If you have heard that nail varnish is best stored out of direct sunlight, you may wonder whether it needs to be kept in the dark instead. The answer is that total darkness is not necessary, just a cool, shaded place. You should avoid keeping your bottles on a sunny windowsill or on an open shelf.
A cupboard, draw, or organiser can work well for storing nail polish at home.
Why Light Can Be a Problem For Nail Polish
Direct sunlight, as well as heat from sunny areas, are not a good mix with nail varnish. It can lead polish to thicken over time, possibly leading to fading or separation. This is a great way to make your products hard to use and ruin your manicure experience.
Does Nail Varnish Need Complete Darkness?
Nail polish does not have to be kept in pitch black darkness. It just needs to be kept out of direct sunlight or bright light. In addition to this, sun comes with heat, which doesn’t do any favours for polish either!
The Best Places to Keep Nail Polish Out of the Light
There are several good options for storing nail polish out of the sun. Ideas include:
- Bedroom drawers
- Cupboards
- A lidded box
- A nail polish case
- Vanity drawer
- A shaded shelf, away from the window
Should You Display Nail Polish?
Displays can make your nail polish look extra special; racks and acrylic organisers make colours easy to see and to show off!
The downside of organisers is more exposure to light and dust. If you are going to display your nail varnish out in the open, choose a cool, shaded spot. If you get direct sunlight facing your vanity unit, there may be better options.
What About Clear Nail Polish Organisers?
Clear polish organisers are great for seeing your collection but, again, they don’t block out the light. They are best used in a shaded area or inside a drawer or cupboard. If you are keeping your organiser on your desk or vanity table, it’s a good idea to pick a spot that is out of sunlight and is cool.
FAQs
Can sunlight damage nail polish?
Yes, direct sunlight can affect polish considerably over time. It may lead to thickening, fading, or separation.
Is a drawer a good place to store nail polish?
Yes, a drawer can keep bottles out of direct sunlight, as well as tidy!
Can I keep nail polish on a shelf?
Yes, you can, as long as the shelf is out of the way of direct sunlight and heat.
Do I need a special dark storage box?
Yes, a normal draw, case, bag, or cupboard is perfectly good.
Final Thoughts
Nail polish does not need to be kept in a cave, just away from direct sunlight and heat. A drawer, box, or bag is a great way to do this. If your nail polish is on your windowsill or on a desk in direct sun, it may be time to move it!