The Best Quick-Dry Nail Polishes for People Who Have Zero Time (or Patience)

If I'm being really honest with myself, the reason I rarely give myself at-home manicures (or actually go to the salon, even) is that I'm a bit impatient and lazy. Listen, I love the look of beautiful, freshly manicured nails as much as the next person, but I hate the waiting time. And not to mention when I'm doing it myself, there is much room for human error. I'm not exactly the most careful when it comes to application.

So what's a girl to do? Well, I'm realizing that one of the ways I can get the best of both worlds—a nice mani and a few minutes of my life back—is to invest in some quick-drying nail polishes. I know it's not rocket science, but I finally got there. In my quest to up my manicure game, I've been doing some research on the best quick-drying nail polishes out there, and I found some noteworthy candidates. Take a look at some options below—and enjoy that extra time saved!

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

1. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish Lacquer

2. Essie Expressie Quick-Dry Vegan Nail Polish

3. Wet n Wild Fast Dry AF Nail Color

4. Nails.Inc 45 Second Speedy Gloss

5. Context Nail Lacquer

6. Smith Cult Nail Lacquer

7. Ella + Mila Nail Polish

8. Orosa Nail Paint

9. Essie Gel Couture

10. Revlon Top Speed Fast Dry Nail Enamel

11. Orly Nail Lacquer

12. OPI Nail Lacquer

More Quick-Drying Nail Products

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Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.