Forget the lashes and the lipstick, this season it’s all about nails. But did you know that most nail varnishes are packed with scary sounding ingredients like Formaldehyde (the preservative used to embalm bodies), Dibutyl Phthalate (aka DBP – a chemical used to make plastic flexible) and Toluene (used in petrol as an octane booster). These terrible three have been linked to birth defects, reproductive disorders, various cancers, dizziness, nausea…you get the gist. So instead reach for these six super shades from savvy brands who know how to treat talons. From bright to textured, graphic and sparkly – there’s no going wrong when it comes to shade or style. So be bold and go bright, because this is one trend you’ll want to nail.

CARE:

In order to make your manicure last whilst giving your nails some TLC, the Pinks Boutique Cuticle Oil (£14.50) is where it’s at. 100% natural and made with 99.5% organic ingredients – you won’t find any chemicals or synthetic additives here. Instead there’s fennel and frankincense oil to heal, vitamin E to nourish, rosa mosqueta to promote cell regeneration and carrot oil to prevent dryness – a combination that will ensure cuticles are soft and healthy whilst the nail bed remains hydrated.

Start To Finish (FFF) by OPI – £13.95

An all in one talon transformer, this Formaldehyde free version of OPI’s Start To Finish is a base coat, top coat and nail strengthener all rolled into one. It will keep nails strong whilst protecting colour and ensuring your mani stands the test of time with a high-gloss finish.

COLOUR:

Play Date by Essie – £7.99

Covering all the colours of the rainbow and with the most impressive array of colours out there, Essie injects fun and cheekiness into their collection. Our current favourite? Play Date. Bold, bright and 3 free – it’s the perfect purple polish.

Liberty (PixieDust Summer Edition) by Zoya – £11.50

Take the plunge with this matte blue, textured sparkly shade from Zoya. Its long-lasting natural formula keeps nails healthy without harmful chemicals and will leave you looking blue-tiful.

Material Girl by Eve Snow – £12.00

Meet Eve Snow, the hottest new British nail-care brand that boasts super-stars like Rihanna as fans. Using vitamin E, argan oil and ginkgo bilboa, each varnish loads nails with anti-oxidants and moisture to prevent discolouration, breakages and weakness. Hey if it’s good enough for Ri-Ri, it’s good enough for us.

Cheeky Chops by butter LONDON – £12.00

As bright as the sun itself, butter LONDON’s ‘Cheeky Chops’ is a cheery yellow that’s sure to lift your spirits in a second. 3 free, British and high-performing – these nail lacquers are seen on the catwalks season after season. But this summer, make sure they’re on your nails for fashion-forward fingers.

Aqua by Organic Glam – £9.99

If it’s possible to fall in love with a nail varnish, then it’s official – we have. This bright, turquoise-green shade is summer in a bottle. Intense colour, chip resistant and durable whilst being ‘3 free’. Fabulous.

Urban 14 by Kure Bazaar – £14.95

Kure Bazaar has taken natural nails to a new level with their revolutionary mix of wood pulp, wheat, cotton, potatoes and corn. Fuse this eco-natural formula with fierce, fashionable colours and what do you get? Smooth, strong and healthy nails that are oh-so-sophisticated. Our top pick? The creamy coral-orange, Urban 14.

CLEAN:

Natural Nail Polish Remover by Eden – £9.00

Not only do nail varnishes smell like chemicals, they are normally laden with them. So opt for Eden’s Natural Nail Polish Remover – toxin-free and made of biodegradable food-grade and plant-based ingredients. It’s even suitable for vegans and is the only BUAV-approved natural remover you can buy. Scented lightly with lime, its fresh formula nourishes nails and cuticles whilst leaving them with a healthy-looking sheen instead of brittle and dehydrated. Hip & Healthy highly recommends.

words by Frankie Rozwadowska

THE SUMMER MAEKUP BAG ESSENTIALS WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT!