WHY TEMPERATURE MATTERS

The Cool and Dark Secret to Perfect Nail Polish: Why Temperature Matters

2nd September 2023

When it comes to nail polish, we often focus on choosing the perfect shade, and mastering the art of at home application. But have you ever considered the role of temperature when it comes to applying your nail polish? Because temperature plays a significant role in maintaining the quality of your nail polish and ensuring a smooth and long-lasting application. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of keeping your nail polish cool and in a dark place, especially during warm weather, with some top tips to help you achieve nail perfection.

5 min read.

The Impact of Temperature on Nail Polish

Nail polish is a delicate balance of pigments, solvents, and polymers. These components are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. When your nail polish is exposed to high temperatures, it can lead to several issues:

Thickening: Warm weather can cause the solvents in your nail polish to evaporate, making it thicker and challenging to apply smoothly.
Color Alteration: Heat can alter the color of your nail polish, making it appear slightly different from what you see in the bottle.
Shorter Shelf Life: Prolonged exposure to warmth can significantly reduce the shelf life of your favorite nail polish.

The Dark Side of Light

While temperature is a critical factor, light exposure can be equally damaging to your nail polish. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight or indoor lighting can cause the pigments in your nail polish to break down, leading to color fading and a less vibrant finish.

Warm Weather Woes

During the hot summer months, it's essential to be mindful of the temperature when applying nail polish. Here's how warm weather can affect your nail polish application:

Slow Drying: High temperatures can cause your nail polish to dry slower, making it challenging to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Bubbling: The heat can create air bubbles in your nail polish, leaving behind an unsightly texture on your nails, due to the slow drying of each layer.
Sticky Polish: Warm weather can make your nail polish feel stickier, making it more likely to smudge or get damaged before it dries.

Tips for Keeping Your Nail Polish Cool

Now that you understand the importance of temperature control, here are some tips to help you preserve your nail polish collection and ensure a flawless application:

Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep your nail polish in a cool, dark area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A drawer or a nail polish organizer in a shaded room is ideal.
Avoid the Fridge: While some people suggest storing nail polish in the fridge, it's not necessary and can sometimes cause condensation inside the bottles, which can affect the polish's consistency. It's also not a great thing to store next to your food.
Shake Well: Before using your nail polish, gently roll the bottle between your hands to mix the ingredients. Avoid vigorous shaking, as it can create air bubbles.
Wait for a Cooler Time: If possible, wait for a cooler part of the day to apply your nail polish. Early morning or late evening is often best during hot weather.

But I Didn't Store My Favourite Nail Polish Correctly, What Do I Do?

Fear not! Sometimes it can be saved with the following fixes:

Nail Polish Thinner: Invest in a quality nail polish thinner to restore the consistency of your polish. Just a few drops can work wonders in making it flow smoothly again. Be sure to check the ingredients on your thinner, as you may find your 10-free nail polish will stop being 10-free after use.
Place in a cool dark place: Sometimes you may think that your nail polish is done for, but this should not be the case if this is a brand new polish. Sometimes the temperature on the day you are using it plays with the consistency, particularly in colours with high white content. Give it a chance again once the temperature is cooler and see how you fair.
Clean the Neck: Over time, dired polish can build up around the neck of the bottle, making it difficult to close tightly. Clean the neck with acetone or nail polish remover to ensure a proper seal.