This £11 nail polish has completely taken the place of my gel manicures.
A couple of years ago, I developed an allergy to gel nails (and most other manicure types—what a bummer), leading me to take on the challenge of finding the best alternatives as a beauty editor. I really miss my gel manicures and am constantly trying and testing long-lasting nail polishes that don’t chip after just two hours. Some polishes chip if you merely breathe near them. However, ever since I found the Essie Gel Couture Top Coat last year, I’ve never looked back. This top coat keeps my nail polish chip-free for about 7-10 days, and now I can’t imagine being without it. Since I love it so much (I’m on my third bottle now), I thought it was time to explore Essie’s Gel Couture Nail Polish (£11) shade range.
Just like the top coat, these Essie nail polishes feature the same technology that provides a long-lasting, chip-free finish that resembles gel on the nails—no lamp required. After testing them, even friends have mistaken my nail polish for gels. Keep reading for my honest review and the favorite shades I’m currently rotating.
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish
**Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Fairy Tailor**
**Pros:**
- Looks and feels like gel polish on nails
- Lasts 7-10 days with the top coat, potentially up to 2 weeks
- Glossy, durable finish
- Available in a variety of chic shades
- More affordable than traditional gel
- No gel lamp needed; removes with regular nail polish remover
**Cons:**
- Takes a bit longer to dry compared to other polishes
- Performs best when coupled with the top coat rather than worn solo
- Requires reapplication of the top coat every few days for optimal results
**How Long Does It Last?**
When paired with the top coat, I find that Essie Gel Couture Nail Polishes can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days. I typically apply two coats of the polish followed by two layers of the top coat, resulting in nails that look glossy and plump, mimicking the appearance of gel. It is advised to apply another coat of top coat every couple of days (or at least by the seventh day), and when I do, I usually only notice minor chipping around the ninth or tenth day.
**Before & After: First Application vs. 10 Days Later**
Here are my nails freshly painted with two coats of Fairy Tailor and two layers of the top coat. Here are my nails after 10 days; the color and shine remain intact with only minor chipping visible.
**How Long Does It Take to Dry?**
The nail polish typically dries within two to three minutes, and I like to apply two coats of my favorite shade, Fairy Tailor (a sheer polish), which gives my nails a healthy and glossy look. The top coat is thicker, so it does take longer to dry, but the final result is worth the extra wait, I assure you.
**My Verdict**
I’ve been using Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish for over a year now, and I can confidently state it’s the most durable nail polish outside of gel formulas that I’ve encountered. The colors apply evenly and smoothly, and the texture resembles gel on your nails. I highly recommend getting the top coat to accompany any of the shades, as it truly enhances the durability of your manicure while providing a plump, glossy finish. In short, this is the only nail polish I want to use from now on.
**Shop Essie Gel Couture Colors:**
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Fairy Tailor**
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish-Gel Top Coat**
I totally suggest picking up the top coat, which enhances the results and extends the chip-free period.
- **Essie Gel-Like Nail Polish Gel Couture in Spiked With Style**
I’m eyeing this deep, dark red polish that will be perfect for autumn and winter.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in All Checked Out**
Brown nails are in style, and this chocolate hue is ideal for embracing the trend.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Bubbles Only**
I have been using this classic red for my toes—it’s the perfect pedicure color year-round.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Matter of Fiction**
Matter of Fiction is a must-have classic neutral pink for your collection.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Rock the Runway**
I’m getting this vibrant tomato red for my summer manicures.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in First Fitting**
This elegant ecru polish is great if you find bright white too stark.
- **Essie Gel Couture Gel-Like Nail Polish in Of Corset**
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This £11 nail polish has completely taken the place of my gel manicures.
Everyone confuses it with gel.