Discover the ultimate black gel polish brands that’ll transform your nail game.
OPI GelColor Black ONYX reigns supreme for its pitch-perfect black hue and effortless application.
Elevate your personal style with these stunning and diverse options. Uncover the secrets to a flawless, high-gloss finish.
Nail the timeless, bold look you crave.
Your perfect manicure starts here.
Back in Black: Sleek & Sophisticated Black Gel Polish
Are you ready to go back in black? If you’re looking for a sleek and sophisticated look, black gel polish is the way to go.
It’s a classic color that never goes out of style, and it can add a touch of elegance to any manicure.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best black gel polish? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
1. OPI GelColor Black ONYX
Best Overall
OPI GelColor Black ONYX
OPI stands out as the best overall solution for black gel polish.
Known for its true gelish black, it offers a bold and classic look. Easy application and removal make it user-friendly.
Pros
Provides a stronger, long-lasting wear.
Gives thick and shiny finish.
Durable and high-gloss black.
Cons
It may require multiple coats for full opacity.
In some cases, may require long time to dry.
2. Vishine Gelpolish Varnish Color Black
Best Easy Removal
Vishine Gelpolish Varnish Color Black
Vishine is one of the top gel nail polish brands available for at-home and salon use.
A top brand for both at-home and salon use. It doesn’t chip or peel, ensuring a long-lasting manicure.
Pros
Easy to soak off, making it the easiest to remove.
Good coverage.
Dries easily under UV.
Cons
The removal process can be destructive to nails.
Long-term use may result in dry and brittle nails.
May peel off at colored layers.
3. Modelones Gel Nail Polish
Best Value
Modelones Gel Nail Polish
Modelones offers a line of Soak-Off black gel polish, which is applied smoother, thinner, and lasts longer.
Applies smoothly and lasts longer, providing the best value for your money. It helps you achieve that perfect, glossy finish.
Pros
Has some unique colors such as glitter gel polishes, color-changing gel polishes, and holographic gel polishes.
Smooth consistency.
Affordable gel polish set.
Cons
Its matte finish can fade or rub away slightly over time.
Difficult to remove.
Takes a little longer to cure.
4. IBD Just Gel Polish, Black Lava
Most Resistant
IBD Just Gel Polish, Black Lava
IBD’s “Just Gel” black lava polish is easy to apply and easy to soak off, providing you with that rich, dark, shiny black you are going for.
Helps keep nails strong and healthy, making it the most resistant.
It offers a unique black lava shade for those who want to stand out.
Pros
Easy to apply and soak off and provides an even color.
Only requires 2 coats to be opaque.
No shrink back.
Cons
Some users reported that it requires multiple coats for full opacity.
It may become too thick for easy application over time.
5. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Topcoat
Maximum Shine
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Topcoat
This black gel polish is truly a miracle.
Sally Hansen provides a true black that only requires a single coat of black gel and one coat of topcoat for shiny, beautiful black nails.
Requires only a single coat of black gel and one coat of topcoat. Provides shiny, beautiful black nails with minimal effort.
Pros
Resists chipping for up to eight days.
Thick and shiny finish.
Can last up to 2 weeks.
Cons
Takes hours to fully set, leaving time for accidental smudging and denting.
Chips off in some cases.
Relatively expensive.
What Gel Colors Make Black?
What shades make up this magical hue? In order to make black with gel colors, you need blue, red, and yellow mixed together. The color will be more vibrant if the red is stronger than the blue in proportion.
But the key ingredient is of course blue. You need about 20-30% for the desired effect. I wouldn’t recommend mixing the gel colors together on a client’s real nails.
It might not turn out how the client wants and you’ll just be waiting all that time. Just buy a few extra bottles if you use them often.
Why Does Black Gel Polish Wrinkle?
Black gel polishes can wrinkle for multiple reasons, but the most likely culprit behind these small bumps in your manicure lies in how the gel was formulated. Sometimes black gel polishes can wrinkle because they are made of substances that are not able to be cured with UV light.
Another reason why black gel polish can wrinkle is that it wasn’t given ample time for curing. So give it 10 mins and double it!
There are two types of gels: liquid-based ones that cure using LED lights and those made from polymers like acrylics. The gel is thicker than regular polishes that’s why you need them to stay put under an ultraviolet lamp longer so that they can harden—and even more importantly, this process seals up their molecules better.
Can Blacklight cure gel polish? Black lights are a type of fluorescent lamp that gives off the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, meaning it is safe to use on your nails in the salon. But I would totally advise you to get your own LED lamp.
We have this great guide here on choosing the best LED lamp for gel nails.
Value Editorial & Buying debates
Choosing the Best Black Gel Polish Brand
When it comes to choosing the best black gel polish brand, there are several factors to consider. The first is the color intensity. Brands like OPI GelColor Black ONYX and IBD Just Gel Polish, Black Lava are known for their true black hues.
Another important factor is the ease of application and removal. Brands like OPI GelColor Black ONYX and Vishine Soak Off Gel Nail Polish are user-friendly and easy to soak off. However, keep in mind that the removal process can be destructive to nails.
The Benefits of Black Gel Polish
Black gel polish offers a bold and classic look that can match any outfit. It’s also more durable and long-lasting compared to regular nail polish. Brands like Modelones Gel Nail Polish are known for their smooth application and long-lasting wear.
What Differentiates These Products?
Each black gel polish brand has its unique features. For instance, Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Topcoat requires only a single coat of black gel and one coat of topcoat.
On the other hand, Modelones Gel Nail Polish offers unusual colors like glitter gel polishes, color-changing gel polishes, and holographic gel polishes.
How to Use Black Gel Polish?
Before applying black gel polish, make sure to prep your nails properly. Remove any old polish, push back your cuticles, and buff your nails. Apply a base coat, then apply the black gel polish.
Most brands require two coats for full opacity. Finish with a top coat to seal in the color and add shine.
Addressing the Controversy
Some people might be concerned about the potential damage to nails from using gel polish. While it’s true that the removal process can be harsh, brands like IBD Just Gel Polish, and Black Lava are formulated to keep nails strong and healthy.
Precautions for Using Black Gel Polish
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using black gel polish. Avoid skin contact and ensure proper ventilation during application and removal. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use immediately.
Final Thoughts
OPI GelColor Black ONYX takes the crown for its true black color and easy wear.
Vishine and Modelones are close contenders—Vishine for durability and easy removal, Modelones for smooth application and diverse colors.
These brands meet all your nail needs—bold looks, durability, and user-friendly features.
Whether it’s the perfect black hue or a unique color, they’ve got you covered.
Share your favorite black gel polish in the comments, and don’t forget to spread the love on social media!
