Smudged nail polish is a struggle we’ve all faced. You’re admiring your freshly painted nails, only to accidentally brush against something and ruin the smooth finish. Frustrating, right? But don’t worry—there are some quick fixes to save your manicure and even prevent future mishaps. Here’s how to deal with smudged nail polish like a pro.

Tip 1: Fix It While It’s Still Wet

If you catch the smudge right after it happens, you’re in luck. Take the same nail polish you used and lightly dab it over the smudged area. Use short, light strokes to blend it into the rest of the nail. If it’s a small smudge, a quick swipe can often make it disappear entirely. Once you’ve fixed the area, apply a quick-drying top coat to smooth it out and seal the repair.

Product idea: Quick-drying top coats like Morgan Taylor - Naturals can be lifesavers.

Tip 2: Use Nail Polish Remover for Major Smudges

Sometimes, the damage is too significant for a simple touch-up. In these cases, grab a cotton swab and some nail polish remover. Carefully clean the affected area, making sure to avoid touching the parts that are still intact. Once the smudge is gone, let the nail dry for a few seconds before reapplying the polish. It might seem like starting over, but it’s better than an uneven finish.

Product idea: This Zoya - Remove Plus Nail Polish Remover acts as a nail cleaner, nail prep, and polish remover, leaving nails clean and conditioned.

Tip 3: Smooth It Out with a Top Coat

If the smudge is minor and the polish has already started to dry, a good top coat can work wonders. Apply a generous layer over the entire nail and gently smooth it out with the brush. The top coat acts as a buffer, evening out the smudge and restoring that glossy look. This trick works best if the polish underneath hasn’t completely hardened yet.

Product idea: Consider options like KBShimmer - Nail Polish - Clearly On Top, for a flawless finish.

Tip 4: The Power of Rubbing Alcohol

For those accidental fingerprints or small dings, rubbing alcohol can help. Dab a little onto the smudge with a cotton swab and gently press to flatten it. This method works best when the polish is semi-dry. Afterward, reapply a thin layer of polish to the affected area and finish with a top coat for a polished look.

Tip 5: Experiment with Matte Top Coats for Texture Fixes

If your polish has a slightly uneven texture due to a smudge, a matte top coat can help hide imperfections and create a chic, velvety finish.

Product idea: Consider options like KBShimmer - Nail Polish - Oh Matte! Matte Top Coat for a flawless finish.

Bonus Tip: Try Press-On Nails

If you’re tired of waiting for polish to dry, press-on nails can be a game-changer. They’re quick, come in a variety of styles, and last longer than you might expect. Plus, they’re a great option for anyone who wants perfect nails without the potential for smudges.

Product idea: Check out press-on nail options like Glamnetic’s Rosé - Short Almond, a stunning rosey-pink hue in a dimensional, mesmerizing “velvet” metallic finish that’s all the rage this season.