13 Best Beauty Expert-Approved Clear Nail Polish For Gorgeous Nails (2024)
Get clear, long-lasting, and polished nails for the effortlessly chic woman in you.
Simone de Vlaming is a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone.com. She specializes in makeup, skin care, fragrances, and nails. Simone decided to start a beauty blog during her graduation to find an outlet for her passion. She also worked as a beauty advisor in a beauty store/perfumery.
Read full bio of Simone de Vlaming
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
Image: From Shutterstock
We might paint our nails and use ornate nail art that looks quirky or artistic, but a fine coat of the best clear nail polish is something that never goes out of style. It makes your nails look glossy and lovely and your hands well-maintained. You can use it by itself or apply a coat over your regular nail paint to achieve that extra gloss and sheen. Clear nail polish can also make your manicure last longer by protecting it from peeling and discoloration. Moreover, it prevents the splitting of nails too.
Chipped or peeled nail paint may ruin the whole look, and that’s why you need clear nail polish to add sophistication to your freshly manicured hands for timeless beauty. If you want to add clear nail polish to your long list of manicure tools, we are happy to help. Take your pick from the list below and find one that suits your gorgeous nails.
In This Article
13 Best Clear Nail Polish Reviews Of 2024
1.Best 100% Vegan: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
Rock the party with this fast-drying topcoat that not only gives your nail polish a bright and glossy shine but also keeps your manicure looking great for days. This nail polish formula penetrates the primary nail polish forms a single solid, protective coating over the nail plate for a more durable finish. It is guaranteed not to be yellow and leaves your nails soft, strong, and resistant to chipping and peeling. It’s a fast-drying top coat gel nail polish and gives a glossy, high shine finish without the use of a UV/LED light. It’s self-leveling and is very smooth and hard as a rock after curing. It will surely make you the subject of ceaseless compliments. Check out this video on YouTube for a detailed understanding of the product through the reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- 100% vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Triclosan-free
Cons
- Some may be overwhelmed with its smell
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 31,731 rave reviews on Amazon.
2.Best Fast Drying: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat
Sally Hansen clear nail polish brilliantly covers your nails in just 1 coat. The precise brush contours to your nails, so the color always glides on quickly and flawlessly. It has a unique acrylic polymer formula that ensures that it hardens and air dries in just 30 seconds. It also comes with a double UV filter formula that ensures that your nail color is protected. Use this UV-resistant product after applying nail color for a shiny, super-fast manicure that lasts up to 10 days because of its long-lasting chip-resistant finish. This nail polish puts the power of having beautiful hands literally in your own for a shower of compliments. Reviewers have mentioned how quickly the nail polish dries to give a beautiful shine.
Pros
- Fast drying
- Long lasting
- High-gloss effect
- Non-yellowing formula
Cons
- Some may not be satisfied with its anti-chipping feature
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 30,897 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3.Best High Gloss: Nail Polish DaniPro Anti-Fungal Clear Base
The DaniPro Anti-Fungal Nail Polish is a unique and innovative product designed to not only enhance nail appearance but also protect them from harmful fungal infections. Unlike traditional nail polishes, DaniPro is formulated with biotin, vitamins A and E, along with an active ingredient called Undecylenic Acid, which has been clinically proven to help fight against fungal infections that can otherwise lead to unsightly and painful nail conditions. This high-performance professional product boasts a chip-resistant and long-lasting formula, ensuring that your manicure stays looking flawless for days on end. This product is not tested on animals and is a good choice for ethically conscious consumers.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- High gloss
- Prevents yellowing of nail color
- Formaldehyde-free
- Dibutyl phthalate-free
- Toluene-free
Cons
- None
"This nail polish is a multi-utility formula. It adds a glossy shine to my nails like other clear polishes while protecting my nails from fungal infections. It fills the ridges on my nails and lends them a smooth texture. The formula strengthens my nails and restores their original luster."
Quick Tip| Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat Best 100% Vegan | Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat Best Fast Drying | Nail Polish DaniPro Anti-Fungal Clear Base Best High Gloss | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Clear | Glossy | Clear,Yellow |
| Dimensions | 0.79 x 0.79 x 1.57 inches | 0.88 x 2.88 x 5.5 inches | - |
| Weight | 0.5 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces | - |
| Number of Items | - | 1 | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 31,731 | 30,897 | - |
| Price | $7.18 | $4.47 | $21.45 |
4.Best Precision Brush: Revlon Super Lustrous Nail Enamel
This fast-drying, healthy clear nail polish defies chipping, and its anti-fade technology helps your nails stay vibrant and look fresh longer. This nail polish’s precision brush applies just the right amount of polish for smooth and even coverage. Formulated without any harmful or toxic chemicals, known as the 5-free formula, it protects your nails against chipping and breaking and provides a non-yellowing finish. Now, there’s nothing stopping you from getting beautiful, elegant hands with this formaldehyde-free nail treatment.
Pros
- Bubble-free application
- No formaldehyde
- No dibutyl phthalate
- No toluene
- No formaldehyde resin
- No camphor
Cons
- Some may find it too liquidy and sheer
"This clear nail polish applies seamlessly to my nails and makes them look shiny and healthy. The formula does not develop unflattering bubbles. It never fades my colored nail polishes but extends their longevity on my nails. This polish also never chips."
5.Best Environment-Friendly: Mia Secret UV Finish Gel Ultra Shine
The Mia Secret UV Finish Gel is a game-changing product for nail enthusiasts who crave salon-quality results from the comfort of their own homes. This high-quality gel formula provides an ultra-glossy and durable finish that will last for weeks, giving you a manicure that looks like it was done by a professional. This top-quality acrylic gel provides a shiny finish that resists chipping, fading, and smudging, keeping your nails looking perfect and protected.
Pros
- Fast drying
- Long-lasting
- Protects nails
- High gloss
- Lasts for 21 days
Cons
- None
6.Best Nourishing Formula: Beetles Top Gel Polish
Sold as a combination of a base coat with an ultimate gel top coat, this nourishing clear nail polish is long-lasting and can stay up to 21 days without chipping or peeling with a perfect shine. The flexible topcoat is resistant to nicking or smudging. It contains 9 toxin-free ingredients that make it safe to use and ensure it has next to no odor. It contains no harsh ingredients or adhesives that lead to damaged nails. This clear nail polish gel enhances natural nail color and is suitable for gel nails, artificial nails, acrylic nails, and nail tips. There is no need to wipe the base coat’s residue off as it will help the color coat stay on your nails longer. Definitely worth a try! Multiple online reviews on trusted platforms suggest that this product dries quickly to offer statement-making nails.
Pros
- Formaldehyde-free
- Toluene-free
- Xylene-free
- Phthalate-free
- Lead-free
- No camphor
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May not be suit people with extremely sensitive skin
"The Beetles gel top coat and base coat have long-lasting formulae. They lend my nails a glossy finish. The polishes never turn yellow or emit strong fumes. They also never whiten my nails. I can apply them easily to my nails and enhance their appearance."
7.Best 3-in-1 Nail Polish: O.P.I 3-in-1 Treatment Clear Nail Polish
This strengthening clear nail polish has a convenient 3-in-1 formaldehyde-free formula for sensitive nails. It works as a base coat, topcoat, and nail strengthener. You need more than just color to get exceptional results from your manicure. The base coat acts as a primer for the nail surface, thereby increasing nail polish adhesion, preventing staining and yellowing natural nails. The topcoat gives nails a beautiful shine while extending the life of shiny manicures and pedicures. It comes in its signature thick and strong bottle that lasts a long time. To keep your hands looking youthful and manicure-ready at all times, definitely try this product!
Pros
- 3-in-1 nail polish
- Formaldehyde-free
- Prevents yellowing of nails
- Makes nails stronger and healthier
Cons
- Some may find that the formulas forms bubbles
"This 3-in-1 polish treatment preps my nails for polish application. It also seals my colored nail polish and strengthens my nails. The formula adds a long-lasting shine to my nails. I like that it dries quickly on my nails and never chips."
8.Best Vegan: ella mila “In a Rush Quick Dry Nail Polish
If you’re looking for an easy and effective way to keep your nails in perfect condition without tampering with your nail paint, look no further than the Ella Mila Quick Dry Nail Polish. This clear nail polish is designed to provide a long-lasting, natural shine that will last all day. It also helps prevent chipping and splitting of the nail polish effortlessly. Just apply one coat of this nail care product and watch it dry in less than 3 minutes to give your nails the ultimate shine and protection. With its toxin-free ingredients and fast drying time, this nail polish provides convenience as well as lasting results. You can use this quick-drying formula as a top coat as well! People experience quick drying and long-lasting shine from using this nail polish.
Pros
- Formaldehyde-free
- Toluene-free
- Xylene-free
- Phthalate-free
- Fast drying
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
9.Best Glossy Finish: Aimeili Gel Polish
If you are on the lookout for polishes that dry to a crystal-clear shine, try the Aimeili Gel Polish. This light pink clear nail polish has the unique advantage of having a gel finish formula that can be removed in minutes. It lasts up to 21 days and gives a high gloss, mirror shine without chipping, peeling, or smudging. This sheer, translucent pink nail polish requires drying under a UV or LED lamp and is perfect for natural-looking nails. In case you are looking for an opaque look, you would need to apply more than 2 coats.
Pros
- Quick drying
- High gloss
- Translucent pink color
- Lasts for 21 days
Cons
- Some may find it too sheer
10.Best Long-Lasting: Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Two-In-One Glaze
A blend of biotin, tea tree oil, cactus, ginseng, and kale extract, allows this clear fingernail polish to work as a base and topcoat. This organic nail polish has a natural gloss, promotes nail growth and strength, and offers UV protection to your nails. This brilliant shine, long-wear nail polish prevents chipping and peeling and hydrates your nails, keeping them beautiful for as long as you want. The best part is that it contains no harmful or toxic ingredients and has not undergone any animal testing.
Pros
- 100% vegan
- Non-toxic
- Natural gloss
- Long lasting
- Works as a base and top coat
Cons
- Some feel that it tends to dry the nails out
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 266 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
11.Best Pregnancy Safe: Karma Hues Clear Nail Polish
This natural clear nail polish is breathable and adds a polished look to your nails. It has a little trick that puts it way over traditional nail polishes. This cruelty-free, vegan and permeable nail polish is designed to allow water and oxygen molecules to permeate through the polish and down to the nail. It’s safe and can be used by everyone, including pregnant women and children. It’s halal-certified and popular among Muslim women and men wanting beautiful nails while performing wudu. This nail polish makes a good gift item for many occasions. Say hello to beautiful hands with this must-have nail polish!
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Void of chemicals
- Halal breathable polish
Cons
- May have an unpleasant smell
"This clear polish is a breathable formula. It lasts long on my nails and provides them with a glossy appeal. It provides UV protection to my nails and prevents them from turning yellow. My nails look healthy and strong after coating them with this polish. It is non-toxic as well."
12.Best Matte Finish: Cirque Colors
This vegan clear nail polish is cruelty-free and handmade in small batches. Its matte look feature is a special effect that transforms your finish from glossy to matte. It strengthens your nails and seals and protects manicures to prevent scratches. It dries quickly without the help of a UV lamp and makes your nail polish last longer. Using this product will smoothen ridges and imperfections to improve your nails’ appearance, as this quick-absorbing nail treatment is made with a natural formula to hydrate and condition nails. Get your hands ready for that special occasion.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Matte finish
- Strengthens nails
- Quick drying
- Fast absorbing
Cons
- Contains ethyl acetate
"The Cirque Colors polish lends my nails a matte finish. It smoothes out my nails’ surfaces and prevents scratches from developing on them. The formula lasts for a long time on my nails and strengthens them. I like that I do not have to wait much to get the polish dry."
13.Best Anti-Chip: Wet N Wild Fast Dry Nail Color
In just a single coat, this good clear nail polish provides a rich sheen that dries in as little as 45 seconds and lasts up to 5 days without peeling or fading. There is also no chipping, so you can get into party mode without worrying about a smeared, ruined manicure. Just apply a thin and even coat to the nail bed and apply more coats for more coverage, and wait for the color to dry between coats. Wet n wild products are never tested on animals and are always cruelty-free, which is an added incentive to go in for this product.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Brilliant shine
- Fast drying
- Long lasting
Cons
- Some may find it too sheer
"This clear polish dries in just 40 seconds and lasts for days. The applicator glides smoothly on my nails and coats them seamlessly. It does not chip easily or get smeared. The formula adds a healthy shine to my nails."
Whether you are looking for a clear nail polish to apply over your gorgeous manicures for a glossy look or as a regular nail paint for a classy sheen, there are several factors you have to consider in order to choose the best. It is ideal to ensure your polish aces several factors for the best mani & pedi experience.
How To Choose The Best Clear Nail Polish
- Ingredients
The ingredients used in most nail polishes or nail paints can be toxic, which can affect the environment and your personal health. This is why it is vital that you stay away from a few toxic ingredients like xylene, camphor, formaldehyde resin, DBP, and Toluene and learn about safe ingredients. Some side effects of these major ingredients are:
- Formaldehyde: Many brands use formaldehyde in their nail polish formula to enhance its durability. But this ingredient can also cause nausea, asthma, and other breathing difficulties. So, it is better to refrain from using any polish that contains formaldehyde.
- Toluene: This potent ingredient lets out harmful fumes, which causes nausea, breathing disabilities and even nerve damage in the worst cases.
- DBP: DPB helps reduce bubbling and chipping in your polish, but can induce headaches, dizziness, dry throat, and irritated eyes.
Choose a non-toxic nail polish that mentions 3-free, 5-free, 7-free, and up to 16-free on the package, if you are looking for polishes that are suitable for daily wear. These counts indicate the number of chemicals or harmful ingredients that are absent in the formulation.
- Base
Choose a lightweight, water-based nail polish that does not give off harmful fumes and is safe for your skin. Opt for dermatologist-tested formulas for sensitive skin types. Solvent-based nail polishes, on the other hand, can give off toxic fumes, which can be dangerous when inhaled.
- Shelf Life
Nail polishes in general have a shelf life of up to 3 years, But, an early production date generally means the texture of the polish is no longer in the right consistency, as it can be hard and messy to apply. Always make sure you choose a nail polish with a late production date.
- Applicator
The applicator of your nail polish also plays an important role in flawless mani/pedi outcome. Choose applicators with soft brushes which are slim and flexible, as they easily spread the product in a precise way. Stay away from wide brushes as they can cause bleeding or pick up too much product. Also, choose a non-slip handle to have a firm grip while applying the polish.
- Odor
Most nail polishes in the market have a very strong or unpleasant odor, which can sometimes cause breathing discomfort. A strong odor is usually an indication of high nail polish toxicity, so it is better to choose a nail polish that has a neutral odor.
- Longevity
Most non-toxic nail polishes are free from harmful chemicals but do not last as long as chemical polishes do. Look for products that last up to 7 days or more without chipping or peeling off. Also, opt for polishes that provide a smudge-proof finish.
Now that you have been through the review of the 13 best clear nail polishes, you need to keep a few things in mind when you choose the right clear nail polish for yourself. Here are a few tips to keep in mind so that you can make an informed choice.
Infographic: How To Paint Your Nails With A Clear Nail Polish Like A Professional
Clear nail polishes can be applied with or without another nail paint. If you pair a clear nail polish with another color, you may use the clear paint as a base and a top coat to protect your nails. You can also use the clear polish alone for professional-looking nails for formal meetings and subtle summer looks.
Purchasing a clear polish definitely has many benefits, but applying it properly will ensure that your nails appear gorgeous without chipping or splitting. The infographic below explains the steps to be taken to paint your nails with a clear polish. Take a look! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Though you may love experimenting with various nail colors, a coat of clear nail polish never goes out of fashion. It makes your nails look glossy, gorgeous and well-maintained. You can apply it alone or even as a topcoat for your favorite nail color. It also prevents the splitting of nails. Simone de Vlaming, a beauty expert, with 5 years of experience, states, “Clear nail polishes protect your nails from damage and extend the life of your manicure. They offer a simple and affordable way to keep your nails looking their best.” The Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat offers a fast drying and high-gloss shine. If you are looking for UV protection, try the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat. The Revlon Super Lustrous Nail Enamel offers a wide range of vibrant colors with a chip-resistant formula. These nail polishes are devoid of harsh chemicals and make your nails stronger and healthier. Consider the ingredients, durability, and odor while choosing the best clear nail polishes. These nail polishes might come in handy when you want a sophisticated look for your nails. They will also keep your nail polish from getting discolored. Pick a nail color with a neutral or pleasant scent.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Our author, Srijita De, is a makeup enthusiast. She has curated this list of the best clear nail polishes after after conducting thorough research and checking user reviews on trusted online forums. She picked only the top-rated products for the list that are easy to apply and have a glossy finish. These nail polishes are fast-drying, long-lasting, and prevent yellowing of nails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is clear nail polish good for nails?
Clear nail polish is good from the point of view that it can extend the life of a manicure, treat peeling and splitting nails, prevent your nail polish from yellowing, and make your unpolished nails look well polished and glossy.
Is a top coat the same as clear nail polish?
There`s a distinct difference between a clear nail polish and a top coat. Clear nail polish is just like any other nail polish, which is prone to chipping and peeling off. On the other hand, a top coat acts like a sealant or protector for the nail polish against chipping and peeling.
Does clear nail polish help your nails grow?
There is actually no nail polish that can make your nails grow. Products that make such claims generally are just hardening or conditioning the nail to minimize nail breakage. This makes it seem like they grow faster.
How long does clear nail polish last?
Most nail polishes can last from 18 to 24 months provided they are kept in a cool dark place. If the nail polish has not gone bad you can use it for even longer than 24 months.
Is a top coat the same as clear nail polish?
No. Clear nail polish can be worn alone or on top of your colored polishes to add shine to your nails. Whereas a top coat seals your nail polish and prevents your nails from chipping and peeling.
What are the benefits of clear nail polish?
• Extends the life of the manicure of your nails.
• Lengthens the life and clarity of your nails, as well as increasing its shine.
• Prevents your polishes and nails from yellowing.
Does clear nail polish strengthen nails?
No, a clear nail polish primarily adds shine to your nails. It does not strengthen or add body to your nails.
Is clear nail polish toxic?
No. Not all clear nail polishes contain the five chemical toxins. However, various brands make clear polishes with one or many toxins, which are hazardous to your health. Therefore, read the label for ingredients before purchasing your clear nail polish.
Is it healthy to put clear nail polish on your nails?
No. Clear nail polish is similar to any other polishes. They do nothing to improve the strength of your nails. On the contrary, these polishes can damage nail integrity if worn for long hours.
What is the difference between clear nail polish and nail polish base?
Clear nail polish is similar to any other colored polishes that do nothing to improve the strength of your nails. Instead, it simply adds a polished shine to your nails and can be worn alone or over your colored polishes.
Read full bio of Simone de Vlaming
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Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
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