Cosmopolitan Holy Grail Beauty Awards 2025: The Best Nail Products for Every Manicure Obsession

Discover Cosmopolitan's top nail polishes, press-ons, and manicure tools for flawless salon-quality results at home.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 30, 2025

Discover Cosmopolitan's top nail polishes, press-ons, and manicure tools for flawless salon-quality results at home.

If you’re tired of dropping major cash for weekly salon appointments but refuse to compromise on the quality and durability of your nails, Cosmopolitan’s 2025 Holy Grail Beauty Awards for Nails is your ultimate guide. After months of rigorous testing on polishes, gels, press-ons, and manicure tools, Cosmo’s editors present the finest picks for flawless DIY manicures and pedicures. Whether you love neutrals or crave bold colors, want long-lasting gels or instant press-ons, these award-winning products are vetted for performance, ease of use, and transformative results. Read on to see which products deserve a spot in your nail kit—and how to use them for salon-worthy nails at home.

Meet the Winners: Top Nail Products of 2025

Manucurist Ultimate Active Manicure Kit
DND Gel Polish Set
DIGI Beauty Sweet Peach Press-On Nails
Essie To The Rescue
Londontown Illuminating Nail Concealer
Nailboo Dip Kit
Olive & June Mani Press and Press-On Collection
Sally Hansen Salon Gel Polish
ImPRESS Color Press-On Manicure
Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Lab
Orly Builder In A Bottle
Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer
OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil
Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Nail Drill
Tweezerman Ultra Precision Cuticle Nipper

Manucurist Ultimate Active Manicure Kit

Designed for manicure minimalists and lovers of ‘your-nails-but-better’ looks, this kit brings together everything needed for healthy, glossy nails. The highlight is the Active Glow Raspberry polish, which gives a soft, filtered effect. The set includes high-quality cuticle oils and expertly crafted nail tools, offering chic packaging and impressive value.

Perfect for neutral, natural manicures
Includes strengthening oils and practical nail tools
Luxurious packaging for a salon-like experience

“I’ve found it in the Manucurist Active Glow Raspberry. The effect is like a soft filter for your nails and the packaging feels so chic and high-end. It comes in this kit that includes high-quality cuticle oils and nail tools.”
— KHADIJA HORTON, Senior Designer

DND Gel Polish Set

This gel polish set is the secret behind lightning-fast, professional-grade results at home. DND is beloved by salon pros for its durability and quick application. You’ll get rich color and glossy shine in under half an hour.

Salon-level results at home
Drying completes in less than 30 minutes
Trusted by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts

“It’s clear to me now why so many salons use DND products: They work, and they work fast…about a quarter of an episode of The Bachelor, I looked like I got a gel manicure done by a professional.”
— HANNAH CHUBB, Lifestyle Editor

DIGI Beauty Sweet Peach Press-On Nails

The modern press-on solution for stylish nails! DIGI’s Sweet Peach Press-On Nails last up to two and a half weeks—outperforming most competitors. Each kit supplies everything necessary for easy application, plus a range of adorable designs to match your mood and outfit.

Extra-long wear: up to 2.5 weeks
Complete kit includes glue, prep pads, and more
Fun, trendy designs lend instant flair

“These lasted on my nails for a whole two and a half weeks—longer than any other press-ons I’ve tried to date. I love that the kit comes with everything you need for easy application plus all the cute designs…”
— VERONICA LOPEZ, Sex and Relationships Editor

Essie To The Rescue

The go-to nail repair for damaged, thin, or brittle nails. Essie’s To The Rescue uses a blend of strengthening ingredients that help recover nail health after dips, gels, or acrylics. Editors rave over the visible transformation from fragile to strong.

Repairs and fortifies weakened nails
Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Restores nail resilience with regular use

Londontown Illuminating Nail Concealer

This award-winning nail concealer delivers a polished, instantly perfected manicure with just one coat—no need for base or top coat. Londontown’s formula banishes redness and masks imperfections, making nails look healthier, brighter, and more polished.

Sheer, illuminating coverage that blurs flaws
Quick-dry formula
Ideal for on-the-go manicures

Nailboo Dip Kit

Dip powder is a hot trend, and Nailboo’s Dip Kit stands out for mess-free application and long wear. Each kit includes multiple nude and bold powder shades, giving you salon-level results with added strength for up to three weeks—without using UV light.

Up to 3 weeks of chip-free wear
Strengthens nails during wear
No UV light required

Olive & June Mani Press and Press-On Collection

Known for their customizable shapes and curated sets, Olive & June’s Mani Press and Press-On Collection offer salon-quality nails in minutes. From nudes to playful patterns, these press-ons provide high style, flexibility, and durability.

Diverse sizing and shapes for a tailored fit
Easy application and removal
High-gloss finish and strong hold

Sally Hansen Salon Gel Polish

A staple for gel lovers, this polish promises ultra-shiny, chip-resistant color that lasts beyond two weeks. Sally Hansen gel polish is easy to apply and cures quickly for a professional finish at home.

Two-week chip-resistant formula
Wide range of shades
Fast LED curing

ImPRESS Color Press-On Manicure

ImPRESS nails are famous for their pre-glued pads that make application stress-free and mess-free. Their innovative fit and bold color selection ensure your manicure always looks fresh, flawless, and on-trend.

Pre-glued tabs for quick application
Multiple lengths and shapes available
Fashion-forward hues and patterns

Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Lab

This four-piece set is a cuticle-saving powerhouse. It combines exfoliation, hydration, and a perfect finish for cuticles and surrounding skin, making nail beds look healthy and polished even without color.

Includes exfoliator, repair cream, cuticle oil, and pusher
Restores, smooths, and softens cuticles
Ideal for prepping nails before color

Orly Builder In A Bottle

Take your nail extensions into your own hands with Orly’s Builder In A Bottle. The innovative formula lets you sculpt and extend nails naturally, minimizing breakage and damage.

DIY sculpting and volume boosting
Flexible, strong, and easy to apply
Clear polish base, layer as needed

Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer

This breakthrough polish is all about ultra-glossy shine and tough-as-glass chip resistance. Static Nails’ lacquers dry quickly, self-level, and come in statement hues perfect for any occasion.

Ultra-glossy, long-lasting formula
Rich color payoff in one coat
Self-levels for impeccable finish

OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil

Hydration is the secret to healthy nails, and OPI’s ProSpa Oil delivers just that. A blend of nourishing oils helps treat dry cuticles and cracked nail beds for a flawless look—even without a fresh polish.

Deeply hydrates nails and cuticles
Quick absorption technology
Travel-friendly packaging

Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Nail Drill

For serious nail fans, this portable drill streamlines filing, shaping, and prepping for gel or dip-manicures. The compact unit is simple to use and gentler on natural nails than traditional filing techniques.

Portable and rechargeable
Multiple speed settings
Reduces filing time dramatically

Tweezerman Ultra Precision Cuticle Nipper

Precision matters when perfecting cuticles—Tweezerman’s pro-grade nipper makes it easy to safely and swiftly remove excess skin, maintaining clean, elegant nail beds.

Ultra-sharp blades for clean cuts
Ergonomic grip for control
Durable, hygienic design

Editor Tips: How to Pick Your Perfect Nail Product

Consider Your Wear Time: Gel and dip powders offer weeks of wear, great for vacations or busy schedules. Regular polish or press-ons provide flexibility for frequent changes.
Assess Your Skill Level: Simple polishes and press-on kits are beginner-friendly. Builder gels and dip powders may require more experience or practice.
Think Health First: Opt for products with strengthening ingredients and hydrating oils if you’re recovering from harsh treatments.
Evaluate Tool Quality: High-grade nippers, portable drills, and quality cuticle pushers significantly impact your nail prep and overall results.
Match to Your Personal Style: From neutrals to bold colors, choose finishes and forms that fit your mood, lifestyle, or next big event.

FAQ: Cosmopolitan Holy Grail Beauty Awards Nails Edition

Q: How does Cosmopolitan choose Holy Grail nail award winners?

A: Cosmo editors rigorously test hundreds of new and classic nail products for longevity, ease of use, innovation, packaging, and transformation. Only products passing these high bars—and truly impressing critics—make the final list.

Q: Are press-on nails damaging if used regularly?

A: Store-bought press-ons, especially newer designs, are formulated with gentle adhesives that don’t strip the natural nail. Careful application and removal minimize potential damage.

Q: What’s the best polish type for naturally weak nails?

A: Strengthening formulas like Essie To The Rescue, nourishing oils, and dip powders like Nailboo help repair and protect fragile nails during an at-home manicure routine.

Q: How should cuticles be prepped before using polish?

A: Soften and gently push back cuticles using hydrating oils or creams; use precision nippers to remove only excess skin. A healthy nail bed leads to longer-lasting and prettier manicures.

Q: Can I achieve salon results with these products at home?

A: Absolutely. The award-winning selections are chosen for their ease of use and professional finish when used according to included instructions and editor tips.

Comparison Table: Top Nail Product Features

Product	Type	Longevity	Best For
Manucurist Ultimate Active Manicure Kit	Kit (neutral polish, oils, tools)	Up to 1 week	Natural look, nail health
DND Gel Polish Set	Gel polish	2 weeks+	Professional results, durability
DIGI Beauty Press-On Nails	Press-on	2.5 weeks	Quick application, fun designs
Essie To The Rescue	Nail Strengthener	Ongoing	Damaged nails, repair
Olive & June Mani Press	Press-on	1-2 weeks	Custom shape, ease
Nailboo Dip Kit	Dip powder	Up to 3 weeks	Strength, longevity

DIY Manicure Power-Ups: Tools and Treatments

Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Lab: Preps nail beds to perfection
Kiara Sky Beyond Pro Portable Nail Drill: Streamlines shaping for gels and dips
Tweezerman Ultra Precision Cuticle Nipper: Ensures clean, safe cuticle work
OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil: Rehydrates and restores, especially post-removal

Nail Trends for 2025: Editor Insights

Minimalist Neutrals: Soft pinks, sheer whites, and raspberry tones for understated elegance
Statement Press-Ons: Graphic prints, pastels, and 3D designs continue to trend for easy, bold transformation
Gel Innovation: Advanced formulas for faster curing and longer wear
Dip Powder Power: Gentler application, wider shade range, and nail-strengthening ingredients
Multi-Tasking Kits: All-in-ones like the Manucurist kit and cuticle labs redefine the DIY experience

Expert Manicure Tips from Beauty Editors

Always prep properly: Clean and shape nails before applying color. Use nourishing oils and avoid harsh removers.
Thin coats for best results: Whether gel, polish, or dip powder, multiple thin coats prevent chipping and speed dry time.
Keep cuticles hydrated: Regularly apply cuticle oil to maintain healthy nail beds.
Practice patience: Allow adequate drying and curing between steps for maximum longevity and shine.
Switch up your tools: Invest in quality nippers, drills, and polish removers for an elevated at-home experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are these products suitable for sensitive nails?

A: Most award-winning products feature gentle, nourishing formulas with no harsh chemicals, ideal for sensitive nails and skin.

Q: Is it safe to use portable drills at home?

A: Yes, with proper guidance. Beginners should start on low speeds, use gentle motions, and follow safety instructions with each device.

Q: How often should I apply cuticle oil?

A: For best results, use daily—especially before and after a manicure—to continually support nail health and improve nail appearance.

Q: Which manicure lasts the longest?

A: Dip powder and certain gel polishes (like DND and Sally Hansen) deliver the longest wear, typically 2–3 weeks chip-free.

Q: What makes these products Holy Grail-worthy?

A: Editor evaluation emphasizes real-world performance, innovation, design, and the ability to deliver salon results at home. Only products that impress and outperform make the winner’s circle.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete