Obviously the pros know what they’re doing when it comes to long-lasting nail polish. They’re testing out new formulas day in day out to see whether any rival their hero go-tos.
It goes without saying that top nail artists have to feel confident in backing a formula, especially when they’re creating looks for discerning clients and A-listers. Their manis have to withstand red carpet scrutiny and even rigorous live performances. In general, they also have to look good through the day-to-day (phone scrolling, keyboard tapping and commuting).
It’s widely accepted that salon formulas are superior from anything you can get on the high street. And while pro-only polishes often can go the extra mile (anything cured with a lamp is best applied by someone who knows what they’re doing), drugstore nail polishes are innovating intensely to catch-up.
One polish in particular seems to have caught the attention of the insiders. I’ve heard two separate pro nail artists get breathless over the same innovation recently.
First, celebrity nail artist, Michelle Humphrey (whose clients include Dua Lipa and Sabrina Carpenter), let me in on the formula when we were chatting major 2025 nail trends. “Nail polish technology is evolving constantly, there are [high street] products that are super durable and last even longer than ever – try Essie Gel Couture,” she told me. “It’s a game changing formula.”
Then I spotted Iram Shelton (who counts Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Heidi Klum among her clients) sharing her love for the same formula on Instagram Stories.
“A realistic update of me testing the @essie gel couture nail polish,” she posted alongside a picture of her immaculate cola-coloured nails. “This is my manicure after 12 days of wear. I have been doing some home renovations, cleaning, working out and they’ve lasted SO well. The shine is still there and it’s grown out like my gel manis usually would. Kinda speechless,” she noted. She also clarified the post was “not an ad” and dropped the exact shade details – All Checked Out – so we can add it to our basket immediately.
There’s a ton of shades to choose from so you can match the colour to your vibe, and the best bit? It costs just over a tenner. Name another mani for that value? Nope?
For more from GLAMOUR’s Senior Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk
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