If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission. Learn more about our policies and reviews.
Taking care of your nails seems more important than ever now and it helps to have the tools in your arsenal to make it easy, fun, and accessible.
Below we are featuring a variety of nail pens and accessories that will all help to get your nails in tip-top shape.
The first step to perfect nails is to heal any nail issues with a nail repair pen that will repair, protect, and hydrate. Then the fun part starts, and we have included a comprehensive nail art set with all the tools, accessories, and rhinestones needed to create the nails of your dreams. Also of utmost importance are some detailed nail pens and we have included a variety of colorful styles that will create and apply everything from dots and daisies to stripes and ones that can stand up to even the most complicated of designs.
Our Favorite Nail Pen of 2024
Teenitor Nail Pen — Best Overall
This professional-grade nail art set provides all the tools needed to create a variety of nail art designs. This comprehensive set comes with 15 acrylic brushes in various sizes, foil stickers and rhinestones for decoration, and various size dotting pens. Get creative and use this kit to create all the colorful nail designs of your dreams.
Pros
- Everything comes organized in a convenient zip bag
Cons
- The foil is very thin and small
KEMEISI Nail Art Pens — Runner Up
This specialty 3D nail art pen comes in a few different sizes to help create an endless number of chic nail designs. Each of these pens is made from the finest hair and has a rhinestone design in the transparent acrylic handle that is the same color as the outside of the brush for a clean and sleek look.
Pros
- Each pen comes with a cap to protect when not in use
Cons
- Some initial shedding may occur
Waldd Nail Art Liner Brushes — Honorable Mention
This five-piece set contains specialty nail art liner brushes in different sizes that are perfect for drawing a ton of different patterns. The brush body is made from high-quality materials, durable for daily use, and has rhinestone decor inside the handle for a stylish look. These brushes are also portable and lightweight making them comfortable to hold and suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Each pen has two different ends for different needs
Cons
- Do not dry these brushes with a blow dryer or any heat source
JSDOIN Dotting Pen — Best Dotting Tools
Another important tool for more delicate nail designs is this set of dotting pens. This set comes with five double-sided pens with 10 different sized ends that are perfect for applying rhinestones, dots, and even drawing detailed lines. Ideal for both professional and home uses, these pens will be one of the most used in your nail decor arsenal.
Pros
- These pens come in five different fun colors
Cons
- These may not be ideal for painting
Beauty Max Nail Art Liner — Also Consider
If you are partial to drawing line designs on nails or need another style detail brush to round out your kit, this set of nail art liner brush pens is a great option. It comes with five high-quality, double-ended pens with the thinnest brush hair on one side and a dotting side on the other. These pens are ideal for drawing lines, picking up rhinestones, painting flowers, and many other delicate pattern designs on nail tips.
Pros
- This set comes in five different color options
Cons
- These brushes are very fragile
Buying Guide: Nail Pens
Why Should You Buy Nail Pens?
If you’re a nail art enthusiast or hobbyist, then there’s no way you don’t have these nail pens in your kit. A nail pen is a marker designed to create patterns and details on the nails. These amazing tools are available in a variety of tips, colors, and styles.
You can use them to create fun, unique nail art. It’s a great way to practice and perfect your skills. Even most salons and professionals use nail pens to create those stellar designs.
Since these tools have a pen-like structure, handling and using them is easy for beginners. You can have a firm, steadied grip to make flawless designs.
What’s more, nail pens cost a fraction of the expensive treatments at salons. These creative nail tools allow you to pursue your passion without emptying your pockets.
Choosing Nail Pens That Work
Unlike stores, the online world gives you access to an infinite variety of products. You can browse and order items from even another country. While this provides you with better accessibility and choice, it also causes a more confused state of mind. But, worry not because proper research can save you the trouble. To help, we have brought together all the essential factors to consider when choosing nail pens that work.
Type of nail pens
There are four fundamental types of nail pens; simple pen, gel polish pen, acrylic pens, and brush pen. Each one serves a different purpose in nail art. For example, if you want to give your designs extra shine and glitter, then gel polish or acrylic pens work the best.
Similarly, a brush pen allows you to paint intricate sceneries and patterns on the nails. However, if you want a versatile nail that enables you to create various styles, then opt for a standard simple pen. It has a round tip that produces thin and thick lines. You only have to apply more pressure for broader and darker lines. Hence, you get more creative freedom.
Water-based or alcohol-based?
Nail pens either use water or alcohol as the main component. Typically, alcohol-based nail paints are long-lasting and quick-drying. However, it also means you cannot afford to make many mistakes. Since it dries fast, removing and reapplication are difficult. Meanwhile, water-based nail pens allow you the chance to erase easily in case of mistakes. But, they take time to dry and settle.
Tip diameter
The tip diameter determines the versatility. Thin and narrow tips allow you to create small, realistic details easily. Comparatively, thick and wide tips are best for making big stripes and patterns. Also, always opt for the longer tip because it provides a better view when creating.
Top-Rated Nail Pen Brands
The brand has a prominent influence over the user experience. It determines the product quality and post-purchase services. A reputable brand will not only guarantee safe, quality products, but it will also stand by them. It will also cater to your queries and issues. Hence, as nail tools do not cost much, you should never compromise on the brand because of the price tag. Here are some top-rated nail pen brands worthy of your trust:
Sally Hansen
Established in 1957, Sally Hansen is one of the oldest nail care US-based brands. It manufactures all types of nail products, ranging from nail polishes to pens. You will also find hair removal and beauty tool collections.
KEMISEI
When browsing nail pens, you won’t find KEMISEI topping the lists. But, this is that one-hidden gem that you can always trust. It specializes in producing nail pens and brushes.
Markartt
The Markartt company is a relatively new brand that has gained massive popularity for its poly-nail gel extension technology. It has introduced an array of innovative nail products in the market.
How to Use Nail Art Pens
Using nail art pens is a simple process. All you require is high-quality nail pens in desired colors. Let’s walk through the method in detail!
Preparation
Begin by washing and drying your hands. Make sure that your nails are clean and trimmed as per preference. You can also use nail art pens on acrylic nails.
Once done, gather the pens, some cotton swabs, and other required nail tools. Position yourself in a ventilated area with a smooth surface to work on, like a table. Do not sit in front of a fan or windy area, as it can cause the polish to become lumpy.
Use a clear base coat to clean your nails further. Apply a single, thin layer. Overcoating can make your resultant design appear uneven and thick.
Application
First, you need to decide whether you will like a clear background or color. If you desire a clear base, then start using a nail pen directly after the base coat application. But, for a colored background, choose quality nail polish and paint.
Give your nails two coats of polish to ensure coverage. You don’t want the original nail color to peek through your finished design. It won’t look neat.
Let the nails dry thoroughly. Use a nail pen to create the preferred design. You can make spirals, stripes, cheetah-print, and much more.
Shake the pen beforehand to release all air bubbles and ensure a smooth flow. If you mess up at some point, use water/nail polish remover and cotton swabs to undo it neatly. Finish the art by applying a top coat that seals everything.
