Who says luxury has to break the bank? Gorgeous, salon-worthy nails don’t require spending a fortune. With the right affordable nail polishes, you can achieve a high-end look at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re into timeless nudes, bold reds, or trendy hues, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to explore. Here’s a roundup of the best nail polishes under $10 that will have everyone thinking you splurged.
1. Essie Nail Polish
Price: Around $9
Why It’s Luxe: Essie is a cult-favorite brand for a reason. Known for its smooth formula and salon-quality finish, many of its shades rival high-end brands.
- Top Picks: Ballet Slippers (a sheer pink loved by royals), Wicked (a deep red perfect for evenings).
- What Makes It Special: Long-lasting formula and an easy-to-use brush for even application.
Essie polishes give you a polished, classy look without the steep price tag.
2. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color
Price: Around $6
Why It’s Luxe: This polish dries quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to wait around.
- Top Picks: Cinna-snap (a rich burgundy), Clearly Quick (a glossy top coat).
- What Makes It Special: It’s a one-coat wonder, providing full coverage in a single swipe.
Its shiny, chip-resistant finish makes it look way more expensive than it is.
3. OPI Nail Lacquer Mini Bottles
Price: Around $8
Why It’s Luxe: OPI is a professional-grade brand, and their mini bottles are a budget-friendly way to access their stunning shades. Also read: How to Make Your Nail Polish Last 14 Days
- Top Picks: Big Apple Red (a classic red), Funny Bunny (a milky white perfect for French manicures).
- What Makes It Special: Highly pigmented with excellent staying power.
You’ll feel like you stepped out of a salon every time you use OPI.
4. Zoya Mini Nail Polishes
Price: Around $6
Why It’s Luxe: Zoya’s polishes are free from harmful chemicals, making them a healthier choice for luxe-looking nails.
- Top Picks: Rue (a soft mauve), Logan (a glittery emerald green).
- What Makes It Special: The formula is ultra-smooth and lasts days without chipping.
Zoya combines affordability with a premium, non-toxic formula.
5. Wet n Wild 1 Step Wonder Gel Nail Color
Price: Around $5
Why It’s Luxe: This gel-like polish gives you the glossy, cushiony look of salon gel nails without needing a UV lamp.
- Top Picks: Left Marooned (a rich burgundy), Stay Classy (a dusty rose).
- What Makes It Special: One step is all it takes to achieve a long-lasting, shiny finish.
It’s budget-friendly, but the results are nothing short of glamorous.
6. Sinful Colors Professional Nail Polish
Price: Around $3
Why It’s Luxe: Don’t let the price fool you—Sinful Colors delivers a surprisingly high-end finish.
- Top Picks: Ruby Ruby (a vibrant red), Cinderella (a shimmering pastel blue).
- What Makes It Special: The wide range of colors and impressive durability for the price.
This brand is a favorite among nail enthusiasts who love luxe looks on a budget.
7. Revlon Super Lustrous Nail Enamel
Price: Around $5
Why It’s Luxe: Revlon’s Super Lustrous line offers a smooth, streak-free application with a glossy finish. Also read: Celebrities Swear by These 10 Nail Polish Colors
- Top Picks: Revlon Red (a true classic red), Cherries in the Snow (a bold berry pink).
- What Makes It Special: Chip-resistant formula and a rich color payoff.
Revlon is a trusted drugstore brand that doesn’t skimp on quality.
8. e.l.f. Cosmetics Nail Polish
Price: Around $3
Why It’s Luxe: Known for affordable beauty, e.l.f. offers trendy nail colors that look surprisingly expensive.
- Top Picks: Nude Mood (a creamy beige), Red-y or Not (a bold red).
- What Makes It Special: Fast-drying formula with a chic, glossy finish.
You’ll be shocked at how good these look for the price.
9. LA Colors Color Craze Gel Polish
Price: Around $2
Why It’s Luxe: This super affordable gel-look polish offers high shine and vibrant colors.
- Top Picks: Atomic (a neon coral), Vanilla Latte (a soft beige).
- What Makes It Special: A gel-like finish that doesn’t require a UV lamp.
For under $3, this polish rivals the finish of much pricier products.
10. Milani Color Statement Nail Lacquer
Price: Around $5
Why It’s Luxe: Milani is known for its highly pigmented makeup, and their nail lacquers are no exception.
- Top Picks: Corrupted Coral (a vibrant pink coral), Gold Label (a shimmering gold).
- What Makes It Special: Stunning shine and bold colors that make your nails pop.
Milani is your go-to for standout nails on a budget.
11. Pure Ice Nail Polish
Price: Around $2
Why It’s Luxe: This brand offers trendy colors with a long-lasting formula.
- Top Picks: Moonlight (a pearly white), First Love (a soft pink).
- What Makes It Special: Surprisingly durable for such an affordable polish.
Pure Ice nails the balance of trendy and classic, all for a steal.
12. NYX Professional Makeup Nail Polish
Price: Around $7
Why It’s Luxe: NYX is known for edgy, high-quality cosmetics, and their nail polish delivers on style.
- Top Picks: Dark Side (a deep, vampy plum), Lavender Blossom (a pale lilac).
- What Makes It Special: Unique shades with a salon-like finish.
For those who love to experiment, NYX offers affordable luxury.
13. Hard Candy Nail Lacquer
Price: Around $4
Why It’s Luxe: Hard Candy is perfect for anyone who loves bold, glittery, and unique nail designs.
- Top Picks: Crush on Lava (a duochrome metallic), Glitter Jam (a chunky glitter).
- What Makes It Special: Eye-catching effects at a fraction of the price.
Great for special occasions or when you want to stand out.
14. Jordana Nail Polish
Price: Around $2
Why It’s Luxe: Don’t underestimate Jordana—this hidden gem offers smooth, opaque colors that rival pricier brands.
- Top Picks: Pink Lemonade (a soft pink), Boy Oh Boy (a bright turquoise).
- What Makes It Special: Fast-drying and long-lasting formula.
Perfect for everyday wear or experimenting with new trends.
15. Flower Beauty Nail Polish
Price: Around $6
Why It’s Luxe: Created by Drew Barrymore, Flower Beauty polishes deliver high-end quality at a drugstore price.
- Top Picks: That’s Just Dan-de-Lion (a creamy pink), Thistle or That (a bold purple).
- What Makes It Special: Chip-resistant formula with a smooth application.
The chic packaging and formula feel high-end.
16. Rimmel London 60 Seconds Super Shine
Price: Around $4
Why It’s Luxe: This polish dries fast and provides an ultra-shiny finish.
- Top Picks: Lose Your Lingerie (a pale pink), Double Decker Red (a bold red).
- What Makes It Special: One of the fastest-drying polishes on the market.
Luxury doesn’t have to mean waiting forever for your nails to dry!
17. H&M Nail Polish
Price: Around $6
Why It’s Luxe: H&M’s nail polishes offer trendy, Instagram-worthy shades.
- Top Picks: Mauve on Up (a muted mauve), Jungle Whisper (a deep green).
- What Makes It Special: High-quality pigments and stylish packaging.
Perfect for the fashion-forward.
18. Topshop Nails
Price: Around $8
Why It’s Luxe: Topshop nails offer a boutique vibe with a reasonable price tag.
- Top Picks: Powder Pink (a soft pastel pink), Mercury (a shimmering silver).
- What Makes It Special: Unique, runway-inspired shades.
These polishes look like you’ve just stepped off a fashion show.
Conclusion
Luxury doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially when it comes to nail polish. With so many affordable yet high-quality options, you can keep your nails looking chic and polished without going over budget. From timeless classics to trendy colors, these 18 nail polishes under $10 are proof that you don’t need to spend big to look fabulous. Go ahead—treat yourself to a new shade (or two) and enjoy the luxe life without the hefty price tag.
FAQs
1. Are these polishes really long-lasting?
Yes! Many of these brands offer chip-resistant formulas, especially when paired with a good top coat.
2. Can I find these polishes in stores?
Most of these are available at drugstores, big-box retailers, and online.
3. How do I make my nail polish look salon-perfect?
Use a base coat, apply thin layers, and finish with a glossy top coat for that professional look.
4. Which brand is best for trendy shades?
Sinful Colors, H&M, and NYX offer a wide range of on-trend colors.
5. Can I use these polishes for nail art?
Absolutely! Many of these polishes have smooth formulas perfect for nail art designs.