9 Types of Nail Polish: Full Checklist & Finish Guide

There are 9 essential types of nail polish used in modern salons and at-home nail care - each with a distinct finish, formula, wear time, and removal process. From classic lacquer and high-shine gel to breathable polish for sensitive nails, knowing how each polish type performs allows for better choices based on nail condition, styling goals, and lifestyle. This checklist-based guide explores every major polish type in depth, helping clients understand which works best for long wear, fast removal, vibrant looks, or gentle care.

1. Regular Nail Polish (Lacquer)

Regular nail polish, also called lacquer, is the most traditional and widely available formula. It’s a solvent-based polish that air-dries and is typically used with a base coat and top coat.

This type of polish is known for being user-friendly and flexible. It dries without any light curing and is easily removed with non-acetone removers. Wear time ranges from 3 to 5 days, although quality top coats can extend its life slightly.

Lacquer is ideal for frequent colour changers or clients looking for a simple, low-commitment option. It’s also commonly used for nail art due to its fast drying between layers and a wide colour range.

2. Gel Polish

Gel polish is a long-wearing, high-gloss polish that requires curing under a UV or LED lamp. Unlike lacquer, it doesn’t dry through evaporation but hardens under light, bonding tightly to the nail plate.

Gel manicures typically last 2 to 3 weeks without chipping or peeling. The formula creates a smooth, sculpted look and is favoured for its shine and durability. However, gel requires soaking in acetone (or professional filing) for removal, which can dry the nail if not done properly.

Clients who need a manicure that survives physical work, water exposure, or travel often prefer manicure service at Jaesthetic for its resilience and polished finish.

3. Shellac

Shellac is a patented formula from CND that combines aspects of regular polish and gel. It applies like lacquer but cures like gel, offering the best of both systems.

With a thinner texture than full gel, Shellac feels lightweight on the nail and removes more easily - often within 10 minutes using acetone wraps. It generally lasts 10 to 14 days and is ideal for clients who want a balance between durability and gentle wear.

Shellac manicure is recommended for those who want regular manicures without committing to the longer removal or thicker feel of gel.

4. Matte Nail Polish

Matte nail polish delivers a flat, non-reflective finish that creates a velvety, editorial look. It's typically created using silica or other matting agents in the formula or top coat.

This type of polish can be either air-dried or LED-cured, depending on the base formula. It wears for 2 to 5 days and tends to show chips more easily than glossy formulas, so it's better suited for short-term use or occasion styling.

Matte polish is commonly used for minimalist looks or paired with glossy accents for contrast in nail art designs.

5. Glitter Nail Polish

Glitter polishes contain suspended reflective particles ranging from micro-shimmer to chunky glitters. The base can be transparent or tinted, and formulas vary from air-dry lacquer to gel hybrids.

While glitter provides an eye-catching, multidimensional effect, it’s often harder to remove than standard polish - requiring foil wraps, acetone, or a peel-off base. Glitter polish is usually worn for 5 to 7 days, depending on layering and top coat protection.

It’s best used for events, accent nails, or festive designs. Clients should be informed of the removal difficulty before choosing this type.

6. Metallic Nail Polish

Metallic nail polish uses fine reflective pigments to create a chrome-like or foil finish. It may have a smooth silver, gold, bronze, or duochrome effect depending on the polish formulation.

Application must be smooth and even to avoid streaks or patchiness, and it often benefits from a ridge-filling base coat. Most metallic polishes are lacquer-based and last 4 to 7 days with a top coat.

This type is ideal for fashion-forward looks or special events where high-shine impact is desired.

7. Peel-Off Nail Polish

Peel-off nail polish is a water-based formula designed to be removed without solvents. It forms a film that can be lifted from the nail edge and peeled away.

It typically lasts for 1 to 3 days and isn’t recommended for use in wet or humid environments. However, it’s ideal for quick colour changes, allergy-prone clients, or young clients who need a safe, non-toxic option.

Some peel-off formulas can be used as a base coat under glitter polish to make removal easier.

8. Breathable Nail Polish

Breathable nail polish is formulated to allow oxygen and moisture to pass through to the nail plate. It's often used in Halal-certified brands or wellness-focused nail lines.

Though still air-dried, breathable polish mimics the appearance and performance of regular lacquer while minimising occlusion of the nail surface. It lasts for about 4 to 6 days and removes like standard polish.

This is a good choice for clients with sensitive or damaged nails, or for those following personal or religious guidelines around nail coatings.

9. Holographic Nail Polish

Holographic polish uses light-refracting particles or prismatic pigments that create a rainbow-like effect when exposed to direct light. This finish shifts as the hand moves, offering a dramatic, multidimensional appearance.

Available in both air-dry and gel formulas, holographic polishes wear for 5 to 7 days, depending on the base. They can be layered over colour for intensity or worn alone for subtle effects.

Holographic polishes are ideal for statement nails, special occasions, or clients looking for a futuristic or artistic manicure style.

Nail Polish Types Compared: Use, Wear, and Finish

Before exploring FAQs, review the comparison table below to quickly evaluate which polish suits each need. This table summarises drying method, finish, longevity, and client suitability.

 

Choosing the Right Type of Nail Polish

Every type of nail polish serves a different purpose. From glossy lacquer to long-lasting gel and breathable formulas for sensitive nails, today’s market offers a product for every client and occasion. The key to the best results is choosing a polish that fits both lifestyle and nail condition - then applying and removing it with proper care.

Book Your Gel Manicure in Sydney

From Soft Gel to Hard Gel, BIAB, Shellac and Polygel, J.Aesthetic in Gladesville offers custom gel manicure styles designed for every nail type and lifestyle. Experience expert care with a focus on precision, artistry, and lasting shine.

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📍 267 Victoria Rd, Gladesville NSW 2111 | 📞 +61 2 3821 9828

FAQs About Types of Nail Polish

Before clients choose a polish, they often ask specific questions about safety, performance, and compatibility. The answers below are crafted based on popular search queries and real user intent.

What is the best type of nail polish for long-lasting wear?

Gel polish consistently provides the longest wear, lasting up to three weeks with minimal chipping. It's cured under LED light for maximum adhesion. Shellac also offers good longevity, but in a thinner formula that’s easier to remove. For clients needing low-maintenance manicures, gel polish remains the top recommendation - especially when paired with structured overlays or BIAB.

Which nail polish removes the easiest?

Peel-off polish is the simplest to remove, requiring no solvents - just a gentle lift at the edge. Shellac follows, soaking off within 10 minutes with minimal scraping. Regular lacquer also removes easily but may stain without a proper base coat. Glitter or metallic polishes are the hardest to remove due to particle density and adhesive strength.

What polish is best for damaged or weak nails?

Breathable polish is ideal for damaged nails, as it allows air and water vapour through the coating - minimising dehydration. It’s often used during nail rehab periods. Shellac can also be suitable when applied and removed properly, as its lightweight finish doesn’t overburden thin nails. Avoid heavy gels or acrylics until the nail plate is restored.

Can matte or glitter finishes be added to gel nails?

Yes. Matte top coats and glitter overlays can be used on top of cured gel polish. Most salons offer this service by applying a finishing layer that alters the gloss level or adds shimmer. Always ensure compatibility between base and top coat brands to avoid curing issues.

Are breathable polishes really better for nail health?

While “breathability” in Polish is debated, these formulas reduce moisture lock-in and often exclude harsh ingredients like formaldehyde or DBP. They're well-suited to sensitive clients or those avoiding prolonged occlusion of the nail plate. However, even breathable formulas should be removed and reapplied properly to avoid buildup.