Jelly nail polish [1] needs to check off certain boxes. The lacquers and gels used to create the colourful, translucent trend you've seen across Instagram should go on sheer (without having too thin of a formula), and set with a high-shine finish and durability that compares to its opaque counterparts.
It makes sense that many of the looks on social media have been created by pro manicurists, but we've found the nail polish colours [2] that fulfil all your jelly expectations at home. Check out some of our favourites, ahead.
Essie Nail Polish in Ooh la Lolly
Essie Nail Polish in Ooh la Lolly [3] ($9) is a sheer nail polish that has the same shine as your favourite glazed dessert. The shade is part of the brand's Glazed Days collection, a family of six limited editions with the same jelly finish.
Zoya Jelly Brites Trio Sampler
Zoya Jelly Brites Trio Sampler [4] ($30) is a set of three full-sized bottles of the brand's semi-transparent brights that dry down to a high-shine jelly finish.
KBShimmer On Cloud Wine Jelly Flake Nail Polish
The KBShimmer On Cloud Wine Jelly Flake Nail Polish [5] ($10) sweeps on to give nails a shiny, sheer wash of colour with floating flecks of glitter. Two coats gives you an Instagrammable jelly manicure, while adding two more will give you a more opaque finish.
Essie Nail Polish in Pink Glove Service
Essie Nail Polish in Pink Glove Service [6] ($9) is part of the brand's permanent collection. Layering coats of the translucent pink will leave you with a watermelon jelly manicure.
Le Mini Macaron Jelly Gel Polish
The Le Mini Macaron Jelly Gel Polish [7] ($12) is from the brand's Les Jellies Collection comes in five shades, and will give you your most long-lasting jelly manicure, no appointment necessary. Sweep on one coat of the thick, semi-transparent polish, then cure it in the macaron-shaped LED lamp. Repeat the process once more for a glossy jelly nail look that won't ever get chip or get scratched.