How to Apply Lacquer Nail Polish

Knowing how to apply lacquer nail polish is a classic nail skill whether you’re a nail artist or beauty lover. While it’s simple in theory, achieving a long lasting, salon quality manicure takes more than just painting on color. From prep to technique, every step plays an important role in your nail lacquer application and how the lacquer wears. Lacquer may seem simple, but knowing how to apply nail lacquer correctly can totally elevate your manicure game.

Whether you’re new to polish or just want to improve your results, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know to apply lacquer nail polish the right way.

What is Nail Lacquer?

Nail lacquer is a traditional, air-drying nail polish. It’s one of the most accessible forms of polish as no lamps or curing tools are required, and is one of those nail tech must-haves (even if you don’t like using it). While it’s easy to apply and remove, lacquer is more prone to chipping compared to gel or dip systems, which means proper nail lacquer application technique is key.

How to Apply Lacquer Nail Polish: Step-by-Step Guide to Nail Lacquer Application

Mastering how to use lacquer nail polish starts with prep and achieving a clean, even and long lasting manicure is easy if you follow each step. Let’s start by breaking down each step of how to apply lacquer nail polish!

Prepping the Nails Correctly

The first step of nail lacquer application is prep! You want to start by removing any oils or residue to help the polish adhere properly. Gently push back the cuticles, shape the nails with a file, and buff lightly if needed. Finish with a swipe of alcohol, acetone or nail dehydrator to fully dehydrate the nail plate and get rid of any natural oils.

Applying a Base Coat

When diving into how to apply nail lacquer, a key step is applying the base coat. A good base coat is essential. It works by helping the polish grip the nail surface, evening out texture, and preventing dark colors from staining the natural nails. Apply one thin, even layer, and wait for it to dry before starting on color.

PLApro Tip: When learning how to use lacquer nail polish, it’s important to wait for each layer to dry before moving onto the next to prevent any premature smudging before the lacquer dries. 

Applying Nail Lacquer Color

The next step (and the best one) when learning how to apply lacquer nail polish is applying the color! Apply your lacquer in 2 thin and even coats, and don’t forget to let each layer dry before moving onto the next. When applying lacquer polish, you want to make sure you’re moving quickly — since lacquer air dries, it leaves little room for error.

PLApro Tip: For best results, and to avoid a messy looking polish job, start with the brush slightly away from the cuticle, not directly on it. Then gently push the product as close to the cuticle as possible, without touching the skin. Once your polish has reached as close as possible to the cuticle, swipe the polish down toward the free edge of the nail.

Finishing With a Top Coat

Once the lacquer color dries, apply the top coat in a thin even layer. Sealing the color with a high-quality top coat will increase longevity, add shine, and help prevent chips. It can also help smooth out imperfections and extend wear. 

Common Lacquer Mistakes to Avoid

If you are just learning how to apply lacquer nail polish, here are common mistakes that beginners can often make:

• Applying too thick of coats, which will make the polish take longer to dry (and could cause smudges!)

• Skipping base or top coat

• Not prepping the nail before nail lacquer application

• Applying the polish too close to the cuticle, which can cause lifting

Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Lacquer Nails

Achieving the best, longest lasting lacquer manicure isn’t just about learning how to use lacquer polish. Follow these extra tips to help extend wear and improve results!

Always Cap the Free Edge of the Nail

While capping the free edge of the nail is crucial when applying gel polish, it’s not proven to increase longevity for nail lacquer application due to the nature of the polish. While some say it can help with longevity, others say it’s not needed. Really, it’s mostly about personal preference so whether you’re learning how to apply lacquer nail polish on yourself or your clients, try both and see what works for you.

Recommend Top Coat Refreshes Every Few Days

Knowing how to apply nail lacquer properly can, of course, result in a long lasting manicure, but taking care of your nails after can also play a huge role in longevity. A great thing to practice or recommend is adding a fresh layer of top coat every few days. This will refresh the shine, add an extra layer of protection against daily wear, and extend wear time!

Moisturize Cuticles Without Flooding the Polish

Hydrated cuticles are the key to healthy looking nails, regardless of the type of polish, but timing and technique matter. If you’re learning how to apply lacquer nail polish properly, knowing when and how to moisturize is part of the learning process. Applying cuticle oil or even lotion too soon after polishing can lead to smudging, dullness, or even lifting — especially if the polish has not fully dried.

Avoid Hot Water For a Few Hours After Application

Hot water can soften the nail polish before it’s fully dry, increasing the chance of any dents or smudging. While your nails may feel dry on the surface, it’s best practice to wait a few hours before exposing your manicured nails to hot water.

Set Yourself Up For Application Success With Our Gel and Lacquer Combo Sets!

You never know which of your clients is a gel or lacquer girly, and our gel and lacquer combo sets give you the flexibility to offer the same 10-free long lasting color you love in both formats. No matter which product you prefer, PLA has everything you need to keep your nail game strong. From professional nail supplies to acrylic nail supplies, PLApro is your number one source for nail supply wholesale!

Parting Thoughts on How to Apply Nail Lacquer

With the right prep and technique (plus a few professional tips), nail lacquer can hold up much longer than you’d expect. While it may not have the same longevity as gel polish can offer, it’s still a favorite amongst nail lovers for its quick color changes, easy removal, and ease of access.

Whether you’re perfecting your technique or teaching your clients about nail care, mastering how to apply lacquer nail polish is a skill that you can use.