Name something more frustrating than dropping hard-earned cash on a pricey nail appointment, only to ruin it within two minutes of stepping out the door of the salon. Whether it be digging for your wallet in the depths of your purse, putting on your sneakers a little too prematurely, or an altercation with a chip bag that simply won't open, we've experienced our fair share of manicure mishaps over the years. So in an effort to save ourselves from smudges and having to spend even more money to get them fixed, we've rounded up an algorithm-approved list of the best quick-dry polishes and products you can buy. From sprays that promise to dry your polish in seconds to drying drops, ultra-shiny topcoats, and more, the genius formulas below are the perfect way to prevent dents and dings whether you're hitting up the salon or having a DIY mani-pedi sesh at home. Scroll ahead to see and shop the Top 10. Opening image: @cndworld
Did you like our 10 Best Quick-Dry Nail Polishes And Products? Then you’ll love our 10 Best Nail Polishes For 2020!
May 13, 2020
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
CND Essentials Solarspeed Spray
WHAT IT DOES: Formulated with nourishing vitamin E, jojoba, and sweet almond, this multi-tasking spray moisturizes the nails and cuticles while reducing drying time. It's a win-win.
LOVED FOR: Unlike most quick-dry sprays, this one casts a light mist that evaporates almost immediately—you won't be left with wet nails after you use it.
Beauty Secrets Nail Polish Dryer Spray
WHY YOU NEED IT: If you recognize this finishing spray, it's probably because it's a pro favorite. Free of sulfates, parabens, soy, and petroleum, the powerful formula provides a fast-drying, smooth, smudge-proof finish in minutes. Yes, all that for only $3.
USERS SAID: "This product not only works perfectly, but it also smells FANTASTIC! It's the only dryer I use for my fingers and toes."
Cote Quick Dry
BEST FOR: If you're in a hurry, you can't go wrong with Cote Quick Dry. Both a topcoat and nail dryer in one, the clear formula provides any polish with ultra-shine and a less-than-three-minute dry time.
FUN FACT: It also contains a UV absorber to help prevent nail discoloration. Pure genius.
Tenoverten Non-Toxic Nail Dryer
WHAT IT DOES: As per usual with tenoverten's products, this nail dryer is totally non-toxic. Formulated with rich vitamins and no bad stuff, it instantly seals and hardens polish while boosting shine and protecting the nails from damage.
FUN FACT: The natural rosemary fragrance doesn't just smell good—it also completely masks that harsh, fresh-from-the-salon odor.
OPI Drip Dry Lacquer Drying Drops
WHY YOU NEED IT: There's a reason these drying drops are such a hit. Designed to soothe cuticles and dry nail polish in just one minute (yes, as in 60 seconds), mani-pedis are made as simple as possible with this stuff.
USERS SAID: "These totally changed my nail polish routine at home. After applying my top coat, I let it dry for about 1-2 minutes, then apply the drops on each nail. The trick is to position your nail at a 45-degree angle pointing downward and apply the drops starting at the base of the cuticle. This makes my cuticles super soft and dries my nail polish a lot faster than usual!"
OPI Fast Drying Top Coat Spray
LOVED FOR: Not only does this quick-drying spray double as a high-shine topcoat, but it can also be used at any time to restore shine between mani-pedis.
USERS SAID: "I have tried everything to get my nails to dry when I paint them at home. I’ve tried topcoats, ice water, and time (lots of time) waiting patiently for my nails to dry, and after several hours my nail polish is always ruined. Today I tried the OPI Rapid Dry Spray, and my nails dried super quickly! I'm going on two hours after painting my nails and doing dishes and laundry, and they are still dry and look amazing!"
Demert Nail Enamel Dryer
WHAT IT DOES: Another salon favorite, Demert Nail Enamel Dryer uses di-panthenol, organic protein, and mink oil to create fast-drying, non-smearing manicures while conditioning both the cuticles and nails. Talk about multi-tasking.
BEST FOR: This is a great formula for artificial nails, too.
Inm Out The Door Fast Dry
BEST FOR: Shine lovers, this one's for you. INM's Out The Door Top Coat contains acrylate, which forms a high-gloss glaze over each nail and leaves a chip-free finish.
HELPFUL TIP: While this obviously works wonderfully over polished nails, it's a great way to give naked nails a sophisticated look.
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat
WHAT IT DOES: This drugstore score does a lot for just $5. The formula contains an exclusive acrylic polymer that hardens and dries nail color in just 30 seconds, and it also has double UV filters to keep color fresh for days on end.
FROM THE EXPERTS: Just to sweeten the deal, it also provides a no-chip shine that lasts up to 10 days or more.
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Nail Coat
WHY YOU NEED IT: It doesn't get much better than Seche Vite. This professional favorite leaves the nails with an ultra-shiny finish fast, speeds up dry time, and prevents yellowing, chipping, and peeling for days. Once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
WHY WE LOVE IT: "One of the main reasons I pay to get my nails done is because of the high-shine results, but this topcoat totally changed that for me. It dries any polish so fast, and it leaves your nails with the sleekest, glossiest look ever! I'm all about the at-home mani-pedis now."—Kate Ferris, Associate Editor
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