Nail Polishes That Actually Last

Before I became really interested in beauty nail polish was my first true love. There is something truly therapeutic about slicking on a fresh manicure. Over the years, I've tried so many different formulations at all price ranges and here are the brands that I've found offer up an almost chip-free mani.

ESSIE

Ever since Essie became easily available I've become slightly obsessed with those little white topped bottles of goodness. The diffusion line that is available in Boots & Superdrug has an awesome wide brush that makes for a fool-proof manicure. I've always had nothing but good experiences with Essie polishes, but I know that some struggle with them. I can get a good 4-5 days without any significant chipping, there may be some here and there but nothing drastic. Tapping away at a keyboard for the majority of the week means my manicure is put under a lot of strain.

RIMMEL

My favourite brand from the high street, in general, is definitely Rimmel, I've never had a bad product from them. I always dismissed their nail polish range in the past because it's so affordable that I stupidly deemed rubbish without even trying it. There are different ranges available and my favourite is the Salon Pro. It had a redesign a couple of years ago and ever since their polishes have become a complete staple for me. They have a wide brush which makes application a dream and the formula is incredible, you only need two coats max to get an opaque finish.

BARRY M

A big hitter in my teen years was Barry M, I never really loved their original polishes. I mean they were ok, but nothing round breaking. It's not been until the last few years when they've expanded the range that I've really fallen in love with them. I feel it's important to point out that these polishes do not work well with a top coat like Seche Vite. The Gelly Hi Shine range and the new Speedy range are a couple of my favourites. The brush is fiddly so it's not the easiest to work with but I love the formula, super shiny and quick drying.

MAYBELLINE

Apart from Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse which will haunt me forever I'm not too familiar with the brand. Apart from their nail polishes. Like Rimmel, I dismissed them and it was all thanks to the blogging world that I got introduced to how awesome their Superstay 7 Day Polishes are. I wish that they carried more colours because I absolutely love the formulation and the brush. These polishes last incredibly well, you really can get 7 days out of them if not more with a good base and top coat.