Upscale nail products are generally more expensive due to the quality of the ingredients and the packaging. Expensive nail polish brands use unique finishes that are more expensive to produce due to the cost of the materials as well as the labor involved with formulating with them. Independent formulas are made in smaller batches, so they can use more expensive pigments, iridescent flakes, and shimmers. Premium packaging and custom formulas can also lead to higher prices for the final products.

When it comes to nail care products, it is important to use them safely and follow the labeled directions. Some nail products contain potentially harmful ingredients, but they are allowed on the market because they are safe when used as directed. Formaldehyde is an ingredient in some nail hardeners and nail polishes, and it may make nails brittle and more likely to break or peel if used too often. Other nail products contain resins that form a strong coating on the nails, rather than hardening the nails themselves. Artificial nails are composed primarily of acrylic polymers, and traces of the monomer are likely to remain in the polymer.

Some of the best nail polish brands worth shopping for include OPI, Essie, Zoya, Butter London, and Deborah Lippmann. These brands offer formulas that are quick-drying, chip-resistant, and long-lasting.

Essential oils and carrier oils can also be used to promote healthy and strong nails. Lavender essential oil, myrrh essential oil, and rosehip carrier oil can be combined to make a DIY nail strengthening serum. Lavender essential oil, lemon essential oil, myrrh essential oil, almond oil, and jojoba oil can be combined to make a nourishing nail oil. Avocado carrier oil, grapeseed carrier oil, jojoba carrier oil, carrot seed carrier oil, lemon essential oil, rosemary essential oil, and myrrh essential oil can be combined to make a nail strengthener.

In summary, upscale nail products are more expensive due to the quality of the ingredients and packaging. Expensive nail polish brands use unique finishes and independent formulas that are more expensive to produce. It is important to use nail care products safely and follow the labeled directions. Some of the best nail polish brands include OPI, Essie, Zoya, Butter London, and Deborah Lippmann. Essential oils and carrier oils can also be used to promote healthy and strong nails.