Cleaning up your beauty routine doesn’t usually include your manicure items. But for those looking to shift to a healthier regimen, a collection of vegan nail polishes can help. “Vegan polish is great for those who want to avoid using animal products and toxic chemicals. They're also perfect for those looking for a more natural approach to healthier nails," says Hannah Lee, Sally Hansen's global nail artist partner. Not just for vegans, Amy Ling Lin, CEO and founder of sundays, says that these kinds of nail polishes are ideal for those with sensitive skin and offer a cleaner alternative that aligns with a commitment to both personal and environmental wellness.
If you’re new to vegan nail polishes, you’re not alone. Despite the various brands available, many people are still mystified by the idea. The category has grown considerably over the years and there are tons of shades and finishes to choose from. Below, we tapped three nail experts to learn more about vegan nail polish and discover the best bottles to add to your collection.
Featured Experts
- Hannah Lee is a global nail artist partner at Sally Hansen
- Amy Ling Lin is the CEO and Founder of sundays
- Silva Nahabedian is the director of education at Dazzle Dry
What Is Vegan Nail Polish?
As the name suggests, vegan nail polishes are made without animal-derived ingredients or byproducts. But what exactly does that mean? “A nail polish is considered vegan if it contains no animal-derived ingredients, avoiding components commonly found in traditional formulas like crushed beetles, fish scales, beeswax and animal proteins,” says Lin. Instead, Lee mentions that those ingredients are typically replaced with natural, plant-based options.
Best Vegan Nail Polishes to Try
