Although sitting in a salon chair to wait for nail polish to dry sounds like a weekend activity most of us would welcome, it won't hurt to know ways that can make the colors dry faster.

Nail Polish Drying Time

Waiting for your nail polish to dry can feel like an eternity, especially when you are eager to show off your freshly painted nails. Typically, nail polish takes about an hour or two to dry completely, depending on the type of polish and the number of coats applied.

Use a quick-drying top coat

Applying a quick-drying top coat can significantly reduce drying time. Look for a formula that is specifically designed to dry quickly without compromising the finish of your nail polish. Try Sally Hansen Dries Instantly Top Coat Nail Polish, which offers a quick solution for a shiny finish. Priced at $7, this top coat resists chipping and scratching, drying fast with no smudges. It also protects against fading and discoloration, lasting up to 10 days. Simply apply one coat over dry nails for a long-lasting manicure.

Try a nail drying spray

Nail drying sprays are designed to accelerate the drying process of nail polish. Simply spray a light mist over your nails after applying polish to speed up drying time. Demert Nail Enamel Dryer Spray is a quick fix for drying nail polish. Going for $9, this spray saves time by eliminating the lengthy wait for nail polish to dry. It leaves nails looking healthy and conditioned, offering a professional finish at home. Simply wait one minute after applying nail polish, then spray lightly over each nail. This spray includes panthenol, vitamin E, and olive oil for added conditioning.

Use a fan or hair dryer

Setting up a fan or using a hair dryer in a cool setting can help to dry your nails faster. Be sure to keep the fan or dryer at a distance to prevent smudging.

Dip your nails in ice water

Fill a bowl with ice water and dip your nails into it for a few minutes. The cold temperature can help to set the polish and speed up the drying process.

Apply thin coats

Instead of applying thick coats of nail polish, try applying thin, even coats. Thin coats of polish dry faster and are less likely to smudge.

Is your nail polish dry?

To check if your nail polish is dry, gently touch the surface of your nails with your fingertip. If the polish feels dry to the touch and doesn't leave a mark, it is likely dry. Avoid touching or bumping your nails until you are sure they are completely dry to prevent smudging and dents.