11 Best Color Changing Nail Polishes For Your Changing Moods
Vibrant, fun, and long-lasting color-changing nail polishes suitable for every mood.
Barbara Ritzman is a beauty and skin care specialist and the founder of Barbie's Beauty Bits. With over 16 years of hands-on experience as a beauty editor, she has collaborated with a multitude of makeup, skin care, and cosmetic brands. Barbara’s expertise has been showcased on major media platforms like ABC, NBC, Vogue, Entrepreneur, Roku, and Allure.
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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.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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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.
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Wearing the same nail polish color for a long time can be boring. Instead, you should incorporate one of the best color-changing nail polishes to spice up your monotonous at-home manicures effortlessly. Color-changing nail polishes are those that offer you different colors due to temperature change or when your nails are exposed to sunlight. These nail polishes are infused with colorful pigments with an array of transitions. Who knows, they may also change your mood due to their shifting hues!
Also, color-changing nail paints are sensitive to heat, and you will find a color change when exposed to different temperatures. They come in various formulas, finishes, and shades to suit everyone. In this article, let us explore the best color-changing nail polishes that will help you achieve salon-quality manicure and will be chip-resistant, long-lasting, and shine-boosting. Stay on top of the latest nail polish trends with this wide range of nail products that includes an enviable array of nail polish shades for a stunning pedicure. Check out the list now and take your pick from the best nail polish brands. Scroll down!
In This Article
11 Best Color Changing Nail Polishes – Our Top Picks
1. Best Color Variants: Modelones Mood Color Changing Gel Nail Polish
Be it any occasion — halloween, Christmas, or birthday, this can be a great gift for your loved ones as this set of color changing nails polishes comes in a beautiful gift pack. They can try it on with a base and top coat, and by curing it under a lamp. These nail colors change their hue either from body temperature or from a change in environmental temperature. The Modelones mood gel nail comes in glitter finish and exciting colors that are worth falling in love with. It gives a matte finish that can last for as long as 2 weeks. Experiment with different nail polish finishes to find the perfect nail polish for different occasions, whether it’s a subtle nail polish for work or a stunning nail polish for parties. The set comes with 6 nail colors at an affordable price and leaves no chips or smudges on your nails. But apply a thin layer of gel as it may cause slight burning sensation while it cures under the UV nail lamp. You can also check this YouTube video showcasing the reviewer’s experience for a complete idea about the product.
Pros
- Shiny gel
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- No scuffing
- Covers nail evenly
- Comes with 6 color variants
Cons
- Not tested for allergies
Remember2. Best Mirror Finish: Kanorine Chameleon Color Coat Soak-Off UV & LED Gel Polish – Shade W22
Your colleagues’ jaws will drop open when they see your beautiful nails. Thanks to this dark-shade, mood-changing nail polish that changes color as and when your body or external temperatures change. The ideal nail polish for adults, this non-toxic gel looks like polish and can be applied in a matter of a few minutes. Though it looks great on long nails, it also looks just as amazing on short nails as the royal blue/turquoise shade is a subtle hue that suits every nail type, shape, and occasion. Suitable for false nails as well, the gel can be a perfect three-week-long wear. It has a faint scent and pretty colors that stay on giving a celebrity-inspired mirror-finish. It sure is to blow your mind!
Pros
- Mirror finish
- No smudges, nicks, or chips
- Long-lasting
- Non-toxic
- Good tenacity
- Suitable for false nails too
Cons
- Some may find the consistency too thick.
Quick tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 7,299 reviews claiming its efficacy.
3. Best Long-Lasting: Aimeili Gel Polish UV & LED Soak Off – Hot Pink To White
Experience the magic of colors with this color changing nail polish. The salon-quality formula of this gel offers you vibrant colors that change as per the temperature. The high-gloss wear can last for 21 days without causing chipped or smudged nails. The color changes to white when your nails are hot and hot pink when they are cold. It can sometimes have an ombre effect with the tips being pink and nails white depending on the temperature. All you need to do is ensure that your nails are clean, dry, and oil-free before you apply the color shift nail polish.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting
- Thicker consistency
- Vibrant colors
- Mirror shine finish
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- You may have to warm it for better consistency.
Quick Tip| Modelones Mood Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Best Color Variants | Kanorine Chameleon Color Coat Soak-Off UV & LED Gel Polish - Shade W22 Best Mirror Finish | Aimeili Gel Polish UV & LED Soak Off - Hot Pink To White Best Long-Lasting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | A1 Mood Change | W22 | Hot Pink to White |
| Dimensions | 3.94 x 1.57 x 0.79 inches | - | 1.18 x 0.79 x 2.76 inches |
| Weight | 1.44 Ounces | - | 1.27 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 18,289 | 7,299 | 3,141 |
| Price | $9.99 | $4.99 | $6.99 |
4. Best Chip-Resistant: Makartt Marble Nail Polish Kit
With the Makartt Marble Nail Polish Kit, you can create a nail art design that looks like a magic bloom. The nail polish comes in a variety of shades, including orange, blue, yellow, black, and pink. You can make a wonderful nail art design with marble ink by doing some casual painting and adding some easy accessories, such as manicure foil and nail glitter. The watercolor nail polish will create a look that is similar to a natural gradient as it blends out. This formula is mostly composed of natural resin and contains other non-toxic healthy ingredients. It has a minimal odor. It features a fast-drying technology so that you don’t have to worry about curing it or smudging it. According to reviews, the polishes are vibrant and easy to use.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Non-toxic
- Does not peel off easily
- Non-smudging
- Non-chipping
- Low odor
- Last for more than 2 weeks
- Comes with 6 color shades
- Environmental-friendly
Cons
- Not tested for allergies
Quick Tip5. Best Easy-To-Use: Perfect Match Mood Color Changing Gel Polish – Twilight Skies
Now forget about using a nail polish remover and applying different nail colors again and again. This easy-to-use mood color changing nail polish will help save a lot of your time as you just need to apply one gel for different colors. You need not worry about reapplying it for weeks as it lasts quite long. Its high-quality, heat-sensitive formula is not runny and does not shrink. It goes on to give you flawless colors to try on with dramatic changes according to the body temperature. It naturally creates an ombre effect as the temperature of your finger changes. The product comes in 42 shades, giving you a wide collection to choose from. You will never run out of beautiful shades or get bored when you invest in these amazing color changing gels. If you want to know more about the results, take a look at this review on YouTube. and learn about the tester’s experience of using the product.
Pros
- Wide color selection
- Not runny
- Long-lasting
- Easy application
- Creates ombre effect naturally
Cons
- Some may find it slightly expensive.
Pro Tip6. Best Non-Toxic: beetles Gel Polish Color Gel Soak Off UV & LED Cured
This nail polish that changes color comes in a pack of 6 trendy shades. So,there will always be a color for each of your moods. The non-toxic color changing nail polish is made with safe ingredients, these pretty colors can give you a great three-week-long wear. The temperature changing nail polish gives different shades according to the temperature of your nails and has a faint scent. Just cure it under the LED light for 90 to 120 seconds and apply a base and top coat for a flawless finish so that you can flaunt the beautiful colors of your nails in front of the world. You can check this YouTube video review for more information about the product.
Pros
- Non-toxic and safe
- Low odor
- 6 shades in a set
- Lasts for longer than 3 weeks
Cons
- It is not suitable for use by pregnant women.
7. Best Fragrance-Free: Cirque Colors Thermal Nail Polish – Luna
As you walk into a room, let your ‘nail’ language do the talking. These modern shades can make a bold statement as the colors definitely open a window into the endless possibilities of the color spectrum. This handmade thermal nail polish is made by blending color pigments with raw materials that are cruelty-free and vegan. It changes its color to violet in the cold temperature and turquoise in the hot temperature. Richly pigmented, the gel also delivers holographic finishes and a teal green shimmer with a smooth finish. The non-toxic formula gives long-lasting results, and when applied with top and base coats, the dazzling manicure would look like it was done professionally in a salon. According to reviewers, the temperature-sensitive polish is long-lasting and changes color the minute the temperature changes.
Pros
- Handmade
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Non-toxic
- Paraben and fragrance-free
- Has holographic sparkle
- Smooth finish
Cons
- Contains alcohol
8. Best Eco-Friendly: Senvenski Gel Color Changing Polish UV & LED Soak Off
The colors of this thermal nail polish are vivid and are suitable for the hot as well as the cold seasons. Hence, you can use it throughout the year. The eco-friendly and non-toxic color changing nail polish is made with harmless resin and is easy to apply. It can be used at your home or a professional salon for any occasion, be it a casual day at work or a special event like weddings or birthday parties. It comes in a pack of 6 trendy shades, including dark blue, and offers you a wide range of 72 bright and shiny shifts in color colors from one to another based on varying temperatures.
Pros
- Glossy, matte-finish
- Easy application
- Non-toxic formula
- Lasts for 3 weeks
- Bright and shiny colors
- Wide range of colors
- Healthy and eco-friendly
Cons
- The white nail color may peel away after a while.
9. Best Smudge Free: Born Pretty Jelly Pink Color Changing Gel Nail Polish
The Born Pretty Jelly Pink Color Changing Gel Nail Polish has a jelly translucent crystal look as well as a color change effect that causes the polish to become a lighter color when exposed to warm temperatures and a darker color when exposed to cold temperatures. It has a wear time of more than 21 days and a beautiful shine. Because of its high durability and deep pigmentation, it keeps its shine for a longer period of time and delivers a magnificent finish. You can cure it under any UV light. The formula is easy to apply and remove as well.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Fragrance-free
- Long-lasting
- Does not peel off easily
- No smudges or chips
- Low odor
- Lasts for a minimum of 21 days
- High gloss shine
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Not suitable for use by pregnant women
10. Best Cruelty-Free: Del Sol Color Changing Nail Polish – Inside Out
With this color changing nail polish that gives you a striking manicure, you can finally start your first self-manicure session right at the comfort of your home. This nail polish changes color when exposed to the ultraviolet light. This glitter color changing nail polish can change color from metallic pink to dark lavender even in cloudy weather as 80% of the sun rays still pass through the clouds to make its way to your nails. Its formula is cruelty free and non-toxic. Made in the USA, its chemically-engineered spectrachrome crystals have an energy shift when exposed to sun’s rays to reveal hidden colors, making it a fun experience for you. After all, the mission of the product is to create fun and joyous memories for its customers since 1994.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Non-toxic
- Offers both glittery and matte finish
- Changes color even in cloudy weather
Cons
- Some may find the consistency thin.
11. Best For Beginners: BURANO Color Changing Glitter Gel Polish UV & LED
Unline regular polish, this mood-changing nail polish enhances your mood and gets you to burst into a great big grin. Try some DIY and experiment at home with the 7 trendy colors that come in a set. It is made with natural raw materials and is hence, safe and eco-friendly too. Watching it change colors so quick and bright can be super fun, especially if you’re the kind who gets bored of the same color on the nails for days. The glitter color changing nail polish shines like no other. It changes its color with temperature, without causing any damage to your nails. Easy to use, it is the best catch out there if you are just beginning to get into nail polishes and want to try something unique. This mood polish offers exceptional results with its color-changing feature and smooth finish.
Pros
- Easy to DIY at home
- Trendy colors
- Comes in glittery and shiny finish
- Lasts for over 21 days
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Some may find the consistency to be slightly watery.
The Bottom Line
With these color changing nail polishes, you no more have to be confused about picking a color to get ready for a day out, an official lunch, tours, or any special occasions like birthdays or weddings. Color changing nail polishes are an innovation that every person with a liking for beautifully done nails would absolutely love. If you belong to that league, you can now create a signature fashion statement with these innovative polishes and your color preferences. For a long-lasting and shiny color-changing nail polish, go for the Modelones Mood Color Changing Gel Nail Polish. The Makartt Marble Nail Polish Kit is a great cruelty-free, non-toxic, and chip-resistant option, while the Cirque Colors Thermal Nail Polish – Luna is ideal as a vegan, paraben-, and fragrance-free alternative. You can go both contemporary or classic without having to wipe the color off your nails and applying a different color every other day.
How To Choose The Best Color Changing Nail Polish
- Types
There are thermal nail polishes which change colors according to the change in body or outside temperature. You get transparent colors at warm temperatures and opaque during the cold weather. You can try solar reactive ones too, which change colors only when exposed to ultraviolet light. When you are away from the sun, the color turns back to normal or becomes colorless. You may choose to also go for a rainbow like effect on your nails with the holographic finishes. These work based on the principle of refraction.
- Occasion
You can choose a combination of colors according to the occasion. For a daily wear, you can go for some neutral shades like gold with a bit of shimmer. For a formal occasion like work or a meeting, you can wear light peachy shades or whites and beiges. And if you are getting dressed for a special party like Halloween or a birthday party, you can go all out with a bright color. They are also the ideal nail polish for teenagers.
- Skin tone
The shades of the nail polish should complement your skin tone. If you have wheatish skin tone, you can try something with a pinkish undertone. And if you have dark skin tones, pastels can be a good option.If you have pale skin tone, you can try nudes, silver, lilac, deep blues, and greys. Pinks and purples will also look great on your hands. You may opt for a bright pink or red with bluish undertones. It is recommended to avoid gold and any dark polish as they may over-emphasize the natural paleness of your skin.
- Finishes
Color changing nail polishes offer shiny, matte, and glittery finish. You can pick a combination of these and wear them as per occasion or your mood. And if you have a preference for only one among these finishes, don’t shy away from picking a set or a nail polish that specifically suits your preference.
Now that you have understood what you need to look for while choosing a color changing nail polish, here are some tips on how to apply it.
How To Apply Color Changing Nail Polish
Simple nail polish tips can enhance the longevity of your manicure. Follow these nail polish tricks to apply the polish effortlessly:
- Clear any colors left on your nails as you need to start with clean nails.
- Apply a base coat on your nails and let it dry completely.
- Now, apply your choice of color changing nail polish. You can apply 2 coats so that you get the results that you expect.
- However, let the first coat dry completely before you apply the second coat.
- Get a nail polish remover on a cotton swab and clean the color on the corners of your nails.
- You can then apply a top coat for a smooth finish. The top coat also helps prevent chipping.
If you’re curious as to how color changing nail polishes work, here’s the science behind how the colors change.
How Does Color Changing Nail Polish Work
These nail polish change color due to the presence of an element called leuco dye which comes in 2 forms— colored and colorless. It allows the color to change at desired temperature from heat and light. When it is cool, it dye becomes colored and in hot temperature, it turns colorless. However, it is also possible for it to change colors with a chemical redox reaction.
With these color changing nail polishes, you no more have to be confused about picking a color to get ready for a day out, an official lunch, tours, or any special occasions like birthdays or weddings. Color changing nail polishes are an innovation that every person with a liking for beautifully done nails would absolutely love. If you belong to that league, you can now create a signature fashion statement with these innovative polishes and your color preferences. You can go both contemporary or classic without having to wipe the color off your nails and applying a different color every other day.
Infographic: 6 Things To Know About Color-Changing Nail Polishes
Color-changing nail polishes are in vogue at the moment. These thermal nail polishes have set a nail trend and thus deserve a spot in your vanity. In the infographic below, we have listed six facts about these polishes that you should know before buying them. Have a look!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Is color changing nail polish safe?
Yes, it is safe as most brands these days create nail paints that are free of chemicals like toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and camphor.
Does color changing nail polish work with a top coat?
Top coat does not affect the color of these nail polish. However, they help give that finishing touch to your nail colors, thus giving you the best outcomes.
How long does color-changing nail polish last?
Color-changing nail polishes can last anywhere from six months to 12 months after opening the package. Keep it in a cool and dark place to extend its life. The premium formulas have a wear time of 3 weeks.
How do you remove color-changing nail polish?
Remove color-changing nail polish just like any regular nail polish. Use a cotton pad and some nail polish remover to wipe away the color until you have clean nails..
Do you need a UV light for color-changing nail polish?
No. You don’t need a UV light necessarily for color-changing nail polish. Color-changing nail polish uses leuco dyes which can air dry or cure under UV light or LED light. They change color based on your body’s temperature and pH value.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Srijita De, is a makeup enthusiast and loves to review different makeup products. After thorough research, she has provided a detailed list of the best color-changing nail polishes in this post. She went through numerous reviews and feedback on multiple forums and brand websites to help you pick the best color-changing nail polish. The products in this post come in various formulas, finishes, and shades to suit everyone.
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