There are unconventional hacks and nail quick fixes. One of which is using hairspray as a handy nail-drying agent. It is believed that a quick spritz of hairspray can accelerate the drying process of freshly applied nail polish. But the real question here is, does hairspray dry nails?
Hairspray does not completely dry the nails, but its alcohol content accelerates the process. Also, while it may seem to work initially, using hairspray on nails can lead to issues like uneven drying, potential damage to the nail polish, and a less-than-desirable finish.
In this blog post, I’ll explore how to use hairspray to dry nails the benefits, and drawbacks of using hairspray to dry nails. Furthermore, I’ll discuss different nail drying methods to try instead of using hairspray.
How to Use Hairspray to Dry Nails
Using hairspray to dry nails is not a recommended method due to potential drawbacks and risks. However, if you still wish to proceed with this method, here’s a step-by-step guide:
Steps to use hairspray to dry nails:
- Begin by applying your nail polish as usual, making sure it’s evenly and thinly coated on your nails. Allow it to air dry for a minute or two.
- Hold the hairspray can about 12 inches (30 centimeters) away from your nails to avoid any direct contact.
- Gently press the nozzle of the hairspray can to release a fine mist over your freshly painted nails. Be cautious not to spray too closely or too heavily, as this can cause the nail polish to smudge or become disrupted.
- Allow the hairspray mist to evaporate and dry your nails. This may take a few minutes, depending on the amount of hairspray used and the thickness of your nail polish.
- Once you believe your nails are dry, carefully inspect them to ensure they are smudge-free and the polish has hardened.
3 Benefits of Using Hairspray to Dry Nails
Below are some of the potential benefits of using hairspray to dry nails:
1. Quick drying
Hairspray often contains alcohol as one of its ingredients, and alcohol is known to evaporate quickly. When applied to wet nail polish, the alcohol in hairspray can help speed up the drying process, allowing your nails to dry faster than if left to air dry.
2. Easily accessible
Hairspray is a readily available household product, making it convenient for those who may not have specialized nail drying products on hand. It offers a quick and accessible solution for individuals looking to expedite the nail drying process in a pinch.
3. Potential smudge protection
While not foolproof, hairspray may provide some degree of smudge protection. The alcohol in hairspray can help set the nail polish and prevent smudging if applied lightly and allowed to dry thoroughly.
5 Drawbacks of Using Hairspray to Dry Nails
Using hairspray to dry nails, while a common home remedy, comes with several drawbacks and potential risks:
1. Uneven drying
Hairspray is not formulated for nail drying, and its application may lead to uneven drying of nail polish. This can result in a lumpy or inconsistent nail polish finish, compromising the appearance of your manicure.
2. The chemicals in it can damage the nails
Hairspray contains additional ingredients beyond alcohol, such as polymers and chemicals, that are not suitable for nail polish. These ingredients may potentially damage or weaken the nail polish over time, affecting its quality, longevity, and overall appearance.
3. Lack of consistency
The effectiveness of hairspray as a nail drying method can vary significantly based on the brand and formulation of the hairspray used. Inconsistencies in results may lead to frustration and uncertainty about the outcome of your manicure.
4. It can potentially cause smudging
While hairspray may offer some degree of smudge protection, it does not guarantee complete smudge prevention. The nail polish may still be susceptible to smearing or denting if not allowed to dry thoroughly.
5. It can negatively affect the health of the nail
Continuous or frequent use of hairspray on nails may negatively impact nail health. The ingredients in hairspray are not intended for contact with nails, and prolonged exposure may lead to brittleness or discoloration.
7 Ways to Dry Nails Instead of Using Hairspray
Below are alternatives to use instead of hairspray;
1. Air dry the nails
This is the most common and straightforward method for drying nail polish. After applying the final coat of nail polish, allow your nails to air dry naturally. Be patient, as this method may take some time, but it ensures a smooth and even finish without the use of additional products or equipment. To speed up the process, you can use a fan to create airflow.
2. Use quick-dry topcoats
You can use quick-dry topcoats to accelerate the drying process of nail polish. Apply a thin layer of quick-dry topcoat over your nail polish once it’s semi-dry. These topcoats contain ingredients that help seal and harden the polish quickly, providing a glossy finish and reducing drying time significantly.
3. Opt for UV or LED nail lamps
These lamps emit UV or LED light that activates photoinitiators in certain nail polishes, causing them to cure and dry quickly. Simply apply a gel nail polish that’s compatible with UV or LED lamps, cure your nails under the lamp for the recommended time, and enjoy nails that are instantly dry and long-lasting.
4. Nail drying sprays
Nail drying sprays are designed to speed up the drying process by evaporating the solvents in the nail polish. After applying your nail polish, wait a minute or two, and then spray the drying solution over your nails. These sprays help set the polish and reduce smudging or denting, making them a convenient option.
5. Coldwater submersions method
This method involves dipping your freshly painted nails into a bowl of ice-cold water for a few minutes. The cold water can help harden the nail polish and speed up the drying process. It’s essential to ensure your nails are dry before submerging them to prevent any smudging.
6. Nail polish drying drops
Drying drops are specifically designed to accelerate nail polish drying. Apply your nail polish as usual and wait a minute or two before adding a drop of the drying solution to each nail. These drops contain ingredients that promote quick drying and provide a shiny finish.
7. Use a blow dryer on cool setting
If you’re in a hurry, you can use a blow dryer on the cool setting to speed up the drying process. Hold the dryer a few inches away from your nails and use the cool airflow to help set the polish. Avoid using high heat, as it may cause the polish to bubble or wrinkle.
Conclusion
While hairspray can accelerate the process of nail drying, it does not completely dry the nails. However, the use of hairspray includes drawbacks such as uneven drying and potential damage to the nail polish. Meanwhile, using hairspray also has its benefits including availability, quick drying etc.
To achieve the best results and maintain the quality of your manicure, go for dedicated nail drying methods and products designed specifically for this purpose. This includes air drying, quick-dry topcoats, UV or LED nail lamps, or other proven techniques, these methods offer more consistent and effective results, and a smudge-free finish.
