These Matte Nail Polishes Are Anything But Flat

by Audrey Noble
Audrey was an associate editor at Byrdie. She has also worked with Allure, New York Magazine, InStyle magazine and Refinery29.
Updated 09/11/20

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Matte polishes were a huge trend a couple of years back, and we're urging them to return to center stage. The lack of conventional shine feels modern and sleek, and who doesn't love a good comeback?

Lucky for us, a few brands still make matte polishes, and many give you the option to turn polishes you already have into matte finishes with a simple topcoat. We've rounded up our favorites below, from bright, warm tones to deep, moody shades.

Scroll down to see the best matte nail polishes on the market right now.

Best Top Coat: OPI Matte Top Coat

Can't decide on a shade? Not to worry! With this matte topcoat from OPI, you can turn any polish into a matte finish. This formula is great at avoiding pesky smudges, so you can go about your day knowing your manicure will stay intact.

Runner-Up, Best Top Coat: JinSoon Matte Maker Top Coat

JinSoon Matte Maker Top Coat

 Courtesy of Nordstrom

This topcoat will instantly mattify even the shiniest finishes. It's also formulated without any harsh chemicals, so you're in good hands. Apply after two brushes of your base-coast, and notice how it keeps the original shade in pristine condition.

Best Gel Top Coat: CND Shellac Matte Top Coat

This CND top coat will give you the perfect matte finish without sacrificing your favorite gels. One thin coat should last you up to three weeks, so this bottle should last you through many matte manicures (say that five times fast).

Best Red: Zoya Amal MatteVelvet

A strong red nail is a classic, and this matte, which is the perfect shade of crimson, adds a bit of necessary drama. This ultra opaque formula is long-lasting, because who doesn't want their posh red nails to last as long as possible?

Best Purple: Color Club You're My Soul-Matte

Color Club You're My Soul-Matte

Courtesy of Amazon 

Three words: Electric. Purple. Matte. Need we say more? This shade from Color Club is the perfect addition to brighten up your day. It can be difficult these days to find matte's in a range of colors, but with shades of yellow, turquoise, and royal blue (What's The Matte-r?, Matte About You, and Been There, Done Matte, respectively) your nails will always be the topic of conversation (and compliments).

Best Green: NYX Professional Makeup Matte Nail Polish

NYX offers mattes in a few playful colors, including this fresh, creamy mint. No matter the season, this shade will add a spring to your step. The velvety, textured formula goes on smooth, resulting in a creamy, rich finish.

Best Cruelty-Free: ella + mila Matte-ly in Love

ella + mila Matte-ly in Love

Courtesy of Ella + Mila 

This top-coat will give your nail color a perfect satin/matte finish, while protecting your primary nail color from getting damaged. This matte is vegan, cruelty free, and even certified by PETA, so you can look good and feel good.

Best Color-Changing: Cirque Colors Magic Turquoise

Cirque Colors Magic Turquoise

 Courtesy of Cirque Colors

This Cirque Colors speckled shade is sometimes light blue, sometimes jade green, and occasionally a mix of the two. This matte actually changes color based on your temperature, so you can sport multiple matte colors at any given time. It's a playful idea in a chic package.

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