Professional hair care

Nail Polish

From the perfect classic red to on-trend chromes, gel polish that lasts three weeks to nail strengtheners that genuinely repair damage — our nail polish collection is built to be a properly complete system rather than just a shade selection. Stocking the trusted professional brands the salon industry actually uses: Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish (with a comprehensive shade range and full system support), OPI (the heavyweight nail brand including Nail Envy strengthening treatments and the Infinite Shine collection), and Andreia Professional Lab (the Portuguese specialist treatment-focused brand). Plus supporting essentials from Skintruth and Salon System. Whether you're a working nail technician, a salon stocking up, or a confident at-home user wanting genuine salon-quality results, the right products live here.

Choosing the right nail polish system for the job

Modern nail polish isn't really a single product type — it's three distinct systems, each suited to different finishes, wear times, and application styles. Get the right system first, then choose the colour or treatment within it:

Gel polish (cured under UV/LED lamp)

The professional standard for long-wearing manicures. Gel polish is applied like regular polish but cured under a UV or LED lamp for an instantly hard, glossy finish that lasts 2-3 weeks without chipping. Requires a base coat, colour layers, and a top coat — all cured between layers — plus proper soak-off removal at the end of the wear cycle. The right choice for clients who want maximum durability and don't mind the slightly longer application time. Our Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish range covers this category comprehensively.

Regular nail lacquer (air-dry polish)

The classic format. Goes on with a brush, dries in around 10-15 minutes, lasts 4-7 days with proper application and quality top coat. Easy to apply and remove, offers the widest shade range, and is the right choice for anyone who likes changing their colour frequently. Our OPI and Andreia Professional ranges include both colour lacquers and the full system support (base coats, top coats, treatments).

Hybrid gel polish

The newest format that bridges the gap between regular polish and full gel — applied like regular polish, but with longer wear times closer to gel without requiring a UV/LED lamp. The Andreia Professional Hybrid Gel Fusion Shine sits in this category. The right choice if you want longer wear without committing to the full gel system.

The Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish range

Why Hema-Free matters

Worth understanding properly. HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a common ingredient in many gel polishes, but it's an increasingly recognised allergen that can cause skin reactions, contact dermatitis, and even permanent sensitivity over time. Both nail technicians (with daily exposure) and clients (with weekly applications) are at risk. The HEMA allergy issue has become significant enough that the EU has restricted HEMA in consumer products, and many salons are actively switching to Hema-free systems to protect themselves and their clients.

Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish delivers the same long-wearing professional gel performance without the HEMA risk. The full range includes:

Halo gel polish system support

  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Base Coat — the foundation of every gel manicure. Provides adhesion, prevents staining, and extends wear.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Thick Top Coat — extra-thick top coat for high-shine, durable finish.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Hema-Free Non Wipe Top Coat — leaves no sticky inhibition layer, so no wipe-down needed after curing.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Sparkle Top Coat — adds glittery sparkle finish to any colour underneath.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Velvet Matte Non Wipe Top Coat — modern matte finish that's having a serious style moment.

Halo gel polish shade range

The Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 8ml shade range covers properly comprehensive colour territory. Highlights from our stocked range include:

  • Reds and warm tones: Pumpkin Spice (warm autumnal), Hawaii (vibrant tropical red), Raspberry (juicy fruit-tone), Cranberry (deep wine red), 777 from the Married in Vegas Collection
  • Pinks and softer shades: Blossom (soft pink), Elise (rose-toned classic), Bliss from the Arabian Nights Collection, Lilac (soft lavender)
  • Blues and cools: Bali (vibrant blue), Blue from the Stained Glass Collection, Central Park from the Winter in New York Collection
  • Neutrals and nudes: Bare from the Natural World Collection, A-List from the Ho Ho Hollywood Collection
  • Specialty and statement shades: Gold Leaf (metallic gold), Mellow Yellow (warm sunshine), Ballgown from the Once Upon a Time Collection

Halo regularly release themed seasonal collections (Married in Vegas, Once Upon a Time, Arabian Nights, Stained Glass, Natural World, Winter in New York, Ho Ho Hollywood) — limited-edition shade drops that often sell out fast. Worth checking back regularly for new releases.

The OPI range

OPI is genuinely the most recognised name in nail polish worldwide and the brand most clients ask for by name. Our stocked OPI range covers both treatment and finishing essentials:

OPI Nail Envy strengthening treatments

  • OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener — Alpine Snow (15ml) — the iconic clear strengthening treatment, properly clinically loved for repairing weak, peeling, splitting nails. Apply daily as a base coat or wear alone for visible nail repair within 2-3 weeks of consistent use.
  • OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener — All Night Strong (15ml) — the maximum-strength formulation for severely damaged or weak nails. Stronger active ingredients for clients with significant nail recovery needs.

OPI top coats

  • OPI High-gloss Chip Preventing Nail Lacquer Top Coat (15ml) — extends wear and adds proper high-shine finish to any OPI lacquer.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Gel Plump Effect Top Coat (15ml) — creates a plump, gel-like glossy finish without UV curing.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Rapidry Top Coat (15ml) — fast-drying formula that sets the manicure quickly for clients on the go.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Mirror Shine Top Coat (15ml) — high-shine mirror finish for proper salon-grade gloss.
  • OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat (15ml) — part of OPI's two-step long-wear system, designed for up to 11 days of chip-free wear with regular polish.

OPI Nature Strong

  • OPI Nature Strong Nail Lacquer Base Coat (15ml) and Top Coat (15ml) — OPI's plant-based, vegan, biodegradable formulation for clients prioritising clean-beauty credentials without compromising on OPI quality.

The Andreia Professional Lab range

Andreia is a Portuguese professional nail brand with a properly impressive range of treatment-focused products. The Pro Lab range delivers salon-grade base coats, top coats, and specialist treatments that nail technicians genuinely rate. All Pro Lab products are 10.5ml — the standard professional bottle size. Highlights from our stocked range:

Andreia top coats

  • Andreia Professional Lab Shine Boost Top Coat — high-shine finish, the everyday workhorse top coat.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Gel Effect Top Coat — gives air-dry polish a gel-like glossy finish without UV curing.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Matte Effect Top Coat — modern matte finish over any colour beneath.

Andreia base coats and treatments

  • Andreia Professional Lab Strengthening Base Coat — repairs and strengthens weak nails over consistent use.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Multivitamin Base Coat — nutrient-rich base coat infused with vitamins to nourish the nail bed.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Anti-Imperfection Base Coat — corrects ridges, discoloration, and surface imperfections for a smoother polish base.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Strength Boost Base + Top Coat — dual-purpose product combining strengthening base and protective top coat in one bottle. Properly time-saving for everyday wear.

Andreia speciality products

  • Andreia Professional Lab Gummy Peel Off Protective Film for Cuticles — applied around the cuticle line before polish, creating a protective barrier that peels away cleanly to reveal a flawless cuticle line. Properly clever for at-home users who want salon-precision finishes.
  • Andreia Professional Lab No Bite Bitter Nail Polish — clear bitter-tasting formula for clients (children or adults) who bite their nails. Genuinely effective deterrent, applied like clear polish.
  • Andreia Professional Hybrid Gel Nail Polish — Fusion Shine Top Coat — top coat for the Andreia Hybrid Gel system, bridging air-dry and gel performance.

Supporting essentials

Nail polish removers

  • Skintruth Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover (200ml) — gentle removal for acrylics, false nails, and sensitive skin. Won't dry out cuticles or natural nails as aggressively as acetone removers.
  • Skintruth Oily Nail Polish Remover (200ml) — moisturising remover that conditions cuticles and nail beds while removing polish. The kinder option for regular polish wearers.

Quick-dry sprays

  • Salon System Elegant Touch Rapid Dry Spray (125ml) — speeds up drying time for regular nail lacquer, helping clients leave the salon (or their bathroom) with manicures fully set rather than smudge-prone.

How to apply nail polish properly

  1. Prep the nails first. Remove any old polish, file and shape the nails, gently push back cuticles, and lightly buff the nail surface for better adhesion.
  2. Cleanse the nail plate with polish remover or proper nail dehydrator to strip oil and moisture — this is the single biggest step that separates polish that lasts a week from polish that chips overnight.
  3. Apply a base coat. Choose your base coat by need: Halo Hema-Free Base Coat for gel manicures; Andreia Strengthening Base Coat for weak nails; OPI Nail Envy for serious nail repair; Andreia Anti-Imperfection for ridged or discoloured nails.
  4. Apply two thin coats of colour rather than one thick coat. Thin layers dry properly, look more even, and last significantly longer. For gel polish, cure between coats per the polish instructions.
  5. Finish with a quality top coat. The top coat is what locks everything in, adds shine, and prevents chipping. OPI Infinite Shine for maximum air-dry longevity, Halo Velvet Matte for matte finishes, Andreia Gel Effect for gel-look without UV curing.
  6. Allow proper drying time. For air-dry polish, finish with Salon System Rapid Dry Spray to set the manicure faster. For gel polish, the lamp curing replaces drying time.

Frequently asked questions

What is HEMA in gel polish and why does it matter?

HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a common ingredient in gel polishes that has become an increasingly recognised allergen. Repeat exposure can cause contact dermatitis, skin reactions, and permanent sensitivity that affects both nail technicians (daily exposure) and clients (regular applications). The EU has restricted HEMA in consumer products, and many UK professionals are switching to Hema-free systems like Halo to protect themselves and their clients. If you've had unexplained skin reactions after gel manicures, switching to Hema-free is genuinely worth trying.

How does Halo gel polish compare to other professional gel brands?

Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish delivers comparable wear (2-3 weeks), shine, and colour range to leading brands like OPI Gel Color and CND Shellac, but without the HEMA risk. The Hema-free formulation is genuinely the differentiator — for nail technicians and clients with sensitivities, Halo is one of the few professional gel ranges that addresses the issue without compromising performance.

What's the difference between OPI Nail Envy and a regular base coat?

OPI Nail Envy is a clinical-grade nail strengthening treatment, not just a base coat. It contains hydrolysed wheat protein, calcium and other strengthening actives that genuinely repair weak, peeling, brittle nails over 2-3 weeks of consistent daily use. Wear it under polish, alone as a clear treatment, or as part of a polish-free recovery cycle. For genuinely damaged nails, Nail Envy works in a way regular base coats don't.

What's the difference between acetone and non-acetone polish remover?

Acetone is the strongest polish-removing solvent — fast, effective, but dries out cuticles, nail beds and skin significantly. Non-acetone removers (like Skintruth Non-Acetone) use gentler solvents that take slightly longer but are kinder to skin and nails. For regular polish wear, non-acetone is the better choice. For removing gel, acrylic, or stubborn glitter polish, full acetone is usually needed.

How long does professional gel polish actually last?

Properly applied gel polish from professional brands like Halo lasts 2-3 weeks before lifting or chipping. Wear time depends on application technique (proper prep is everything), nail plate condition, and lifestyle factors (water exposure, hand-intensive work). The "21-day" claim is realistic for most clients with proper application and reasonable care.

What's the best top coat for at-home use?

For air-dry polish: OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat for maximum wear, OPI Rapidry for fast-drying convenience, or Andreia Gel Effect for a glossy gel-like finish without UV. For matte finishes: Halo Velvet Matte Non Wipe Top Coat (gel) or Andreia Matte Effect Top Coat (air-dry). Choose by your application style and finish preference.

Can I use Halo gel polish at home without salon training?

Yes, with the right kit and proper care. You'll need a UV or LED lamp, the Halo base coat, your chosen colour(s), and an appropriate top coat. The application technique takes practice — proper nail prep, thin even layers, full curing between coats — but it's genuinely accessible for confident at-home users. Always remove gel polish properly with acetone soak-off rather than picking or peeling, which damages the natural nail.

Why does my nail polish chip so quickly?

Almost always a prep issue rather than a polish quality issue. The five most common causes: nails not properly cleansed before polish (oils prevent adhesion), too thick polish layers (don't bond properly to the layer beneath), no base coat (polish has nothing to grip), no top coat or worn-out top coat (no protection from chipping), and not refreshing the top coat every 3-5 days during wear (one quick refresh extends manicure life significantly).

What's the difference between matte and gel-effect top coats?

Matte top coats (like Halo Velvet Matte or Andreia Matte Effect) flatten any gloss, giving a properly modern matte finish. Gel-effect top coats (like Andreia Gel Effect or OPI Gel Plump Effect) do the opposite — they amplify shine for a plump, glossy, gel-like finish without requiring a UV lamp. Choose by the finish you want; the underlying colour stays the same.

Are these polishes vegan and cruelty-free?

Varies by brand and product. OPI Nature Strong is plant-based, vegan and biodegradable. Halo Hema-Free is vegan-friendly across the range. Andreia Professional Lab is vegan-certified. Standard OPI and standard nail polishes vary by individual product — check specific product pages for ingredient credentials if vegan formulation matters to you.

Shop the nail polish collection

Browse the full range below across all stocked brands and product types. For complete manicure and pedicure setups, see our wider manicure and pedicure collection. For broader nail care including tools, accessories and nail treatments, browse our nail care category. Free UK delivery on all orders.

232 products

232 products

Nail Polish

From the perfect classic red to on-trend chromes, gel polish that lasts three weeks to nail strengtheners that genuinely repair damage — our nail polish collection is built to be a properly complete system rather than just a shade selection. Stocking the trusted professional brands the salon industry actually uses: Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish (with a comprehensive shade range and full system support), OPI (the heavyweight nail brand including Nail Envy strengthening treatments and the Infinite Shine collection), and Andreia Professional Lab (the Portuguese specialist treatment-focused brand). Plus supporting essentials from Skintruth and Salon System. Whether you're a working nail technician, a salon stocking up, or a confident at-home user wanting genuine salon-quality results, the right products live here.

Choosing the right nail polish system for the job

Modern nail polish isn't really a single product type — it's three distinct systems, each suited to different finishes, wear times, and application styles. Get the right system first, then choose the colour or treatment within it:

Gel polish (cured under UV/LED lamp)

The professional standard for long-wearing manicures. Gel polish is applied like regular polish but cured under a UV or LED lamp for an instantly hard, glossy finish that lasts 2-3 weeks without chipping. Requires a base coat, colour layers, and a top coat — all cured between layers — plus proper soak-off removal at the end of the wear cycle. The right choice for clients who want maximum durability and don't mind the slightly longer application time. Our Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish range covers this category comprehensively.

Regular nail lacquer (air-dry polish)

The classic format. Goes on with a brush, dries in around 10-15 minutes, lasts 4-7 days with proper application and quality top coat. Easy to apply and remove, offers the widest shade range, and is the right choice for anyone who likes changing their colour frequently. Our OPI and Andreia Professional ranges include both colour lacquers and the full system support (base coats, top coats, treatments).

Hybrid gel polish

The newest format that bridges the gap between regular polish and full gel — applied like regular polish, but with longer wear times closer to gel without requiring a UV/LED lamp. The Andreia Professional Hybrid Gel Fusion Shine sits in this category. The right choice if you want longer wear without committing to the full gel system.

The Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish range

Why Hema-Free matters

Worth understanding properly. HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a common ingredient in many gel polishes, but it's an increasingly recognised allergen that can cause skin reactions, contact dermatitis, and even permanent sensitivity over time. Both nail technicians (with daily exposure) and clients (with weekly applications) are at risk. The HEMA allergy issue has become significant enough that the EU has restricted HEMA in consumer products, and many salons are actively switching to Hema-free systems to protect themselves and their clients.

Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish delivers the same long-wearing professional gel performance without the HEMA risk. The full range includes:

Halo gel polish system support

  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Base Coat — the foundation of every gel manicure. Provides adhesion, prevents staining, and extends wear.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Thick Top Coat — extra-thick top coat for high-shine, durable finish.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Hema-Free Non Wipe Top Coat — leaves no sticky inhibition layer, so no wipe-down needed after curing.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Sparkle Top Coat — adds glittery sparkle finish to any colour underneath.
  • Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 15ml Velvet Matte Non Wipe Top Coat — modern matte finish that's having a serious style moment.

Halo gel polish shade range

The Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish 8ml shade range covers properly comprehensive colour territory. Highlights from our stocked range include:

  • Reds and warm tones: Pumpkin Spice (warm autumnal), Hawaii (vibrant tropical red), Raspberry (juicy fruit-tone), Cranberry (deep wine red), 777 from the Married in Vegas Collection
  • Pinks and softer shades: Blossom (soft pink), Elise (rose-toned classic), Bliss from the Arabian Nights Collection, Lilac (soft lavender)
  • Blues and cools: Bali (vibrant blue), Blue from the Stained Glass Collection, Central Park from the Winter in New York Collection
  • Neutrals and nudes: Bare from the Natural World Collection, A-List from the Ho Ho Hollywood Collection
  • Specialty and statement shades: Gold Leaf (metallic gold), Mellow Yellow (warm sunshine), Ballgown from the Once Upon a Time Collection

Halo regularly release themed seasonal collections (Married in Vegas, Once Upon a Time, Arabian Nights, Stained Glass, Natural World, Winter in New York, Ho Ho Hollywood) — limited-edition shade drops that often sell out fast. Worth checking back regularly for new releases.

The OPI range

OPI is genuinely the most recognised name in nail polish worldwide and the brand most clients ask for by name. Our stocked OPI range covers both treatment and finishing essentials:

OPI Nail Envy strengthening treatments

  • OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener — Alpine Snow (15ml) — the iconic clear strengthening treatment, properly clinically loved for repairing weak, peeling, splitting nails. Apply daily as a base coat or wear alone for visible nail repair within 2-3 weeks of consistent use.
  • OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener — All Night Strong (15ml) — the maximum-strength formulation for severely damaged or weak nails. Stronger active ingredients for clients with significant nail recovery needs.

OPI top coats

  • OPI High-gloss Chip Preventing Nail Lacquer Top Coat (15ml) — extends wear and adds proper high-shine finish to any OPI lacquer.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Gel Plump Effect Top Coat (15ml) — creates a plump, gel-like glossy finish without UV curing.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Rapidry Top Coat (15ml) — fast-drying formula that sets the manicure quickly for clients on the go.
  • OPI Nail Lacquer Mirror Shine Top Coat (15ml) — high-shine mirror finish for proper salon-grade gloss.
  • OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat (15ml) — part of OPI's two-step long-wear system, designed for up to 11 days of chip-free wear with regular polish.

OPI Nature Strong

  • OPI Nature Strong Nail Lacquer Base Coat (15ml) and Top Coat (15ml) — OPI's plant-based, vegan, biodegradable formulation for clients prioritising clean-beauty credentials without compromising on OPI quality.

The Andreia Professional Lab range

Andreia is a Portuguese professional nail brand with a properly impressive range of treatment-focused products. The Pro Lab range delivers salon-grade base coats, top coats, and specialist treatments that nail technicians genuinely rate. All Pro Lab products are 10.5ml — the standard professional bottle size. Highlights from our stocked range:

Andreia top coats

  • Andreia Professional Lab Shine Boost Top Coat — high-shine finish, the everyday workhorse top coat.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Gel Effect Top Coat — gives air-dry polish a gel-like glossy finish without UV curing.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Matte Effect Top Coat — modern matte finish over any colour beneath.

Andreia base coats and treatments

  • Andreia Professional Lab Strengthening Base Coat — repairs and strengthens weak nails over consistent use.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Multivitamin Base Coat — nutrient-rich base coat infused with vitamins to nourish the nail bed.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Anti-Imperfection Base Coat — corrects ridges, discoloration, and surface imperfections for a smoother polish base.
  • Andreia Professional Lab Strength Boost Base + Top Coat — dual-purpose product combining strengthening base and protective top coat in one bottle. Properly time-saving for everyday wear.

Andreia speciality products

  • Andreia Professional Lab Gummy Peel Off Protective Film for Cuticles — applied around the cuticle line before polish, creating a protective barrier that peels away cleanly to reveal a flawless cuticle line. Properly clever for at-home users who want salon-precision finishes.
  • Andreia Professional Lab No Bite Bitter Nail Polish — clear bitter-tasting formula for clients (children or adults) who bite their nails. Genuinely effective deterrent, applied like clear polish.
  • Andreia Professional Hybrid Gel Nail Polish — Fusion Shine Top Coat — top coat for the Andreia Hybrid Gel system, bridging air-dry and gel performance.

Supporting essentials

Nail polish removers

  • Skintruth Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover (200ml) — gentle removal for acrylics, false nails, and sensitive skin. Won't dry out cuticles or natural nails as aggressively as acetone removers.
  • Skintruth Oily Nail Polish Remover (200ml) — moisturising remover that conditions cuticles and nail beds while removing polish. The kinder option for regular polish wearers.

Quick-dry sprays

  • Salon System Elegant Touch Rapid Dry Spray (125ml) — speeds up drying time for regular nail lacquer, helping clients leave the salon (or their bathroom) with manicures fully set rather than smudge-prone.

How to apply nail polish properly

  1. Prep the nails first. Remove any old polish, file and shape the nails, gently push back cuticles, and lightly buff the nail surface for better adhesion.
  2. Cleanse the nail plate with polish remover or proper nail dehydrator to strip oil and moisture — this is the single biggest step that separates polish that lasts a week from polish that chips overnight.
  3. Apply a base coat. Choose your base coat by need: Halo Hema-Free Base Coat for gel manicures; Andreia Strengthening Base Coat for weak nails; OPI Nail Envy for serious nail repair; Andreia Anti-Imperfection for ridged or discoloured nails.
  4. Apply two thin coats of colour rather than one thick coat. Thin layers dry properly, look more even, and last significantly longer. For gel polish, cure between coats per the polish instructions.
  5. Finish with a quality top coat. The top coat is what locks everything in, adds shine, and prevents chipping. OPI Infinite Shine for maximum air-dry longevity, Halo Velvet Matte for matte finishes, Andreia Gel Effect for gel-look without UV curing.
  6. Allow proper drying time. For air-dry polish, finish with Salon System Rapid Dry Spray to set the manicure faster. For gel polish, the lamp curing replaces drying time.

Frequently asked questions

What is HEMA in gel polish and why does it matter?

HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a common ingredient in gel polishes that has become an increasingly recognised allergen. Repeat exposure can cause contact dermatitis, skin reactions, and permanent sensitivity that affects both nail technicians (daily exposure) and clients (regular applications). The EU has restricted HEMA in consumer products, and many UK professionals are switching to Hema-free systems like Halo to protect themselves and their clients. If you've had unexplained skin reactions after gel manicures, switching to Hema-free is genuinely worth trying.

How does Halo gel polish compare to other professional gel brands?

Halo Hema-Free Gel Polish delivers comparable wear (2-3 weeks), shine, and colour range to leading brands like OPI Gel Color and CND Shellac, but without the HEMA risk. The Hema-free formulation is genuinely the differentiator — for nail technicians and clients with sensitivities, Halo is one of the few professional gel ranges that addresses the issue without compromising performance.

What's the difference between OPI Nail Envy and a regular base coat?

OPI Nail Envy is a clinical-grade nail strengthening treatment, not just a base coat. It contains hydrolysed wheat protein, calcium and other strengthening actives that genuinely repair weak, peeling, brittle nails over 2-3 weeks of consistent daily use. Wear it under polish, alone as a clear treatment, or as part of a polish-free recovery cycle. For genuinely damaged nails, Nail Envy works in a way regular base coats don't.

What's the difference between acetone and non-acetone polish remover?

Acetone is the strongest polish-removing solvent — fast, effective, but dries out cuticles, nail beds and skin significantly. Non-acetone removers (like Skintruth Non-Acetone) use gentler solvents that take slightly longer but are kinder to skin and nails. For regular polish wear, non-acetone is the better choice. For removing gel, acrylic, or stubborn glitter polish, full acetone is usually needed.

How long does professional gel polish actually last?

Properly applied gel polish from professional brands like Halo lasts 2-3 weeks before lifting or chipping. Wear time depends on application technique (proper prep is everything), nail plate condition, and lifestyle factors (water exposure, hand-intensive work). The "21-day" claim is realistic for most clients with proper application and reasonable care.

What's the best top coat for at-home use?

For air-dry polish: OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat for maximum wear, OPI Rapidry for fast-drying convenience, or Andreia Gel Effect for a glossy gel-like finish without UV. For matte finishes: Halo Velvet Matte Non Wipe Top Coat (gel) or Andreia Matte Effect Top Coat (air-dry). Choose by your application style and finish preference.

Can I use Halo gel polish at home without salon training?

Yes, with the right kit and proper care. You'll need a UV or LED lamp, the Halo base coat, your chosen colour(s), and an appropriate top coat. The application technique takes practice — proper nail prep, thin even layers, full curing between coats — but it's genuinely accessible for confident at-home users. Always remove gel polish properly with acetone soak-off rather than picking or peeling, which damages the natural nail.

Why does my nail polish chip so quickly?

Almost always a prep issue rather than a polish quality issue. The five most common causes: nails not properly cleansed before polish (oils prevent adhesion), too thick polish layers (don't bond properly to the layer beneath), no base coat (polish has nothing to grip), no top coat or worn-out top coat (no protection from chipping), and not refreshing the top coat every 3-5 days during wear (one quick refresh extends manicure life significantly).

What's the difference between matte and gel-effect top coats?

Matte top coats (like Halo Velvet Matte or Andreia Matte Effect) flatten any gloss, giving a properly modern matte finish. Gel-effect top coats (like Andreia Gel Effect or OPI Gel Plump Effect) do the opposite — they amplify shine for a plump, glossy, gel-like finish without requiring a UV lamp. Choose by the finish you want; the underlying colour stays the same.

Are these polishes vegan and cruelty-free?

Varies by brand and product. OPI Nature Strong is plant-based, vegan and biodegradable. Halo Hema-Free is vegan-friendly across the range. Andreia Professional Lab is vegan-certified. Standard OPI and standard nail polishes vary by individual product — check specific product pages for ingredient credentials if vegan formulation matters to you.

Shop the nail polish collection

Browse the full range below across all stocked brands and product types. For complete manicure and pedicure setups, see our wider manicure and pedicure collection. For broader nail care including tools, accessories and nail treatments, browse our nail care category. Free UK delivery on all orders.