Life as a mom does not give me the opportunity to get my nails done nearly as often as I would like. That’s the sad truth — but it doesn’t mean bad nails are the whole story. The key to an at-home manicure is a solid formula that goes on nice and opaque for minimal coats necessary, and dries super-fast to let you get things done on the fly. (Nap time for me; maybe for you it’s the half-hour right before the carpool rush). I’ve found my polish and I’m sticking to it — Sally Hansen Insta-Dri. They have 14 new, fast-dry hues for spring and I’m loving every single one.
Shades, from top left: Re-teal Therapy, Plummet, In Nude-tral, Cherry Fast, Navy Fleet, Show Steel-er, Making Mauves, Leapin’ Lilac, Black to Black, Ablazing!, Quick Fire, Set Sail, Cocoa A Go Go, Orange Zest

Here’s “Making Mauves” in action on our three-generations family shoot with LI-based photographer Cristina Lee. This DIY mani took less than 5 minutes to achieve and dry.
These multipurpose bottles allow the benefit of a base, color, and topcoat in one. The improved formula dries to a glossy shine in 60 seconds, making it an absolute must-have for busy mamas. And this season’s new colors offer something to appeal to every style from neutral with a twist to preppy to loud and fashion-forward. I adore the shimmering mauve I’m sporting in the photo above, but look forward to test-driving some of those brights this season, too. What’s your favorite?
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri polish retails for approximately $5 a bottle at Ulta.com, CVS, Target, and drugstores nationwide.
