Honeybee Gardens WaterColors Nail Enamel

WaterColors is a water-based nail polish line designed for a lower-exposure manicure. Instead of a traditional solvent system, this formula uses water and a film-forming polymer, significantly reducing strong polish fumes during application. It’s a good option for anyone looking to minimize exposure while still enjoying colorful, expressive shades.

Ingredients (Example Shade: Raspberry Sorbet)

Water (aqua), acrylates copolymer.
May contain (varies by shade): iron oxides (CI 77490), mica (CI 77019), titanium dioxide (CI 77891), ultramarine blue (CI 77007).

What This Brand Avoids and Why That Matters

Honeybee Gardens states this polish is formulated without several ingredients commonly found in conventional nail lacquer, including VOCs, formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), camphor, parabens, fragrance, and nitrocellulose resin.

Why this matters in low-tox terms:
Traditional nail polish exposure is often more about inhaling fumes during application than what stays on the nail. A water-based formula that avoids these classic solvents and resins can feel noticeably more comfortable to use at home, especially for people who are sensitive to strong smells.

Certifications

• Vegan (brand-stated)

• Cruelty-free (brand-stated)

• Gluten-free (brand-stated)

What I Like (Example Shade: Raspberry Sorbet)

Raspberry Sorbet is a bright, cheerful raspberry shade that adds color without feeling overpowering. It’s playful but still wearable.

I like how short and straightforward the ingredient list is. For a water-based polish, it performs well when applied in thin coats and given enough time to fully harden.

Things to Keep in Mind

Water-based polish performs best with thin coats and full dry time between layers. It may feel dry to the touch quickly, but still needs time to cure fully.

Using a compatible primer and sealer can help extend wear. Skipping those steps may lead to more chipping, especially if you’re hard on your hands.