New Hampshire Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

When applying nail polish, it's important to allow sufficient drying time before applying a topcoat to ensure optimal adhesion and finish. Typically, waiting at least 5 minutes after applying the initial coat of nail polish allows it to dry to a state where it is no longer tacky or prone to smudging. This timeframe strikes a balance between ensuring that the polish has enough time to set while also not being so long that it causes inconvenience during a manicure.

A shorter time, such as 2 or 3 minutes, may not be adequate for all polish brands or formulations, as some may require longer to dry thoroughly, which raises the risk of damaging the base layer if a topcoat is applied too soon. Meanwhile, waiting for 10 minutes can be unnecessarily lengthy, while a 5-minute wait is generally sufficient for both effectiveness and efficiency in the nail application process.