Pink nail polish is like the LBD of nail polish: aside from nude or red nail polish, it’s probably the most timeless nail color out there. There’s a shade for every skin tone and it complements just about any clothing color you can think of. And the best part is, every nail polish brand out there offers an array of perfectly pleasing pinks to choose from, from pale pink to hot pink to mauve and more.
To add some pep to your pink nail polish step, we’ve gathered up all of the best pink nail polishes out there, sourced from Ipsters like you and our beauty editors. So next time you find yourself staring blankly at the polish selection at the nail salon, refer to this list of the 10 best pink nail polishes for every skin tone and style.
1. The Best Bright Pink:
TRUST FUND BEAUTY Nail Polish in Where’s My Money
When it comes to nail color, sometimes “go bold or go home” is the best course of action. If a bright pink is in order, our top choice is this neon, almost-lilac pink polish by TRUST FUND BEAUTY. “I wore this shade all summer and always received compliments,” says Ipster @rogue910. Because it’s so bright, it’s flattering on every skin tone but will contrast especially gorgeously with tanned, darker skin tones.
2. The Best Pearlescent Pink:
NAILS INC Nail Polish in Feelings Feelings
A pearly pink hue is perfect for everyday and special occasions alike. The NAILS INC polish in “Feelings Feelings” is so pretty it’ll have you all in your feelings. “Such a cool and unique shade. Love it!” said one satisfied Ipster. It’s got an ever so subtle peachy hue to it with a pearlescent high-shine effect, giving your manicure a healthy, radiant appearance when coupled with paler skin tones. “Subtle but pretty and feminine,” said another Ipster. “I’ll use this color come winter and spring.”
3. The Best Chip-Resistant Pink:
P.R.M.I.T BEAUTY GELIusion in Pink Cream
For a pink nail color that’s built to last, gel nail polish takes the cake. “Pink Cream” is our (and Ipsters’) top pink gel polish. “This baby pink was surprisingly opaque after just two coats, leaving no visible nail line. After using ESSIE’s Ballet Slipper for several years, I’ve definitely found a solid replacement!” said Ipster @inthenameofpolish. It's a long-wear polish that's resistant to chipping and flaking: for the ultimate long-wearing manicure, finish it off with a transparent top coat.
4. The Best Light Pink:
TRUST FUND BEAUTY Nail Polish in Adulting
The beauty of light pink shades is that they go perfectly with any skin tone (although tanned skin and darker skin tones will make this sheer pink stand out incredibly well). This “Adulting” shade from TRUST FUND BEAUTY is as pale as it gets while still being vibrant. One Ipster called it a “very pretty shade,” while another noted that it’s “amazing with darker complected [sic] skin.” Just make sure to layer this ultra-light (and vegan and chip-resistant) shade to make the color really pop.
5. The Best Creamy Pink:
LONDONTOWN USA Lakur Enhanced Colour by Londontown
We’re going to go out on a limb and say that creamy pink is the best nail polish color for everyday wear and any skin tone. It’s fairly natural-looking, subtle, and yet still very much visible. We’re loving this richly-pigmented, grapefruit color from LONDONTOWN USA. “Super cute Barbie Pink color,” wrote one Ipster. “Two coats at the most is all you need.” Another Ipster agreed that it’s a “very pretty color that goes with lots of things.” Plus, this cruelty-free, chip-resistant formula is infused with Florium Complex to strengthen your nails.
6. The Best Hot Pink:
SPACE CASE COSMETICS Little Pink Men
Hot pink makes any manicure or pedicure stand out in the hot summer months as well as the dark, cold winter months. It’s a stunning contrast to darker skin tones and a flattering, brightening boost for lighter skin tones. This “Little Pink Men” shade from SPACE CASE COSMETICS is the shiny, simple hot pink shade of our dreams. Not too dark but not too light, just a few coats is all you need for a daytime outing or a night on the town.
7. The Best Bubblegum Pink:
LAW BEAUTY ESSENTIALS Pink Pouty Pout
Bubble gum pink gives pretty much any makeup product–from lip gloss to eyeshadow to nail polish–a flirtatious and fun flare that can’t be beaten. This “Pink Pouty Pout” from LAW BEAUTY ESSENTIALS reminds us a little bit of Pepto Bismol in the best way possible, and its juicy, pink hue stands out against any and all skin tones. Mark this down as your go-to for the next bachelorette party, music festival, or any fun event you can imagine.
8. The Best Glittery Pink:
COLOR CLUB British Invasion
Nothing says “festive” quite like a glitter manicure. It’s got sparkle, texture, and a certain pizzazz that other matte and glossy shades just don’t have. This pink glitter lacquer, for example, will make each nail look like a shimmery pink snow globe–the perfect choice for a holiday party or summer barbecue. Apply one coat of this longwearing beauty for a quiet sparkle, and add another two or three coats for a sparkle you just can't beat.
9. The Best Coral Pink:
PRETTY WOMAN Starfish Kisses
Coral pink is similar to hot pink but with a slight orange or peachy hint to it. It’s great for warm skin tones, in particular. We think this PRETTY WOMAN “Starfish Kisses” shade is truly fit for a mermaid. Bright, vegan, and cruelty-free, you’ll look great and feel even better wearing this on your nails.
10. The Best Dusty Pink:
DECO MIAMI Nip Slip
For those days when hot pink and coral pink feel just a bit too strong, dusty pink is always a solid option. It’s typically muted, opaque, and creamy–well-suited for slightly warm skin tones and medium skin tones. For fancy events or regular days at the office, this subtle shade from DECO MIAMI has an air of sophistication to it. Apply at least two coats for maximum opacity.
Want in on all the Glam Bag fun? Take the beauty quiz now to get started. And don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.