Unfortunately, this problem doesn’t come with any fast and easy fixes. Once the pesky bubbles appear, your only option is to start afresh and redo your nails. But, fret not! In this article, we will address the issue at its root and share how you can prevent bubbles from forming in your nail polish. Read on. No matter what your reasons, here’s how you can beat the bubbles for good. How To Avoid Bubbles In Your Nail Polish
1. Clean Your Nails
Prepping is a must before you begin applying nail polish. Greasy or dirty nails prevent nail polish from adhering well. Always wash your hands with soap and water first. Wait for your nails to dry completely. Then, wipe them with a cotton ball soaked in acetone to remove any oil or dirt from the nail bed.
2. Always Apply A Base Coat
Much like putting on primer before your foundation, a base coat is necessary for a smooth and even finish. Applying a base coat not only prevents nail discoloration, but it also extends the wear of your manicure. Since your nails emit natural oils that prevent the nail polish from adhering well, a base coat is the best way to seal these oils in.
3. Inspect Your Nail Polish
You can’t expect an old, gloopy polish to give you a smooth finish. It is just not realistic.Test your nail polish beforehand with a quick swipe across your nail to check if it is the right consistency. If your polish is thick, dense, and sticky, either thin it out with lacquer thinner or throw it away.
4. Roll The Bottle
Shaking a bottle of nail polish vigorously is probably the number one mistake we have all made. Pumping the brush in and out of the bottle’s neck is another blunder. Doing so only traps the air inside the bottle, which creates tiny pockets where bubbles form. Those air bubbles, when transferred onto your nails, sometimes leave noticeable holes in your manicure. If your polish has separated, the best way to deal with it is to simply roll the bottle between your hands like you are rolling dough.
5. Apply Thin Coats
The key to a perfect manicure lies in its application. If you have too much polish on your brush, you are in for a mess. You will have to deal with smudges, nicks, and bubbles. Besides, thicker layers of polish take too long to dry. The best way to apply nail polish is in three short and even strokes: the first one down the middle and then one down each side of the nail. Lift the brush as little as possible and always wait for the first coat to dry completely before applying the second one.
6. Always Apply A Top Coat
Once you finish applying your nail color, apply a topcoat. Make sure you swipe across the very edge of your nail. This way, you will be less likely to chip the nail paint.
7. Dip Your Fingers In A Bowl Of Cold Water
To help your nail polish dry quickly and prevent any creasing or bubbling, submerge your nails in a bowl of ice-cold water for about a minute. Also, avoid hot showers after polishing your nails for at least two hours.
8. Store Your Nail Polish Properly
Storing your nail polish upright in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature is essential for the formula to retain its consistency and prolong its shelf life. Always wipe off the neck of the bottle with a remover-soaked cotton swab before putting it away. Does cold water dry the nail polish faster? Check out the infographic below to remind yourself of a few ways you can avoid bubbles from appearing the next time you apply nail polish yourself. Yes, cold water can help dry the nail polish faster. Dip your painted nails in the cold water for 3-5 minutes. The ice water thickens the polish, so it seems to dry quickly. Can you use hairspray to dry nails? Yes, using hairspray to dry nails is an effective hack. You can hold the hairspray about 8 to 10 inches away from the nails and spray. Do nails dry faster with hot or cold air? The cold air helps harden the polish. So, it is best to use cold air to dry the nail polish.
