Remember the fun of glowing stickers or toys as a kid? From stickers on bedroom walls to glowing toys and bracelets, they made everything feel a little more fun. Now, that same glow has made its way to nail polish, and it’s brighter, better, and easier to use than ever.
Glow in the dark nail polish is no longer just for Halloween or costumes. It’s become a beauty trend for anyone who loves to play with color and light. Whether it’s for a party, a festival, or just a night in, glowing nails add something extra to your look. And the best part? Some of these polishes shine without needing a blacklight.
But not all glow polishes are the same. Some barely show up in the dark, while others glow bright and last longer. That’s why it helps to know which ones actually work. In this article, you’ll find the best glow in the dark nail polishes, how they work, and even how to make your own at home.
So if you’re ready to add a little glow to your nails, just like the fun stuff from childhood, but all grown up, you’re in the right place.
What Is Glow In The Dark Nail Polish?
Glow in the dark nail polish is a special type of nail polish that makes your nails glow when it’s dark. It contains tiny particles called phosphors, which absorb light when exposed to sunlight or artificial light. Once in the dark, these particles release the stored energy as a soft glow, making your nails shine.
To activate the glow, you need to “charge” your nails by exposing them to a light source for a few minutes. The glow effect typically lasts between 15 minutes to an hour and can be recharged as needed.
Glow in the dark nail polish comes in various colors and styles, including regular polish, gel, and dip powders. Some versions require curing under a UV or LED lamp, while others can be applied like standard nail polish. It’s a fun and creative way to add a unique touch to your manicure, especially for Halloween, parties, festivals, or special occasions.
Best Glow In The Dark Nail Polish
Here are the 14 top Glow In The Dark Nail Polish:
1. Sally Hansen Glow In The Dark Nail Polish
If you’re always on the go and need a quick fix for your nails, this Insta Dri glow in the dark nail polish offers a no-fuss solution. Its 3-in-1 formula, with built-in base and top coat, is made for those who don’t have time to wait. It dries in just 60 seconds and promises to last without smudging. The brush ensures a smooth and precise application, which is perfect for people who aren’t quite nail polish experts.
While the formula is thick, which might make it a bit harder to apply for some, it has the advantage of being highly pigmented, so one coat often does the trick. It also lasts up to five days with hardly any chipping, making it a reliable option. However, the color glows green rather than the expected vibrant shades like orange or pink. But, the glow under a blacklight is still fun, especially for Halloween or other occasions.
2. Glow In The Dark Taco
One of the most exciting features of this glow in the dark nail polish top coat is its ease of use. It applies smoothly, and you don’t need a blacklight to get the glow. A simple charge under any light will do. The glow effect is surprisingly strong, especially with two coats, and lasts for hours, adding a playful touch to your nails. It’s fun to see your nails glow at unexpected moments, especially at night, and the glow is vibrant enough to notice without overshadowing the underlying color.
The topper does leave a slight lemony tint, but this doesn’t detract from its appeal. The formula is smooth, non-grainy, and can be applied on top of any clear glow in the dark nail polish color for a glowing finish.
3. OPI Infinite Shine Long Wear Nail Polish
For those who want the glow in the dark gel nail polish that delivers both quality and lasting power, this is a good choice. Known for its chip-resistant formula, this polish lasts up to 11 days, which is perfect if you need something that doesn’t require constant touch-ups. It’s a bit translucent, so you may need multiple coats to achieve full coverage, but once you do, the result is a beautiful, glowing green that really pops in the dark.
If you’re not fond of the color green, you might be hesitant, but many of our friends have found this particular shade surprisingly vibrant. It’s part of a collection inspired by the Wicked musical, and it definitely lives up to the theme. For the best results, make sure to let each coat dry properly, as the consistency can be a bit thick.
4. Sinful Colors Glow In The Dark Nail Polish
What makes this glow in the dark top coat nail polish unique is its versatility as a top coat. It goes on clear and provides a bright glow in the dark, making it a good choice. It’s perfect for special occasions, like Halloween or parties, where you want a hidden surprise on your nails. Simply apply it over any color, and you’re good to go!
It’s important to note that a slight yellow tint may appear on lighter base colors, but this doesn’t take away from the overall glowing effect. For the best glow, charge your nails under a UV or flashlight.
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5. Cirque Colors Phantom Glow Nail Polish
This glow in the dark clear nail polish is a must-have for anyone who enjoys spooky nail art. It’s a perfect option for adding that eerie glow to your nails without changing the color underneath. When applied over any shimmer polish, it glows brightly after being charged for a short time under a light. The glow is strong, making it suitable for those who want their nails to stand out in the dark.
While there’s a slight graininess to the formula, it doesn’t detract much from the fun effect. The product is adaptable enough to be used with any polish, making it a favorite for those who enjoy experimenting with different looks.
6. Snail Works Vegan Glow-worm Extract
If you’re looking for the brightest white glow in the dark nail polish, this one actually delivers. This formula pops for its intense, noticeable glow that makes your nails visible even from a distance. It applies as a matte white polish by day, but with just a few seconds of light exposure, it turns into an energetic green that shines bright in the dark.
For the best results, apply two coats over your nails, and it will glow intensely. It’s essential to use a base coat for better adhesion and longer wear. Although it can pick up marks easily, a glossy topcoat can help protect the finish. This polish is perfect for those who want their nails to be the center of attention, especially in dark settings.
7. Fancy Gloss Pink Ghost Nail Polish
This pink glow in the dark nail polish is ideal for those who want a soft glow effect. It’s meant to be used as a topper, so you can layer it over any nail color you like. It doesn’t completely change the base color but adds a delightful pink tint glow that’s especially noticeable in the dark.
The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, and it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, making it one of the best options for those looking for a more natural product. The only downside is that it can dry down matte or slightly gritty, so a topcoat is essential. Despite this, the overall glow effect is fantastic, and it’s a great choice for those who love experimenting with their nails.
8. Ur Sugar Glow in the Dark Gel Nail Polish Set
When it comes to creating energetic, long-lasting nails that shine in the dark, this uv glow in the dark nail polish set has a lot to offer. The Ur Sugar Gel Nail Polish Set includes a variety of neon, glowing colors, making it a perfect option for anyone wanting to add some glowing colors to their nails. The polish delivers a smooth and easy application, with a formula that works well under UV light, ensuring a long-lasting finish without chipping or peeling.
One of the best features of this set is its highly pigmented colors, which are designed to stay vibrant for up to three weeks when applied correctly. It’s good for those looking for bold hues with the added bonus of a glow in the dark effect.
However, the glow, while initially intense, fades after a short period, requiring recharging under a UV lamp to maintain the effect. For people who are specifically looking for a constant glow, this might not be the best choice, as the glow only lasts for a few minutes before dimming. Still, it performs well in situations where you are under a black light or in dim settings.
The application process is easy, with the need for a base and top coat to ensure longevity. The formula is eco-friendly and non-toxic, which is a huge plus for those who prioritize nail health. Plus, the inclusion of six bright colors makes this set universal for different looks. While it may not glow indefinitely, it offers a wide range of colors and finishes, making it a good addition to any nail polish collection.
9. 3C4G Glow in The Dark Nail Polish Set
For those looking for a fun and safe, and best glow in the dark nail polish option, the 3C4G neon glow in the dark nail polish set provides a good choice. This set is especially ideal for younger users, as it’s designed with kids and teens in mind. It comes with five neon colors that light up in the dark, making it a great addition to sleepovers, parties, or just to add a bit of sparkle to everyday looks.
One of the major selling points of this polish is its non-toxic, water-based formula. It’s completely safe for young nails and is easy to remove, making it perfect for kids who enjoy frequent style changes. The colors included in the set—pink, orange, yellow, blue, and green. However, keep in mind that the colors are a bit sheer, and you’ll need to apply multiple coats for full opacity. This might require some patience, but it’s a minor trade-off considering the fun factor and the fact that the polish dries quickly.
The glow effect is impressive once the polish has been charged under a bright light, though the glow tends to fade more quickly compared to some other products. Despite this, the polish does give a fun, luminous finish, especially when exposed to UV light. While it’s not as long-lasting as other adult-targeted polishes, it works well for kids or anyone looking for a light, playful option that’s easy to use and remove.
10. Beetles Glow in the Dark Nail Polish Set
This Hot Pink Glow In The Dark Nail Polish provides an excellent option for those looking for bright, pigmented colors that shine under the dark. The polish comes in a variety of neon hues that give your nails an electric look. The formula is smooth, easy to apply, and requires UV or LED light for curing, making it a good choice for both beginners and experienced nail enthusiasts alike.
One of the key advantages of this product is its strong pigmentation. The glow is most noticeable after charging under a light, and while it doesn’t last indefinitely, it does glow for a decent amount of time compared to some other polishes. A top coat might be required.
11. Cre8tion Glow in The Dark Soak Off Top Coat Gel Polish
One of the best features of this gel nail polish glow in the dark is its ability to deliver a strong glow when charged with light. Its thick consistency ensures it covers nails smoothly, creating a nice glossy finish, making it a reliable top coat. When applied in two coats, the glow is intense, especially over lighter nail colors. However, it does require some light exposure (either natural or from a UV lamp) to charge the glow, so its brightness can vary depending on the light source.
The product is easy to use and has a low odor, which adds to its appeal. While it does give a milky look on darker nails, the glow effect is still visible, which can be a fun surprise in low light or at parties. It might not maintain its glow for as long as some may expect, but it still impresses with its shine and glow under the right conditions. Its main downside is that it needs consistent light exposure to keep glowing, so it may not work as well in dim environments. Still, it’s a solid pick for glow in the dark enthusiasts.
12. KYDA 15ml Glow In The Dark Nail Gel Top Coat
This glow in the dark nail polish green glow color provides a luminous effect that works especially well on lighter base colors. This top coat has a slight yellow-green tint in the bottle, but once applied, it remains fairly clear, ensuring that your original nail color isn’t lost. It’s perfect for adding a glowing finish without altering the base color too much.
One of the highlights of this polish is its ability to work well with chrome powders, creating a fantastic glow-in-the-dark chrome effect. The glow starts out bright and noticeable but can dim a bit if not continuously charged. While it doesn’t last as long as some other options, the product still impresses with its quick curing time and overall easy application. Despite a slight drop in glow brightness after a while, it remains a fun and affordable choice for creating unique nail designs.
13. U-Shinein Glow In The Dark Gel
The U-Shinein gel glow in the dark nail polish works best as a topcoat, giving your nails a luminous glow after exposure to light. The gel is thick but easy to apply, providing a smooth finish with just one coat. It has a milky white hue that may slightly alter the underlying color of your nails but still adds a nice glow effect, especially when charged under bright light or UV lamps.
While the glow effect is strong initially, it may not last long once in the dark. The glow begins to fade within minutes, which can be a bit disappointing if you’re hoping for a long-lasting luminous effect. However, this glow in the dark white nail polish offers a beautiful look and can last up to a few weeks with proper care.
14. Morovan Neon Nail Polish Set
This professional glow in the dark nail polish set brings a variety of deep, glowing colors that look beautiful under both normal light and in the dark. The colors are highly pigmented, and the glow effect is particularly noticeable in dark environments.
One drawback, however, is that the glow effect can be short-lived without frequent light exposure. While the colors are intense and rich, they do require some effort to maintain their brightness. Some may also find the glow less intense when applied over darker shades. Nevertheless, the set offers versatility and fun, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy bold, glowing nail designs.
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DIY Glow In The Dark Nail Polish
Creating your own glow-in-the-dark nail polish at home is an easy DIY project! Here’s a simple method using glow-in-the-dark pigment powder:
DIY Glow-in-the-Dark Nail Polish
What You’ll Need:
- Clear nail polish
- Glow-in-the-dark pigment powder (available online or at craft stores)
- A small funnel or a piece of paper
- A toothpick or small stick
Steps:
- Prepare the Bottle: Open your clear nail polish bottle.
- Add Pigment: Using the funnel or a folded piece of paper, carefully pour a small amount of glow-in-the-dark pigment powder into the bottle.
- Mix Well: Use the toothpick to stir the mixture, then close the bottle tightly and shake it vigorously to ensure the pigment is evenly distributed.
- Apply: Paint your nails as usual. You may need to apply 2–3 coats for the best glow effect.
- Charge the Glow: Expose your nails to light (sunlight or a lamp) for a few minutes to “charge” the glow.
- Enjoy: Turn off the lights and watch your nails glow!
Tips:
- For a more vibrant glow, apply a white base coat before the glow-in-the-dark polish.
- Store your DIY polish in a cool, dark place to maintain its glow properties.
Safety Note: Avoid using the liquid from glow sticks, as it can be toxic and doesn’t mix well with nail polish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How To Activate Glow In The Dark Nail Polish?
A1. Expose your nails to bright light, like sunlight or a UV lamp, for a few minutes. This charges the pigments, making them glow in the dark.
Q2. How To Make Glow In The Dark Nail Polish?
A2. Mix glow powder with clear nail polish to create your own glow-in-the-dark nail polish.
Q3. How To Use Glow In The Dark Nail Polish?
A3. Apply it like regular nail polish, ensuring it’s charged under light to achieve a glowing effect.
Q4. How Long Does Glow In The Dark Nail Polish Last?
A4. The glow typically lasts from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the polish and light exposure.
Q5. Is Glow In The Dark Nail Polish Safe?
A5. Yes, it’s generally safe for use, but some individuals may experience skin irritation.
Q6. Does Glow In The Dark Nail Polish Work?
A6. Yes, it glows in the dark after being exposed to light.
Q7. How Does Glow In The Dark Nail Polish Work?
A7. It contains phosphorescent pigments that absorb light and re-emit it slowly, creating a glowing effect in the dark.
Conclusion
Trying glow in the dark nail polish is an easy way to switch things up. It doesn’t take much effort, and you don’t need to be an expert to make it look good. Whether you go for a store-bought polish or one of the options like sally hansen’s glow in the dark nail polish or mix your own, this little detail can add something new to your routine. It’s okay to have joy with it, nails are meant to show a bit of personality.
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