15 Best UV Gel Nail Polishes for Gorgeous Glossy Nails

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 16, 2024
Best UV Gel Nail Polishes for Gorgeous Glossy Nails
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From today onwards, you need not cry over your spilled nail polish and messy, brittle nails because we have got you the list of the best UV gel nail polish. These gel-based nail polishes keep your nail game strong and last for a longer period of time. So, with these nail paints, you can easily maintain beautiful nails at home. If you wish to seek the help of acrylic nails or nail extensions, you can go ahead and do it without any second thoughts and try out gorgeous nail art without spending a fortune. Plus, you don’t need to sit for hours to wait for your nail polish to dry off completely if you have a UV lamp or LED light nail lamp. Just cure every coat under the lamp, and you are done with your gel manicure within minutes!

Manicures and pedicures can be easily avoided for months only if you have the best gel nail polish in your hands. Since nails are the first thing that one notices, you should pamper them well. After all, they help you to stay at the top of the fashion quotient and highlight your style majorly. And, for a woman, nail art or nail paint is not just a fancy thing, it's a mood enhancer. Gel manicures or gel nail polishes give your brittle nails much-needed strength and protection. They last for weeks and give you more freedom to show off your creativity. So, get ready to give your nails an extra layer of sass with good-quality UV gel nail polishes. Take a look at our top choices.

15 Best UV Gel Nail Polishes

Get glam-worthy nails with this plant-based varnish from the brand that has been recreating and resetting beauty trends for over a decade. You guessed it right, we are talking about the Aimeili nail polish that is available in an exciting and enticing range of twenty-six shades to complement your no-makeup makeup look, the Monday motivation look, the staycation look, or the gorgeous festive season look. The product is highly pigmented and undeterred by chips, fades, sweat, water, and humidity, making it a unanimous choice among teens. Lastly, it is easy to apply, dries fast, and does not leave any streaks.

Pros
  • Transfer-proof
  • Non-smudge
  • Quick drying
  • Conceals nail imperfections
Cons
  • Fragile applicator
  • Best Chip-resistant Formulation

    Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Polish

    Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Polish
  • As the makers of the product rightly address, this product indeed is a manicure and pedicure essential. It has a rich nutrient-infused formulation consisting of hydrolysed wheat protein that promotes collagen synthesis within the nail cuticles, and safflower seed oil that prevents nail degradation and the invasion of bacterial infections(1)(2). Moreover, the product comes along with an innovative contour brush that has 320 bristles to assure a smooth, natural finish with just one stroke of application. The best part? The product made its way into the “Allure Beauty Hall of Fame” in the year 2018 and continues to remain a favorite among people of all ages.

    Pros
    • Strengthens nail cuticles
    • Anti-fade technology
    • Does not chip
    • Spill-proof bottle
    Cons
    • Colors tend to vary on purchase
  • Best Quick-drying Nail Paint

    GAOY Icy Jelly Gel Nail Polish

    GAOY Icy Jelly Gel Nail Polish
  • Just like the product description says, “It is a neatly curated formulation that is neither too transparent nor too opaque.” Well, true to the claim, this gel nail polish does not over-promise and under-deliver. Instead, it is consciously created with skin-friendly ingredients minus sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil. Addedly, the product provides a high-shine finish that is immune to chips, fade, and water, making it one of the best choices for regular use. Lastly, it is available in an alluring range of nudes ranging from tempting taupes, peachy pinks, and bronzed browns to glassy whites that make the nails look naturally beautiful. 

    Pros
    • Natural matte finish
    • Non-smudge
    • Non-flakey
    • Boosts nail follicle growth
    Cons
    • Tends to peel off soon
  • Best Overall

    Beetles GEL POLISH Poinsettia - Gel Polish 6 Colors Set

    Beetles GEL POLISH Poinsettia - Gel Polish 6 Colors Set
  • This set of gel nail polish from Beetles GEL POLISH is all that you need to flaunt the glossy and vibrant nails of your dreams. The nail polish stays longer on your nails than ordinary nail polishes. In addition, it has intense pigments that do not fade over time. This nail polish enhances the quality of your nails and makes them look a lot more glamorous. This Poinsettia collection and its alluring shades let you make some bold statements. For a classic shiny look or a glitter look, this set is a must-have.

    Pros
    • Toxin-free
    • Less odor
    • Safe for skin
    • Easy-to-apply
    • Chip-resistant
    • High-gloss shine
    Cons
    • Thick consistency
  • Best Formaldehyde-free

    LONDONTOWN Gel Nail Polish

    LONDONTOWN Gel Nail Polish
  • A remarkable feature of this gel nail polish by LONDONTOWN that makes it stand out is its strong budge-proof formula that allows you to flaunt your nail color for a long period of time. It comes in a variety of stunning colors to complement all your makeup looks and outfits. Featuring a non-solvent formula that provides streak-free color, it has become a favorite among makeup enthusiasts. Once you apply a coat of this nail polish, you won’t have to worry about wear and tear as it doesn’t fade, chip, or dull for about 3 weeks. You also need not burden your pocket to get this as it offers great value for money. So, don’t wait anymore searching for the perfect nail polish to highlight your nails– grab this and get vibrant nails in a breeze. 

    Pros
    • Easy to use
    • Non-solvent formula
    • Long-lasting results
    • Doesn’t change the consistency
    • Non-runny
    • Available in pretty colors
    Cons
    • None
  • Best Shimmery Finish

    RARJSM Shell Thread Gel Polish

    RARJSM Shell Thread Gel Polish
  • With this Purple Blue Shell Thread Gel Polish from RARJSM, you get an opportunity to flaunt nail art of two styles — a pearlescent effect and a shell thread effect. And, believe us, this UV gel polish will leave you stunned. Its high gloss formula and shimmery finish smartly draw attention to your nails. Just paint your nails with this nail polish once and forget about it straight for 21 days. Yes! You read it right. This nail polish will stay as it is for up to 21 days. While applying this polish, make sure that you cure each coat under the UV lamp maximum of 2 minutes after each coat. With no harsh ingredients and only rich color playoff, this nail polish is worth-splurging.

    Pros
    • Non-toxic
    • Low odor
    • Easy-to-apply
    • Good consistency
    Cons
    • Doesn’t dry quickly
  • Best Glossy Finish

    GAOY Icy Jelly Gel Nail Polish - Set of 6

    GAOY Icy Jelly Gel Nail Polish - Set of 6
  • This set of 6 colors from GAOY will leave you stoked with its sheer marron colored jelly-like look. It is a UV gel polish that features a translucent color. This shade is affected by various environmental factors like lighting, ambiance, complexion, or base color that you choose to apply. To enhance its opaqueness, you can simply apply two or three layers. With a UV LED light, this nail polish dries off quickly and helps you flaunt your desired nail art.

    Pros
    • Toxic-free
    • Low odor
    • Easy-to-apply
    • Glossy finish
    • Chip-resistant
    • Lasts for a month
    Cons
    • Less quantity
  • Best Mirror-shine Finish

    AIMEILI GEL POLISH Set of 6 Pieces

    AIMEILI GEL POLISH Set of 6 Pieces
  • This set contains 6 nude pink colors that will complement the majority of your outfits. It contains purple, white, and pink hues to suit your fashion persona. This gel nail polish looks great only when you incorporate it on a base and top coat. When you are applying this nail polish, make sure you cure your nails under a UV lamp for up to 30 to 120 seconds. With this nail polish set that comes in 6 alluring shades, you need not worry about pampering your nails for the next 21 days.

    Pros
    • Toxic-free
    • Easy-to-use
    • Long-lasting
    • Chip-resistant
    • Doesn’t smudge
    • Mirror-shine finish
    Cons
    • Very tiny bottles
  • Best for Beginners

    MEFA 23 Pieces Gel Nail Polish Set

    MEFA 23 Pieces Gel Nail Polish Set
  • This gel nail polish set from MEFA is crafted especially for those who love painting their nails frequently. It comes in a set of fabulous 23 colors. Matte or glossy, no matter your type, this set has it all. These nail polishes have fuller and darker pigments to help you paint your nails in the desired color. With just a few hours of nail pampering and nail art sessions, you get a chance to flaunt beautiful nails for 28 days.

    Pros
    • Low odor
    • Non-toxic
    • Easy-to-use
    • Long-lasting
    • Smooth formula
    • Suitable for beginners
    Cons
    • Chips
  • Best Long-lasting

    MEMEDA Gel Nail Polish

    MEMEDA Gel Nail Polish
  • This MEMEDA Gel Nail Polish is a neutral or nude gel polish that matches up all moods, seasons, and occasions. It has a subtle shade of pink that looks great on nails of all sizes and shapes. The high pigmentation and brilliant shine are the two things that make this gel nail polish one of the best. All you need is a base and top coat, and of course, a UV LED lamp to dry it off.

    Pros
    • Toxin-free
    • Long-lasting
    • Good tenacity
    • High-gloss shine
    Cons
    • Unpleasant smell
  • BORN PRETTY 6 Colors Set Black Spar Series Gel Nail Polish

    BORN PRETTY 6 Colors Set Black Spar Series Gel Nail Polish
  • This gel nail polish set from BORN PRETTY comes in a bright and vibrant neon color palette. To attract large eyeballs, this is the set that you need to amp up your nail game. It contains fluorescent shades of green, yellow, orange, pink, and purple. The highly pigmented formula and silk-smooth texture of the polish is something that you will definitely love. It lasts for 28 days and doesn’t chip or fade. For it to dry quickly, you need to seek the help of a UV or LED lamp.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Low odor
    • Toxic-free
    • Cruelty-free
    • Easy-to-apply
    • High gloss shine
    Cons
    • Runny consistency
  • FZANEST Glitter Gel Nail Polish

    FZANEST Glitter Gel Nail Polish
  • Glitter nail polishes exude bombshell glitz and glam. And, this FZANEST Glitter Gel Nail Polish is something that you ought to pay heed to. Its navy-blue color, shimmery finish, and dense glitter texture make it a must-have. This nail polish not only looks great on your fingers, but also on your toes. It lasts a long time and doesn't look cheap. It has a great payoff and shines like a diamond. Cure it with the help of a UV lamp, and you are done with your nail pampering session within minutes.

    Pros
    • Non-toxic
    • Low odor
    • Doesn’t chip
    • Easy-to-apply
    Cons
    • Clumpy texture
  • BORN PRETTY Classic Series - Black Spar Series Gel Nail Polish

    BORN PRETTY Classic Series - Black Spar Series Gel Nail Polish
  • This burgundy shade nail polish is everything bold and beautiful. It is rich in pigmentation and high in quality. Plus, it has a high gloss shine and can be easily applied. It lasts for more than 21 days, so you need not worry about the durability of your nail art. For an extra glossy finish, you can apply a top coat whereas you can also choose to flaunt a matte finish. It all depends on you and your desire to nail your nail game like a pro.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Smooth formula
    • High gloss shine
    Cons
    • Very runny consistency
  • Gellen Gel Nail Polish Kit

    Gellen Gel Nail Polish Kit
  • This Gellen Gel Nail Polish Kit comes in gorgeous hues of grays and nudes. The easy-to-hold applicator will prevent mess and help you paint your nails to perfection.  The lovely mirror-like finish can be attained easily. All you need to do is, cure your base coat for 30 seconds, nail polish for 60 seconds, and top coat for another 60 seconds under a UV or LED lamp. But, before kickstarting your strokes, ensure that your applicator doesn’t hold too much nail polish.

    Pros
    • Toxin-free
    • Low odor
    • Good tenacity
    • Easy-to-remove
    • Excellent coverage
    Cons
    • Bristles of the brush break
  • LanFo 6 Pcs Gel Nail Polish Set - Violet Purple

     LanFo 6 Pcs Gel Nail Polish Set - Violet Purple
  • With this set in your hands, you just have to spare 3 minutes to get that perfect nail art. Yes, you read it right! This gel nail polish possesses vibrant pigmentation and never tends to fade its natural glory. This is a set crafted especially for nail technicians, nail artists as well as nail art enthusiasts. Crafted from natural ingredients and resins, this nail polish leaves no place for disappointment.

    Pros
    • Toxic-free
    • Odorless
    • Creamy gloss effect
    • Suitable for all seasons
    Cons
    • Very thick consistency

    These high-quality UV gel nail polishes will not only help you save your hard-earned money, but also help you attain salon-quality nail art just by sitting at home. To help you vouch for the best nail polish kit, we have prepared a buying guide for you to make the best purchasing decision ever.

    How to Select the Best UV Gel Nail Polish?

    Here are the aspects that you need to consider before purchasing nail polishes- 

    Color: Always make sure that you pick a nail polish color or shade that suits your style. You can pick one depending on your skin tone and fashion persona. Neutral colors look great on normal to medium skin tones, whereas if you possess a dark complexion, choose a cool tone color. For lighter complexion, it is observed that warm and bright colors look the best. 

    Consistency: Always check the consistency of the nail polish that you choose to purchase. This will help you predict your application session. Some gel nail polishes have thicker consistency, whereas some possess runny consistency. A nail polish that is thick needs more care and attention. On the other hand, it is easier to stroke your nails when the consistency tends to be thin. It is advisable to vouch for nail polish that has neither too thick nor too runny a consistency. Remember! Thicker the nail polish longer the drying time.  

    Drying Duration: After checking the consistency of the nail polish, pay heed to the drying duration of the nail polish. Generally, all nail polishes require a base coat that takes 30 seconds under UV or LED light to cure. After that, your nail polish should dry completely for another 60 seconds. To seal off your shiny look, apply a top coat and then cure it under the lamp for more than 60 seconds. To sum up, your nail polish should dry in a span of 3 minutes. 

    Chip-resistant: Make sure that your nail polish contains natural resins and dries quickly under the UV lamp. Any nail polish that takes a longer time to cure should be avoided as it may result in chipping. 

    Long-lasting: The nail polish should stay on your nails at least for 21 to 28 days. So, pick a nail polish that is long wearing, and doesn’t fade or chip. You must choose toxic-free and odorless nail polishes with a good base and top coat. 

    You must be figuring out the right method of applying the best UV gel nail polishes. Well, you need nothing but patience and of course a UV or LED lamp. Roll your eyes below to understand the correct method of application.

    How to Apply UV Gel Nail Polish?

    • Step 1: Always ensure that your nails are dry and oil-free before kickstarting your nail painting session. 
    • Step 2: Push back the cuticle gently and remove excess skin if any. 
    • Step 3: File the edges of your nails and shape them as desired. 
    • Step 4: Buff the surface of your nail gently. 
    • Step 5: Use a nail brush and clean your nails and the area around them. 
    • Step 6: Apply a nail dehydrator and then apply a base coat. Cure it under the UV lamp, minimum of 30 and a maximum of 60 seconds. 
    • Step 7: Apply a thin layer of UV gel polish and cure it under the UV or LED lamp for another 60 seconds. 
    • Step 8: Apply the second layer of nail polish and let it dry under the lamp again for 60 seconds. It is normal for the gel polish to feel sticky even after curing. Wait for some time and do not wipe it off immediately. To avoid chipping, the thinner the layer, the better the results. 
    • Step 9: After your nail polish is dried completely, apply a thin layer of top coat. Make sure you cap the edges of your nails. 
    • Step 10: Cure your nails once again under the UV lamp for 60 seconds and let them dry completely.

    Tada! You have managed to get yourself the most gorgeous nails. All thanks to UV gel nail polishes for making you your very own nail stylist. After all, you are cutting down your nail-salon bills massively and are able to test your creativity. Be it matte or glossy, all nail polishes enhance the beauty of your nails and make them a part of your style. So, with the right technique and nail care tools, you can take good care of your nails. The most impressive part of these nail polishes is that they are long-lasting and do not compel you to hit the nail salon regularly.

    FAQ's

    Which is the best UV LED gel polish?
    MEFA, MEMEDA, and BORN PRETTY are the three brands that have introduced the best UV LED gel polish.
    Is UV or LED better for gel nails?
    LED lamps are better for gel nails as they help cure your nails faster.
    Is the UV light for gel nails harmful?
    Excessive or long-term use can damage your nails, cuticles, and nailbeds adversely.
    How to dry gel nail polish without UV light?
    Dip your nails in ice-cold water to let your gel nail polish dry without UV light.
    How to remove UV gel nail polish?
    Dip a cotton ball into acetone and wrap your nails around it for a few minutes. This will soften your gel nail polish and ease the removal process.
    Is UV gel nail polish bad for your nails?
    Excessive usage of gel nail polish can make your nails brittle. They can also peel and crack the surface of your nail.
    Can you use gel nail polish without UV light?
    Yes, but ensure that your nail polish has a formula that doesn't require a UV or LED light to dry.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    For gorgeous and glossy nails, do take some cues from our beauty and makeup expert, Sayantani’s top picks. She is currently obsessing over sassy UV gel nail polishes and thus decided to dive deeper into their features. With a good amount of research, tests, and trials, she curated this classic list out of which the Beetles Gel Polish Poinsettia set her favorite. You too can check out the rest of her recommendations without any second thoughts and try out gorgeous nail art without spending a fortune. 

    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