How to Fix Dried Out Nail Polish

Hello, manicure mavens! We've all been there: you're ready for your at-home nail session and you reach for your favorite shade of polish, only to find it's turned into a gooey, clumpy mess. It's a common issue, especially when you're dealing with an older bottle that's been sitting around for a while. But don't despair or toss it out just yet! There are ways to bring your dried out nail polish back to life.

How to Revive Your Dried Out Nail Polish:

Step 1: Roll the Bottle: Before you start adding anything to your nail polish, give the bottle a good roll between your hands. This can help mix up any pigment that has settled on the bottom.

Step 2: Add Nail Polish Thinner: If the polish is still too thick or clumpy, it's time to use a nail polish thinner. You can find these at most beauty supply stores or online. Make sure to use a thinner designed specifically for nail polish. Do NOT use nail polish remover or acetone as it can actually ruin your polish. Simply add a few drops of thinner, close the bottle, and shake well. Check the consistency and add more thinner if needed, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 3: Warm it Up: If your polish is still struggling, you can try giving it a warm water bath. Place the closed bottle in a bowl of warm (not hot) water and let it sit for a couple of minutes. The heat can help to thin out the polish.

Step 4: Shake It Up: After adding thinner or giving your polish a warm bath, shake the bottle thoroughly. This will help mix the thinner with the polish. Remember to roll the bottle between your hands rather than shaking it up and down to avoid creating air bubbles in the polish.

How to Prevent Your Nail Polish from Drying Out:

Proper storage and care can prolong the life of your nail polish:

1. Store Upright: Always store your nail polish bottles upright. This prevents the polish from drying around the cap, which can make the bottle difficult to open.

2. Keep it Cool: Store your polish in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat and sunlight can cause the polish to thicken and change color.

3. Tighten the Cap: Always ensure the cap is screwed on tightly after use to prevent air from drying out the polish.

4. Regularly Clean the Neck of the Bottle: Polish that dries around the neck of the bottle can let in air, drying out the polish. Use a little nail polish remover on a cotton pad to wipe away any dried polish.

With these tips, you can revive that dried-up polish and get it back to its original, smooth consistency. Remember, however, that nail polish does have a shelf life. If your polish is very old, or if it has a strange smell even after you've revived it, it might be time to replace it.