Shrinkage

Shrinkage is when a quick-dry topcoat is applied and causes the nail polish underneath it to be pulled upwards (shrinking) from the tip of the nail as it dries. This looks similar to tip-wear, but is more bothersome because it occurs immediately after polish is applied.

Causes & Solutions

 * Thick topcoat (due to aging) is a common cause which is easily remedied by thinning it out.
 * Thick nail polish (due to application) can be prevented by applying multiple thin, even coats instead of fewer thick coats.
 * Unclean nails (even clean nails often have natural oils on them) can be washed with soap and water and dried, or polished with a nail dehydrator or nail polish remover.
 * Wrapping tips helps prevent shrinkage.