Review: The Manucurist’s Active Nail Care Range – Is This Vegan Nail Polish Worth the Hype?

If you’ve ever glanced down at your nails mid-meeting and thought, “Yikes, these need some TLC,” then The Manucurist’s Active Nail Care range, a vegan nail polish collection, might just be the nail saviour you’ve been waiting for. But does it live up to the buzz? Let’s dig in—before you chip another nail.

What’s in the Box (Or the Cute Bottles)?

Manucurist has curated a range that doesn’t just promise healthy nails; it practically throws vitamins and minerals at them. The line includes everything from nourishing oils to strengthening treatments, plus a couple of superstars like Active Smooth and Active Shine, Active Glow and Active Bright. Whether your nails are brittle, peeling, or just generally “meh,” then keep reading. And if you’re on the hunt for vegan nail polish that actually works, you’re in the right place. Think of it as a mini spa day for your nails, minus the overpriced cucumber water.

The Manucurist vegan nail polish full Active collection

Here are a few highlights:

  • Active Glow Blueberry & Active Glow Raspberry: These tinted serums not only strengthen your nails but also give them a subtle, natural tint – because who said nail care can’t be cute? The blueberry one has a lovely cool tone, while raspberry gives your nails a warmer, pinkish glow. And yes, they’re packed with all the good stuff like vitamins and natural fruit extracts, making them a must-have for your vegan nail polish routine.
  • Active Bright: If you’ve noticed your nails looking a little dull or yellowish, this treatment is your new go-to. Active Bright works as a nail brightener, giving your nails a healthy, fresh look, instantly. It’s like an Instagram filter for your nails – just with fewer steps.
  • Emollient Efficace: is an organic serum that softens the cuticles and dry skin around your nails making them easy to remove ahead of painting. It is also packed with 10 precious oils which deeply hydrate and strengthen your nails. The perfect prep.
  • Active Smooth: A smoothing treatment that tackles those pesky ridges. You know, the ones that make your nails look like they’ve been through a battlefield. Active Smooth glides on and evens things out, leaving your nails feeling and looking like silk. In just one coat.
  • Active Shine: This one’s your new BFF if you crave that glossy, salon-level finish. Active Shine is like a top coat but on a whole new level. Think super gloss made with crushed diamonds! It gives your nails that healthy, high-shine look, minus the need for polish. But pair it with your favourite coloured vegan nail polish and wow!
  • Serum Complet: This nail and cuticle serum is a treat for dry or damaged nails. The non greasy formula deeply restore damaged, dry and brittle nails without leaving any sticky residue. Perfect for finishing off your at home manicure, or daily use to keep those nails in tip-top condition.

Application – As Easy as They Claim?

I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for packaging, and Manucurist nails (pun intended) the chic, minimalist look. But let’s be real, it’s what’s inside that counts. The formulas are lightweight, non-greasy, and most importantly, absorb quickly. No awkward “I’m flailing my hands around waiting for them to dry” moments. You can apply these before your Zoom call and still have time to pretend you know what your boss is talking about.

The Smooth and Shine duo deserves special mention here. They work wonders without the fuss. Smooth glides on easily and disguises any ridges, while Shine gives you a polished, sparkling, professional finish that looks like you’ve spent an hour at the salon. Together these make your nails look super healthy and so pretty, but yes, these are also the perfect companions for your lengthier vegan nail polish routine. Especially if you like to keep things eco-friendly and cruelty-free.

As for Active Glow Blueberry and Active Glow Raspberry, they apply like a dream – just one swipe, and you’ve got both a strength treatment and a gorgeous tint. Active Bright is equally fuss-free, instantly brightening dull nails with no heavy lifting.

Manucurist vegan nail polish Active Glow Blueberry and Raspberry and Serum Complet in a champagne glass

Results – Does It Work?

So here’s the deal: it actually works. My nails were noticeably stronger after a couple of weeks of use, and I didn’t feel like I had to baby them as much. No more chipping because I dared to open a drink can (the struggle is real). I think the Serum Complet had a big hand in this, as I have been using it most evenings. Also, they just look so healthy (even before they actually were!), which makes me want to take care of them even more. The whole Active range is a game changer for those of us who want our nails to look glossy and healthy without piling on layers of polish.

But here’s the thing: this isn’t some instant miracle fix. If you’re expecting your nails to transform into diamonds overnight, well, let’s manage those expectations. It’s a process, people. But if you’re consistent, you’ll start seeing improvements in nail strength, smoothness, and overall health in just a couple of weeks. You’re nails will ‘look’ healthy instantly though, which is a major plus in my book. Fake it until you make it, as they say.

The Price Tag – Worth the Splurge?

The Manucurist Active Nail Care range is definitely on the higher end of the spectrum, but in my honest opinion, it’s worth it. These aren’t your average drugstore nail products that promise the world and deliver… meh. You’re paying for quality ingredients, thoughtful formulas, and a bit of luxury (we totally deserve it). Plus, it’s cheaper than frequent salon visits so if you think about it, you’re actually making a saving! Also, for those of us hunting down quality vegan nail polish that doesn’t skimp on results, this range is a solid investment.

Manucurist vegan nail polish Active Smooth, Active Bright and Active Shine in a champagne glass

Final Thoughts – Should You Get It?

In a word: yes. If you’re ready to invest in your nail health and like the idea of eco-conscious products, The Manucurist Active Nail Care range is a no-brainer. Each item can be bought individually or as a complete set for the ultimate healthy nail girl look. So it’s easy to test out the products that might suit you most, before going all in.
As a brand, I am a little obsessed. The packaging is stunning and the products actually perform like they say they will. Plus, if you’re into keeping your beauty routine green, this vegan nail polish line fits right in.

So go ahead, treat yourself. Your nails will thank you later.


The Manucurist have a 2024 Vegan Beauty Advent Calendar available NOW! – Check it out, along with some of my other favourite vegan beauty calendars, in my latest post!

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