We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
No time for a manicure? The best at-home, sheer polishes for glossy, natural-looking nails
Hydrating and luminising, these are the tinted moisturisers of the nail-care world
Minimalist nail designs, whether it's a micro-crystal on a neutral base or an understated, "cloud" hue, will always be a classic as they are equal parts grown-up and polished.
But if you're short on time and in need of a quick way to feel instantly put together, a sheer nail polish with conditioning properties and ingredients such as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid will perform double duty in caring for your tips while ensuring they look significantly more elevated.
What are the benefits of a nail-enhancing polish?
"Clean, glossy natural nails will never not be in," says the manicurist and Essie ambassador, Michelle Humphrey. Modern formulas go beyond imparting a shiny, glossy effect, too. "They're now like skincare for your nails. Products like Essie's To The Rescue strengthens and supports weak or peeling nail plates, smooths imperfections and adds a neutral healthy, luminous sheen."
Think of them as a tinted moisturiser or a lip gloss for your nails, delivering hydration and glow with minimal effort. Thanks to their translucent or sheer nature, you're also likely to make them go the distance as any chipping is less visible and you don't need the steadiest of hands to achieve seamless application. They're ideal for use in-between gel appointments too, as they can help restore weakened nails and protect them from splitting.
How to use a nail enhancer
To maximise the impact of your nail enhancer, follow these simple steps, as shared by Humphrey.
- Use a cuticle remover (Humphrey recommends Essie Ready Prep Go), gently push back, and remove any dry skin with a cuticle trimmer.
- Gently buff the nail plate and cleanse with a nail polish remover to get rid of any dust.
- Apply polish in thin coats (try one to two layers), capping (using the brush in a rounded motion on the edge of the nail) for extra longevity. Most formulas don't require a top or base coat.
- Finish with a cuticle oil.
Ahead, 6 nail polishes and enhancers for a natural-looking manicure in an instant
Essie To The Rescue Damage Repair Nail Treatment
For nails that feel extra fragile and brittle, this non-gel polish performs similarly to BIAB in that it provides a strengthening effect. A triple protein complex, ceramides and MSM prevents further splitting or breakage, but the best part? It imparts a sheer, healthy-looking finish that lasts for at least a week with hardly any chipping.
A pink tint is all well and good, but having a diverse range of hues is even better, as Manucurist demonstrates. The Active Smooth range focuses on the health of your nails, as it treats it with exfoliating acids and vitamin E to hydrate while evening out the texture. It comes in four undertones to suit every skin colour.
OPI has mastered the art of the gel manicure, but if your nails are feeling a little worse for wear, give them a break with OPI Nail Envy instead. This vegan, strengthening formula protects against breakage and chipping through a patented Tri-Flex technology. It comes in multiple shades too, should you prefer to not go completely bare.
This over-achieving formula does the hard work of not only boosting the strength of your nails, but also hydrates, repairs and protects against damage using a blend of keratin, argan oil, acai berry and vitamin E. Use it as a breathable base coat, or on its own as a sheer hint of luminosity.
A French girl, bonne mine (healthy glow) effect - but for your nails. Dior Nail Glow is one of the first products promising that clean, glossy, understated manicure in the comfort of your home. Following the concept of its original Lip Glow, this gentle pink tint simply enhances your natural nail colour.
Nails Inc. Glow and Grow Nail Growth Treatment
Next to giving your nails a gentle, rosy tint, it also uses castor oil to help promote better, healthier growth. If your nails are prone to looking dry and dull, this will do the trick.
These are the lip balms worth keeping in your bag
The best lifting, smudge-free eye make-up for hooded eyes
Is mascara falling out of fashion?
10 classic, timeless red manicures to try now
