Top 15 Red Nail Polishes Of 2024
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Holly Watts is a celebrity nail artist with over two decades of experience. She found her true passion and purpose while traveling with the legendary singer Luther Vandross as his nail technician. After moving to Los Angeles, Holly enrolled in nail tech courses and was later introduced to Young Nails, a leading company in professional nail care manufacturing and education.
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Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
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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: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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Red was once considered daring, defiant even, and most women dared not incorporate it into their vanity. However, the times they are a-changin’, and from red nail polishes to red lipsticks, the iconic red shade is now a common sight in the makeup industry. Vibrant nail art ideas involving red nail polish can create a dramatic fashion statement when you use the right shade suited to your skin tone. The darker shades of red look gorgeous on dusky skin tones, while the orangish-red hues are perfect for fair to medium tones. Red nail polish is very chic and classy and can be paired with any outfit for a statement-making look! Check out our top picks of red polish with salon-quality formulas from the list below and pick the ones you’d love to test out.
In This Article
15 Best Red Nail Polishes
1. Best Smooth Formula:OPI Nail Lacquer – Big Apple Red
A bright, shiny, luscious, and statement-making red nail polish is all you need in your vanity. This vibrant red nail color in the shade Big Apple Red by O.P.I will give you the confidence to flaunt your hands and make a bold style statement. This signature O.P.I formula has more of a berry red color with excellent color payoff.
This nail polish stays on for up to 7 days without wearing off. Apply two coats of this formula and match it with any of your favorite outfits. The formula is vegan and has never been tested on animals, making it a great choice for those looking for ethically conscious polish options.
Pros
- Thick formula
- Offers good coverage
- Does not wear off
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 665 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For Healthy Nails:Sally Hansen Color Therapy Nail Polish – Red-iance
There is nothing like a true blood-red nail polish that inspires you with a little extra confidence. If you are looking for an iconic, bold red color for your nails, the shade Red-iance by the celebrity-endorsed Sally Hansen is here with its innovative formula. This staple red nail polish adds radiance to your look, and its formula is infused with argan oil that provides an instant moisturizing effect to your nails and makes them healthy. It works well for warm undertones or olive skin tones. Check out some of the product’s reviews on Amazon to learn more.
Pros
- Moisturizes the nails
- Provides nourishment
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might get streaky
Pro Tip3. Best Chip-Resistant Formula:Revlon Nail Enamel – 680 Revlon Red
This crisp red, statement-making nail polish by Revlon Nail Enamel has a Chip-Defiant Formula that provides gorgeously smooth color and has a sparkling shine when dry. This formula, along with the anti-fade technology, helps the nail polish stay on for a long time. It is formulated without formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. The vibrant color leans more toward coral and is perfect for people who do not prefer tangy red tones. Multiple reviewers on Amazon love this product for its color, formula, and its ability to last a long time so that your nails look pretty without constant touch-ups.
Pros
- Chip-resistant
- Anti-fade technology
- Long-lasting
- Formulated without added preservatives
- Flawless application
- Free from dbp
Cons
- None
4. Best Fast-Drying Formula:Wet n Wild Fast Dry AF Nail Color- Red Light District
The Fast Dry AF nail color from Wet n Wild is the stuff of dreams with its fast-drying technology for those whose nails take a long time to dry. This technology boasts to dry up nail color within 40 seconds and has high coverage. It also has a strong staying power, with the color lasting for about 5 days, which means no more ruined manicures or smeared nail paint. Instead, this gorgeous shade leaves your nails with an impeccable shine and desired salon-like finish in just a single coat. If you are still unsure, check out some online reviews to learn more about the shade and formula.
Pros
- Chip resistant
- Quick drying formula
- Affordable
- Long lasting
Cons
- Sheer coverage
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 820 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
5. Best For All Skin Tones:Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish – It’s Raining Men
This Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish in the shade It’s Raining Men is a beautiful neutral shade of red that can be ideal for a french manicure. Its dual-patented formula with 10 active ingredients adds glamor to your nails and keeps them healthy. This is more of a watermelon red color that is not too heavy and has a pretty, summery touch to it.
The formula is opaque and creamy, and it applies effortlessly without chipping off. It is also vegan and not tested on animals. The brush is soft and full, which makes application even easier and provides flawless coverage for exceptional results. This rich, velvety shade works on all skin tones, especially deep skin tones.
Pros
- Nourishes your nails
- Opaque coverage
- Soft, wide brush for easy application
- Suitable for all skin tones
Cons
- Not very long-lasting
6. Best Vegan Formula:Smith & Cult Nail Polish – Kundalini Hustle
Smith & Cult’s Kundalini Hustle Nail Polish is a beautiful and glamorous red color that looks flattering with any skin tone. You can achieve a true red color with just one swipe for statement-making nails. Use it with the brand’s top coat for a chip-free, glossy finish. Its formula is vegan and free from any kind of added preservatives. Paint your nails and the town red with this color that lasts long.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Opaque and thick formula
- Vegan
- Free from preservatives
- Chip-resistant
Cons
- Might feel a little cakey
7. Best Long-Lasting Results:ZOYA Nail Polish – Carmen
There’s no way you can go wrong with this strawberry red nail color by ZOYA. It is a bright, clean, and true medium shade of red that has a glossy and creamy finish. Its perfectly shiny, luxurious formula gives you the perfect balance of color saturation and hydration. This nail polish is significantly long-lasting and has a 10-free formula. Multiple reviewers report that this nail polish applies easily on their nails.
Pros
- 10-free formula
- Creamy consistency
- Long-lasting
- Vegan
- Glossy finish
Cons
- None
8. Best With UV Filter:JINsoon Quintessential Collection Nail Lacquer – Coquette
This classic red nail polish shade by JINsoom is inspired by the 1929 film Coquette. This trendy brick red color has a warm, feminine touch. Its formula is infused with a UV filter, and it does not fade or wear away. The 5-free formula also does not contain any harsh chemicals. It creates a long-lasting manicure. This double-patented formula also offers a smooth finish. It is vegan-friendly and has not been tested on animals. Dress your nails in this color that matches every outfit. Check out some reviews to learn more about the shade and formula.
Pros
- 5-free formula
- Infused with a UV filter
- No harsh chemicals
- Long-lasting
- Vegan
Cons
- Not suitable for all skin tones
Pro Tip9. Best Opaque Coverage:China Glaze Nail Polish – 105 Salsa
This beautiful Christmas red shade of nail polish offers opaque coverage with a single swipe. The polish lasts for quite some time without staining or chipping to deliver exceptional results. The formula dries quickly to give you gorgeous nails on the go.
This nail polish promotes healthy nail growth and is free from added chemicals. Its soft, non-thickening consistency gives you the exact robust bold red color that you desire. Reviews on Amazon suggest that you only need 2 coats of this shade to make your nails look glamorous.
Pros
- Opaque coverage
- Long-lasting
- Free from added chemicals
- Non-thickening formula
Cons
- None
10. Best Highly Pigmented:Christian Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer – 999 Rouge
Flaunt this intense and vibrant red by Christian Dior, a celebrity-endorsed brand, with sheer elegance. This gel-like nail polish has an advanced formula that is highly pigmented and provides the perfect metallic finish with just a single swipe. The shade Rouge looks striking on all skin tones and gives your nails a glass-like shine. Multiple reviewers on Amazon love its texture and bold color, recommending it to anyone looking for an eye-catching shade of red.
Pros
- Gel-effect finish
- Highly pigmented
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
11. Best For Smooth Application:Christian Louboutin Nail Polish – Rouge Louboutin
Rouge Louboutin is a timeless and radiant shade of red with a high-gloss finish. This nail color goes well with every skin tone. You can also pair this signature red shade with your Red Bottoms. Its formula is highly pigmented, chip-resistant, and free from toluene, DBP, and formaldehyde. Get that brilliant, shiny finish that you have always wanted with this classic nail polish that is also a blendable color. Its applicator gives you a perfectly smooth finish. To understand the nuances of the product in detail, you can check out this review detailing the tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Highly pigmented
- Chip-resistant
- Free from harmful chemicals
- Smooth application
- Does not streak or bubble
Cons
- Long brush handle
12. Best Full Coverage:Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer – 50028 Fire Cracker
This classy red shade by Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer gives your nails a bright and exotic look. You can sport this color with any outfit. The creamy and safe formula turns opaque with two coats and helps you achieve full coverage that does not wear off easily. The best thing about this brand is that there is no animal testing involved and is PETA-certified.
Pros
- Does not wear off
- Full coverage
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
13. Best Ultra-Long Wear:Oribe The Lacquer High Shine Nail Polish – The Red
Oribe The Lacquer High Shine Nail Polish is an ultra-long wear nail polish. This red nail polish gives you the ultimate coverage. Its color does not fade away. It stays on for quite a while and satisfactorily goes with all skin tones.
Just apply two thin coats of this polish to get that brilliantly glamorous nail look. Its formula is thick, and you will instantly fall in love with it once you have it on your nails. Its Shade-Lock Technology delivers full coverage and high-impact color and locks it in for ultra-long wear. This polish has an 8-free formula, which makes it safe to use. Multiple reviewers on Amazon have reported that this polish dries quickly, lasts long, and has a great shine.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Highly pigmented
- Suitable for all skin tones
- 8-free formula
- Chip-resistant
Cons
- None
14. Best Fragrance-Free Formula:SOPHi Nail Polish Red Bottom Stilettos- Matte Red
For anyone sensitive to fumes and chemicals in their nail paints, the odorless and non-toxic SOPHi Nail Polish is a great pick. This nail polish is fortified with an advanced PRIME+SHINE+SEAL System that ensures maximum longevity. In addition, it features a water-based formula that allows you to have an easy and lasting manicure without worrying about harsh chemicals. Its formula is vegan and has not been tested on animals. Check out some reviews online to learn more about this nail color.
Pros
- Full coverage
- Chip resistant
- Non-toxic
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
15. Best For Medium Skin Tone:Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color – 510 Gitane
This fiery red nail polish by this luxury and celebrity-endorsed brand, Chanel Le Vernis has a rich and creamy formula that sits comfortably on your nails. Its newly upgraded 5-free formula features bioceramics and ceramides that are responsible for strengthening your nails. The shade Gitane is more of a tomato red color that works best for people with medium skin tones. The new and improvised brush helps you with an even application. Click here for a personal review based on the tester’s experience with this product.
Pros
- Creamy formula
- 5-free formula
- Strengthens your nails
- Even application
Cons
- None
Infographic: What To Look For When Buying Red Nail Polish
You can never really go wrong with red nail polish, as it will never go out of style. Red nails are sure to add all the spice to your outfit, but to do so, you must pick the right shade and formula that will work the best for you. Check out the infographic below to know what factors to consider when buying red nail polish.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Red nail polishes are bold, just like red lipsticks. Incorporate them into your makeup collection to make a style statement. The right nail polish shades complement your skin tone – darker tones flatter fair skin and lighter shades work wonders for darker skin tones. The OPI Nail Lacquer – Big Apple Red boasts a thick formula that lasts up to 7 days, while the Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer – 50028 Fire Cracker offers full coverage and long-lasting wear. For nail strengthening benefits, opt for Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color – 510 Gitane. The best red nail polishes mentioned in our list are non-toxic and provide great coverage. In addition, some of these formulas are vegan, chip-resistant, and provide long-lasting results. However, some nail polishes do not suit every skin undertone. You may also want to avoid nail polishes that streak.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best quality red nail polish?
If you are looking for the best quality red nail polish that is long-lasting, chip-resistant, and gives you opaque coverage, go for OPI Nail Lacquer in the shade Big Apple Red.
Is red nail polish in style?
Red nail polish is very much in fashion. It looks classy, modern, and elegant. Be it for regular wear, the festive season, or a grand party – you can never go wrong with red nails.
Does red nail polish look good on everyone?
Yes, the right shade of red can suit every skin tone.
What do your nails say about your personality?
Check out the following nail shapes and their corresponding personality traits:
- Long vertical nails show an artistic and sweet-tempered personality.
- Triangular nails show an over-sensitive personality trait.
- Oval nails show jovial, friendly nature that is adaptable to change.
- Wide nails show open-mindedness and are emotionally expressive.
- Almond-shaped nails show a caring, imaginative, trustworthy, and loyal nature.
- Square nails show leadership skills, courage, and a focused mind.
What are the 5 common nail problems?
The common nail problems are brittle nails, onycholysis or when your nail separates from its nail bed, paronychia or nail inflammation, nail ridges, and leukonychia or white lines and spots.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Baishali Bhattacharya, the author of this article, is certified in makeup artistry. She is also a nail art enthusiast and an expert in choosing the best nail polish and accessories. This well-researched list of red nail polishes covers everything you need to create a dramatic fashion statement. The chic and classy red nail polishes mentioned here offer good coverage and are durable.
Read full bio of Holly Watts
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
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