A quick dry nail polish saves valuable time and makes the whole process of giving yourself a manicure hassle-free. Before picking one, you should consider some key factors to make sure you choose a high-quality option that’s optimal for your nails.
What to Look for in a Quick Dry Nail Polish
Color range
Let's be honest: when you apply the same color of nail polish for too long, it can start to look boring. Almost all brands provide a quick-drying liquid, but it is rare to find a variety of colors by the same company. Look for a brand with over five colors to choose from, so you can match them with anything you wear.
Applicator brush
Not every quick dry nail polish brush is the same — avoid rounded brushes since they make the application harder and more time-consuming. It's easier to have a chip-free manicure or pedicure if the nail polish comes with an angular or flat brush to easily and quickly apply it on both hands or feet.
Color pigment
Quick dry nail polish should have a great color pigment because if you apply multiple coats, it will look very thick and messy. Choose one that provides the maximum color in a single coat or two for the perfect look.
Anti-chip and long-lasting
It can become very tough and frustrating to constantly change your nail polish, especially after it chips off and looks less than great since you’ll need to remove it and re-apply. Look for quick dry nail polish with a formula that won’t chip when you do your everyday tasks.
Vegan and safe ingredients
Make sure the fast-drying nail polish you choose doesn’t contain harmful chemicals and animal-derived ingredients that could damage the nail’s protective layer and cuticles. Certain brands provide quick-dry options without resin, DBP, and toluene. Opt for these nail polishes to have beautiful and healthy nails.
Price range
Nail polishes can come at different prices depending on the brand, the number of bottles in a pack, available colors, and quality. However, a standard quick dry nail polish with all the necessary features and optimal color choices should be available in the price range of $4-$7.
Quick Dry Nail Polish vs. Regular Nail Polish
An effortless manicure process
Quick dry nail polish allows you to have a manicure in less time since it dries nearly instantly and gives you the glossy or matte nails you want. Also, it saves you a trip to the salon and lets you have an easy breezy experience from the comfort of your home.
Protects from UV rays
A nail polish that dries quickly doesn't need to be cured under a UV lamp for drying and proper settling. It can dry by itself in a matter of minutes, which means your nails and cuticles are very much protected from the weakening effect of UV rays.
Quite convenient
Need to rush to an event and your nails aren't done? There’s no need to worry when you’re using quick dry nail polish. You can apply it on your way or even a few minutes before leaving your place, and it will look like a classy and smudge-free manicure.
Built-in base and top coat
Quick-drying polishes also come with built-in base and top coats, making them even more effective at protecting and strengthening your nails.
How to Maintain Quick Dry Nail Polish
- File and clean your nails of any dirt or oil before applying the quick dry nail polish. If there is any dirt, the polish won't stick and will be uneven after application.
- Apply some nail and cuticle serum after buffing or cleaning your nails. This will ensure when you apply the nail paint, it settles well onto them and keeps them healthy too.
- Although a quick dry nail polish sets easily, avoid water for at least 30 minutes after applying the polish to ensure that it won’t get smudgy or messy.
- To remove it, you can use an acetone remover. However, before that, you should wash your hands and remove any lotion/hand cream as those may mess up the process. You can also use non-acetone nail polish remover to remove quick dry nail polish from your hands if you are allergic to chemicals. But to use it effectively, make sure you soak your fingers in the remover.
