We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Beauty 9 Best Breathable Nail Polishes (and What That Even Means) Give your manicure new life with some fresh air. By Casey Clark Casey Clark Casey Clark is a freelance writer at Real Simple who covers beauty and style. She has been a writer for nearly three years and has been featured in Allure, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Stylecaster, and more from a queer-centric, plus-size perspective. She's constantly working to debunk beauty myths, test trends, and review the hottest products. Prior to writing, she graduated from Hofstra University magna cum laude with a journalism degree and minors in public relations and creative writing. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Published on January 10, 2022 Photo: Real Simple / Amelia Manley When was the last time you had a professional manicure? Regardless of the type of manicure you had, chances are you probably didn't think to request breathable polish. So what is breathable nail polish and how does it differ from traditional nail polish? "Traditional nail polish is formulated to create a shield that prevents hydration from passing through. That means a base coat and topcoat are necessary to ensure long wear," says Brittney Boyce, celebrity nail artist and founder of NAILS OF LA. On the other hand, breathable nail polish is the exact opposite, as it attracts oxygen and moisture. "Think of it like contact lenses. Breathable nail polish is polish that allows for oxygen and moisture permeability, meaning oxygen and moisture can pass through the polish both ways," Boyce says. Why does oxygen and moisture permeability matter? For a long time, it was believed to improve the health of your nails; however, that's not necessarily the case. "Nails are dead and don't need breathing (they don't have lungs)," says Michelle Saunders, celebrity manicurist and Nailtopia brand ambassador. However, the breathable polish is actually responsible for maintaining the integrity of the polish so it can last longer on your hands. "The two-way permeability allows for additional hydration and moisture while preventing water logging, which is what happens when water is trapped in the nail bed, causing it to expand and create pressure that causes tiny cracks in traditional nail polish. In other words, it helps elongate wear time and reduce chipping," she says. Apply the polish in thin, even layers to speed up the drying process. If you're looking to give your mani some fresh air, here are nine gorgeous shades that you need to try. Nailtopia Nail Lacquer PHOTO: Amazon $7 at Amazon Nailtopia offers a one-of-a-kind breathable and plant-based formula infused with real fruits and vegetables that provide vitamins (A, B5, and calcium) essential for healthy nail growth. If you're not a fan of the hot pink, don't worry: Nailtopia has over 70 different colors to choose from. Zoya Nail Lacquer PHOTO: Ulta Beauty $19 at Walmart $12 at Ulta View on Beautycarechoices.com If you've visited a nail salon recently, then you've probably seen Zoya on the shelf. Free from the "Big 10" (polishes do not contain dibutyl phthalate, TPHP, toluene, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, parabens, and tert-butyl hydroperoxide), Zoya's vegan polish provides long-lasting color and is available in a variety of colors and finishes. Côte Nail Polish PHOTO: Côte $18 at Amazon View on Coteshop.co Made in the United States, Côte is free from harsh chemicals found in regular nail polish. This light coral pink color complements any skin tone and can easily be applied with its fine brush for an even, streak-free coat. With over 100 colors to choose from, you're bound to find a color that best suits your personality. Mersi Cosmetics Nail Polish PHOTO: Amazon $12 at Amazon Many Muslim people can't wear nail polish because it interferes with religious practices. Mersì was specifically designed to provide an alternative—this polish brand is completely vegan, halal, cruelty-free, and eco friendly. Plus, it's wide-angled brush makes it easy to apply to nails of all shapes and sizes. Nailberry Breathable Nail Polish PHOTO: FeelUnique $21 at Violet Grey This UK based brand is also known for its halal, breathable nail polishes. Free from the popular 12 toxic ingredients commonly found in polish, Nailberry uses its patented formula to provide a healthy manicure. We Asked Professional Organizers What Products We Need to Tidy Up Our Homes in 2024 Inglot Nail Enamel View on Amazon This water- and air-permeable nail polish leaves your nails with a rich matte finish. You can't go wrong with any of the 11 offerings, but we love this light pink polish for a universal nude shade. 10 Makeup Organizer Ideas to Streamline Your Beauty Supplies Entity Clean Nail Lacquer PHOTO: Entity Clean $7 at Amazon View on Entityclean.com This fast-drying and breathable creamy red nail polish provides the ultimate color payoff and a shiny créme finish—the providing the perfect backdrop for Christmas nail designs. Formulated with biotin, it works to strengthen nails over the duration of your manicure. Nails Inc. Vegan Polish $25 at Amazon $5 at Sephora View on Qvcuk.com This vegan nail polish is part of Nails Inc.'s breathable Plant Power collection. 21-free and cruelty-free, the formula is designed to last with a vibrant color payoff similar to its traditional polish counterparts. Ask a Beauty Editor: Are Gel Nails Bad for You?