Essie reviews and discussion

4.4

93% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Expansive, trend-forward color library
  • Smooth, even polish application
  • Long-wearing gel couture alternative
  • Iconic, salon-trusted brand pedigree
  • Occasional thin, sheer formulas
  • Inconsistent chip resistance longevity
  • Narrow brush challenges larger nails
  • Quick-dry textures sometimes uneven

Essie delivers salon-worthy color and generally long-lasting wear, according to reviews that praise its vast shade range (from Ballet Slippers and Fiji to Wicked), smooth application, and strong gel-alternative Gel Couture line. Reviews also flag thinner or sheer formulas that need 2–3 coats, occasional chipping and brush size issues, and mixed experiences with the quick-dry and Expressie brushes—making Essie a reliable classic with standout colors but variable opacity and durability.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

61 reviews and posts

  • Compared to other nail polishes, Essie just seems to apply the best and last the longest for me without chips.

  • Essie is a go-to nail polish for me. It has a great price point and lots of colors. It does chip easily but not as much as its cheaper counterparts. And I haven't tried anything more expensive to compare it to.

  • The staple nail polish at any nail salon or at home. A classic brand for a lot of us I think! What product really impresses me is their gel couture line, which gives you a gel like finish without a UV light. It really does stay on longer than regular polish! I’d say with the top coat, it’ll last around 12-14 days before I see any sign of chipping. The packaging is also super cute on these, with the little twist on the bottle. If you like doing your nails at home and want to avoid regular gel, I think it’s a good alternative 💅🏼

  • The colour choices are really good - there's a huge selection from brights to neutrals. Some of the neutrals have been a bit thin in coverage and I prefer solid colour. But the longevity is good and I like that I can pick it up in Boots or Superdrug.

  • I’ve used Essie products for years. They never disappoint, and I love all the choices of nail varnish they provide.

  • Cult favorite nail polish, what's not to love? Last long, lots of fun colors.

  • Got "wicked" and it's a stunning cherry red. Only need two coats for even coverage

  • Love the nail paints, they have a great colour range! They don't last an extremely long time on my nails though, I prefer the OPI nail paints to them. I do gravitate back to them for certain nude colours though.

  • Good standard nail polish that lasts all week. Great shine. Love how wide the brush is. Makes for easy application. The colour selection could be better. I don't own much Essie purely because there are few colours I like.

  • Great color selection and lasts a while, especially when I'm just casually doing my own nails at home. I will say that sometimes the bottles have a very strong smell to me, which I don't love. I'm sure there are more natural/clean alternatives out there but this is a good go-to if you just need a certain color!

  • I like the many options of colors. The nail polish stays on my finger for a very long time which is how I know. It is a good quality. The price is in comparison to the other nail polish is near it in the store too.

  • One of my go-to nail polish brands that's affordable and easily found at any major retailer. Great variety of colors and love how they release new collections every season :)

  • Just the gold standard for nail polish! No more words needed.

  • The colors are very vibrant and fun! It does take a little bit longer to dry then other colors but it is long lasting

  • I feel Essie is one of the most popular known brands of nail polish and they do have good wear and are vegan. I feel there are competitors that are more affordable and are comparable in quality.

  • This is hands down my favorite nail polish brand. The brush size is perfect for my nail beds and with a base/ top coat, I can get the regular polish to stay on for more than a week. I’m not a big fan of gel nails so this tends to be my go to. It’s also easily available, which makes it super convenient

  • Love Essie! I've been using this product since I was little. My favorite color is Matter of Fiction. Great quality and rarely chips.