opi top coat review

19 BEST TOP COAT NAIL POLISH PREVENT CHIPPING

Have you ever taken the time to paint your nails, only to find that after a day, they lose their shine and develop cracks? The best topcoats that we are about to introduce not only keep the underlying polish from cracking or fading but also prevent discoloration, enhance the shine, and overall protect your nails. So, scroll down to check out 19 top coat nail polish trusted by reliable nail artists. 

BEST OVERALL: OPI PLUMPING TOP COAT

The OPI Plumping Top Coat has garnered a cult-favorite reputation among both professional nail artists and everyday nail enthusiasts. Designed for volumizing, this top coat forms a dense, protective layer that rapidly dries to deliver a lustrous, gel-like finish. When applying, it’s essential to use a minimal amount, given the thickness of the polish; excessive application may result in a congealed appearance on the nails. To avoid this, ensure the removal of excess polish from the brush before application. While this cult favorite may not provide the same shine as a gel, it establishes a thicker film, enhancing the resilience of your manicure against scratches or chips.

BEST BUDGET: OLIVE & JUNE SUPER GLOSSY TOP COAT

The Olive & June Super Glossy Top Coat is my top choice among available options. Its high-shine formula, coupled with a broad brush, simplifies the application process. Not only does it prevent smudging of my polish or nail art underneath, but it has also extended the longevity of my DIY manicures more than any other top coat I’ve personally tested. While I haven’t personally encountered this issue, it’s worth noting that some reviews suggest a potential decrease in shine over time.

BEST SPLURGE: DIOR VERNIS COSMIC TOP COAT

The Dior Vernis Cosmic Top Coat is often hailed as “nail art in a bottle.” This limited edition top coat is infused with shimmering champagne flecks that not only elevate the appearance of other colors when applied on top but also impart an ethereal quality when worn alone. Unlike clear top coats, this one is not transparent, so if you desire a more glassy finish, it’s advisable to consider alternative options. The photo clearly illustrates the distinct characteristics of this top coat, showcasing its transformative and enchanting effect on nails.

BEST GEL FORMULA: LIGHTS LACQUERS TOTALLY GELLY

Lock in any nail design effortlessly with this gel-like formula that not only ensures a glossy finish but also provides a plumping effect for added allure. No LED light is required to set your manicure, unlike traditional gel polishes. This convenient feature makes it a hassle-free choice for achieving a salon-quality look without the need for additional equipment.

BEST QUICK DRY: SECHE VITE DRY FAST TOP COAT

When it comes to quick-drying top coats, Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat takes the lead. Its rapid drying capability is unmatched, ensuring your nail art remains smudge-free even during hand-painted designs. Beyond its quick-drying advantages, users appreciate its thick formula for maintaining long-lasting shine on nails. While some quick-drying top coats may shrink due to their fast-drying nature, Seche Vite stands out for its ability to preserve the integrity of your manicure without compromising on quality.

BEST CHIP-RESISTANT: CND VINYLUX LONG WEAR SHINE TOP COAT

CND, renowned for its UV-cured gel polishes, excels with the Vinylux Long Wear Shine Top Coat, delivering exceptional results even on regular polish. Reviewers praise its ability to “dry to a flawless finish,” ensuring chip-free and glossy nails for at least a week. However, for those with brittle or damaged nails, it’s essential to note that the formula may have a drying effect. To counter this, applying a cuticle oil nightly can help maintain well-moisturized nails and mitigate potential dryness issues.

BEST VEGAN PICK: LONDONTOWN KUR GEL GENIUS QUICK-DRY TOP COAT

Priced on the higher side, this vegan top coat proves to be worth every penny. Its unique feature involves setting when exposed to sunlight, ensuring that your nail color remains vibrant and pigmented even after spending a weekend by the pool. While it may be a bit costly, the long-lasting and color-preserving benefits make it a valuable investment for your nail care routine.

BEST MATTE: OPI MATTE TOP COAT

If you’re aiming for long-lasting matte nails, the OPI Matte Top Coat is a must-have. Achieving a high-fashion matte manicure is as easy as applying a single coat of this top coat. While many users swear by its effectiveness, some have reported that the finish tends to become chalky after a few days of wear. To prevent this, proper storage in a cool, dry place is crucial. Despite this potential issue, the OPI Matte Top Coat remains a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and enduring matte nail look.

BEST DRUGSTORE FORMULA: SALLY HANSEN INSTA-DRI ANTI-CHIP TOP COAT

Buyers rave about the efficiency of this quick-drying top coat, applauding its ability to deliver a glossy and durable finish in under 30 seconds. The incorporation of acrylic polymers has garnered positive reviews, with users noting how it adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring their manicures remain chip-free and resilient. The fast-drying feature is particularly appreciated for its convenience, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient nail polish top coat.

BEST GEL DUPE: ESSIE GEL COUTURE TOP COAT

Engineered for quick drying in under 30 seconds, this top coat boasts acrylic polymers that harden upon application, providing a robust shield to safeguard both the nail paint and the nails themselves, effectively preventing any breakage. We highly recommend the essie Gel Couture Top Coat for achieving an ultra-long-lasting gel-like durability and shine. You don’t need a UV lamp, and removal is as easy as regular polish. While it can be used over any polish, optimal results are achieved when paired with essie Gel Couture Polish, making it a worthwhile investment for a durable and glossy at-home manicure.

BEST CHIP-RESISTANT: CHINA GLAZE NO CHIP TOP COAT

This professional-grade top coat not only dries rapidly but also fully hardens within 30 minutes, providing a glossy finish while safeguarding the underlying nail polish. Its advanced formula is specifically designed to resist chipping, cracked polish, and peeling, ensuring your manicure stays flawless for several days.

BEST HIGH-GLOSS: CIRQUE COLORS LOOKING GLASS TOP COAT

For an exceptional mirror-like shine, Cirque Colors Looking Glass stands out as your top choice. This high-gloss top coat features a gel-like formula, ensuring rapid drying and providing lasting protection for your manicure, lasting for several days. 

BEST STRENGTHENING:  NAILS INC. 45 SECOND TOP COAT

For those with weak and brittle nails, NAILS INC. Retinol 45 Second Top Coat comes highly recommended by many people who attest that it indeed dries within 45 seconds. Formulated with hardening retinol, it proves to be beneficial for strengthening weak nails. To maximize its effectiveness, it’s crucial to wrap the edges during application. As a fast-drying polish, the formula contracts upon drying, and neglecting to wrap the edges may result in quicker peeling and chipping.

BEST UV-PROTECTING PICK: BUTTER LONDON HARDWEAR SHINE UV TOP COAT

Butter London’s Hardwear Shine UV Topcoat not only provides impeccable protection to your polish but also adds a touch of indulgence with its lightweight formula, akin to the smoothness of butter. This topcoat ensures a dazzling shine that remains smudge-free, safeguarding your vibrant color from fading. The result is a long-lasting and lustrous manicure that stands out with its impeccable finish and enduring brilliance.

BEST PEARLESCENT: PLEASING PEARLY TOPS POLISH

The Pearly Tops Polish is a versatile and elegant choice for your nails. Its transparent formulation reveals a subtle pearlescent sheen, imparting a touch of sophistication to your manicure. With a satiny matte finish, this top coat complements colored lacquer beautifully, adding a layer of depth and refinement. Alternatively, you can embrace a chic, understated look by wearing it on its own. The sheer and luminous quality of this polish allows you to express your style in various ways, making it a must-have in your nail care collection.

BEST 2-IN-1: SALLY HANSEN DOUBLE DUTY BASE AND TOP COAT

For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option and want the convenience of a combined base coat and top coat, Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat comes highly recommended by users. This time-tested favorite offers excellent drying time and contributes to achieving a chip-free manicure. While some users have reported bubbling issues, a simple preventive measure is to wipe off excess product on the bottle’s edge. Applying thin layers in this manner ensures optimal results and minimizes the risk of bubbling during the process.

BEST LONG-LASTING: ESSIE GEL SETTER  TOP COAT

Essie is praised for its exceptional shine and the ability to provide a gel-like finish for your nails. Customers appreciate its superb glossiness, making it an ideal choice for achieving a polished and professional look without the need for gel application. Moreover, formulated with an anti-chipping formula, it is designed to protect and enhance the longevity of your nails with just one coat. However, ensuring sufficient drying time (approximately 15 minutes) is crucial to avoid any potential smudges, streaks, or dents that may occur if not allowed to dry completely.

BEST FOR PREVENTING COLOR FADE: HERMÈS LES MAINS HERMÈS TOP COAT

If you’re ready to indulge in a luxurious nail polish experience, Hermès is the epitome of sophistication. Beyond its chic packaging, the formula goes above and beyond, mimicking natural light to create a stunning high-shine finish with a beautifully curved-depth effect. The attention to detail in both design and formulation makes it a standout choice for those who appreciate the finer things in nail care.

BEST FOR FRENCH MANICURES: PEOPLE OF COLOR NAIL POLISH TOP COAT

The People of Color top coat is a standout choice for achieving a professional glossy finish in your DIY French manicures. Infused with a subtle pink tint, it adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to your nail look. Not limited to French manicures, this versatile top coat also enhances the allure of opaque polish colors, making it a go-to for various nail art styles. Whether worn alone for a sheer and polished appearance or layered over vibrant colors for extra vibrancy, this top coat is a must-have for anyone seeking a flawless and versatile finish.

CONCLUSION

After exploring 15 products from various brands, you are sure to have more appealing options to consider. Each model comes with its unique features, so before making the final decision, be sure to read about the functions and effectiveness of each product. Hopefully, you will find a product that makes your hands stand out and more captivating.

THE 15 BEST DRUGSTORE EYEBROW PENCILS, TESTED AND REVIEWED

A good eyebrow pencil with brush is essential for stylish makeup. It shapes your face, lifts eyebrows, and fills in thin or light eyebrows. The best part is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on something extravagant. All pharmacies have eyebrow pencils of the same quality as the expensive ones. These pencils usually have two ends – one with a thin applicator and the other with a spoolie. This way, you can fill in the eyebrows and blend the colors easily. Customer reviews, experts’s advice, and beauty editors’ tests make it easier for you to choose the right eyebrow pencil. It’s all in our article. Keep reading to find out the best drugstore eyebrow pencils you can buy.

OUR TOP PICKS

BEST OVERALL: MAYBELLINE EXPRESS BROW ULTRA SLIM EYEBROW PENCIL

Maybelline’s brow pencil is a great choice for precise eyebrows. It has a really skinny tip for accuracy and a colorful formula that competes well with more expensive options. The pencil is light and creamy, so it goes smoothly through your eyebrow hairs without looking too thick or unnatural. It doesn’t leave any waxy residue either. One end of the pencil has a small tip for making hair-like strokes and defining your eyebrows, while the other end has a soft brush to blend the colors for a natural look. There are seven colors to choose from, covering blonde to black, making it easy to find a match for your hair color. The pencil has a gel-like texture that doesn’t smudge, keeping the color where it should be on your brows, even if you wear it for a long time. It’s nice that you don’t have to press hard to get a strong color. However, because it’s a retractable pencil, the tip can wear down fairly quickly. 

BEST BUDGET: E.L.F INSTANT LIFT BROW PENCIL 

If you have brown, blonde, or red hair, this eyebrow pencil is a fantastic choice, especially if you’re on a budget (it’s under $5!). The E.L.F pencil is a top pick because it’s super affordable and does a great job filling in your eyebrows. It does everything you’d want from a brow pencil – shaping, defining, and filling in sparse areas. The creamy formula is easy to use and gives your brows a thicker look that lasts all day, even after your dinner date. It also comes with a handy built-in spoolie. One thing to note is that the tip becomes less sharp over time, so it’s not the best for creating detailed, hair-like strokes. But overall, it’s a fantastic, affordable choice for fuller, well-defined eyebrows.

BEST WATERPROOF EYEBROW PENCIL: REVLON COLORSTAY BROW PENCIL

Revlon’s Colorstay Brow Pencil stands out for its remarkable staying power, providing a fine and precise application that mimics the look of natural hair. The waterproof formula ensures that the finish lasts for up to 14 hours. According tocustomers’s reviews, the pencil goes on lightly, creating a natural appearance, and the built-in brush blends it seamlessly. The users also notes the ability to adjust the darkness by pressing harder and praises the ease of matching the pencil to their hair and skin tone on the first try. However, it’s essential to be cautious, as the micro-tip is thin and breakable. Despite this drawback, the pencil glides on smoothly and effortlessly, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting, natural-looking brows.

BEST SMUDGE-PROOF: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP LIFT N SNATCH!

Even though eyebrow trends change a lot, having thick and well-defined eyebrows is always stylish. NYX’s Brow Tint Pen, recommended by makeup artist Bobbie Riley, stands out because of its flexible brush with a sharp tip. You can use it at different angles to fill in thin spots or create thicker lines. This smart design makes it easy to control the brush while shaping your eyebrows quickly. The pens come in 10 shades, and they feel light on your skin, unlike heavy pomades. They are also smudge-proof and buildable, letting you choose how dark you want the color. Once you get the hang of using the liquid formula, the color stays in place for up to 16 hours. The only downside is that it might take some trial and error to master the application technique.

BEST FOR LONG WEAR: MILANI STAY PUT PRECISION BROW PENCIL 

This eyebrow pencil is great because it has a really thin tip that helps make your eyebrows look natural with realistic strokes. It gives a strong color that lasts all day without fading or smudging. There’s also a spoolie on the other end for blending. Just be careful when using it because the tip can break easily. If you want a pencil that stays on all day without smudging, especially if you’re careful with the thin tip, give this one from Milani a try. It gives intense color, resists fading and smudging, and has a thin tip for precise strokes. Just watch out for the thin tip breaking easily.

BEST FOR BLONDE: ULTA BEAUTY ULTRA SIM BROW PENCIL

We really like Ulta’s brow pencil, especially if you have light-colored brows. It offers 12 shades, with five designed for blonde hair like taupe, ash taupe (great for cooler tones and gray hair), blonde, ash brown, and soft brown. While it’s not waterproof and doesn’t stay on as long as some others, the pencil has a super-fine tip, making it easy to create natural-looking strokes. We appreciate that it comes in several light shades, has a precision tip, and is clean and cruelty-free. On the downside, it’s not waterproof, and its longevity falls short compared to some alternatives.

BEST FOR A NATURAL-FINISH: PHYSICIAN’S FORMULA SLIM BROW PENCIL

If you want a pencil that shapes your brows without making them look too bold, try this retractable eyebrow pencil. It makes precise strokes and is great for filling in gaps, giving you smooth and well-defined brows. You can even use it as an eyeliner, and it won’t smudge or go everywhere, even after a whole day. It could be a game-changer in your makeup routine. Just keep in mind that there are only a few shades available.

BEST NATURAL: BURT’S BEES NATURAL BROWN PENCIL

Burt’s Bees made an eyebrow pencil that not only works but also has good stuff from nature. It’s made with friendly ingredients like moisturizing jojoba oil and shea butter, and it’s 99.9 percent natural. Even the wood for the pencil comes from sustainable sources. It’s great for shaping and filling in sparse brows because it goes on smoothly and evenly. But if you want really thin lines, it might not be the best choice. Also, it’s a bit tricky to sharpen.

BEST CRUELTY-FREE: RIMMEL KIND & FREE BROW DEFINER

This eyebrow pencil has a thin 1.7 mm tip, allowing for precise application and delivering well-groomed, natural-looking eyebrows. A notable advantage is that it is fully compliant with vegan and cruelty-free standards, and it is formulated without added flavorings or minerals. The included eyebrow brush is appreciated for its small, pointed tip, ensuring continued usefulness. Users of this product express high satisfaction. While this formula excels in being vegan and cruelty-free, one potential downside is that it may smudge slightly throughout the day.

BEST FOR SPARSE BROWS: WET n WILD ULTIMATE EYEBROW RETRACTABLE DEFINER PENCIL

Wet n Wild has a solution for sparse eyebrows with its retractable triangular head pencil. The anti-rub formula ensures long-lasting color by coating hairs with a blend of pigment and brush wax. This product stands out for its durability, surpassing some higher-end alternatives you might have tried. It stays in place without smudging, and the slanted tip allows for easy one-swipe application. The brush is also commendable, providing a non-waxy and non-greasy feel. However, one drawback is that it may stain when worn throughout the day.

BEST FOR OILY SKIN: MORPHE BROWN DUAL-ENDED PENCIL & SPOOLIE

You’ve probably faced the frustration of makeup melting off during the day if you have oily skin. Morphe’s dual-ended mechanical pencil tackles this issue with a hard wax formula, ensuring lasting color without pulling on the skin. A satisfied customer notes, “Best eyebrow pencil around!! I can’t believe how affordable it is. Smooth application, not blurry. Wearing it all day, I received so many compliments! An absolute gem.” The pencil is highly pigmented, but one drawback is that the formula can be a bit drying.

BEST FINE POINT: JUVIA’S PLACE I SCULPT, I SHADE BROW PENCIL

Though a bit pricier than the aforementioned products, we adore this pencil for its ability to draw fine, hair-like lines. Equipped with an ultra-slim precision tip, the retractable pencil achieves a completely natural and sculpted appearance. The long-lasting formula glides on smoothly, avoiding any cakey look. The built-in brush at the opposite end is a favorite for adding fullness by fluffing up the brows. The drawback is the limited shade range – currently offering only four options.

BEST COLOR PAYOFF: THE LIP BAR VEGAN BROWN GEL + BROW PENCIL

Highlighted for its impressive pigmentation, angled pencil tip for enhanced definition, and adherence to vegan and cruelty-free standards, The Lip Bar’s brow gel and pencil combo boasts notable features. The creamy formula ensures a smooth application, but its standout quality lies in the exceptional color payoff. Utilize the angled pencil tip for precision and filling in sparse areas, and then groom your brows with the attached spoolie and gel. However, adjusting to the gel-like consistency may take some time, and the product falls short in longevity compared to some alternatives we’ve tested.

BEST SHADE RANGE: JOAH BEAUTY BROWN 

JOAH Beauty Brown is a good choice for eyebrows. It helps make them look nice. The pencil has a fine tip, so it’s good for making your eyebrows just right. It’s also not too expensive. Its micro tip and cream formula, which settle into a fine powder once applied, provide a natural finish for brows; they’ll look just like your own, just a little more fine-tuned. The pencil has you covered if you just need to fill in a few sparse areas, but since they’re not highly-pigmented, it can take time to build up the colors if you want bolder results. So, if you want something that stays on all day, you might want to try something else.

BEST FOR DEFINED ARCHES: COLOURPOP BROW BOSS PENCIL

This retractable eyebrow pencil stands out with its super-thin precision tip, allowing you to outline your brows, create feather-like strokes, and achieve precise definition. The long-wearing formula is a favorite, resisting smudging and fading for several hours. With nine available shades, from soft black to warm blonde, you can effortlessly find the perfect match for your brows. However, it’s worth noting that some users have experienced issues with the tip breaking or falling out. Despite this, we appreciate the retractable precision tip, the long-lasting formula, and the variety of shades. On the downside, the tip’s tendency to break or fall out is a potential drawback.

HOW TO APPLY EYEBROW PENCIL

Applying an eyebrow pencil can help define and enhance your eyebrows. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply an eyebrow pencil

Start with Clean Brows

Begin your eyebrow routine by ensuring your eyebrows are pristine and free of any makeup or oils. Use a mild cleanser or a reliable makeup remover to thoroughly cleanse the brow area, creating a clean and smooth surface for precise eyebrow pencil application. 

Brush Your Brows

Use a spoolie brush to comb through your eyebrows, smoothing out any messy hairs and making your eyebrows look neat. This helps create a good base for applying the eyebrow pencil, making it easier to get a polished and natural look.

Choose the Right Shade

When choosing an eyebrow pencil, go for a color that’s like your own eyebrows or a bit lighter. It’s best to steer clear of shades that are too dark because they might not look natural. Stick to a color that enhances your eyebrows without making them seem too heavy or artificial.

Outline Your Brows

Start by drawing short, light lines along the top and bottom edges of your eyebrows. Follow the natural shape of your brows to create a clean outline; this defines your eyebrows without making them look too bold or unnatural.

Fill in Sparse Areas

If you have sparse or empty brow areas, use a pencil to fill them in with short, thin strokes. Mimic the look of natural hair for a more realistic appearance. Be skillful and meticulous in this step because it is easy to draw the wrong eyebrow shape.

Blend with a Spoolie

After applying the pencil, use the spoolie brush again to blend the product and soften harsh lines. This helps create a more natural and polished finish. At this step, you are almost done with beautiful eyebrows.

Set with Brow Gel (Optional)

If you want to set your eyebrows in place and add some extra definition, you can use a clear or tinted brow gel. This step is optional but can help keep your eyebrows in shape throughout the day.

Clean Up Edges (Optional)

If needed, you can use a concealer or highlighter around the edges of your eyebrows to clean up and define the shape further.

HOW WE RESEARCHED EYEBROW PENCIL

To create this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the top eyebrow pencils available today. We carefully evaluated each product, considering factors such as the variety of colors available, the size and shape of the pen tip, their waterproofness, and how long they last. To ensure our recommendations match real-world performance, we personally tested several pencils. Additionally, we sought guidance from celebrity makeup artist and several other experts, gaining valuable insights into choosing the right eyebrow products. Key attributes we tested for each drugstore eyebrow pencil included the variety of colors available, the size and shape of the tip, their water resistance, and their durability.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A DRUGSTORE EYEBROW PENCIL

When searching for a drugstore eyebrow pencil, there are several key factors to consider. 

Firstly, focus on the pencil’s shade range to ensure there’s a suitable match for your natural eyebrow color. Look for pencils that offer a variety of shades to accommodate different hair tones. 

Secondly, consider the pencil’s formula and texture. Opt for a pencil with a smooth and blendable formula that doesn’t feel waxy or greasy, allowing for easy application and a natural finish. 

Lastly, assess the pencil’s design and features. Dual-ended pencils with a thin applicator on one side and a spoolie brush on the other can facilitate precision and blending, simplifying your eyebrow grooming routine. 

Additionally, check customer reviews for insights into factors like longevity, smudging, and ease of use before making your selection.

FAQ

1. Is it bad to sleep with an eyebrow pencil on?

Yes. We strongly advise against leaving any makeup on overnight. Even underneath eyebrow hair, pores can still get clogged, leading to breakouts.

2. Should eyebrows be darker or lighter?

Your eyebrows should be one to two shades darker than your hair and have a less vibrant color.

3. Which eyebrow shape is most attractive?

The soft angled eyebrow shape is highly desired. It ascends straight and gently curves around at the top before descending.

4. Who has the best eyebrows in the world?

Leading the rankings is Kylie Jenner, claiming the top spot with an impressive EPI score of 12 – her soft-angled brows harmonize flawlessly with her square face shape.

5. Do good eyebrows make you prettier?

Choosing the correct eyebrow shape can enhance your look and give you a more youthful appearance.

CONCLUSION

When choosing a drugstore eyebrow pencil, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to keep in mind include the type of tip you prefer, the formula (waterproof, smudge-proof, etc.), the shade range, and the price. Considering factors such as your desired finish, ease of application, and individual preferences, you can confidently choose a drugstore eyebrow pencil that suits your needs and enhances your overall makeup routine. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find a drugstore eyebrow pencil that you love.