Waste not, want not.
If your favourite shade has turned thick or sticky, don’t toss it just yet. We’ll show you how to bring it back to life — safely, effectively, and without ruining the colour.
Why nail polish goes gluggy
Over time, even the best nail polish will thicken. Around 80% of a polish bottle is solvent — it’s what makes the formula glide smoothly over your nails. As that solvent slowly evaporates (each time the bottle is opened or stored in warm conditions), the polish thickens and becomes harder to apply.
The result? A gluggy texture, streaky finish, and frustration. But the good news is: it’s fixable.
Why you shouldn’t use nail polish remover
It’s tempting to add a few drops of remover — it seems like the easy fix. But resist.
Here’s why: Remover is designed to break down polish, not repair it. Add it to your bottle and you’ll thin the polish temporarily, but it will also degrade the varnish, dull the finish, and even alter the colour. Short answer: remover removes. It doesn’t restore.
How to thin your nail polish (the right way)
All you need is a nail polish thinner — a solution specifically formulated to replace the evaporated solvent in your polish. Here’s how to use it:
- Add 2–3 drops of nail polish thinner into the bottle.
- Close the lid tightly.
- Roll the bottle between your palms for 30–60 seconds to mix. (Avoid shaking — it creates bubbles.)
- Test the consistency. If it’s still too thick, add one more drop at a time.
That’s it — your polish should now glide on smoothly and evenly again.
Pro tip:
Store your polish in a cool, dry place and make sure the cap is tightly sealed after every use. Consistency is key — literally.
