Reviving Your Nail Polish: A Guide To Thinning Thickened Polishes

Ever find that perfect shade buried deep in your nail polish collection, only to discover it’s turned into a thick, gooey mess? Don’t toss it just yet! We have the ultimate guide to bring your beloved polishes back to life.

Whether you’re a professional nail technician or simply love DIY nail art, this guide will have your polishes looking as vibrant as the day you bought them. Keep reading to discover how to thin fingernail polish and achieve perfect manicures!

When to thin out or toss it

• Thin it out
  If your polish has thickened but is still within its shelf life (typically one to two years after opening), give it a shot at revival! As long as the colour looks the same and only the consistency needs smoothing, follow the tips we’ll share.
• Toss it
  Naturally, if your polish is past its expiration date, it’s time to let it go. If it’s separated into layers that won’t mix back together or the polish has taken on an unusual smell, it’s best to toss it. Your nails deserve the best, and using old or compromised polish can result in uneven, lumpy application and chipping.

How to thin out nail polish

From using a professional nail thinner to quick at-home hacks, here are easy tricks to save your polishes:

• Use warm water
  Warm water is a great fix if your polish is just starting to thicken. Simply follow the steps below:

1. First, grab a bowl and fill it with warm water — it shouldn’t be too hot, as we don’t want any cracked bottles!
2. Carefully place your polish in the water and let it soak for about two minutes.
3. Then, take the bottle out and let it cool down.
4. Turn the bottle upside down and gently roll it between your palms. Avoid shaking the bottle, as it can cause pesky air bubbles to form, which may lead to your polish chipping more easily.

• Use a reliable nail polish thinner
  When your polish gets thick and clumpy, nail lacquer thinner is your best friend. Here's how to thin nail polish effectively using this technique:

1. Grab an eyedropper and add two to three drops of nail thinner directly into the polish bottle.
2. Screw the cap back on nice and tight, then gently roll the bottle between your palms to mix it up.
3. Test the polish by brushing a light layer onto your nail. If it glides on smoothly, you’re all set! If it’s still thick, add more drops and give it another whirl. However, be careful not to add too much thinner, as it can dilute the colour and affect the finish.
4. For gel polishes, use a thinner designed explicitly for UV-cured formulas.

• Add a drop of acetone
  If you’re out of nail polish thinner, nail polish solvents like pure acetone can be a lifesaver — but only as a last resort! Acetone can weaken your nails and break down your polish, so here’s how to use this product properly:

1. Remember, a little goes a long way, so add only a tiny drop of acetone to the polish bottle.
2. Put the cap back on and gently roll the bottle between your palms to mix it up.
3. Apply a little on your nails to check the consistency.

What happens if I use thickened polish?

When nail polish gets too thick, it can result in patchy coats and a clumpy finish. Plus, thick polish tends to dry slower, which increases the chances of smudging and chipping. Ultimately, you might find that your manicure doesn't last as long or look as flawless as you’d like.

How to prevent nail polishes from thickening

Nobody likes a thick, gloopy polish, so let’s talk about how to keep your favourite shades smooth and easy to apply:

• Seal it tight
  Just a small amount of air can cause your polish to thicken or harden over time. Always double-check that the cap is screwed on tightly after every use.
• Ensure proper storage
  Heat accelerates the breakdown of nail polish compounds, so it's essential to store your bottles in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature. A drawer or a dedicated polish case works perfectly!
  Pro tip: Avoid storing your bottles in the bathroom. Those long, hot showers can cause temperature swings and humidity that can shorten your polish’s lifespan.
• Clean the neck
  After every use, wipe the bottleneck with acetone to remove excess polish. This helps the bottle seal tightly and prevents air from sneaking in.
• Shake things up
  Every now and then, gently shake or roll your polish bottles between your palms. This simple trick keeps the formula perfectly mixed, so it's always smooth and ready for your next mani.
• Rotate shades regularly
  Polishes that sit unused for long periods tend to thicken faster. Rotate your shades regularly to keep the formulas fresh and prevent them from becoming gloopy. Plus, it’s a fun way to rediscover and enjoy your collection's beautiful shades!

Invest in premium nail polishes at NSI Australia

Now that you’ve mastered the art of reviving thickened polishes, it’s time to put your skills to work. NSI Australia is your one-stop shop for all your nail prep and styling needs. Whether you’re perfecting your DIY nail art or delivering top-notch services to clients, our products help you achieve salon-quality results every time.

Don’t let thick polish hold your creativity back. Shop with us today and keep your mani-pedi game strong!