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BREATHABLE nail lacquer is formulated to let water vapor and oxygen pass through the polish, supporting a healthier nail environment. Nails swell as they absorb water during handwashing or showering and contract as they dry, a constant cycle that makes traditional polish crack or chip. BREATHABLE’s permeable formula flexes with the nail plate, minimizing chipping and peeling. As a true one-step system, it delivers vibrant color without a basecoat or topcoat.

If a client has ridges or an uneven nail surface, polish can settle or pool in certain areas, and BREATHABLE might not deliver the smooth result you’re after. For a more perfected finish, use the Pro Lacquer system: one coat of Nail Armor to smooth and prime, two coats of ORLY lacquer and a finishing layer of ORLY topcoat.

Every nail has a natural “stress point,” where daily pressure meets the limits of the nail’s length. If nails consistently break at the same spot, be more mindful of pressure on them, keep them flexible with regular cuticle oil so they bend rather than break, and add strength with a nail-reinforcing treatment or a UV-cured gel overlay like GELFX Bodyguard.

As you pull the brush from the bottle, gently wipe one side against the rim to remove excess lacquer, leaving just the right amount for a clean, controlled application. Apply a thin, even layer for smooth coverage and optimal drying time.

Start with a clean canvas: use acetone or alcohol to remove surface oils and cleanse the nail plate. Apply two thin coats of BREATHABLE color. To extend wear, apply BREATHABLE Cuticle Oil twice daily to keep nails and polish flexible, so the color moves with the nail and resists chips and cracks.

No. All ORLY nail products are developed with nail health in mind and won’t damage nails when used properly, with the exception of extremely rare allergic reactions. Nail damage comes from improper use and improper removal, so always follow application and removal protocols for best results.