Charli XCX's Nail Artist Says These 7 Drugstore Items Are the Key to Achieving a Salon-Worthy Manicure

Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series in which we spotlight the often-overlooked and underhyped drugstore beauty products that industry experts count on. We're asking tastemakers, from editors to content creators and even celebs, to share their top recommendations for affordable yet effective products. Get ready to see the best of drugstore beauty, period.

For years, I went the DIY route and did my own nails. I’d stock up on my favorite seasonal nail colors, invest in glossy, expensive-looking topcoats, and set aside 30 minutes to get it done. These days, I have a standing appointment at the nail salon. (Unfortunately for my bank account, I’ve gotten hooked on acrylic and gel manicures.) However, I still rely on at-home tools and tricks for between-appointment hand- and nailcare.

I also still rely on at-home tools and tricks when I must A) give my nails a break from harsh salon manicures but I don’t want to go the naked-nail route and B) travel or prioritize other life commitments over my monthly nail appointment. In those cases, I’m heading straight to the experts: celebrity nail artists.

One of my favorite celebrity nail artists is Stephanie Stone. With A-list clients who include Charli XCX, Michelle Monaghan, and more, she’s an expert at creating perfectly precise manicures fit for on-stage performances, designer runways, and high-def cameras. And believe it or not, she often uses drugstore products to do so. Ahead, she shares her seven favorite budget-friendly products. They’re affordable, and they’re critical if, like me, you want to curate the very best at-home nailcare collection.

How often do you use drugstore products on celeb clients, and would you say they’re staples in your kit?

Drugstore products are a staple in my kit daily. There are lots of things that are required for a manicure that luxury brands don’t make or offer. If you want a great mani, that’s always going to include drugstore products—end of story.

What would you say to someone who thinks only expensive beauty products can be expensive?