing one makes you feel more comfortable, it’s always an option.
For those concerned about the ingredients in their polish, there are vegan and chemical-free formulas available, such as Zoya’s Snow White Nail Polish or Duri’s Ghost Nail Polish.
Nail Polish vs. Gel Polish — Which One Is Better?
When it comes to nail polish, there are two main categories: regular and gel. Let’s start by exploring the world of regular nail polish, which is the most widely used type globally. We’ll delve into its advantages and disadvantages before moving on to gel polishes. Regular Nail Polish ProsOne significant benefit is that some chemical-free options are available, offering a safer choice for those concerned about the chemicals in their beauty products.
Additionally, regular nail polish can be easily removed with acetone-based removers, making it a convenient option. Some formulas can even help strengthen and heal brittle nails, while its affordability makes it accessible to many. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While some products may claim to be chemical-free, they might still contain low levels of chemicals. If you don’t use a base coat, repeated application of nail polish can cause staining on your fingernails.
Furthermore, regular nail polish typically doesn’t last more than a week and is prone to chipping. In contrast, gel polishes offer a range of benefits that have made them increasingly popular. For instance, gel manicures can last up to a month without chipping, making them a great choice for those who want their nail art to withstand the test of time. Another advantage is that you don’t need to worry about drying time, as gel polishes set under an LED or UV light.
That being said, there are some drawbacks to consider. Gel polishes tend to be more expensive than regular nail polish, and they require the use of an LED or UV light to set. Additionally, prolonged exposure to UV light can cause sun damage to your skin (Tip: To prevent this, apply sunscreen to your hands before using the UV light). Furthermore, gel polish can cause nails to become brittle if used regularly, and removing it can be a challenging and damaging process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
White nail polish often gets a bad rap for being tacky or cheap-looking, thanks to its association with correction fluid Wite-Out. However, there are many different shades of white polish out there, and some can be quite sophisticated. Celebrities like Selena Gomez have been known to sport elegant pearl-white manicures using Orly’s Gogo Nail Polish. When it comes to pregnancy, it’s crucial to consider the impact that everyday products – including nail polish – may have on your growing baby.
Some polishes contain toxic chemicals like dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde, which can harm a fetus. If you want to continue using polish during pregnancy, look for vegan and chemical-free options. Zoya’s Snow White Nail Polish has been deemed safe by pregnant women, according to our list. When it comes to French manicures, most polishes on the list can be used.
However, Sally Hansen’s Well, Well, Well stands out due to its wide, tapered brush that makes applying white tips easy and true white color perfect for a classic French manicure. As for current nail trends, neutrals are making a comeback – including the highly sought-after shade of white. OPI’s Funny Bunny Nail Polish is particularly popular right now, along with cherry red and revamped jean blue. We’re huge fans of OPI’s Less is Norse, which has won over many fans this year.
Last Thoughts
White polish is a timeless classic that can instantly elevate both your fingernails and toenails. Its vibrant hue has the power to create a stunning contrast with your skin tone, effectively giving the appearance of years being taken off your hands. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look or want to get creative with nail art designs, white polish is an essential staple in any beauty enthusiast’s collection.
In addition to its versatility, a good quality white polish can also be used as the perfect base for French manicures or as a blank canvas for artistic expression.
We hope that this guide has been instrumental in helping you find the ideal shade and finish of white polish that suits your taste and preferences. As you continue on your nail journey, remember to always prioritize a solid base coat and top coat combination for optimal results.
