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Are you struggling to find a nail polish that will not only shine and glow with your outfit but will last the whole week chip-free? Trust me girl you’re not alone, nail polish that won’t chip within the first 2 days can be a challenge. 

Well here’s the good news, after spending hours trekking through the wide web I have finally found a selection of 10 long-lasting, durable nail polish that will leave your nail polish chip-free.

Why should we have to go to the salon to have a chip-free mani? We shouldn’t! I’m here to bring you the very best long-lasting nail polish that will give you that salon finish without chipping.

It only gets better from here:

To make things easier, I’ve done all the research for you, so you can guarantee these nail polishes are the very best. With ultra-durable formulas that come in a range of gorgeous colors, it doesn’t get better than this.

Here’s a tip: don’t shake the bottle before use. I know this is something we all do but it can actually cause air bubbles in the polish, making it more prone to cracking.

But more on this later, you definitely want to check out my first three picks.

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Best chip-free nail polish

1.

Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish

best non chipping nail polish

Essie has to seal the number one spot for salon-quality gel polish that will last the time, chip-free, without using a UV lamp. You will need to add this polish to your bag now!

With two easy steps, Essie is unbeatable. All you need to do is apply 2 coats of your favorite color then a topcoat for shine and protection. Whether you’re looking for a dark-as-night blue, daring red, or a flattering nude you won’t be stuck for a choice. 

Turns out

It even removes like ordinary nail polish, all you need to do is wipe acetone on a cotton pad, no time-consuming soaking in harsh chemicals or scrubbing. 

The brushes are designed for precise application and full coverage, it is top quality at a surprisingly affordable price and can last up to 14 days!

Pros
  • Lasts up to 14 days
  • No need to cure with a UV or LED lamp
  • Easy removal without harsh soaking
  • No need for a basecoat
Cons
  • May chip before the 14 days are up 

Latest deal: Essie Gel Couture 

2.

Smith & Cult Nail Polish

I love this product so much for giving beautiful and glossy finishes that look as good as it does in the bottle. Smith and Cult’s will give you that salon finished look, at only a fraction of the price.

You won’t even need to worry about it chipping for days!

So many nail polishes I’ve tried over the year, especially the deeper colors, have either chipped straight away or stained my nails after use, lucky for you this one does none of the above.

In my own opinion, I feel that this polish is brilliant!

With so many colors to choose from you’ll receive compliments on every look, whether it’s night-time indigo, vibrant red, or weekend pink you’ll have a top salon finish each time.

Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Chip free
  • Vibrant and deep colors without stained cuticals 
  • Affordable
Cons
  • The brush is a little bit heavy

Latest deal: Smith & Cult

3.

Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish

No lamps, no tools, no damage. Deborah Lippmann’s nail polish is full of ingredients built to last without harming your nails. Just apply this beauty to your nails with a base and top coat and you’ll love the chip-free results that were built to last.

Not only does this formula give you that salon finishes we all crave, with full coverage shine, but it will also improve the health of your nails top non-chip nail polish.

Packed with oils and botanical extracts that will nourish and strengthen your nails, you won’t have to come back to cracked and weak nails after removing this polish.

But wait let me tell you that this polish will hold on to your nails for up to 10 days!

With a massive range of colors to choose from, from daring reds to seductive nude colors, you’ll love the difference this will make to your nails.

Although this polish is one of the slightly pricier ones on my list it is worth every cent!

Pros
  • Healthy and nourishing for your nails
  • Massive range of colors to choose from
  • Lasts up to 10 days chip-free
  • No need for lamps or tools
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish

4.

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish

best chip resistant nail polish

Nothing is more flattering than a nail polish that will compliment your outfit perfectly. Say goodbye to chipped nails and hello to flawless, nourished nails. 

Sally Hansen may be the answer to your prayers, with the two easy step process color and topcoat which dries in a matter of minutes you’ll have that confidence for that nervous first date or to wow your friends.

Plus you’ll never have to worry about your nails fading in the harsh UV light, this baby can last up to 14 days without any problem.

This high potency nail lacquer will perfectly match and complement and mood. Not only is it brilliant for rebuilding nails after acrylics or just nails that won’t grow but it will last super long without chipping. 

For the price, this product is a complete steal you’ll have to check it out.

Pros
  • High potency lacquer that will repair nails
  • UV protected
  • Dries in a matter of minutes
  • No need for a UV lamp
Cons
  • Struggles with returning this item

Latest deal: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel

5.

Orly Breathable Nail Color

best nail polish for working hands

This polish is for people that use their hands a lot, this should be top of your list. Orly’s breathable range is a brilliant long-lasting option that is a must-have!

It is water permeable, so it is less likely to crack in comparison to other nail polish. 

This nail lacquer is an all-in-one longer-lasting formula that will give a flawless finish, while also strengthening your nails. It is a healthier option that will leave your nails super hydrated, with oil and vitamins.

But let’s not stop there:

It will give you that smooth, silky, salon finish we all crave without the pesky chipping. It is also super affordable so this formula is unbeatable! 

Pros
  • Packed with oils and vitamins
  • Water-permeable
  • Healthy and strengthening formula
  • Long-lasting while remaining chip-free
Cons
  • May need a couple of coats

Latest deal: Orly Breathable 

6.

OPI Nail Lacquer

I have always loved OPI for its consistently reliable, long-lasting, vibrant, and wide selection of colors. 

The color range is breathtaking while all being at drugstores’ affordable prices.

The nail polish formula itself feels really luxurious and has a super-shiny finish, and the teeny tiny brush is perfect for painting your own nails.

OPI has revolutionized the nail industry with iconic bottles, superior product quality all with unique names for each that you’ll never forget. You’ll love collecting all the colors knowing you will have an outstanding finish every time. 

But wait, let’s not stop there.

The formula screams luxury, leaving a shiny, daring salon quality finish that will receive all the compliments.

Buying this product along with OPI’s base and topcoat your nails will look flawless for days all with super easy application!

Pros
  • Shiny salon-quality finish
  • Reliable and long-lasting
  • Drugstore affordable
  • Wide range of colors
Cons
  • None so far

Latest deal: OPI Nail Lacquer 

7.

CND Vinylux Long Wear Nail Polish

Now if you’re looking for a popular nail brand that won’t start chipping after the first couple of days while also being healthy for your nails, you’ll definitely want to add this product to your list.

There’s nothing worse than a chipped polish then finding damaged nails underneath.

Lucky for you, this polish is excellently formulated with keratin, jojoba oil, and vitamin E for healthier, stronger nails staying on for 5 days with no issues.

This polish is an all-in-one polish and base coat meaning they are perfectly mixed to give the longest wear and if you put a top coat on top you will be shocked by the results even after one coat of nail polish. 

You won’t even need a UV lamp with these babies.

CND not only will give you that perfect, salon, gel-like finish but it also comes in a range of different colors to choose from, from natural nails to everyday looks to even the most vibrant reds.

This product is true to its name, with super quick drying that will leave nails looking glossy and flawless for longer.

Pros
  • Lasts up to 7 days
  • Nourishing ingredients
  • Chip-free for days
  • Super easy application
Cons
  • Can begin to clump over time

Latest deal: CND Vinylux

8.

Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer

Morgan Taylor will give you that new standard of professional nail lacquer that was developed by professionals, for you. 

The exclusive pallette is unmatched, ranging from vibrant reds to subtle nudes, explore new colors with no boundaries to creativity. 

Morgan Taylor’s Nail Lacquers are infused with rare and precious elements that will give you a smooth, even, long-lasting color with a gorgeous professional finish. 

With so many colors to choose from you won’t be definitely won’t be stuck for choice.

But here’s the kicker it is completely free from all the harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP.

I fell in love with this product the first time I used it and you will too! 

Pros
  • Long-lasting professional finish
  • Wide range of color choices
  • Free from harmful chemicals
  • Smooth-gliding brush
Cons
  • Nothing so far

Latest deal: Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer

9.

ZOYA All Snuggled Up Quad

Zoya Polish is a must-have sealing number 3 because it can last up to 9 days with no issues with chipping or flaking while containing zero harmful chemicals. 

These polishes have some serious staying power and swear by the hardiness, even after the everyday abuse. 

 Zoya is the healthier color of fashion, being delicate even if you’re pregnant, it is the top vegan-friendly, long-wearing natural nail polish on the market 

Now, let me tell you something

Zoya consistently focuses on creating the highest quality products available at professional salons or for your and exciting home manicure. 

You’ll be looking like you’ve just walked straight off the runway with flawless nails that will last longer. 

Pros
  • No chipping for up to 9 days
  • Zoya is healthy even if you’re pregnant
  • High salon-quality
  • Range of colors to choose from
Cons
  • None so far

Latest deal: ZOYA All Snuggled Up Quad

10.

Butter LONDON Patent Shine Nail Lacquer

This product is renowned for its protective ingredients while also giving full coverage color to your nails. With the range of colors, you will never be stuck for choice.

Not only does this polish have protective ingredients it is also free from the ingredients such as formaldehyde, DBP, toluene, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP which are all damaging to your health- so win-win really.

This product is free from all the harmful ingredients that can be damaging to you and your nails. 

But if that wasn’t enough it also has UV protective ingredients so your nails will stay brighter for up to as long as 10 days! With the non-fading technology everyone will be complimenting you. 

Butter also offers a massive range of colors that will fit every occasion, from flattering reds to sexy nude colors to even the sleekest of black colors.

With the glowing reviews and people raving about this product everywhere you can’t go wrong. 

Pros
  • Free from any harmful ingredients
  • UV protective
  • High impact color that will stay chip-free
  • Wide color selection
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: Butter LONDON

Best nail polish that doesn't chip buyers guide

When it comes to painting our nails we all hate it when it begins to chip. Buying a nail polish that won’t chip is the best way to start but don’t just stop there, the prep, application, and maintenance of the nail all come into play when it comes to its durability. 

After finally finishing a gleaming mani it can completely ruin your day to find that your nails have turned into a chipped mess within the first 24 hours. 

Your hands go through a lot on a daily basis, more than you realize, so it’s important they get the care they deserve. Here’s a tip make sure you wear gloves for everyday chores, especially when exposed to chemicals. 

I’m here to go through everything you need to know for a chip-free finish for longer, trust me you’ll want to hear this. 

How to make you manicure chip-free for longer

Don’t ever shake the bottle: 

This is my first and one of the most important tips I will give you, as a lot of people make this mistake. Shaking the bottle will actually cause air bubbles in the nail polish and make it prone to chipping. 

If your nail polish appears to be separated or unmixed, refrain from shaking, instead roll the bottle in your hands or on a surface gently until the formula has been mixed back in. 

Trust me this will make your nail polish last longer and prevent chipping.

Look for nail polishes that are well known for their durability: 

Nothing is more important than checking the reviews as they will be the most honest answer you will receive when it comes to durability. 

It is all well and good a company saying their product will last up to 10 days but if it starts chipping after the 4th then it’s useless. With all the products on my list, I have double-checked that you will get the most out of the product and it will remain chip-free as they suggest. 

Clip your nails before applying:

The one way we always seem to chip our nails is when it comes in contact with other surfaces, the tiny impact can be game over for some nail polishes. It can be as small as tapping your phone screen, staring at your nails with frustration for a pesky chip. 

The longer your nails the most likely you will catch them on everyday items, shorter nails mean less contact with surfaces and will naturally last longer. 

Gloves should be your new best friend:

You put your hands through a lot on the day to day but the best way for your manicure to remain chip-free for longer is to wear gloves while doing everyday chores, like washing dishes. 

Constantly exposing your hands to water and chemicals can be very detrimental to your manicure and can be avoided with gloves. If you’re a bit of a neat freak like me you’ll definitely want to try this to save those pretty nails. 

Application is key:

Finding a high-quality, durable polish is a great first step but you don’t just stop there. You need a trusty top-coat and base-coat to hold your color in for longer. It prevents chipping and overall makes the overall performance of the polish much more durable.

It is also so crucial to apply thin layers and wait a couple of minutes between each layer for the nail polish to dry effectively. By allowing your nail polish more time to set it will transform the performance life of the manicure. Thick layers= weak and clumpy finish.

Make sure to top up your nails with a top-coat every couple of days to top up the durability of your nails. 

Check out how to make your nail last longer with this step by step article- Tips and tricks to make your manicure last longer

Frequently asked Questions

What is the best long-lasting, chip-free nail polish? 

The most reliable chip-free nail polish has to go to Sally Hansen’s Miracle gel as it can last up to 14 days completely chip-free. You don’t even need an LED or UV lamp to cure these bad boys. You will love how consistently reliable this nail polish is and with a wide range of colors to choose from you can’t go wrong. 

How do you keep your nail polish from chipping?

As said above, don’t shake the bottle, also make sure that the bottle is sealed tightly after each use.  Store the bottle upright in a cold, dark place to prevent clumping at the lid. Keep away from areas that tend to heat up like the shower as it can affect the bond of the formula. 

Try not to get your nails wet in warm water for at least 6 hours, so no warm showers. Apply the paint in thin layers and allow time in between for the nail polish to dry thoroughly.

These tips are all helpful for preventing chipping, don’t always just rely on the nail polish.  

Summary

In this guide today we have gone through the very top long-lasting nail polish that will leave your nails chip-free for longer periods of time. But we have also discussed ways you can prevent chipping yourself, check out my post for more tips and tricks that will be sure to make your nail polish last longer. 

My personal favorite has to be between my top three picks on my list, just as they are the most durable and long-lasting polish you can find on the market before switching to gel. 

All products have been selected and researched specifically for their chip-free nail polish components, with a wide range of colors to choose from you will be sure to have the very best.

Have a little look at the products I’ve listed along with the tips and you will definitely have an improved performance on your nails. 

jess rowley

Jess Rowley

Cheif Editor & Nail Technician Expert

ABOUT

Jess Rowley, a veteran nail tech, has been studying beauty over the last 11 years and has completed the nail technology program in California. Watching the latest trends in beauty, Jess searches for the highest quality products that make your nails feel loved.