Best Nail Polishes for Every Budget: From Drugstore to High-End

Nail polish is not just a cosmetic product; it’s a statement of style and personality. In India, where beauty and tradition intertwine, finding the perfect nail polish to complement your look is essential. Fortunately, the Indian market offers a wide range of options to suit every budget, from budget-friendly drugstore brands to luxurious high-end ones. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best nail polishes available in India for every budget, ensuring that your nails look flawless without breaking the bank.

Drugstore Nail Polishes: Affordable Quality

When it comes to budget-friendly nail polishes in India, drugstore brands are the way to go. Despite their affordable price tags, these nail polishes offer impressive quality and a diverse range of shades. Here are some top picks:

1. Lakmé

• Price Range: ₹120 – ₹200
• Why We Love It: Lakmé is a trusted brand in India, known for its wide range of vibrant colors and reliable quality. Moreover, their nail polishes offer good pigmentation and lasting power.
• Top Picks: “9 to 5 Primer + Gloss Nail Color” (long-lasting and chip-resistant), “True Wear Color Crush” (affordable and available in trendy shades).

2. Colorbar

• Price Range: ₹150 – ₹250
• Why We Love It: Colorbar nail polishes are well-loved for their smooth application and glossy finish. Additionally, the brand offers an impressive array of shades, from classic to contemporary.
• Top Picks: “Wonder Gel Nail Lacquer” (gel-like finish without a UV lamp), “Quick Finish Nail Lacquer” (fast-drying formula).

3. Maybelline New York

• Price Range: ₹110 – ₹250
• Why We Love It: Maybelline’s nail polishes are known for their high-quality formulas and vibrant colors. They are perfect for those looking for trendy shades at a reasonable price.
• Top Picks: “Color Show” (rich color payoff and smooth finish), “Super Stay Gel Nail Color” (long-lasting with a gel-like finish).

4. Nykaa

• Price Range: ₹179 – ₹249
• Why We Love It: Nykaa’s in-house brand has quickly become a favorite for its high-quality, affordable nail polishes. Furthermore, the formula is smooth, and the colors are trendy and long-lasting.
• Top Picks: “Nykaa Nail Enamel” (wide range of colors and finishes), “Nykaa Cookie Crumble Nail Enamel” (unique, textured finish).

Mid-Range Nail Polishes: Quality Meets Affordability

If you’re willing to spend a bit more on your nail polish, mid-range brands offer superior quality and a broader range of shades. Here are some top picks in this category:

5. Faces Canada

• Price Range: ₹199 – ₹399
• Why We Love It: Faces Canada offers nail polishes that are known for their excellent pigmentation and staying power. Moreover, the brand frequently updates its color palette to stay on trend.
• Top Picks: “Ultime Pro Gel Lustre” (gel-like shine and durability), “Splash Nail Enamel” (affordable and available in a wide range of colors).

6. Lotus Herbals

• Price Range: ₹150 – ₹300
• Why We Love It: Lotus Herbals combines quality with natural ingredients, making their nail polishes a healthier choice for your nails. Additionally, they offer vibrant shades with good staying power.
• Top Picks: “Color Dew Nail Enamel” (free from harmful chemicals), “Ecostay Nail Enamel” (long-lasting and chip-resistant).

7. L’Oréal Paris

• Price Range: ₹299 – ₹499
• Why We Love It: L’Oréal Paris nail polishes offer salon-like quality with rich color payoff and smooth application. The brand is known for its luxurious shades and superior finish.
• Top Picks: “Color Riche Le Vernis” (high shine and long-lasting), “Infallible Gel Nail Polish” (gel-like finish without the need for a UV lamp).

High-End Nail Polishes: Luxury and Performance

For those who don’t mind splurging on nail polishes, high-end brands offer luxurious formulations, unique shades, and superior performance. Here are some of the best high-end nail polishes available in India:

8. OPI

• Price Range: ₹850 – ₹1,200
• Why We Love It: OPI is a globally renowned brand known for its high-quality nail polishes. The formulas are long-lasting, chip-resistant, and come in a stunning range of shades.
• Top Picks: “OPI Nail Lacquer” (rich, glossy finish and excellent durability), “OPI Infinite Shine” (gel-like shine and longevity).

9. Chanel

• Price Range: ₹2,000 – ₹2,500
• Why We Love It: Chanel nail polishes are the epitome of luxury, offering sophisticated shades and superior quality. Moreover, the formula is smooth, highly pigmented, and long-lasting.
• Top Picks: “Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour” (classic shades with a high-gloss finish), “Le Gel Coat” (a long-wear top coat that enhances shine and longevity).

10. Christian Louboutin

• Price Range: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000
• Why We Love It: Christian Louboutin nail polishes are a true luxury, known for their exquisite packaging and superior formula. The shades are vibrant, and the finish is flawless.
• Top Picks: “Nail Colour” (iconic shades inspired by the brand’s famous red soles), “Loubi Under Red” (a unique under-nail polish for a distinctive look).

Conclusion

No matter your budget, there are fantastic nail polishes available in India that offer great quality and stunning colors. From affordable drugstore finds to luxurious high-end splurges, you can find the perfect nail polish to match your style and preferences. Ultimately, the right nail polish can enhance your look and boost your confidence. Happy polishing!