Over the past year I’ve become passionate about having my nails done—always choosing vegan, 5-free nail polish. I rarely go without at least a clear coat on my fingernails, and my toenails are never bare. My interest grew alongside the rise of vegan and non-toxic beauty. As more people choose plant-based diets, the market for vegan, cruelty-free, and non-toxic beauty products has expanded. Today there are many brands offering high-quality, animal-friendly polishes with safe formulations and beautiful shades.
Below are some of my favorite vegan, 5-free nail polishes. I selected these brands based on specific criteria to ensure quality, safety, and wearability:
- Minimum 5-free formulation: These polishes exclude the most harmful ingredients—Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, and Camphor. These substances have been linked to health concerns, yet regulations remain limited in many places.
- Vegan and cruelty-free: The polishes do not use animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals.
- Wide color range: Each company offers a broad selection of shades to suit different tastes.
- Long-wearing: The formulas are designed to last several days without chipping.
Vegan 5-Free Nail Polishes featured in the video:
HABIT COSMETICS. Habit was the first 5-free polish I tried. Founded in 2013, Habit makes long-lasting, elegant colors—especially beautiful nudes like Tan Lines and Ingenue. Their formula includes myrrh, known for strengthening and antifungal properties, which helps keep nails healthy. From my experience, my nails stayed strong while using this brand. IN THE VIDEO WEARING: TAN LINES & INGENUE
GINGER & LIZ. This NYC-based brand offers a wide range of vibrant, richly pigmented colors and a selection of non-toxic nail and skincare products. Their shades are bold and long-wearing. IN THE VIDEO WEARING: HEALTH IS WEALTH
SMITH & CULT. Known for luxe packaging and glamorous shades, Smith & Cult takes non-toxic formulations further—many of their polishes are 8-free, excluding additional chemicals such as xylene, ethyl tosylamide, and triphenyl phosphate. Their rich reds feel especially indulgent. IN THE VIDEO WEARING: KUNDALINI HUSTLE
FLOSS GLOSS. One of the more affordable vegan options, Floss Gloss polishes are priced around $8 and offer bright, playful shades and attractive packaging. Their glitter polishes are especially eye-catching. IN THE VIDEO WEARING: NEON NACHO
Additional vegan and 5-free nail polish brands I recommend, with approximate average prices:
- LVX — $18
- Ella Mila — $10.50
- Sparitual — $12
- Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics — $10
- Zoya — $10
- Aila — $17
- NCLA — $18
- Priti NYC — $15
- Pacifica — $9
- Julep — $14
- Jamberry — $15
- LACC — $13
- RMS Beauty — $15
- Mineral Fusion — $8
Whether you’re new to vegan polish or updating your collection, these brands offer safe, attractive, and long-lasting options. Choosing cruelty-free and non-toxic formulas lets you enjoy polished nails while avoiding harmful ingredients and supporting ethical practices.