InStyle Best Beauty Buys: The Best Nail Products

Collage of nail products we recommend on trays and a colorful background

Let's be honest here: There are few things in life that feel as good as a fresh mani or pedi. But when we all took to our homes a couple years ago, we started paying a lot more attention to our at-home nail care — and finally, the industry has taken note. Press-ons went viral, gel became truly a DIY experience, and the regular paints and polishes continued to release new colors and formulas to step up their game (and yours!).

Year after year, InStyle gathers with industry pros to test and nail down (no pun intended) the top products on the market, and of course, this year's Best Beauty Buys is no different.

Whether you're shopping for your own at-home mani or back on your weekly-salon routine, we're here to prep you with the products that will give you the gorgeous, lasting manicure you crave.

From the best top coats and polishes for every season, to the nourishing remover that will take it all off without damaging your nails, here's the best in nail care.

Polish and Nail Extensions

Essie Nail Polish in Mademoiselle

Buy on Amazon Buy on Ulta Buy on CVS

Winning Category: Neutral Nail Polish

This universal shade of pink looks pretty on all skin tones.

Pleasing The Perfect Polish Set

Buy on Pleasing.com

Winning Category: New Brand

Harry Style's line of polish is perfect for nearly every occasion. But if you can't pick just one shade, go for The Perfect Set.

Gucci Vernis à Ongles

Buy on Nordstrom Buy on Sephora Buy on Bergdorfgoodman.com

Winning Cateogy: Packaging & Design

Ever met a polish that was as pretty as its packaging? If the answer is no, let us introduce you to this gem from Gucci.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Espresso Your Inner Self

Buy on Amazon Buy on Opi.com Buy on Walmart

Winning Category: Polish for Fall

While we're not quite into fall just yet, preparation is the key to success. So go ahead and grab this chocolate brown shade.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Big Apple Red

Buy on Amazon Buy on Ulta Buy on Macy's

Winning Category: Red Nail Polish

You can never go wrong with a classic red. And OPI's Big Apple Red is truly as good as it gets.

SECHE Vive Instant Gel Effect Top Coat

Buy on Amazon Buy on Ulta Buy on Target

Winning Category: Top Coat

Expect a longwear, ultra-shiny finish whenever you use this expert-approved top coat.

Essie Nail Polish in Lilacism

Buy on Amazon Buy on Ulta Buy on CVS

Winning Category: Polish for Spring

Is there really any other color that makes you think of spring the way lilac does? This classic and universal shade works for everyone.

OPI Infinite Shine 2 Nail Lacquer in Strawberry Margarita

Buy on Ulta Buy on CVS Buy on Opi.com

Winning Category: Polish for Summer

With summer almost in full swing, give your fingers and/or toes a pop of color.

CHANEL Le Vernis in Rouge Brun

Buy on Bloomingdales Buy on Shop-links.co

Winning Category: Polish for Winter

This oxblood color is exactly our vibe in the winter months.

Chillhouse Chill Tips

Buy on Chillhouse.com Buy on Revolve Buy on Shopbop.com

Winning Category: Press-On Nails

Want a gorgeous mani, but don't have gorgeous mani time? Opt for Chillhouse's Chill Tips press-ons instead.

CND Gel Basic Kit

Buy on Beyondpolish.com

Winning Category: At-Home Gel Nail Polish Kit

Gel manicures are a solid option, seeing as they typically last 14 days chip-free. And now, you can enjoy all the perks of the once salon-only service right at home.

Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat

Buy on Amazon Buy on Ulta Buy on Jcpenney.com

Winning Category: Base Coat

Start your mani or pedi off right with Orly's fan-favorite Rubberized Base Coat. Once applied, wait for it to dry matte — then you'll know you're ready to go.

Smith & Cult Nail Lacquer in Empire State Nightcap

Buy on Smithandcult.com

Winning Category: Dark Nail Polish

Looking for a vampy mani? Smith & Cult has you covered with Empire State Nightcap.

Aprés Nail Gel-X Nail Extension Kit

Buy on Amazon Buy on Apresnail.com Buy on Walmart

Winning Category: Most Innovative

Apres Nails have become the go-to option for extensions over the past few years as they give a long-lasting natural finish. Trust us, no one will ever be able to tell you have on extensions.