11 Best Gel Nail Polishes 2024 for a Long-Lasting Lacquer [Video]

Editor’s tip: This polish is lightly scented with pine, making the whole application experience a touch more enjoyable.

Light-curing: yes | Who it’s for: people on a budget or short on time

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes gel nail polish different from regular nail polish?

Chemistry is heavily at play when it comes to the difference between true gel nail polish, standard nail polish, and gel-like nail polish. “Gels are pre-mixed, semi-solid monomers and oligomers that are hardened to polymers when exposed to UV-A light,” explains Dana Stern, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Dr. Dana, a nail-care line. Dr. Stern previously told Allure that these reactive ingredients “belong to the chemical families called acrylates and methacrylates.”

How does gel nail polish work?

“Gel manicures are a lot more durable than regular polish and you can often get several weeks of wear without any chipping—think of it as …