RESTRICTED — Allowed with Conditions on American Airlines
Nail polish is a liquid and is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Individual bottles in carry-on must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Can you bring nail polish on American Airlines?
Quick Answer
Nail Polish is restricted in carry-on bags on American Airlines. Nail polish is a liquid and is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Individual bottles in carry-on must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Also known as: nail varnish, nail lacquer, acetone
What is nail polish?
Nail Polish is allowed in carry-on with restrictions. Nail polish is a liquid and is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Individual bottles in carry-on must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less. Larger quantities may be stored in checked luggage without the size restriction.
Restricted In Cabin
Nail polish is a liquid and is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Individual bottles in carry-on must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
Allowed In Hold
Nail polish and nail polish remover are allowed in checked baggage.
Airline & country baggage checker
Pick your airline or destination to see the limits that apply to Nail Polish.
American Airlines Carriage & Security Policy
49 CFR § 1540.111 — IATA & Aviation Standards
Carriage of nail polish is governed by TSA security directives under 49 CFR § 1540.111 regarding passenger screening and baggage security. Security rules distinguish sharply between accessible passenger cabin space (where items that could serve as weapons or hazards are prohibited) and cargo hold baggage (where items are safely stowed during flight).
Security Checkpoint Screening Procedure
At the airport screening lane, nail polish will pass through standard X-ray or CT scanning equipment. Keep nail polish neatly arranged in your luggage so officers can get a clear image. If an item appears opaque or clustered with wires or dense materials on the monitor, a secondary manual bag search will be conducted. Cooperate with TSA personnel and allow them to inspect the item without opening sealed packaging yourself.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide for American Airlines Passengers
Any liquid, gel, cream, or aerosol personal care product must comply with the 3-1-1 rule: containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less inside one clear quart bag.
Aerosol personal-care products must have safety caps attached; TSA officers can refuse items with missing or broken caps.
Pack solid versions of personal care items (solid shampoo, deodorant sticks, styling accessories) in carry-on without volume restrictions.
Place your liquids toiletry bag at the top of your carry-on for fast retrieval at the security checkpoint.
For international journeys, verify destination regulations regarding restricted medicated cosmetics or pressurized aerosol sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Verified travel information
This document has been reviewed and verified by our travel reference editors. All statuses, notes and guidelines are checked against live security feeds from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).