11 Best Yellow Nail Polishes To Wear This Summer
Grab the perfect yellow shade for your nails and nail your fashion game all summer long.
Dao Huyen Nhu is a highly skilled nail artist with 8 years of experience in the beauty industry. Her enthusiasm for self-expression through nail art led her to specialize in hand-painted nail art. Her work is a testament to her artistry, with each nail serving as a canvas for her imagination.
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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.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
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: 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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Yellow is one of the most energizing colors, making it an excellent choice for summer and spring as it gives your nails an instant faux glow. So, if you love the hue on your nails, you should consider getting the best yellow nail polish in the shade that you love, as you are most likely to keep wearing it all the time!
If you haven’t become a fan of yellow nail polish yet, it is most likely because you haven’t found a shade that looks fantastic on you. Don’t worry about missing out on the trend, though. We have got you covered with our selection of the 11 best yellow nail polish in various hues that will add a warm glow to your nails. Keep scrolling!
In This Article
Top 11 Best Yellow Nail Polishes For Every Occasion
1. Best Highly Pigmented:essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish
If you think that finding the right shade of yellow is a struggle, you might want to consider this nail polish by essie. This is a quick-dry nail polish with a high-shine formula that adds a pop of color to your regular outfits. The nail polish dries within a minute and doesn’t chip or flake for 2-3 weeks. Plus, it comes with an angled brush for easy and convenient application. Numerous reviewers attest that the ‘300 Taxi hopping’ shade will remain intact for weeks and won’t fade.
Pros
- Vegan formula
- No double coats needed
- Highly pigmented
- Balanced consistency
- Glittery finish
Cons
- Some may not like the strong odor.
"I'm very fond of this shade for my spring and summer wear collections. It is pigmented and lasts without chipping or fading through the week. The large brush offers full coverage without needing multiple swipes. Pro tip: Don't rush the drying process and for a smudge-free finish, seal with a top coat."
2. Best For All Nail Types:DND Soak Off Gel All In One- Lemon Juice
If you are looking for a dramatic neon yellow nail polish to achieve a celebrity-inspired look, this one is the right choice. This soak-off gel polish comes in a pack of 2. One is a regular yellow nail polish, and one bottle features a gel. The beauty product is opaque, so you don’t have to apply multiple coats to make it pop. The gel nail polish cures and dries quickly under the UV or LED lamps. The application of this neon yellow shade is effortless and works well with different nail types. Dao Huyen Nhu, a Nail Artist, suggests, “This neon shade of yellow will pop out more if you paint it over a white background.”
Pros
- Long wearing nail enamel
- Chip-resistant
- 1-step application
- Intense and vibrant shade
- No chemical fumes
Cons
- Some may not like its thick consistency.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 854 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Fast-Drying Formula:essie Fall 2019 Country Retreat Collection – Hay There
This nail polish from essie will have you summer-ready in no time as it comes in a chirpy shade of golden yellow. This country-style inspired nail polish features a metallic finish and offers opaque coverage. The nail paint comes with an easy glide brush for an even and quick application. Thus, if you are looking for a breathable and high-impact yellow nail polish, this beauty product is worth giving a try.
Pros
- Dries in a minute
- Dual-chrome look
- Chip and flake-free nail polish
- Balanced consistency
- Good shelf life
Cons
- Multiple coats may be required.
"I've tried out this Essie nail polish and find the coverage really good. The color pops beautifully, perfect for brightening those fall, spring, and summer days. It almost feels like a gel with the right application. It lasts daily wears quite well."
Pro Tip| essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish Best Highly Pigmented | DND Soak Off Gel All In One- Lemon Juice Best For All Nail Types | essie Fall 2019 Country Retreat Collection - Hay There Best Fast-Drying Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | 300 taxi hopping | 424 Lemon Juice | Red,Yellow |
| Dimensions | 11.83 x 10.06 x 4.19 inches | - | 1.97 x 1.97 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 1.9 Ounces. | - | 0.01 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,074 | 854 | 54 |
| Price | $9.0 | $9.7 | $7.88 |
4. Best Non-Thickening Formula:China Glaze Nail Polish- Lemon Fizz
China Glaze offers a pale yellow nail polish with a strong orange base perfect for spring and summer. This long-wearing nail enamel once applied, lasts for weeks without fading. It features a non-thickening formula and looks opaque on the nails. This lemon yellow nail polish comes in a simple and air-tight bottle to ensure that it doesn’t easily dry up in the bottle. Moreover, this beauty product is free of toxins and harmful compounds.
Pros
- Dries off quickly
- High-quality brush
- Has a mild scent
- Non-toxic nail lacquer
- Fit for acrylic, natural, fake, and gel nails
Cons
- Runny-consistency
5. Best Long-Wear Nail Polish:ZOYA Professional Lacquer- Darcy
This nail polish by Zoya offers a smooth application and glossy finish that is the stuff of dreams! “This color is ideal for a sunny beach vacation.”, adds Dao Huyen Nhu. Its shine lasts for weeks and it is note-worthy that it is made using skin-friendly ingredients. It is formulated without harsh compounds, is vegan-friendly, and makes it the perfect shade for pregnant and health-conscious women. Plus, it is fade-proof and won’t crack.
Pros
- Free from lead, camphor, and parabens
- Long-wear nail polish
- No side-effects
- No UV or LED lamps required for drying
- Has minimal odor
- High-quality, glossy formula
Cons
- May chip if not used with a base coat
"I really like how well this vibrant yellow nail polish delivers in terms of color vibrancy. The color really pops with just two coats for full coverage and also applies smoothly. It's also long-lasting and holds up without chipping for days. These are perfect for dynamic K-pop nails or festive candy corn designs."
6. Best Chip-Resistant Formula:Beau Gel Color Gel Polish
A light and soft pastel nail polish is ideal for any season, just like this one. This gel polish comes in a 15 ml bottle and is made using harmless and non-toxic resin to protect your nails from discoloration and damage. The polish color lasts for 2-3 weeks without chipping or fading. Ideal for manicures and pedicures, this is the ultimate pastel nail polish, that you can wear regularly.
Pros
- Light-resistant bottle for extended shelf life
- Doesn’t get thick or dry
- Color-intact formula
- Made using natural resin
- No grinding or filing
Cons
- Needs to be cured under UV and LED light only
"I've recently tried out this gel polish and found that the color payoff is quite true to the advertised shade. The formula is a bit on the thinner side, but it dries quickly for a good at-home manicure. It's a good soak-off polish and it's usable with different top coats."
7. Best Long-Lasting:Karma Hues Organic Natural Nail Polish – Dandelion Bouquet
Karma Hues Organic Natural Nail Polish in Dandelion Bouquet is made using organic ingredients and is perfect for a home manicure. This gel nail paint is designed to be gentle and easy on your nails. The best thing about this nail polish is that it is free from harsh odor and comes in 100% recyclable packaging. This bright yellow paint offers exceptional results by bringing you salon-style results within minutes. It also does not undergo animal testing, making it a favorite among ethically-conscious consumers.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Lasts for up to 2-3 weeks
- Bright and appealing color
- Safe for children and pregnant women
- Chip-resistant
- Big and functional brush
Cons
- The pigment is slightly transparent and multiple coats may be required.
Pro Tip8. Best Creamy Formula:ella+mila Nail Polish BonBon Collection – Limoncello
This nail polish by ella+mila is vegan and free from harsh compounds like formaldehyde, phthalates, and camphor. Plus, the subtle hue of this creamy yellow polish suits all skin tones. If yellow is your most favorite summer color, you know that you cannot miss this one! Plus, this bright yellow shade is not tested on animals, making it an ideal cruelty-free option.
Pros
- Breathable and lightweight formula
- Opaque and bright
- Creamy formula
- Long-lasting and chip-resistant
- Cruelty-free (certified by PETA)
- Minimal odor
- Cures within minutes without UV/LED lamp
Cons
- Some may find the nail polish streaky.
"I like its easy application and longevity. The brush design allows for smooth coverage, and the pigment quality is good too. The polish dries quickly for a fuss-free experience. The longevity varies slightly by activity levels but a top coat offers extended wear."
9. Best Waterproof:Jelly Belly+Sally Hansen Insta Dri Nail Color- Pina Colada
Jelly Belly+Sally Hansen Insta Dri Nail Color features an improved formula with built-in top and base coats. Reviews on online forums claim that the topcoat offers a glossy finish that lasts for days without flaking. This shade of yellow provides a pop of color to your nails and is completely chip-resistant, fade-resistant, and waterproof.
Pros
- Cures within minutes without UV/LED lamp
- Unique bottle to prevent spills and leakage
- Breathable and lightweight formula
- Opaque and bright
- Minimal odor
Cons
- Some may find the cap a little small to hold.
"I've been using nail polish for its quick-drying qualities. The polish needs at least two coats for a complete, vibrant yellow shade. But the application process is smooth and the layers dry quickly. It is good for seasonal use and when you feel the need for a summery shade."
10. Best Anti-Fading Formula:O.P.I Nail Lacquer
If you are obsessed with O.P.I nail polish shades, here is one that is sure to become your favorite this season! This nail paint lasts for up to 7 days without fading. Reviewers love the creamy formula of the polish that prevents clumping, and glides smoothly on your nails. This nail polish formula is sure to become one of your absolute summer favorites if you enjoy updating your manicures frequently.
Pros
- Long-wear product
- Chip-resistant
- Minimalist color
- Mild scent
- Good tenacity
- It takes less time to cure
Cons
- Multiple coats may be required.
"I like how this yellow polish offers a bright hue without being neon. It needs multiple coats for full opacity but offers a long-lasting finish, particularly on toenails. This is perfect for a sunny addition to your collection."
11. Best Vegan Formula:I L N P Boutique Nail Color- Yellow Gold
Update your manicures weekly with this vibrant I L N P Boutique Nail Color. This vegan nail polish features a richly-pigmented formula. It remains intact on your nails for up to 15 days without having to grind or file them. The opaque formula glides on the nails, smoothening any imperfect surface on the nails. This vegan nail paint and its subtle hues make it perfect for fair, dark, and medium skin tones.
Pros
- Accented with shiny gold sparkles
- Fully opaque
- Great shelf life
- Easy to apply and remove
- Fast-drying and long-lasting nail polish
Cons
- May look clumpy if not applied properly
"In my experience, this polish gives nails a lovely glitter-like finish without the usual mess. This specific yellow/gold holographic shade catches the sunlight beautifully, displaying a spectrum of mini rainbows. It also lasts through various chores with the help of a topcoat. It's a good choice for festive occasions."
Now let’s take a look at some key features to consider while purchasing yellow nail polishes.
Key Features To Consider While Buying Yellow Nail Polish
Here are several things to keep in mind before buying a yellow nail polish:
Opacity
The yellow pigment can sometimes look transparent, so before buying yellow nail paint, make sure that it is an opaque nail polish base with a thick consistency. Opaque nail polish offers a 1-step quick application, so you don’t have to apply multiple coats. This prevents the nail polish from looking clumpy and smudged.
Quality
High-quality and expertly crafted products will last longer and look fabulous. Most of the nail polish easily flakes and chips but a premium quality nail polish will last for days without chipping. Pick a yellow nail polish that offers intense pigment, and smudge-free application. Choose a nail polish that has a longer shelf life and quality.
Safe formula
Bad nail polish can weaken and damage your nails, so pick a yellow nail polish, made using natural resin and healthy ingredients. There are plenty of brands that offer toxin and chemical-free products. Thus, if you have sensitive skin or are looking for vegan nail polishes, always look at the label and check if it’s free from phthalates, formaldehyde, and such components.
Infographic: Colors That Complement Yellow Nail Polish
If you want to make a fashion statement with your yellow nail polish, consider pairing it with other shades in your nail art designs. Yellow is a striking color on its own, but using complementary colors can add an appealing creative touch. Check out the infographic below for ideas and tips on pairing other complementary colors with yellow for fun and eye-catching nail polish looks.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
With the onset of summer, you might be looking for energizing nail colors for an instant glow. The best yellow nail polishes in statement-making shades like marigold, buttercup yellow, daffodil yellow, honey yellow, mimosa, amber, mango yellow, and custard yellow should be your go-to hues as you will love wearing these colors all the time, and they will help you stand out. If you are looking for a quick-drying formula that also promises long-lasting finish, we recommend the Essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish, while the DND Soak Off Gel All In One- Lemon Juice will help you achieve a vibrant look without multiple coats. Further, the Essie Fall 2019 Country Retreat Collection – Hay There features a smooth brush that allows for quick and hassle-free, smooth application. However, test the nail polish before application to check for allergic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is yellow nail polish suitable for every skin tone?
If you are not satisfied with how yellow nail polish looks on your nails, you can switch to another. For example, if neon colors don’t suit your skin, you can try metallic or pastel yellow nail polish.
What does yellow nail polish mean?
Yellow nail polish evokes happiness and a jolt of energy. It adds an instant burst of glow to your look.
Does yellow nail polish look good?
Yes. Yellow nail polish looks flattering on all skin tones. It is an excellent polish choice for the summer months. It brightens up your outfit and radiates positive energy.
Is yellow nail polish in style?
Yes. Yellow nail polish is a funky nail color option that is well-accepted by today’s generation. Celebrities like Harry Styles, Beyonce, and Katy Perry love to paint their nails yellow and look bright amidst the crowd.
Can I pull off yellow nail polish?
Yes. Yellow is the color of sunshine and everybody irrespective of skin tone and age can pull off the polish.
Is yellow nail polish hard to apply?
Yes. Yellow nail polishes are usually light. As a result, several layers of polish are necessary to make it opaque. Therefore, it is hard to apply. But, a good quality polish like the essie Fall 2019 Country Retreat Collection and the essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish comes with an angled applicator that eases the application process.
Does yellow nail polish look good on fair skin?
Yes. Yellow nail polish looks alluring and vibrant on people with fair skin. The color offers a striking glow to your fingers and radiates positive vibes.
When should you throw away nail polish?
Discard nail polish after its expiry date or when it turns into a sticky and gooey paste.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Srijani Roy Chowdhury, is a makeup enthusiast who loves experimenting with different styling products and reviewing them for her readers. She has made a comprehensive list of the best yellow nail polishes to help you keep your manicure trendy for people who love trying out pop nail colors. These yellow paints are long-lasting, free of toxins, and add a summer vibe to your nails.
Read full bio of Dao Huyen Nhu
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Rajeshwari Das
Read full bio of Srijita De
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