How to Make Nail Polish Dry Faster 

Most of the girls love applying nail polish. But taking care of your nails will be quite challenging. One of the worst things is waiting for your nail polish to dry, especially when you have somewhere to be. 

Thankfully, there are several ways to quicken the drying process effectively and get beautiful nails. So, this “How to Make Nail Polish Dry Faster?” guide will help you know some shortcuts to make the drying process go faster. 

Table of Contents

1. How to Make Nail Polish Dry Faster?
2. Apply Thin Coats
3. Cold Water Method
4. Hair Dryer
5. Dry using a Fan
6. Drying Drops
7. Quick-Drying Nail Polish
8. Avoid Humidity
9. Freeze Spray
10. Cuticle Oil
11. What Ingredients in the Nail Polish Help Them Dry Faster?

How to Make Nail Polish Dry Faster?

Getting nail polish to dry faster can save you time and prevent streaks. Here are some effective tips:

Related: 10 Fun and Unusual Uses of Nail Polish 

Apply Thin Coats

Applying thin layers is one of the most important things for quick drying. Thick coats take more time to dry and lead to smudging. So, using multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat is better. 

So, here are the steps to ensure you’re applying thin coats: 

Remove any old nail polish and start with clean, dry nails. Then, wipe one side of the brush to remove access. Apply one thin layer and let each coat dry for at least a minute before applying the next one.

Cold Water Method

Submerging your nails in cold water helps nail polish dry quickly. Here’s what to know in detail. 

After applying nail polish to your nails, wait about 1-2 minutes for the polish to set slightly. Then, take some cold water in a bowl and add a few ice cubes. Then, dip your nails in cold water for about 1–2 minutes. Then, the cold temperature helps the nail polish harden faster than you think. 

Hair Dryer

Using a hair dryer in a cool setting can speed up the nail-drying process. First, paint your nails, then show the cool air over the nail polish for about 2 to 3 minutes. Try this technique for each coat, and your nails will dry faster. 

Note: Don’t use the heat setting as it will melt the nail polish and destroy the entire look. 

If you don’t have a dryer, then try using a fan instead. 

Dry using a Fan

Using a fan to dry your nails is a common method as it helps circulate air to your nails and helps in faster drying. Sit in front of a fan on a low setting or use a small handheld fan to dry your nails faster. 

Note: Don’t get too close to the nail, and make sure that it can cause bubbles or uneven surfaces. 

Drying Drops

Drying nail drops are formulated to speed up the drying process significantly. First, apply your base coat, and add a drop of drying solution to each nail. It will help to set the polish and top coat even faster. 

Quick-Drying Nail Polish

Choose the nail polish labeled “Quick Drying,” which is specifically formulated to dry more quickly than others. Many different brands are offering quick-dry options in various types of colors. 

Using these types of nail polish will help reduce the drying time of your nail polish and help you achieve a more professional look without waiting.  

Avoid Humidity

Another major reason that slows down the drying process is humidity. So, it is best to paint your nails in a dry environment with low humidity. It helps reduce the drying time of your nail polish and achieve a smooth, smudge-free finish. 

Freeze Spray

Another effective way to speed up the drying process is to freeze spray. First, apply the top coat and wait for about 2 minutes. Then, spray a thin layer of freeze spray on your nails. 

Note: There are several freeze sprays available in the stores. 

Cuticle Oil

Cuticle oil is a moisturizing product for your nails and cuticles. Just applying cuticle oil to the nail polish helps it dry faster while also keeping your cuticles moisturized.  

Apply the top coat, then wait for a couple of minutes. Then apply cuticle oil around your nails, which helps the polish dry faster. 

What Ingredients in the Nail Polish Help Them Dry Faster?

Solvents are volatile substances that evaporate quickly, leaving the solid components of the nail polish on the nails. The most common solvent used in nail polish for faster drying is ethyl acetate.

Common Solvents in Fast-Drying Nail Polish and Their Associated Brands

Keep these in mind and get your drying process going faster! 

FAQ :

1) How long does it take nail polish to fully dry?
Nail polish usually takes 1-2 hours to fully dry. Using quick-drying formulas, applying thin coats, or methods like drying drops and cold water can speed up the process.

2) Can heat make nail polish dry faster?
Yes, heat can speed up nail polish drying. Using a hair dryer on a cool or low heat setting or placing your nails near a warm fan can help the polish dry faster.

3) Does ice water dry nail polish?
Yes, ice water can help dry nail polish faster. After applying polish, dip your nails in ice water for a few minutes to speed up the drying process.

4) How can I dry my nails in 5 minutes?
To dry your nails in 5 minutes, use quick-drying nail polish, apply thin coats, and use a fan or hair dryer on a cool setting. Drying drops can also help.

5) Does a hair dryer dry nail polish?
Yes, a hair dryer can help dry nail polish. Use it on a cool or low heat setting to speed up drying without causing smudging or damage.