((EDIT: Hello! It’s Meredith, dropping in to say that there might be products on this page that I no longer use or recommend due to sneaky ingredients that may be unhealthy or potentially toxic. Companies change their ingredients and formulas, so for the most up-to-date information, please feel free to send me a message on Twitter, Instagram or email. You may also want to download the Think Dirty app or Skin Deep app to scan and find out more information on your own! Thanks for stopping by!))

I’ll admit it – I love nail polish. I think it comes down to the fact that a manicure can add professionalism, fun, whimsy and funkiness to any outfit in just a few strokes of a brush. An all-black ensemble with a pop of red (or fuchsia, come on!) on the nails is so Audrey. Adding a glitter top coat can make you party-ready in just a few minutes. Plus, purchasing a new color is a pretty cheap thrill. Even premium brands are relatively inexpensive considering how many applications you can get. I use this technique to apply polish at home.

As I continue to try to live my best life, I know I will have to address my nail polish collection soon. My goal will be to cull down to the basics and think really clearly about what I use on a regular basis as well as what is healthy for me, my family and the environment.

Like lots of beauty products, nail polish was (and for some brands, still is) made with a lot of harsh chemicals, dubbed “the big three.” They are Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Formaldehyde and Toluene. I have tried a lot of nail polish brands but these days, my collection is stocked with mostly these: Essie, Julep and Butter. All of these have removed the “big 3.” Zoya also removed several other (potentially) toxic ingredients commonly found in polish including camphor and formaldehyde resin. My favorite brand right now is Zoya. Below I review my current favorite colors from each.

Essie*  – “For the Twill of It” (Fall 2013 Collection)*

This color is great for everyday whether you’re going to work or to a party. The color is like a dark blue-gray but it catches the light and has flashes of gold-to-magenta, kind of like looking at an oil slick on the ground. I like that it has an edge and is a little funkier than a non-metallic color.

Butter London – “Fairy Lights” (buy on eBay)

I am a huge believer in metallic colors acting as neutrals. This color takes that theory up a notch with a gorgeous lilac-to-pink metallic finish. This one definitely needs two coats and a strong top coat or it will chip relatively quickly.

MY FAVORITE: Zoya – “Laurie” (buy new on eBay)

Gorgeous for everyday – this nude/pink shade definitely needs two coats but looks great for days. Even slight chipping doesn’t really show due to the color.

*Hi friends, just a heads up that this post contains scary affiliate links and if you click, a shark will EAT YOU. Just kidding! Clicking my links just means you like my site and like reading my recommendations. Your shopping experience doesn’t change, but I might get a tiny commission. Affiliate links are indicated with an asterisk like this* If you have any questions, I’m here to talk —> meredithtested@gmail.com … or leave a comment below. xoxo.