Dislike the wait for your nail polish to dry? These expert tips can significantly reduce this time. Waiting for nail polish to dry can be challenging, as it’s often when crucial calls come or when hard-to-reach itches appear. Relax, because we have hacks that will help your manicure dry faster.
We’ve consulted professional nail artists for their best advice—from use of quick-drying topcoats for your glossy nails to utilizing cooking spray—to expedite the drying process. Although these tips won’t completely dry your manicure in seconds (unless opting for a gel manicure), they will help reduce the waiting period so you can flaunt your fresh look sooner.
Speed up your nail drying process by submerging nails in an ice bath, which sets the stage for quick polish hardening. Here’s how:
Applying thin, even layers is key for faster drying during a DIY manicure, as recommended by Brittney Boyce, celebrity nail artist and founder of NAILS OF LA. Thick layers require more time to dry and can result in an uneven, goopy finish. Boyce suggests applying polish in three strokes: one down the center and one on each side.
For best results, dry nails after each layer of polish, as advised by Syreeta Aaron, professional nail artist and LeChat Nails educator. This step is crucial for more elaborate nail designs, such as velvet nails. Here’s the method:
Many nail experts recommend using a blow dryer on the cool setting to dry faster, but Boyce cautions this may reduce shine and move polish. A gentle fan on low helps evaporate solvents without disturbing the polish.
A fast-drying topcoat is essential for any manicure, says Boyce. Try Orly Sec N’ Dry, with a resin formula that seals and accelerates drying.
Drying drops like OPI Drip Dry help by absorbing solvents to speed the process, often including conditioning benefits.
Without drying drops, cooking spray helps absorb solvents for a quicker dry. Other oils (coconut, olive, or baby oil) offer the same effect.
Aaron suggests enamel or nail-drying sprays for quick drying, like Demert’s Nail Enamel Dryer for faster drying and cuticle hydration.
Running nails under cold water settles polish thickeners faster, another ice bath-like technique. Beware, as this might affect the lower layers if not done right, leading to potential chipping.
Skipping base and top coats reduces drying time. Use a one-step polish such as Orly Breathable Treatment + Color.
Nail color affects drying time; opt for sheer or metallic shades if you’re in a hurry, as they generally contain more solvents for faster evaporation.
Hairspray can also dry the polish from the top layer quickly, with caution to not engage in hand-focused activities immediately after.
Use a can of compressed air to dry partially set nails for an effective finish. Let nails air-dry for 10 minutes before spraying each nail lightly from a distance.
Although watching TV doesn’t make polish dry faster, it distracts you from using your hands. Consider it a timer for your dry time.
Lastly, anything cold including air conditioners or a freezer can solidify and dry nails faster. Most polishes take up to 2 hours to fully cure, though the hands can be cautiously used 15 minutes after application.
Gauge drying status by lightly touching the polish or tapping nails together; no visible impression or tackiness indicates readiness.
