Top Coats and Base Coats

| June 9, 2010 |

Using the right top and base coat is very important when polishing nails. They can make or break your manicure as well as your relationship with your client. You need to research the many different products out there, invest in a few of them, and use them to best complete your service.

All nails are different so keep that in mind when you are polishing natural nails. I usually talk to my clients about what they want and pick the best option for them. Usually it’s one of two options, a nail program or a bonder. I like using nail programs because it requires your client to maintain their manicure when away from you. If they follow your instructions they will apply an extra coat or two of polish at home, which keeps the polish in better shape. Most programs, like nailtiques or develop 10, say to apply the polish often. I find that this is too much, and will cause the nails to peel and chip much faster then if they only apply the polish once or twice.

If we aren’t going to do a program, my base of choice is a bonder. I really like the way the polish adheres to it and it’s on the thin side, so I find the polish doesn’t chip as much. Once in a while I will use a calcium or other base coat if I can’t get anything else to work, but it doesn’t happen often.

While I use a bonder base coat for natural nails, I usually go for a ridge filler on nail enhancements (tips, acrylics, gels). It lays a nice foundation for the polish to be applied to. Enhancements usually keep the polish on very well and do not require the help of the base coat.

Top coats are important as well. When it comes to the top coat always choose one that has some sort of quick drying properties in it. I have all different types of top coats that I use; there are so many out there you just need to try a few and see what you like and what works best for you. I like a medium consistency for my top coat. If the top coat is too thick it will not dry properly and will make the nails look clumpy. On the other hand if you use a top coat that is too thin it may not protect the polish and it will wear away.

I don’t like quick drying polishes that have a strong odor or extreme chemicals. I also like to use drying drops or dry ‘n shine as well. Just keep in mind that all polishes are not created equal, so give a few in different price ranges a try.