15 Best Nail Polish Strips And Stickers for a Salon-Style Manicure

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 09, 2024
Best Nail Polish Strips And Stickers for a Salon-Style Manicure
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

From the bygone era when our grandmothers painted their nails with thick nail paint, nail art has come a long way. The best nail polish strips have now become the newest addition to the arsenal of every nail art enthusiast! If you already know what these are, give yourself a pat on the shoulder; if you don't, it's time to introduce your nails to a whole new world! Nail polish strips are an easy way of giving your nails a makeover at your home. They are simple to use, available in numerous cuticle-friendly chemical and organic compositions, make for fun DIY projects, and give your nails a salon-styled look, just like those on Pinterest and Instagram.

Applying traditional nail polish requires multiple coats and drying time between each layer, making the process time-consuming, especially for those with busy schedules. Even with careful application, they may smudge or smear before drying, leading to uneven and messy results. Many such nail polishes contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, which can cause nail damage and pose health risks with prolonged exposure. 

Through our practical knowledge, we know that nail polish strips are pre-designed and pre-sized to fit our nails, eliminating the need for multiple coats and drying time. They can be applied within minutes, making it a time-efficient option. Since they come with self-adhesive backing, there's no risk of smudging or smearing during application, resulting in a flawless finish instantly. They are designed to stay intact for up to two weeks, making them ideal for individuals who want beautiful nails without frequent touch-ups. Nail polish strips offer an extensive range of designs, patterns, and finishes, allowing individuals to easily achieve intricate nail art looks that might be challenging to create with traditional polish.

Makeup expert Zai Antonio says, "I decided to try nail stickers because there are a lot of cute stickers, and you can do it yourself. With my busy schedule, I don't have time to go to the salon. Turns out it doesn't take much effort or money to apply these nail stickers." 

We are here to convince you why nail strips are one of the best nail wraps you can buy today. Not only are they convenient and safe to use, but they are also super affordable. To help you get started, we have shortlisted the best nail polish strips for you. Have a look!

15 Best Nail Polish Strips And Wraps

Tough Girls nail polish strips are the ideal adhesive nail designs regardless of whether you're going on a holiday, working in the office, attending a class, serving supper, or typing away to glory. Beautiful and reasonably priced nail strips are included in the set to complement any clothing or occasion. There are over 20 designs that you can choose from to get a salon-quality manicure at home. The package also holds an instructions card that you can follow to the T to get the nail wrap right. Also, you don't have to go looking for a top coat or base coat because Tough Girls comes equipped with it. These strips will not only save you time and big bucks, but they will also keep your nails safe and glammed up. 

Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Easy application
  • No PVC/plastic
Cons
  • UV lamp required
  • Best Easy to Remove

    Mwellewm Glitter Nail Stickers

    Mwellewm Glitter Nail Stickers
  • Mwellewm Glitter Nail Stickers add sparkle and color to your life with 14 sheets of different gradient nail stickers. Whether you want a pinkish ombre effect or a deep blue glitter, this package comes with color choices that will spoil you. These stickers can be applied directly on nails because they are self-adhesive. Simply pick a color you love, apply it gently to your nail, then cut it to fit the nail nicely. You can then use a nail file to softly smoothen out the edges. These stickers are mostly opaque and have bright shades, so if you’re someone who likes your nails to make a bold statement, this is the right pick for you.

    Pros
    • Self-adhesive
    • Easy to remove
    • Wrinkle-free
    • Bubble-free
    Cons
    • Requires 2 hours
  • Best Affordable

    TailaiMei Nail Wraps

    TailaiMei Nail Wraps
  • Choose from a wide array of styles from TailaiMei Nail Wraps to create the perfect nails. We need not restrict OOTDs only to our clothes when there are so many nail wrap options for our nails. Feeling a bit hungover with Christmas-y vibes or prepping for valentine's day outfits, here's your cue to get the cutest manicure at home. These nail stickers are made from non-toxic materials by professional designers and can be used for occasions like weddings, parties, or anything that demands a tad extra dazzle. Now you can devote your time to self-care during special events, without running to the salon.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Complex designs
    • Top coat included
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • Not reusable
  • Best for False Nails

    Maitys Full Wrap Nail Stickers

    Maitys Full Wrap Nail Stickers
  • It’s now possible to get sassy marble-like nail designs with Maitys Full Wrap Nail Stickers. Whether you want a subtle pink shade marble design or an edgy brown, there’s one for every mood in this pack of nail stickers. It also comes with a glass file to help you attach the stickers to your nails effortlessly. With 12 marble design sheets that contain 14 pieces each,you’re sorted for at least a few months with just one pack of Maitys Full Wrap Nail Stickers. The printed nail decal strips are super charming and can be applied on false nails, acrylic nails, or even used as decor for phone covers or any surfaces you choose.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • No UV lamp
    • Suits false nails
    • Suitable for beginners
    Cons
    • Size runs small
  • Best Super Adhesive

    BornBeauty Glitter Nail Wraps

    BornBeauty Glitter Nail Wraps
  • BornBeauty Glitter Nail Wraps are 100% real nail polish stickers that last up to 14 days after application. They come in a pack of 5 different colors and are super easy to use. You can use the free nail filer to neatly shape the stickers on your nails. Although there is a learning curve to getting these nail stickers right the first time, it is fairly simple to use. To prevent your nails from breaking, if they are fragile, you can use a base coat. These nail stickers can also be made more durable than their fortnight-long shelf life by simply applying a top coat once done sticking the nail polish wraps.

    Pros
    • Durable
    • Nail filer
    • Non-toxic
    • Super-adhesive
    Cons
    • Odd smell
  • Best Waterproof Design

    Maitys Floral Nail Wraps

    Maitys Floral Nail Wraps
  • Make space for flower power with Maitys Floral Nail wraps that look like clip art brought to life. These nail stickers have a shiny and soft effect as they are made of resin. The pack contains 16 sheets of nail stickers that are in different colors to suit every outfit you have. These multi-color full nail wraps are crafted from secure materials that have zero fragrance and are waterproof. The stickers are self-adhesive and are also simple to remove. The collection allows you to dress your nails in different designs, enough to suit every occasion that you may be faced with. It is best to apply a top coat after you have stuck the stickers to your nails to ensure you don’t need frequent retouches.

    Pros
    • Odorless
    • Waterproof
    • Non-toxic
    • Long-lasting
    Cons
    • Thicker texture
  • Best Gradient

    Blulu Full Wrap Gradient Nail Stickers

    Blulu Full Wrap Gradient Nail Stickers
  • Blulu Full Wrap Gradient Nail Stickers have such beautiful designs that they will make you forget the expensive nail art salons you wished to frequent. They are stretchy rubber-like materials in different designs, some even embellished with metallic gradients. The diverse collection of designs makes it one of the best nail wraps you could get your hands on. The pack contains 14 different DIY stickers that you can use for your holidays, celebrations, date nights, or just a chill girls' night out. These are made with good quality material that doesn't strip your nails of moisture or make them brittle. You’ll certainly enjoy putting them on your hands to instantly elevate the look of your nails.

    Pros
    • Intricate designs
    • Safe to use
    • Self-adhesive
    • Non-toxic
    Cons
    • Peels easily
  • Best giftable

    Kalolary Nail Stickers Strip

    Kalolary Nail Stickers Strip
  • Kalolary Nail Stickers Strip is here to your rescue if you’re still mentally in the holiday season and are looking to keep up the Christmas vibes. The season of Christmas may have passed but that does not mean your nails can't look festive-ready. There’s no bad time to be merry, anyway! Kalolary Nail Stickers Strip has the best nail stickers in the theme of reindeer, Christmas colors, and Santa’s presents and you get the point– the season of happiness. You don't need additional nail glue to apply these, you can just peel, adjust, and stick. It’s that simple. It also has no additional drying time, so you can just put them on and get on with your day, without wasting an extra second.

    Pros
    • Giftable
    • No soaking
    • Easy stick on
    • Fits any nail size
    Cons
    • Paper-made
  • Maitys Assorted Glitter Nail Wraps

    Maitys Assorted Glitter Nail Wraps
  • Maitys Assorted Glitter Nail Wraps has the cutest collection of gel polish strips with an acrylic finish. While no two women have the same preferences for designs, the contents of the package include two fingernail files and ten sheets of full nail wraps, each of which has fourteen nail polish stickers in various sizes and a selection of colors and patterns to make your nails look elegant at all times. That’s plenty to choose from! They can also be easily glued to your nails,are waterproof and can maintain their appearance for several days. The glitter on the nail stickers is not too over-the-top, they have the perfect balance of glitz and elegance, making them a suitable option for everyday wear.

    Pros
    • Reliable
    • Durable
    • Glossy finish
    • Super thin
    Cons
    • Stickiness is low
  • Best Eco-friendly

    Wokoto Stick On Nail Polish Strips

    Wokoto Stick On Nail Polish Strips
  • Wokoto Stick On Nail Polish Strips is a humble package of nail stickers that is available in 20 solid colors to add to your nail wardrobe basics. They are made of acrylic material and are super easy to use. They are classy to look at sans any embellishments. If you are someone who swears by basics, this set of nail stickers is for you. There’s no UV lamp required to get the stickers on. You can just choose your color, align them on your nails, and cut them to fit. Plus point, they smell incredibly good too. These usually last for 2 weeks but if you wish to remove them earlier, you can just peel them off. That’s right, you don't even need an extra remover for this.

    Pros
    • Non-toxic
    • Eco-friendly
    • Affordable
    • Good smell
    Cons
    • May bubble
  • Fast drying

    Maitys Chic Style Nail Decals

    Maitys Chic Style Nail Decals
  • Whether you’re an Emily in Paris fan or have a dark soul like Wednesday Addams, this collection by Maitys Chic Style Nail Decals is going to blow your mind with its beautiful and classy look. Make a statement with these stylish and striking nail wraps, which include trendy or vintage styles in colors with a black theme. Additionally, the self-adhesive design enables you to DIY whenever you want  to experience the thrill of a nail makeover by attaching it straight to the nails. There are 20 sheets of nail wraps and 2 nail files to get you started on your nail stickers journey. You can also apply them on false nails or acrylics, and even if you have short nails, you can nail them!

    Pros
    • Safe
    • Good Quality
    • Easy to stick
    • Fast drying
    Cons
    • Hard to trim
  • Naildoki Nail Stickers

    Naildoki Nail Stickers
  • Naildoki Nail Stickers are made with wood but look super chic and are extremely safe for your nails. All you have to do is, clean and wipe your nails, tear the protective film from the stickers and choose the sizes accordingly. When you align the nail stickers, make sure that you smoothen them out from the middle to avoid any air bubbles or wrinkling. Once neatly applied, remove the excess sticker by filing it using a nail file. At this stage, it is advised to apply a top coat to increase the glossy effect and ensure the durability of the nail stickers. It is not resistant to direct sunlight or excessive use of water, so make sure you don't waste your nail wraps by indulging in overexposure to these elements.

    Pros
    • No wrinkling
    • Eco-friendly
    • Skin-friendly
    • No UV lamp
    Cons
    • Very few options
  • Beetle Studio Full Nail Polish Strip

    Beetle Studio Full Nail Polish Strip
  • Beetle Studio Full Nail Polish Strip is a botanical-themed nail polish sticker that looks like an expensive set of manicures at the price of a coffee. It is a high-precision nail art method to embellish your hands and feet without any mess. It is waterproof and is created from 100% real nail polish rather than plastic. There are 10 nail decals in this pack and it contains a nail file for your convenience. You can get this on even before you know it because it is quick-drying and is super easy to apply. This is perfect if you’re wearing pastels, nudes, or glittery outfits.

    Pros
    • Mess-free
    • Smudge-free
    • No odor
    • Does not irritate
    Cons
    • May not last long
  • Silpecwee 16 Sheets Nail Polish Stickers

    Silpecwee 16 Sheets Nail Polish Stickers
  • These full nail wraps are designed to effortlessly transform your nails with stunning, long-lasting results. Owing to their innovative self-adhesive gel formula, these nail polish strips are easy to apply and require no drying time. The stickers adhere securely to your nails, and thus they ensure a hassle-free application and a long-lasting finish. Each package includes 16 sheets of nail polish stickers, providing you with endless design options to suit any occasion or mood. From vibrant patterns to elegant and sophisticated shades, there is something for everyone in this collection.

    Pros
    • Non-toxic
    • Easy to use
    • Convenient to carry
    • Great for gifting
    Cons
    • Wrinkle easily
  • Winthrop 12 Sheets Christmas Nail Wraps Full Stickers

    Winthrop 12 Sheets Christmas Nail Wraps Full Stickers
  • Designed with a DIY self-adhesive feature, these nail art glitter decals are easy to apply and require no dry time. Each set includes 12 sheets of Christmas-themed patterns, featuring Santa Claus, reindeer, and Xmas hat designs. With a variety of options to choose from, you can create unique and eye-catching nail art for any festive occasion. To ensure a perfect application, 2 bonus nail files are included. These files are designed to help you shape and smooth your nails, ensuring that the nail wraps adhere seamlessly for a flawless finish. Whether you're attending a holiday party, hosting a gathering, or simply want to add some festive flair to your everyday look, they are the perfect accessory.

    Pros
    • Self-adhesive
    • Waterproof design
    • Perfect for beginners
    • Suitable for any nail
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting

    With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect ones for you. To help you make the right choice, here are some important things to consider while buying stick-on nail polish strips.

    Things to Consider While Buying Stick on Nail Polish Strips

    Durability
    The key is to look for a decent nail strip sticker that is made of several coats of nail paint. The thicker the nail paint layers are, the longer they are expected to last. Usually, good nail polish stickers last as long as a professionally styled manicure. Anything that lasts for a minimum of 10 days and more is acceptable.

    Ease of application
    Your job is to look for nail stickers, wraps, polish, or decals that have a soft texture. By doing so, you'll be making the job of applying the nails an easy breezy one. A softer texture makes it easier to apply the nail strip. With increasing slenderness, the sticker sticks to your nails more effortlessly. 

    Stickers that are big and bulky feel weird on your nails and look fake. Nail strips eliminate the requirement for a separate adhesive gel or the necessity to follow up with time-consuming procedures to use them. Self-adhesive strips are nowadays offered by the vast majority of reliable manufacturers. So if you're investing in these easy nail embellishments, make sure they are not tricky to use.

    Odor
    Some nail strips have a strong smell and some are completely odorless. Usually, the strong smell represents the presence of toxic materials or plastic materials that are not the best for your skin. Also, if you’re a mother or a working professional, the strong smell might interfere with your daily chores, making people in your surroundings uncomfortable.

    Non-toxic Ingredients
    Choose strips with as few chemical components as possible. If possible, stay away from synthetic materials like vinyl, PVC, and plastic. Your nail bed may become weak and appear yellowed and decayed because of excessive and continuous use of toxic substances in your products. Also, be very careful not to use ingredients that are unsafe because nails are in contact with food, your skin products, and other close contact surfaces. 

    Adhesion

    When it comes to sticking on nail polish strips, adhesion is a crucial factor to consider. Look for products that boast strong adhesive properties to ensure that your manicure stays put for days. The last thing you want is for your beautiful nails to start peeling off after just a few hours.

    Size And Shape

    To achieve a flawless manicure, it is important to select stick-on nail polish strips that fit your nails perfectly. Most brands offer strips in various sizes to accommodate different nail shapes and lengths. Take the time to measure your nails accurately and compare them to the size guide provided by the brand. Choosing the right size will ensure a professional-looking finish and prevent any discomfort.

    Stickers Per Pack

    Before purchasing stick-on nail polish strips, it's important to check how many stickers are included in each pack. Some brands may only provide a few strips, while others offer enough for multiple applications. Consider how often you plan to use these nail stickers and choose a pack size accordingly.

    By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect stick-on nail polish strips to suit your preferences.

    How to Apply Nail Polish Strips

    1. Prep your nails

    Before using your Gel Nail Strips, we advise using a light cuticle remover to push back your cuticles. We advise trimming your cuticle before applying any type of nail extension, including gel polish, nail wraps, press-on nails, or acrylics. The wrap may peel or chip if it is applied to the cuticle.

    2. Choose your design

    Pick the nail polish strips that are the right size for your nail.  Gel nail wraps have some elasticity, much like traditional nail wraps. If you can't locate a wrap that is big enough for your nail plate, you can gently stretch one until it is. Use makeup scissors to trim the wraps if you discover that they are too large.

    3. Apply carefully

    Peel the plastic cover off the wrap and discard it. Apply on the basal layer, keeping skin and cuticles at a distance. The wrap will simply come off your skin if you apply it on the cuticle, so be careful. Most kits include filers but you may have to use your own clipper and cuticle remover for this step. Gently smooth out any bubbles on the nail polish stickers after pressing the wrap firmly onto the nail.

    4. Remove extras
    Before filing, some people find it beneficial to snip off excess gel wraps with fingernail clippers. Or you can go old school and cut them with your fingers by pressing them against the nails.  Since gel nail stickers are thicker than the standard, a little more assistance is always beneficial in clipping those. Depending on the thickness of the nail stickers, lightly trim the extra nail wrap. 

    5. The last mile

    Use a UV lamp to treat the nails after application if the kit demands it. There are several large and portable UV lamps in the market you can check from. Check to see if your wrap has hardened after giving it a minute to cure. If more curing is required, cure in one-minute intervals until the product has hardened enough.

    Bonus Tips: 

    • To keep the wraps semi-cured, be careful to place any leftovers back into their original black packaging. The wraps will become harder before being used if they are exposed to UV. Add a top coat of high quality to complete the manicure for increased durability.
    • To make your nail stickers last longer, you can even add a top coat, before and after applying the stickers. It will also add an extra shine to the nail stickers. 

    With all those cheat codes and tips we’re sure you’ll nail it! After all, there's something about having a set of freshly manicured nails that is an instant mood changer. It’s a dream come true for every girl who wants to get beautiful nails but loves her dollar bills way too much to spend it all on it. The growing availability of gorgeous nail stickers (and press-on) makes it all the more appealing. It just means that you can easily add artistic flair to your DIY manicure and pedicure—without spending much money or time, and without damaging your digits. Also, if you don’t like how it looks, you won’t have to spend a fortune at the salon to get it removed.

    How to Apply Nail Polish Strips

    1. Prep your nails

    Before using your Gel Nail Strips, we advise using a light cuticle remover to push back your cuticles. We advise trimming your cuticle before applying any type of nail extension, including gel polish, nail wraps, press-on nails, or acrylics. The wrap may peel or chip if it is applied to the cuticle.

    2. Choose your design

    Pick the nail polish strips that are the right size for your nail.  Gel nail wraps have some elasticity, much like traditional nail wraps. If you can't locate a wrap that is big enough for your nail plate, you can gently stretch one until it is. Use makeup scissors to trim the wraps if you discover that they are too large.

    3. Apply carefully

    Peel the plastic cover off the wrap and discard it. Apply on the basal layer, keeping skin and cuticles at a distance. The wrap will simply come off your skin if you apply it on the cuticle, so be careful. Most kits include filers but you may have to use your own clipper and cuticle remover for this step. Gently smooth out any bubbles on the nail polish stickers after pressing the wrap firmly onto the nail.

    4. Remove extras
    Before filing, some people find it beneficial to snip off excess gel wraps with fingernail clippers. Or you can go old school and cut them with your fingers by pressing them against the nails.  Since gel nail stickers are thicker than the standard, a little more assistance is always beneficial in clipping those. Depending on the thickness of the nail stickers, lightly trim the extra nail wrap. 

    5. The last mile

    Use a UV lamp to treat the nails after application if the kit demands it. There are several large and portable UV lamps in the market you can check from. Check to see if your wrap has hardened after giving it a minute to cure. If more curing is required, cure in one-minute intervals until the product has hardened enough.

    Bonus Tips: 

    • To keep the wraps semi-cured, be careful to place any leftovers back into their original black packaging. The wraps will become harder before being used if they are exposed to UV. Add a top coat of high quality to complete the manicure for increased durability.
    • To make your nail stickers last longer, you can even add a top coat, before and after applying the stickers. It will also add an extra shine to the nail stickers. 

    With all those cheat codes and tips we’re sure you’ll nail it! After all, there's something about having a set of freshly manicured nails that is an instant mood changer. It’s a dream come true for every girl who wants to get beautiful nails but loves her dollar bills way too much to spend it all on it. The growing availability of gorgeous nail stickers (and press-on) makes it all the more appealing. It just means that you can easily add artistic flair to your DIY manicure and pedicure—without spending much money or time, and without damaging your digits. Also, if you don’t like how it looks, you won’t have to spend a fortune at the salon to get it removed.

    FAQ's

    What nail strips last the longest?
    The durability of nail strips differs but an average nail strip would last upto 15 days.
    Are nail wraps better for your nails than polish?
    Yes, nail wraps are more convenient, easy to use and are available in many designs, making it an affordable and effective swap from nail polish.
    What is the difference between nail wraps and stickers?
    Nail wraps are typically made from a thin adhesive film that is applied and molded to the nail, providing a longer-lasting and more durable option. On the other hand, stickers are pre-designed decals that can be easily applied and removed, making them a convenient choice for those who like to frequently change their nail designs.
    How long do nail wraps last?
    The longevity of nail wraps can vary depending on various factors such as application technique, nail care routine, and daily activities. On average, nail wraps can last for about 1-2 weeks, but they may start showing signs of wear and tear after a few days. To maximize their lifespan, it is important to follow proper application instructions and take proper care of the nails, including avoiding excessive exposure to water and using protective topcoats. However, it's also important to note that individual experiences may vary, and some people may find that their nail wraps last longer or shorter than the average duration.
    Are nail wraps and stickers bad for your nails?
    While nail wraps and stickers can be a convenient and fun way to enhance the appearance of your nails, it is important to be mindful of their potential drawbacks. Excessive and prolonged use of these products may weaken and damage the nails, leading to brittleness and peeling. Additionally, the adhesive used in some nail wraps and stickers can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to use these products sparingly and take breaks in between applications to allow your nails to breathe and recover. It is also essential to follow proper application and removal techniques to minimize the risk of nail damage. Ultimately, maintaining a balanced approach and prioritizing the health of your nails should be a key consideration when using nail wraps and stickers.
    Can you put a gel top coat over nail polish strips?
    It is possible to apply a gel top coat over nail polish strips. This can help to extend the longevity of the nail polish strips and provide a glossy finish. However, it is important to ensure that the gel top coat is compatible with the specific brand of nail polish strips being used. Additionally, proper application techniques such as curing the gel top coat under a UV or LED lamp may be required for optimum results. Overall, using a gel top coat can be a great way to enhance the durability and appearance of nail polish strips.
    Will stick-on nails come off in the shower?
    Stick-on nails may come off in the shower due to exposure to water and steam. The adhesive used to attach the nails may not be able to withstand the moisture and may start to weaken or dissolve. Additionally, the heat and humidity in the shower can further loosen the nails.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    While our in-house makeup expert Sayantani loves traditional nail polishes, she understands that people often don’t have the luxury of time or the patience to apply one and allow it to dry. But as someone who can detect a makeup trend even before it becomes popular, she recommends nail polish stickers to people in such situations. After meticulous research, trial, and error, she curated the above list of the best nail polish stickers. Amongst all, the nail kit by Tough Girl is her absolute favorite!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More