4 DIY Home Manicure Must-Haves

By Holly Dawsey
Updated November 01, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
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The best new base and topcoat, plus the freshest shades in between.
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These products nail it

Credit: Lisa Shin

There's nothing quite like a fresh manicure to finish a look. Here, our picks for the top polish, base coat, top coat, and nail treatment.

The Experts:
Ilana Blitzer, Health beauty director; Paul Cucinello, celebrity hair stylist in Los Angeles and New York City; Francesca Fusco, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; Suzy Gerstein, New York City celebrity makeup artist; Julie Kandalec, celebrity manicurist and creative director of Paintbox in New York City; Joanna Simkin, New York City celebrity makeup artist; Alexis Wolfer, founder of TheBeautyBean.com; Jessica Wu, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Souther California School of Medicine in Los Angeles

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Nail color

Credit: Nordstrom.com

Essie Cashmere Mattes

($26; nordstrom.com)

These six polishes are classically crisp and clean—but with a cool satin-matte finish, says manicurist Julie Kandalec.

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Topcoat

Credit: Sephora.com

Deborah Lippman The Wait Is Over Quick-Dry Drops

($20; sephora.com)

"The odorless drops form a protective barrier and dry nails faster than a New York minute," Kandalec says.

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Base coat

Credit: Amazon.com

Orly One Night Stand Peel-Off Base Coat

($10; amazon.com)

This base eliminates the need for harsh scrubbing, soaking and even remover, our testers confirm.

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Treatment

Credit: Amazon.com

CND RescueRXX

($20; loxabeauty.com)

In the age of gel manis, tips could use a little TLC. This keratin-infused formula helps strengthen nail beds and softens cuticles.

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