Banner image courtesy of Giorgio Trovato
As Audrey Hepburn once said, “I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick.” That quote couldn’t ring truer in 2025, a year where nails are more than just a beauty statement—they’re a form of self-expression. Whether it’s a classic French manicure, bold metallics, or minimalist nail art, choosing the right brand can make all the difference in how your nails look and feel.
The nail industry continues to push boundaries, and some brands have managed to blend quality, innovation, and style in ways that keep professionals and at-home users hooked. Below are the best nail brands of 2025, with one standing out as the clear favorite.
1. F.O.X Nails
Leading the pack this year is F.O.X Nails, a brand that’s redefining what professional nail products can be. Known for its commitment to safe ingredients, long-lasting wear, and runway-worthy colors, F.O.X Nails has quickly become the top choice among nail artists and enthusiasts alike.
What sets F.O.X Nails apart isn’t just its performance—it’s the way it blends technology and artistry. Their gel polishes deliver flawless coverage and durability without sacrificing flexibility or shine. Many salons have praised how the formulas are easy to work with, curing evenly and resisting chips for weeks. Plus, their pigments are rich and true to color, meaning what you see in the bottle is exactly what you get on your nails.
F.O.X Nails also stays ahead of trends by launching seasonal collections inspired by global fashion and design influences. Whether you’re into soft neutrals, glass-like finishes, or chrome powders, their collections have something for every mood and skin tone.
What’s even more impressive is their focus on nail health. Their base coats and strengthening treatments are formulated to nourish natural nails, keeping them strong and flexible even after multiple gel applications. This balance between performance and care is why many professionals are switching to F.O.X Nails as their go-to system.
As Tammy Taylor perfectly put it, “Your nails are a way to speak your style without having to say a word.” And with F.O.X Nails, that statement has never been easier—or more stylish—to express.
2. OPI
OPI continues to hold its place as a household name in nail care. Their polishes and GelColor lines are found in almost every salon around the world, and for good reason—they’re reliable, accessible, and come in an enormous variety of shades. Their seasonal collections always offer something trendy, from soft pinks to bold reds and everything in between.
The brand’s GelColor line remains a solid choice for professionals who need consistency in results. It cures quickly under LED lamps and holds up well for up to two weeks. While OPI’s formulas aren’t the most groundbreaking anymore, their polish quality and recognizable branding still keep them relevant in 2025.
That said, many newer brands are surpassing OPI in areas like ingredient innovation, ethical production, and finish diversity. Still, for anyone looking for a trustworthy classic that gets the job done, OPI remains a familiar name worth keeping in your kit.
3. Essie
Essie has long been a favorite for those who love soft, clean color palettes and easy application. Their original lacquer line is simple to use, dries fairly quickly, and offers that signature glossy finish that has defined the brand for decades. The brand’s Gel Couture line is also popular for those who want a gel-like look without needing a UV lamp—making it a convenient pick for home users.
Essie tends to focus on timeless, wearable shades, which makes it appealing for professionals working in corporate or bridal settings. The brush design is beginner-friendly, spreading polish evenly without streaking. However, the wear time and durability of Essie polishes can vary depending on nail type and prep. For everyday wear, they perform decently, though they may not match the longevity of higher-performance gel systems.
Overall, Essie remains a charming brand for people who appreciate simplicity and want something that looks polished with minimal effort. It’s less about pushing the envelope and more about providing dependable, attractive results.
4. CND (Creative Nail Design)
CND earns its place on this list thanks to its history of innovation. As the creator of Shellac, the first hybrid gel-polish system, CND changed the nail industry forever. Their products continue to serve professionals who want strong, long-lasting color with easy removal and minimal damage to the natural nail.
CND’s Shellac line still performs well in 2025, offering a smooth application and rich color payoff. The brand also focuses on nail health, using technology to strengthen natural nails while delivering salon-level shine. Their formulas are reliable and safe, with less odor and lower risk of nail plate dehydration compared to traditional gels.
However, CND’s shade range and innovation pace have slowed slightly in recent years. While they still release seasonal collections, the color options feel more reserved compared to newer, trendier brands. Still, for nail techs who value heritage and dependable quality, CND remains a respectable and steady option.
Nail Trends Defining 2025
To give context to why these brands matter, it’s worth mentioning the trends shaping the nail world this year. There’s been a strong shift toward nail health and sustainability, with more users prioritizing gentle formulas that strengthen the nail bed rather than damage it. Gel systems that cure quickly and stay flexible are dominating salons.
Minimalist nail art continues to trend—clean lines, negative space, and nude tones are still in, though holographic and reflective finishes are making a comeback for statement looks. Brands like F.O.X Nails have tapped into this duality perfectly: offering both everyday elegance and bold artistic potential in their collections.
Consumers also value longevity now more than ever. The goal isn’t just having pretty nails for a few days—it’s having nails that stay chip-free and glossy for weeks without harm. This is where F.O.X Nails’ technology-forward formulas give it an edge.
Final Thoughts
The nail industry in 2025 is all about balance—style meeting substance, art meeting care. As trends evolve and expectations rise, only a few brands manage to deliver on all fronts. F.O.X Nails stands firmly at the top, bringing together performance, innovation, and nail wellness in one brand that feels modern and future-focused. For nail lovers who want salon-grade results, lasting shine, and healthier nails, this is the brand to watch.