12 Best Ways To Dry Your Nail Polish Faster

If you love painting your nails but hate waiting for your polish to dry, this article is for you. Let’s face it – there’s nothing more frustrating than going to bed with freshly painted nails and waking up to find your hard work smudged and ruined. The same applies for the times you’re running late for that dinner or meeting, but your polish just won’t dry. Need to know how to dry nail polish faster? We have put together a bunch of easy and effective methods on how to dry your nail polish faster. Moreover, you’ll find most of the stuff needed for it right at home!

Keep In Mind

• Light shades: Choose lighter or sheer metallic colors if you need your nails to dry faster with fewer coats.
• Cold Air: If your blow dryer does not have a cool setting, try placing your hands in the freezer for about 2 minutes as exposure to cold air solidifies the polish faster.
• Oil: Apply essential oil, like peppermint, lavender, or citronella with a clean brush on your nails to speed up the drying process.
• Caution: Avoid UV dryers as far as possible to prevent DNA damage and cancer risk.

12 Foolproof Ways To Speed Up Your Nail Polish Drying Time

Here are some handy tips and tricks that can help dry your nail polish faster without compromising the manicure finish.

1. Dip Your Nails In Ice Water

Dipping your fingernails in ice-cold water is perhaps the most efficient technique to dry your polish faster. It’s also insanely simple!

What You Need

• A bowl of cold water
• Ice cubes

Step-By-Step Tutorial

1. Before you begin painting your nails, fill up a bowl with cold tap water, add a couple of ice cubes, and set it aside.
2. Once you’re done painting your nails, wait about 2 to 3 minutes to allow the polish to set before dipping your nails into the bowl.
3. Keep them in there for about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. When you remove your hands from the bowl, you will see water beading on the surface of your nails. This is a telltale sign that your polish is completely dry.

Note: While dipping nails in ice water can speed up drying, it may not work effectively for thick or multiple polish layers. Some people have attested that sudden temperature changes also cause slight cracking or shrinkage in some formulas. Also, if the polish isn’t semi-set before dipping, it may smudge upon contact with water.

Stylecraze Says

You can also use fast-drying nail polish to have a hassle-free manicure experience. But ensure that the bottle is sealed and stored well after application as these products tend to dry up quickly.

2. Run Your Nails Under Cold Water

If you do not have ice cubes ready, you can simply run your manicured nails under a gentle stream of cold tap water. Alexandra, a YouTuber, dipped her nails in a bowl of ice water to see if the process worked to hasten the drying to within a minute. She demonstrated the results, saying, “I like to show you guys how dry they are, nothing is coming off, they are not smudging, they are not smearing, nothing like that (i)!”

What You Need

• Tap with running water

Step-By-Step Tutorial

1. Turn on the tap and pass your nails under the stream of cold water.
2. Remember, you are not washing your hands, so do not rub them together to avoid smudging your nail polish.

Note: Running nails under cold water may not be as effective as ice water for thick polish layers. Water pressure variations can also accidentally smudge the polish if not done carefully. Additionally, some nail polish formulas may take longer to fully set, even after exposure to cold water.

3. Try The Cold Air Setting On A Blow Dryer

This is a quicker and mess-free alternative to an ice-bowl or running water. Remember, the cool setting is what we are looking for.

What You Need

• A hairdryer with a cold blast setting.

Step-By-Step Tutorial

1. Plug in your hair dryer and pop it on its coldest setting.
2. Once you finish painting your nails, swirl the dryer around your nails in small, circular motions for 2 to 3 minutes. Just make sure that you don’t use too much force or hold it too close to your nails as it will blow ripples into your polish. You may use a gentle fan to dry your nails too.

Note: One thing you need to remember is that using a blow dryer’s cold setting can still cause ripples if held too close or at high speed. Some polishes may require more drying time, making this method less effective for thick coats. Additionally, prolonged exposure to air can cause uneven drying, leading to potential smudging.

4. Apply A Coat Of Oil

A drop of non-stick cooking oil is a great way to cut down on nail polish drying time. You may also use baby oil, olive oil, or any carrier or essential oil.

What You Need

• Carrier oil, essential oil, baby oil, or cooking oil
• Dropper
• Paper towels

Step By Step Tutorial

1. Once you are done applying the polish, use a dropper to gently apply 1-2 drops of oil on your freshly painted nails.
2. Let the oil sit for a few minutes. The oil soaks into the paint, making it dry faster.
3. When you notice the oil beading on top of your nail paint, use a dry paper towel to wipe it away.

If you are using this method, keep this in mind. Applying oil may not work effectively for all nail polish formulas, especially quick-dry types. Excess oil can create a slippery surface, making it difficult to apply additional coats or topcoats. Additionally, if not wiped off properly, oil residue may attract dust or lint, affecting the final finish.

5. Apply Nail Drying Drops

Using commercial nail polish drying drops will cut your wait time in half. These products not only help dry the paint faster but also make your nails look super shiny. They also nourish and condition the skin around your cuticles.

Note: While nail drying drops speed up drying time, they can sometimes cause uneven drying if applied too thickly. Some formulas may contain silicones or oils that may weaken polish adhesion. This can lead to quicker chipping. Additionally, frequent use might dry out natural nails over time, making them brittle.

6. Thin It Out

As opposed to thick coats, applying several thin coats of nail polish gives your nails time to dry quickly in between applications. It also leaves you with a more even finish. Although it might seem like your manicure is taking forever, it really isn’t. You’re actually cutting the overall drying time way shorter.

Note: Nail drying drops may not work as effectively on thick or multiple layers of polish. Some formulas can leave an oily or slick residue, which might interfere with additional coats or topcoat adhesion. Additionally, low-quality products may contain ingredients that cause polish to peel or chip faster.

7. Wait Between Coats

Instead of rushing into the next coat right after the first, increase the wait time between coats. It will hardly take more time than a thick layer of nail paint to dry. Thin layers dry quicker. So, go for 2-3 thin layers until you get the color intensity you desire but wait until the previous layer is completely dry. This will also ensure your final finish is smooth and flawless.

Note: Waiting between coats requires patience, which may not be ideal for those in a hurry. If the environment is humid, even thin layers can take longer to dry properly. Additionally, some polishes may appear streaky with thin coats, requiring extra layers to achieve full opacity.

8. Switch To Quick-Dry Formulas

Investing in a nail polish that is specially formulated to speed up your nail polish drying time is perhaps the easiest way to dry nails faster. Some of the quick-dry formulas also claim to add a glossy sheen to your nails, thus prevent chipping, and make your manicure look fresh for longer. Here’s the best part – you can find some insanely great drugstore formulas for topcoats at very low prices.

Note: But keep in mind, quick-dry formulas may contain higher levels of solvents, which can make nails more prone to brittleness over time. Some formulas dry the surface quickly but leave the underlying layers soft, increasing the risk of dents or smudges. Additionally, these polishes may not provide the same long-lasting wear as traditional formulas.

Stylecraze Says

Nail polishes, once used, may invite polish buildup on the surface of the bottles, allowing air to enter them, and making the contents sticky and clumpy. To avoid this, you can wipe away the buildup using acetone.

9. Go For Nail-Drying Spray

Commercially available nail-drying sprays are specially formulated for this purpose and are gentle on your nails. You can ask your local beauticians for product recommendations. Alternatively, you can use hairspray if you would rather not invest in a special drying spray.

Note: Nail-drying sprays may contain alcohol or other chemicals that can dry out nails and cuticles with frequent use. Some sprays only dry the surface layer, leaving deeper layers soft and prone to smudging. Additionally, using hairspray as an alternative may cause stickiness or uneven drying.

10. Invest In An LED Lamp

If you have a busy lifestyle but like to keep your nails in top shape, an LED nail lamp is a worthwhile investment. Compared to UV lamps that can harm your skin in the long run through their radiation, LED lamps are safer and can dry your fresh nail paint in a jiffy.

Note: Some nail-drying sprays may leave a residue that dulls the polish’s shine or affects its smooth finish. If applied too closely, the spray’s force can create streaks or bubbles in the polish. Additionally, certain formulas may have a strong scent that some people find unpleasant.

11. Use An Air Duster

This method is not safe in the long run, hence we recommend you to go for it sparingly. Many people swear by using an air duster spray for instantly drying manicures and pedicures. Hold the can 20-30 cm away from your nails while spraying so that your manicure does not get ruined. Also, make sure your room is well-ventilated and wear a mask to avoid inhaling too much of the spray, as it can be harmful to your health.

Note: Keep in mind that air dusters contain compressed gases that can be harmful if inhaled frequently. The extreme cold from the spray may cause the polish to crack or create an uneven texture. Additionally, using an air duster too closely or forcefully can smudge or distort the polish.

12. Air Purifier For Nails

Enhance your nail polish drying time with a simple solution – an air purifier. Here is how to follow this efficient technique.

What You Need

• Air purifier

Step By Step Guide

1. Position the air purifier near you, preferably somewhere you sit.
2. Turn it on to increase air circulation and place your painted nails near it.
3. Allow the purified air to interact with the nail polish. This facilitates quicker evaporation of solvents.
4. Enjoy smudge-free, perfectly dried nails in no time.

Note: Air purifiers may not generate strong enough airflow to significantly speed up drying time compared to fans or blow dryers. Some models with built-in humidifiers could even slow the drying process by increasing moisture in the air.

In addition to the above tips, there are two more effective ways to dry your nail polish faster:

• Vinegar: Dip your nails in a bowl of white vinegar for about 5 minutes, before applying nail polish. The acetic acid in the vinegar removes any residue and oil from the nail surface, allowing the polish to adhere better and dry faster. However, this may dry out your nails.

While white vinegar helps the polish adhere better, its acidity can weaken nails and cause dryness with frequent use. Additionally, if not rinsed and dried properly, residual vinegar could interfere with polish application. So make sure you give your nails a good wash once the polish dries.

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle some baking soda on the top of your freshly painted nails. It will absorb moisture from your nails and let the polish set quickly. Brush off the baking soda once the polish dries. But be careful, as the baking soda may stick to the polish.

However, keep in mind that baking soda can leave a powdery residue on nails. If applied too soon, it may stick to the polish and create a rough texture. Additionally, brushing it off too forcefully can accidentally smudge or dent the polish before it fully sets.

Now that you know how to dry your manicure quickly, let’s talk about taking care of it properly so that it lasts you a long time

How To Take Care Of Your Manicure

Many nail professionals claim that your manicure is not completely set for up to twelve hours after the process, even after the polish dries. You need to take extra care of your manicure around this time to ensure it sets properly and lasts long. Here are a few tips to make the best of your manicured nails:

• Take time out during the weekend to paint your nails or do it after your night routine, just before going to bed. This will ensure your hands are less busy and your manicure gets time to dry properly.
• Use tested and well-endorsed methods of drying your nails instead of vigorously waving your hands around in the air and accidentally ruining your nails.
• Refresh your manicure with a quick-dry top coat every two to three days to keep it chip-free.

Infographic: Tips To Cut Drying Time Of Your Nail Polish

If you are in a rush, waiting for your nail polish to dry can feel like forever. On an average, nail polishes may take 10-30 minutes to dry completely. However, you can cut down this drying time with some simple tips. Click on the infographic below to learn what you can do to make your nail polish dry fast.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

How do different nail polish colors affect drying time?

Dark nail polish colors have more concentrated pigments that tend to take more time to dry compared to sheer or light shades. Metallic or shimmery nail polishes also take a longer time to dry. They contain tiny reflective pieces that add density to the polish formulae, making them thick.

How do I dry acrylic nails faster?

Acrylics are a combination of a liquid monomer and a powder polymer that creates a hard, protective shell over your natural nail. It’s always a good idea to get acrylics done by a professional at your local nail salon. Ideally, you need to cure (dry) the nails for two minutes under a UV lamp or for a minute under an LED lamp.

Can I use olive oil to dry my nail polish faster?

Yes! Soaking your freshly coated nails for about two minutes in extra virgin olive oil can actually help dry the polish faster. You can also use sunflower oil, extra virgin coconut oil, or baby oil as alternatives.

Does an LED or UV lamp dry regular nail polish?

No, your regular nail polish requires air drying while gel nail polish must be cured by an LED or UV lamp.

Does hand sanitizer dry nail polish?

No, hand sanitizer cannot dry nail polish. The rich alcohol content removes or breaks down the nail polish by dissolving the pigment.

Does rubbing alcohol dry nail polish?

No, rubbing alcohol does not dry nail polish. Like an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, it softens and removes the polish.

Does showering ruin nail polish?

Avoid showering if your nails are wet as the water will wash off unset nail polish.

Illustration: Best Ways To Dry Your Nail Polish Faster

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Tired of waiting for your nails to dry? Learn the trick to drying them fast in this video. Get ready for well-done nails even in a rush!

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Daria KruchininaLicensed Esthetician

       

Daria Kruchinina is a celebrity makeup and natural brows artist who has been in the beauty industry for 11 years. Her clients include A-list celebrities, such as Jared Leto, Natalia Vodyanova, Maria Gutic, Valentina Beli, and Valeria Dergileva, to name a few.

Read full bio of Daria Kruchinina

Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

Read full bio of Esha Saxena

Subhrojyoti MukherjeeAssociate Editor

Subhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.

Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee

Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience creating engaging content for the beauty, lifestyle, and tattoo niches. She holds a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a Master’s in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

Read full bio of Joyce Joyson