Sure, you might have heard all about color-changing rings, but have you ever heard about color-changing nail polish?
Quickly becoming one of the most popular alternatives to regular nail polish, color-changing nail polish has caused quite the stir across social media as of late, but is it worth the hype? We’re here to help you decide.
Even though there is a variety of different color changing nail polishes currently available to buy on the market, not all of them are made equal - and the last thing you want is to invest in a collection of color-changing nail polishes, only to discover that they don’t work in the way that you’d like.
So, how can you spot the best color-changing nail polish from the rest?
Luckily enough, this is where we come in to lend a helping hand!
Regardless of whether you want to switch up your regular nail polishes for something a little more fun, or you're a professional nail technician that wants to extend their collection - you’re sure to find the perfect color-changing nail polishes here.
Read on to discover more!
EDITORS CHOICE
BEST VALUE
OUR TOP PICK
Kicking off our list of best color-changing nail polishes, we have selected the UR SUGAR Gel Nail Polish Set! Let’s check out why it’s our best overall pick below:
It’s certainly easy to see why this nail set is such a huge bestseller. For starters, it offers excellent value for money thanks to its huge variety of colors to choose from, including hues of blue, pink, purple, and orange.
This makes it a great option for professional nail technicians that want to appeal to a variety of clients, or for any DIY nail enthusiast that wants variety in their collection.
Plus, besides being able to change color in accordance with your temperature, we think that you will also be very happy to learn that the UR SUGAR Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set only contains polishes that have been formulated to be kind to your nails.
So much so, that you can use this color-changing nail set with the peace of mind that none of the polish formulations that you use will contain any harsh chemicals, nasty toxins, or resin.
Plus, specifically designed to last, the UR SUGAR Color Changing Nail Set also boasts a 3-week manicure duration - so long as you have made sure to use the proper application technique and correctly buffed your natural nails beforehand.
As a side note, if you are interested in trying out this color-changing nail manicure set, it’s worth noting that you will need to use a gel UV light lamp in order to cure the color of your nails.
All in all, a fantastic option if you’re on the search for color changing gel polishes that will be able to ensure a long manicure life, as well as plenty of different color options to choose from.
Pros
Kind to the skin and environmentally friendly formulas: By far, one of the biggest benefits of opting for this color-changing nail polish set is that all of the formulas used do not contain any harsh chemicals or nasty toxins.
Thanks to this, you will be able to use this color-changing nail polish set with the peace of mind that you are using a formula that is going to be kind to your nails, as well as more eco-friendly and better for the environment.
Long Lasting manicure: Unlike other color-changing polishes on the market, we love this set from UR SUGAR because it offers one of the longest manicure durations that we have come across.
So long as you have made sure to properly prepare your natural nails prior to application and have correctly set the color-changing polish with your Gel UV lamp, you can expect your color-changing nail manicure to last you around 3 weeks, if not longer.
Plenty of colors to choose from: Besides having the ability to change color in accordance with the changing temperature of your body, this affordable kit comes with 6 different color-changing polishes to choose from.
Thanks to this, armed with this color-changing kit, you will have the freedom to be able to choose from 6 different base colors - which means that you will be able to match your color-changing manicure to your outfit or the time of year.
Cons
Gel: While this is by no means a negative thing, the fact that this color-changing nail polish kit consists of formulas that strictly need to be set/cured with a UV light, means that this kit might not be suitable for everyone to use.
Sticky: If you’re already familiar with gel polish, then we’re sure that you’ll be well aware of the sticky film that is left across the top of cured gel polish.
Many users report experiencing this stickiness with these gel polishes, which means that you are going to need to use a finishing gel top coat that doesn’t require a treatment, or alternatively use a gel polish wipe to get rid of the sticky residue.
While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing as it is something that is very common across all gel polishes, it will mean that you are going to need to make sure that you have the additional nail supplies that you need to prevent your manicure from becoming ruined.
Places you can find UR SUGAR Color Changing Nail Polish Set
If you are interested in purchasing this set and would like to shop around for the best deal, then you can also purchase this set from the UR SUGAR official website.
Just click here to check it out. Of course, you can also shop for this fantastic color-changing nail set from Amazon, which also has plenty of reviews that you can check out from real customers, too.
EDITORS CHOICE
Shopping for your daughter or little sister? If you’ve got a budding nail enthusiast in your life that you would like to treat to a girly color-changing nail polish set, then we think that she’ll simply love the Three Cheers for Girls Color Changing Nail Polish Set.
Let’s check out why.
Designed to both easy to use while also delivering the “wow factor” - the Three Cheers for Girls Color Changing Nail Polish Set is the perfect kit for the girl in your life that is just getting started in the world of nails and wants to try out something a little more exciting and fun than a regular old manicure.
With five different playful base colors to choose from, the Three Cheers for Girls Color Changing Nail Polish Set will give the recipient plenty of different choices to choose from (including orange, pink, purple, and two shades of blue) and will be able to change to mesmerizing news shades when exposed to the sun, cold water, and fluctuating body temperatures.
Plus, it is also worth noting that Three Cheers for Girls has only included nail polish formulations that will be kind to the nails.
Unlike other color-changing nail polishes on the market that have been formulated with a variety of harmful additives, you can purchase this color-changing nail kit with the peace of mind that there will be no harmful toxins or chemicals.
For good measure, these color-changing nail polishes are even water-based, which means they’re far safer for children to use than other color-changing nail polishes out there!
If all that wasn’t impressive enough, the Three Cheers for Girls Color Changing Nail Polish set also comes complete with the promise of being able to last through whatever she decides to get up to - including playtime with friends!
But, if you really want to ensure that the manicure lasts, Three Cheers for Girls recommend that you apply two coats of polish to make sure that the finished manicure will be able to withstand school days, playtimes, and more! It’s got our seal of approval.
Pros
Perfect present: If you’ve got a budding fashionista in your life that wants to elevate her everyday outfits, then this color-changing nail polish kit from Three Cheers for Girls is the perfect gift to give her!
Besides offering her five different base colors to choose from, each vibrant shade will change colors when exposed to temperature changes, which means that she will be able to switch up a look at a moment's notice while also impressing her friends
Durable and long-lasting: Designed specifically for children, these color-changing nail polishes from Three Cheers for Girls will be able to withstand chipping from busy days at school and fun-fueled playtimes alike!
But, to make it last as long as possible, Three Cheers for Girls does recommend that you make sure to apply two coats - although this is optional.
Safe for children: Last but certainly not least, one of the biggest benefits of opting for this kit from Three Cheers for Girls is that it has been specifically designed and formulated with children in mind.
Thanks to this, you will be able to give this to the little fashionista in your life with the peace of mind that the formulas are completely non-toxic and water-based. Impressive or what?
This color-changing polish set has our seal of approval and then some. It’s the perfect activity for playdates!
Cons
Not ideal for adults: As you will already be aware from the description that we have provided you with above, this color-changing nail polish is specifically designed for children, which means that it might not be an ideal choice for adults who are looking for color-changing nail polish.
Places you can find Three Cheers for Girls Color-Changing Nail Polish Set
At the time of writing, the Three Cheers for Girls Color Changing Nail Polish Set is available to purchase from Amazon.
BEST VALUE
Are you currently in the market for color-changing nail polish but want to purchase the polish separately rather than in a set?
If you answered yes to that question, then we think that you will love the Cirque Colors Thermal Temperature Color-Changing Mood Nail Polish!
Specifically developed by Cirque Colors, their thermal range of nail polishes has been specifically designed to change shades thanks to its thermal formula that will adjust its color when exposed to different temperatures.
Plus, boasting a premium formula, you will be able to enjoy an opaque finish in just two coats and has the potential to last up to 3 weeks if applied using the correct technique.
Not only that, but made with your nails in mind, these thermal color-changing nail polishes from Cirque Colors each consist of a formula that is entirely vegan, cruelty-free, and non-toxic.
Thanks to this, you will be able to enjoy the color-changing magic of these formulas with the complete peace of mind that you are using a nail polish that isn’t going to damage your natural nails, is kinder to the environment, and hasn’t been tested on any animals.
Besides boasting a premium and nail-friendly formula, there are also a variety of different colors to choose from, including deep teal and burned sunset orange.
When exposed to varying temperatures, these shades will turn from their base color to a mesmerizing new shade that will instantly switch up your look in a matter of seconds.
To give you an idea of what you can expect, Cirque Color’s Luna shade is deep violet when cold and will transform into ocean turquoise when hot, while another shade named Terra will magically transform from its base shade of purple when cold into the vibrant and bright ocean blue when exposed to hotter temperatures… and it doesn’t stop there!
There are plenty of other colors to choose from in this premium range.
Pros
Premium formulas: One of the biggest benefits of the Cirque Colors line of thermal polishes is that they have been carefully formulated to be both kinder to your nails and the environment.
So much so that the thermal formula used by Cirque Colors does not contain any harsh chemicals or toxins, is completely vegan, and has not been tested on any animals.
Various colors to choose from: Even though they are each sold separately, this range of thermal nail polishes from Cirque Colors is available in a variety of different base shades that turn into fun and vibrant colors when exposed to a change in temperature.
Thanks to this, you can be sure that you’ll be able to find the perfect shade for you, and will even be able to mix and match colors in accordance with your preferences, your outfits, and even what the time of year is!
Cons
Shimmery finish: While this isn’t necessarily a downside, we still think that it is worth mentioning!
All of the thermal nail polishes within this range from Cirque Colors have been created to have a shimmery finish once dry, and this might not be something that is to everyone’s taste/preference.
Each polish within the range is sold separately: These thermal polishes from Cirque Colors are each sold separately, and currently come with a pretty hefty price tag for just one polish.
For this reason, this might not be the best option for those who are on a budget, or simply want to try and get the best value for their money.
Places you can find Cirque Colors Thermal Color-Changing Nail Polish
Interested in trying out this polish? If you would like to add a Cirque Color nail polish (or perhaps more than one) to your current nail collection, then you will be able to purchase them from Amazon or the Cirque Colors official website.
RUNNER UP
In the mood to add a little bling to your manicured nails alongside color-changing polish? If you want to add a little extra sparkle to your color-changing nails, then we think that the Modelones Color Changing Gel Polish Kit should be on your radar!
Read on to discover more about this glitter-infused kit
Besides offering thermal color-changing ability, the Modelones Color-Changing Gel Polish Kit stands out from the crowd because it also comes complete with the promise of sparkle, as each thermal formula has been elevated with speckles of glitter!
Sold as a kit, each gel glitter polish in this kit is ideal for a variety of different occasions, and is buildable which means that you will have complete control over the intensity of your manicure.
From a vibrant purple that turns to a bright turquoise shade, to a deep cherry red that transforms into blinding sparkly white when exposed to warmer temperatures - there are a variety of different shades to choose from in this kit and the best part?
It comes in at a fraction of the cost of most other gel color-changing nail polish kits currently available to buy on the market, which means that you’ll also be able to enjoy excellent value for your money, too!
Not only that, but this kit from Modelone also comes with the promise of a long-lasting manicure of up to 2 weeks and even longer!
As soon as you’ve applied your gel nail polish, you will be able to enjoy a blinding, glossy finish that will be able to resist chipping, smudges, and other signs of damage!
All in all, if you’re in the market for a color-changing nail polish kit that blends affordability with premium quality - then you’re not going to be disappointed with this kit from Modelones!
Pros
Shiny and long-lasting finish: One of the most impressive features of this color-changing nail polish is that it consists of a super shiny and long-lasting finish.
According to Modelones, so long as you make sure to use the proper technique while applying this color-changing nail polish, you can expect your manicured nails to last you for a period of at least 2 weeks or even longer!
Plus, thanks to its shiny finish, you can be sure that your nails are going to look as though they have been done by a professional nail technician at one of the best nail salons around!
6 different polishes to choose from: Offering excellent value for money, this nail polish set comes with six different nail polishes to choose from!
This means that, regardless of whether you want to match your nail polish to your outfit or even a certain season of the year, this kit will have the perfect nail polish colorway for you to enjoy!
Thick formula: Many customers who have already used this nail set from Modelones frequently comment on how thick and strong the formula of these color-changing thermal nail polishes are.
Thanks to this, not only does this mean that you will only need to apply 1-2 coats for a vibrant manicured look, but it will also mean that your manicured nails will stay perfectly flawless for longer - as the formula used in these Modelones gel polish will be able to resist chopping and nicks.
Glitter infused! Last but certainly not least, we couldn’t leave this pros section without mentioning the fact that each color-changing nail polish has been elevated with a touch of sparkle!
Each thermal color-changing nail polish included within this kit contains little specks of glitter that will make your manicured nails look extra eye-catching and beautiful.
If you want to make sure that your manicured nails get plenty of attention, then you’re going to love adding this sparkly color-changing nail kit from Modeloens into your nail collection!
Cons
Glitter might not be for everyone: As we have already mentioned above, the Modelones Thermal Color-Changing Nail Polish only consists of color-changing thermal nail polishes that contain flecks of glitter - which might not be something that is to everyone’s taste.
UV light required: Similar to other thermal color-changing nail polishes that we have already talked about in this review, this kit from Modelones also requires a UV light in order to cure the polish to the nails.
This means that it is not going to be suitable for those who do not have UV light, as this gel polish will not dry to the nail on its own.
Places you can find Modelones Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set
If you would like to go ahead and purchase the Modelones Color Changing Gel Nail Polish set, it is currently available to buy from Amazon.
RUNNER UP
Are you just getting started in the world of gel nails and want a beginner-friendly kit that will help you achieve your desired color-changing mani? Look no further than the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set!
The perfect addition to your nail collection, the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set is an ideal choice for someone who has just started to do their own gel nails, and would like to purchase a nail kit that will be able to simplify the application process and guarantee salon-quality nails - time and time again.
Designed to be used in combination with a gel UV light, the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set contains everything that you’ll need to do your own color-changing nails from home - so you aren’t going to need to worry about going to the trouble of purchasing any additional supplies separately!
As for the formula?
We’re sure that you’ll be pleased to hear that the majority of users report that these nail polishes have a super thick formula that is easy to apply and leaves a smooth, uniformed appearance across the surface of the nail - regardless of whether you are working on your natural nail or acrylic.
The formula also does not contain any harsh chemicals or toxins, so you will be able to use this with the peace of mind that you aren’t damaging your nails.
To follow on, included in the kit you will get 20 different color-changing polishes (yes, you read that correctly), as well as an additional base and topcoat that won’t leave a sticky residue or need to be wiped after it has healed.
So, in other words, armed with this kit, all you’ll need to do is make sure that you have your gel lamp plugged in and ready to go. MEFA has truly covered all bases with this kit.
Pros
Perfect for beginners: As we’re sure you’re already well aware, the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set is one of the best it's currently available to buy on the market for beginners!
So long as you make sure that you have a gel UV light, this kit will contain everything that you need to do your own color-changing manicured nails - including the base and topcoat…so there will be no need to purchase anything separately!
Ideal gift: The MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish comes in a beautiful box adorned with a striking floral pattern - so it will make a lovely gift to the nail lover in your life.
Plus, as the box is super sturdy, it means that this box can be used to keep all of your nail supplies in or even something else! The options are endless.
20 different colors to choose from: The MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish comes complete with an impressive 20 different colors to choose from!
This is one of the biggest selections that we have seen and will ensure that you are never without a shade that you like.
Besides making a lovely gift, the wide choices of shades to choose from also means that this set would be perfect for a nail technician looking to appease a variety of clients with different preferences.
Cons
Small nail polish sizes: One of the possible downsides of this color changing nail polish kit from MEFA is that, despite the large number of shades to choose from, the polishes in this set are relatively small.
This is something that you should keep in mind if you would prefer your polish to be larger than 5ml.
Places you can buy the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set
Interested in the MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set? You’re making a great choice. At the time of writing this, you can currently buy this MEFA Color Changing Gel Nail Polish Set from Amazon, as well as Walmart.
RUNNER UP
If you’re on a budget or simply don’t want to purchase a color-changing nail polish kit - then we think that you’ll love the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish. Read on to discover why it’s such a cult favorite in the nail community:
With the seal of approval of nail technicians across the world, the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish consists of a gentle, durable formula that is sensitive to the sun’s UV rays and will change color as soon as it is exposed to them.
In this bestselling and well-loved range, there are a variety of different shade colors to choose from, including pinks, purples, and blues.
To give you an idea of what you can expect to get from the Del Sol range, their bestselling shade “Give Me Space” consists of a deep shimmering blue base color that transforms into a striking emerald sea green as soon as the sunlight hits it!
Even if you decide to apply a top coat, you’ll be amazed at how quickly your nail polish changes when exposed to the sun… even if it’s cloudy outside!
Wondering how it does this?
Well, unlike other types of color-changing nail polishes on the market, the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish is unique because it contains spectrachrome crystals that will be able to reveal the hidden emerald green as soon as the light hits your nails.
As soon as the UV rays of the sun hit your nails, the unique formulation of the Del Sol polish will cause an energy shift within the composition of your manicured nails, causing the hidden color of the polish dye to become visible to your eyes.
How impressive is that?
Plus, besides having the ability to change color in accordance with fluctuating thermal changes caused by external influences such as the sunlight - the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish also consists of a “5-free” formula that does not contain any harmful toxins including dibutyl, phthalate, formaldehyde, resin or toluene.
In addition to the above, it is also important to keep in mind that the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish does not test on animals, so it is a vegan formula, too. This color-changing formula ticks all the boxes!
Pros
Non-toxic formula: The biggest pro of the Del Sol formula is that it does not contain any harsh chemicals including formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, DBP, and plenty of other toxic additives that are so commonly used in many other color-changing nail polishes currently on the market.
Thanks to this, you are going to be able to use this nail polish with the peace of mind that you aren’t going to be causing any damage to your natural nails by using it, and is even safe enough for children to use as it does not contain any toxic resin.
Changes when exposed to sunlight: The Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish is unique because it does not change color due to temperature changes!
Instead, this coveted bestseller from Del Sol will only change color when exposed to the sunlight, which will make for an even more exciting and unexpected color transformation.
This is all thanks to the unique formula used by Del Sol, which contains spectrachrome crystals that will be able to reveal the striking emerald green color as soon as they are exposed to the UV rays of the sun.
Cruelty-free: Last but certainly not least, it is also worth noting that this color-changing nail polish from Del Sol does not test on animals at any point during the manufacturing process.
Cons
One shade: The biggest downside of this nail polish from Del Sol is that, despite the variety of shades to choose from, each polish is sold separately. This might be an issue for those who want a greater variety of colors to be able to choose from as and when they please.
Prone to chipping: As this Del Sol polish is not gel, it means that it is not going to be as strong or durable as some of the other nail polishes that we have mentioned in this ultimate roundup.
Places you can buy the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish
If you’re interested in purchasing the Del Sol Color-Changing Nail Polish, then the great news is that they are available to purchase from a variety of different places, including Amazon and the official website.
What Are Mood-Changing Nail Polishes?
Sure, even though mood-changing jewelry is one of the most popular kinds of fashion accessories to wear among young women and men, what about mood-changing nail polishes?
Well, similar to jewelry currently on the market that contains a mood stone that has the ability to alter its color in accordance with a changing “mood” - all mood-changing nail polishes are built upon the same principles.
More specifically, mood-changing nail polishes work by utilizing a thermochromic reaction that is inside the composition of the mood-changing nail polish.
Thanks to this, it means that when the nails are warm, the nail polish will be a clear color, and when the nails are cool, the nail polish will change to a different color - such as red, blue, or pink.
This is due to that thermochromic reaction that we have talked about above, as when the temperature (or your mood) changes from warm to cold or vice versa, the bond conjugation help within the nail polish will be disrupted, which will change the color.
Pretty smart, right? This brings us to our following point, which is a question that you might now be currently wondering about!
Can Nail Polish Colors Change According To Moods?
So, now that we know that nail polish colors will typically change due to a change of temperature, does that then mean that nail polish won’t change in accordance with a person’s mood?
Well, when it comes to this - the truth is that there isn’t a straightforward yes or no answer.
Even though nail polish will change from a temperature fluctuation, it is important to keep in mind that big changes to your mood or mental state could potentially cause a change in your temperature.
Due to this, it is possible for your nail polish to change color in the event that your mood changes! Just picture this: you’re leaving work after a busy day at work.
As you prepare to unwind after your stressful day you suddenly realize that you forgot to send a very important email - as you begin to panic you suddenly feel yourself getting hot and flustered - you look down and notice that your nail polish has changed color!
See how it works? This is just one example of when a mood shift could cause a person’s mood-changing nail polish to switch colors.
As your mood switches dramatically, your body will respond by increasing the blood flow throughout your body (including your arms and hands) as well as increasing your body’s adrenaline levels - and this will increase the overall temperature of your body.
Nevertheless, it is also worth noting that, for the most part, if you’re planning on wearing mood-changing nail polish - the color will typically change as your temperature shifts from cold to hot.
Can You Put A Topcoat On Color-Changing Nail Polish?
Even though it might seem counterproductive to cover up a color-changing nail polish with a top coat, the truth is that it’s actually a step that is strongly recommended… especially if you want to make sure that your color-changing is manicured nails last for as long as possible before needing to be re-done!
Adding a base or topcoat won’t impact the formula of your color-changing nail polish, but will instead strengthen it and help to prevent it from becoming chipped or damaged from everyday wear and tear from general life.
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