The Lowdown on the Best and Cheapest Nail Polishes, and Where to Find Them

No, I can't afford to get a manicure every week, and yes, I do like to keep my nails in good condition all of the time. I have seen my fair share of nail polish disasters and have tried out many of the different polishes available today. I have found, through trial and error, that the highest quality nail polish available today for the least amount of money is Sally Hansen nail polish. It dries quickly, always looks glossy and even, and lasts all week. Sally Hansen polishes come in a variety of classic, sheer, and glittery shades, and they even have a line of opal-inspired colors, which shift hues subtly as the light changes.

Sally Hansen also produces my favorite topcoats. They keep your polish from cracking and dry to a glossy, non-sticky finish. These topcoats have such a high-impact shine that it's hard to tell when your nails have dried, because they'll keep looking as shiny as though the varnish were wet.

I have only a few caveats to share regarding Sally Hansen products: first, their brushes hold a lot of polish - so much, in fact, that if you aren't used to them you may end up glopping too much polish on your nails and creating thick blobs and drips that won't dry in a timely fashion. It can take some time to get just the right amount of polish on these giant brushes, but it's well worth the effort.

Another problem with Sally Hansen polishes is that they have a relatively short shelf life, and once past their prime they simply refuse to dry. You'll end up with a sticky, wrinkly mess on your nails if you're not careful, so it's best to throw out Sally Hansen polishes once they start to look thick and sticky in the bottle. (This rule applies to all other polishes too)

If you like Sally Hansen polish but need an even cheaper polish, I would recommend NYC. Their colors are bold and true, and the polish is very good for the price: going on smoothly and lasting fairly well. I would recommend that you do two or three very thin coats with NYC polish, and then use a high-quality topcoat to prevent the inevitable chips. NYC polishes come in all kinds of crazy colors, and are great to use if you're planning to paint crazy designs or young girls' nails. Watch out for NYC's glitter polishes, though, they take a very long time to remove, even with pure acetone nail polish remover. If you're looking for a polish with glitter, I would suggest a Wet n' Wild or Sephora polish, and would recommend that you look for something with very fine 'shimmer' glitter instead of big glitter chunks, because I find this type of polish is usually easier to remove, and looks more attractive on the nail.

If you're a big spender when it comes to nail polish, I've got a suggestion for you too! Go around to the makeup counters in your department store and try before you buy! It's very fun to paint single nails different colors, and to compare the different consistencies and drying times found at professional makeup counters. My favorite professional polish brand is Shiseido, because it's easy to apply, dries smoothly, and the rich, vibrant colors last a surprisingly long time with no chips. There aren't as many color choices at professional makeup counters as there are at the drugstore, so if you're looking to be crazy or creative, I recommend you save your money and simply head down to Rite Aid.

Want some more info on nail polish, and application tricks? Check out these links:

http://www.opi.com/

http://www.nailcareguide.com/nailpolish.htm

http://www.nailjazz.com/