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What Are the Benefits of Using Salon Nail Polish?

B. Miller
B. Miller

There are many benefits to using salon nail polish as compared to traditional drugstore nail polish, even though it may be more expensive at first. Initially, many people find that salon nail polish goes on more smoothly than other varieties, and is less prone to bubbles in the polish once it is applied. In addition, it tends to be longer lasting less prone to chipping, and may even retain its shine better than others. As a result, though it may be more expensive initially, it may actually work out to be about the same price, since it lasts longer between reapplications.

Some people find that there are more available colors in salon nail polish as well, which makes it easier to find the perfect color to match a certain outfit. When it is applied, salon nail polish tends to go on much more smoothly, and may only require one or two coats, whereas cheaper varieties may require three or more to get the desired shade. The fact that it goes on more smoothly in one or two coats also makes it less likely that it will bubble and crack, requiring reapplication. Many people top a colored nail polish with a clear, salon-quality top coat as well to gain additional protection and a longer lasting shine.

A nail technician polishing a woman's fingernails in a salon.
A nail technician polishing a woman's fingernails in a salon.

In addition to these benefits, salon nail polish also generally just lasts longer than less expensive types of nail polish, because it is less likely to become chipped, or to separate from the nail and start peeling. Many people cite this as the primary reason that it is worth paying more for salon nail polish, since less frequent applications are required. Salon nail polishes will typically last longer in the bottle too, and will not thicken or separate as some others will. Some people find that their bottles of salon quality polish will last for years.

Clear salon nail polish.
Clear salon nail polish.

Another benefit to purchasing salon nail polish is that there are some varieties that are designed to be more eco- and health-friendly than others. These are typically free of formaldehyde, for instance; a common ingredient in many standard varieties of nail polish. It may be slightly more difficult to find these in some stores, but they are typically readily available in beauty supply stores, salons, or online. For people who think it is important to have carefully groomed and manicured nails at all times, the purchase of salon nail polish might be a good idea.

Discussion Comments

Raynbow

@heavanet- There are many nail polish brands without harmful ingredients that are considered salon nail polishes because they are commonly available in beauty and nail salons. Some of them will say eco-friendly on the packaging, while others will have various key words.

Water-based, organic, green, vegan, and non-toxic are some of the terms you should look for when shopping for eco-friendly salon nail polish. Don't hesitate to ask the salon staff which brands they recommend, and which ones have the fewest harmful ingredients such as formaldehyde and toluene.

Heavanet

I enjoy using salon nail polish because of the points mentioned in this article. I also think that many of the colors are more vibrant than those of cheaper nail polishes.

I do prefer to wear eco-friendly nail polishes, and I know that many costly salon brands have less harmful ingredients in them. What are some key words I should be looking for on the nail polish labels to make sure that I am getting a salon brand that is also good for me and the earth?

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    • A nail technician polishing a woman's fingernails in a salon.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      A nail technician polishing a woman's fingernails in a salon.
    • Clear salon nail polish.
      By: Africa Studio
      Clear salon nail polish.
    • Salon nail polish typically leaves a smoother finish than nail polishes sold by drugstores.
      By: larisabozhikova
      Salon nail polish typically leaves a smoother finish than nail polishes sold by drugstores.
    • Salon nail polish tends to be longer lasting than drugstore polish.
      By: Alliance
      Salon nail polish tends to be longer lasting than drugstore polish.