21 BEST Black Nail Polishes & Gel Polishes For 2023
Here are the best black nail polishes and gel polishes for this year.
Welcome to our curated list of the top black nail polishes for this year. We've compiled a collection of the most stylish and trend-setting options to help you achieve the perfect manicure.
Whether you're seeking a glossy finish, a matte look, or a special effect, these black polishes are sure to add a touch of sophistication and allure to your nails. Let's dive into the best black nail polishes of the year!
When it comes to a dark black manicure there's many nail polish brands to choose from. And that's the fun part, finding new and exciting glossy black or matte polishes to try.
Depending on their formulas, some brands have a dark black coverage with just one coat and others might take a couple coats to get a perfect black.
The black nail polishes on this list come in regular polish and also gel polishes that require a cure light to set the gel. Be sure to check the best tips for making nail polish dry quicker when using a regular polish.
Today we will discuss:
- The best black nail polish for hands and toes
- Matte black nail polish brands for an ultimate matte finish
- Glitter black nail polish for when you need a little extra
- Some cruelty free brands that offer black nail polishes
What is the best black nail polish?
The best dark and deep black nail polish will have a formula that glides on easily without flooding your cuticles. A black nail polish that has the best coverage will be formulated with high quality, finely milled black pigments and ingredients.
An oval shaped brush will go on much smoother than a square shaped brush so keep that in mind when shopping for a black polish.
Let's go through this list together to help you find your blackest of black nail polish.
Best Black Nail Polishes For This Year
1. Carbon Black by Atomic Nails
Starting this list of strong, this shop has been featured in many articles because of their quality polishes. Carbon is a matte black polish that's great for your hands and toes.
Customers are raving about its super quick drying time and how well it covers.
In the fall, it will complement your cozy sweaters and skinny jeans. And in the winter, matte black nails add a touch of glamor to your holiday party ensemble.
2. Black Diamond by China Glaze
One of the best selling black polishes is China Glaze Black Diamond. This polish is formulated with a balance of polymers, resins and dark pigment that creates a black lacquer that is long lasting, chip-resistant and completely black after two coats.
You can add on waterslide nail decals for even more looks.
3. Liquid Leather by China Glaze
China Glaze has many shades and Liquid Leather is one of the most popular black nail polishes that they offer for dark black coverage.
One of the reasons why this is a good black nail polish is because it's budget friendly and also has finely milled pigments that give a rich dark black.
There's something about black nail polish that just exudes elegance and drama. Whether you're rocking a classic black stiletto or a more modern glossy finish, this black polish is a good one to have on hand.
4. Black Onyx by OPI
Here's a good choice for when you want a premium quality formula. OPI Black Onyx can be applied in two thin coats to create a beautiful look.
OPI really stands out for their specially formulated lacquers. With proper nail prep you will get a shiny black manicure for up to 7 days. For best results use a high quality base coat and finish off with a top coat.
Watch the video in the OPI listing. They show you exactly how to prep your nails before applying the black nail polish.
5. Black Shadow by Gelish
An original soak-off gel polish in a vibrant, glossy, smudge-proof black. This black gel polish will cure in just 45 seconds with a UV/LED light.
Remember, black gel polish usually needs more cure time than other colors.
Once the black polish is cured, it will be smudge proof and give you up to 3 weeks of wear. Check out our article about gel polish ideas and tricks when using gel polish for the first time.
6. Memento Mori by Cirque Colors
A favorite among their customers who need a deep gothic black to complete their look. Memento Mori is a non-toxic opaque black cream nail polish that goes on beautifully in just one coat. This shade is a perfect base for nail art or for stamping on.
7. Alter Ego by Cirque Colors
For those days when you want a black manicure with a bit of extra bling. Alter Eco is a shimmery black holo nail polish. You are going to see perfect coverage after two coats.
You are not going to be able to look away once you are out in the sunlight because it shines on and on. There's something about black nail polish that just oozes drama and mystery.
And the best part is that black nail polish looks great on everyone, regardless of skin tone or nails shape.
8. Eclipse by ILNP
A black nail polish that turns from a deep midnight black to red depending on the light. Perfect for those nights when you need a little extra.
People often forget that black nail polish is not just a summer trend. In fact, black nails are perfect for any time of the year. Due to its versatility, black nail polish can be worn with any outfit and is suitable for any occasion.
Whether you're going for a gothic look or simply want to add a bit of edge to your outfit, black nail polish is the way to go.
9. Cityscape by ILNP
Did you know that ILNP also has an Etsy shop? Cityscape has been formulated with a pure jet black polish with holographic micro flakes.
Customers are raving about the depth of colors and how it shines beautifully in the light while maintaining the very black base.
10. Matte Black by Ellison's Organics
What you are seeing here is an ultra black matte nail polish that goes on in just one coat. This black polish makes a fabulous base coat for stamping or for adding glitter nail polish accents and nail art stickers.
While you could always head to the salon for a professional manicure, a black nail polish manicure is actually quite easy to do at home. All you need is a steady hand and a little bit of patience.
Next, apply two coats of black nail polish, allowing each one to dry completely before moving on to the next. Finally, seal everything with a matte top coat and enjoy your new matte black manicure!
11. Natural Bloom Black
A super deep black, breathable nail polish with a natural shine.
For a flawless manicure, the key is to start with a clean slate. Make sure your nails are filed and buffed, then use a base coat from the same brand to help the color adhere evenly to your nails.
When applying the polish, use thin coats and allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next.
Finally, finish with a top coat for extra shine and protection. With a little care and attention, you can achieve salon-worthy black nails in the comfort of your own home.
12. Very Matte Black by Shop Essential AF
Have you tied a nail wrap before? A non toxic nail polish wrap that will give you a high quality nail polish manicure but without the trip to the nail salon.
All you need to do is just peel, apply & file the little extra bits off and you have a perfectly black manicure that will last between 7-10 days.
Black nail wraps are super fun to try. Whether you're going for a gothic look or simply want to make a bold statement, these are going to be a great DIY manicure project.
Best of all, black nail wraps are pretty easy to apply and can be done at home with just a few simple supplies. You can even try them on press on nails. So if you're ready to vamp up your manicure, give black nail wraps a try. You might be surprised at how easy they are and how long they last.
13. Bad Dream by Addictive Cosmetics
A very black non toxic polish that can be used for a perfectly black manicure in just two coats. This black as night polish is very opaque and is great to use as a base for when you want to play with nail art designs too.
Shake Well. Agitator balls will help mix the product inside. Apply 2 to 3 coats waiting for each coat to dry before applying the next.
14. Black Gel Soak Off by Vishine
For those who only use gel polish, here is a long lasting black that should stay put at least 2-3 weeks. A UV lamp is required for this gel polish. You can also use this black polish as a base for cat eye nail polish.
Brush on thinly for every layer. 2-3 even layers coverage will give a fully saturated black color.
15. Total Eclipse by Eco Created Colors
Let's head on over to Etsy for another black nail polish. Eco Created Colors is an artisanal brand that cares about where their ingredients are sourced from. You will get a full black coverage in one thick coat, or two thin coats.
This is a true black cream color nail polish, if you're a lover of dark colors this is an absolute must in your collection.
16. Dark Matter by Spectrum Cosmetics
An ultra black formula that goes on with a shimmer holo in two thin coats. If you love a subtle shimmer and glittery black nails then you might fall in love with this color.
Customers are raving about their excellent customer service and quality.
17. Neither Noir by What's Up Nails
An ultra black stamping polish that's easy to use and goes on jet black. If you love to make nail art then this is great for stamping and making designs with. All of their artisan polishes are made by hand in small batches.
18. Deep Black Gel by Makynail
A beautiful black get polish that requires a traditional base coat and top coat to be cured under a UV lamp.
The base gel helps bond the black polish to the nail and then the top gel will give you that extra glossy wet look.
We have tried other nail art supplies from this shop before and had a really great experience with their customer service and quick shipping.
19. The Abyss by The Velvet Hexagon
This stunning black polish is at a great price point for an amazing formula. You are going to find this polish very quick drying and perfect for stamping or by itself for a perfectly black manicure.
Customers are loving how rich and dark this color is.
20. For Whom The Bell Tolls by Honey Bunny Lacquer
A gorgeous flat black called For Whom the Bell Tolls. This is a full coverage matte black polish that's opaque in one coat.
Whether you want to go for a bold look or something more edgy, black matte nail polish is the way to go.
This company states that they are cruelty free so you can feel good about giving a gift that does not harm animals.
21. Blackest Black by Venalisa
Here's a black gel nail polish that will need a curing lamp. This blackest black polish is made from resin and has a low odor and is high coverage.
The best way to apply this gel polish is in two very thin layers. With proper nail prep, this gel manicure will last up to about 4 weeks.
You can use the brush that comes in the bottle, but if you are making intricate designs it's best that you use a mixing palette.
Black gel polish can be difficult to clean off of a nail brush, we have a helpful guide and video on how to clean your gel nail art brushes.
One of the most important things when it comes to black nail polish is the application.
How to apply black nail polish:
If you've ever applied a dark nail polish, you know that the color can be notoriously difficult to work with. The slightest mistake can leave you with streaky, uneven nails that look anything but polished.
That's why it's important to shake the bottle of polish before you start your manicure. Shaking the polish helps to mix the pigments so that they go on evenly, resulting in a beautiful, perfect black.
So next time you reach for that bottle of black, remember to give it a good shake before you start your DIY manicure!
- Oval brushes are easier to apply a dark colors so keep that in mind.
- Black nail polish can be uneven so light layers is best if you need more than one coat.
- Avoid flooding your cuticles by not adding too much of the black polish to the brush.
- Gently mix the bottle of black nail polish before every use by rubbing it between your hands for about 2 minutes. You can also let the bottle sit upside down for a few minutes to get the dark pigments and glitters to come to the top.
- Lightly buffing your natural nail before application will help get perfect application and help the black polish stick. This is very important for a gel manicure.
- If you get any polish on the outside of your nail or into your cuticles you can remove it with some acetone and small nail brush.
- Apply the polish or gel slow and steady.
- Try not to go over the same spot more than twice or you will buckle the black nail polish if you are using regular polish. And if you are putting it under a UV light for gel, it can also warp.
- Black polishes can get thick when exposed to the air, you can thin them out by using a nail polish thinner. Check Prices On Amazon.
What colors go with black nail polish? Everything! Literally all colors go with black nail polish. Some favorite colors to pair with black are white nail polish, silver nail polish and teal nail polish colors. But seriously, any color can be used.
Thanks for visiting us today! We hope you find a new best black polish for your regular manicure or gel manicure. If you have any questions, leave a comment on our YouTube channel. We love hearing from our fans!
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