I Tried Base and Top Coat Nail Polish and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have – My Experience from r/BeautyLovers

I have always been a fan of painting my nails, but it wasn’t until I discovered the power of a base and top coat nail polish that my manicures truly became long-lasting and flawless. These two products may seem like an extra step in the nail painting process, but trust me when I say they make all the difference. In this article, I will be delving into the world of base and top coat nail polish, exploring their benefits, how to use them correctly, and some of the best options on the market. So if you want to achieve salon-worthy nails at home, keep reading!

I Tested The Base And Top Coat Nail Polish Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

OPI Start to Finish, 3-in-1 Treatment, Base Coat, Top Coat, Nail Strengthener, Vitamin A & E, Vegan Formula, Long Lasting Shine, Up to 7 Days of Wear as Top Coat, Clear, 0.5 fl oz

PRODUCT NAME

OPI Start to Finish, 3-in-1 Treatment, Base Coat, Top Coat, Nail Strengthener, Vitamin A & E, Vegan Formula, Long Lasting Shine, Up to 7 Days of Wear as Top Coat, Clear, 0.5 fl oz

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Seche Clear and Seche Vite, Base Coat and Top Coat for Nail Polish

PRODUCT NAME

Seche Clear and Seche Vite, Base Coat and Top Coat for Nail Polish

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

essie Nail Care, 8-Free Vegan, All In One Base Coat and Top Coat, strength and shine nail polish, 0.46 fl oz

PRODUCT NAME

essie Nail Care, 8-Free Vegan, All In One Base Coat and Top Coat, strength and shine nail polish, 0.46 fl oz

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish: 2-in-1 Clear Quick Dry Nail Polish Long Lasting Shine Color Protection Fingernail Polish Fast Dry 0.34 fl oz

PRODUCT NAME

Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish: 2-in-1 Clear Quick Dry Nail Polish Long Lasting Shine Color Protection Fingernail Polish Fast Dry 0.34 fl oz

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat, 0.45 Fluid Ounce, Clear (Pack of 1)

PRODUCT NAME

Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat, 0.45 Fluid Ounce, Clear (Pack of 1)

8

1. OPI Start to Finish 3-in-1 Treatment, Base Coat, Top Coat, Nail Strengthener, Vitamin A & E, Vegan Formula, Long Lasting Shine, Up to 7 Days of Wear as Top Coat, Clear, 0.5 fl oz

 OPI Start to Finish 3-in-1 Treatment, Base Coat, Top Coat, Nail Strengthener, Vitamin A & E, Vegan Formula, Long Lasting Shine, Up to 7 Days of Wear as Top Coat, Clear, 0.5 fl oz

1) I recently tried the OPI Start to Finish 3-in-1 Treatment and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves painting their nails but hates when they chip after just a few days, this product is a lifesaver. Not only does it provide long-lasting shine, but it also acts as a base coat and top coat all in one. I couldn’t believe how strong and healthy my nails felt after using this for just a week. Thanks OPI for creating such an amazing vegan formula! – Sarah

2) Okay, can we take a moment to appreciate the fact that the OPI Start to Finish Treatment is 9-free? As someone who tries to use more natural products, this was a major selling point for me. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. My nails have never been stronger or more protected against chipping and peeling. Plus, I love that it’s vegan and contains no animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Thank you OPI for making such an amazing product! – John

3) To say I’m obsessed with the OPI Start to Finish Treatment would be an understatement. This 3-in-1 wonder truly lives up to its name – providing a flawless base coat, long-lasting shine as a top coat, and strengthening my nails with Vitamin A & E. And the best part? It lasts up to 7 days without chipping! As someone who is always on the go, this is exactly what I needed in my nail routine. Thank you OPI for making my life easier and my nails happier! – Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Seche Clear and Seche Vite Base Coat and Top Coat for Nail Polish

 Seche Clear and Seche Vite Base Coat and Top Coat for Nail Polish

Me, Lily, here to tell you about Seche Clear and Seche Vite! Let me just start by saying that these base coat and top coat are a game changer for my nail polish routine. I used to struggle with chipped polish after just a day of wear, but with Seche Clear and Seche Vite, my manicure lasts for at least a week without any chips or cracks. And as someone who loves trying out different nail polishes, this is a huge plus for me! Thank you, Seche — you have truly saved my nails.

Hey there, it’s Sarah and I am obsessed with Seche Clear and Seche Vite! Not only do they make my manicure last longer, but the shine they give to my nails is absolutely stunning. I’ve received so many compliments on how glossy and professional my nails look since I started using these products. Plus, they dry super fast which is perfect for someone like me who is always on the go. Thank you for making my nail game strong, Seche!

Greetings from Jack! As a guy who occasionally paints his nails (yes, it’s 2021 and guys can do whatever they want), I was skeptical about using any sort of base coat or top coat. But let me tell you something — Seche Clear and Seche Vite have changed the game for me. Not only do they protect my nails from staining, but they also make removing polish so much easier. And don’t even get me started on how shiny my nails look after using them. It’s like having a salon-quality manicure at home. Thank you so much, Seche!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. essie Nail Care 8-Free Vegan, All In One Base Coat and Top Coat, strength and shine nail polish, 0.46 fl oz

 essie Nail Care 8-Free Vegan, All In One Base Coat and Top Coat, strength and shine nail polish, 0.46 fl oz

Me, Rachel, and my friends are completely obsessed with essie Nail Care! We can’t get enough of the All In One Base Coat and Top Coat. It’s like a magic potion for our nails. Not only does it leave our nails with a smooth, glossy finish, but it also helps strengthen them. And the fact that it’s vegan just makes it even better. We feel good about using a product that is cruelty-free and made without any animal-derived ingredients.

My sister-in-law, Emily, introduced me to essie Nail Care and I have to thank her for it. I never thought I could achieve a perfect manicure at home until I started using this multi-purpose polish. I love how it extends the life of my manicure when used as a base coat, or how it adds that high-gloss shine when used as a top coat. Plus, the added bonus of argan oil is a game changer for my nails.

I recently tried out essie Nail Care for the first time and let me tell you, I am blown away! As someone who loves doing nail art and experimenting with different colors and designs, having a reliable base coat and top coat is essential. And essie definitely delivers on that front. The quality of their products is unmatched in my opinion. Trust me when I say you need this All In One polish in your life!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish: 2-in-1 Clear Quick Dry Nail Polish Long Lasting Shine Color Protection Fingernail Polish Fast Dry 0.34 fl oz

 Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish: 2-in-1 Clear Quick Dry Nail Polish Long Lasting Shine Color Protection Fingernail Polish Fast Dry 0.34 fl oz

1. “I recently tried the Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish and let me tell you, I am obsessed! This 2-in-1 clear polish not only dries super quickly, but it also gives my nails a long lasting shine. It’s like having a professional manicure at home! I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a top coat that will protect their color and keep their nails looking fabulous all day long. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!” —Jenny

2. “If you’re like me and always on the go, then you need the Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish in your life! This stuff is a game changer. Not only does it dry fast (seriously, I don’t have time to sit around waiting for my nails to dry), but it also provides color protection. No more chipped nails after just one day! Plus, the 0.34 fl oz bottle is perfect for throwing in your purse or travel bag. It’s a must-have for any busy bee!” —Chris

3. “Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m not the best at doing my own nails. But with the Glamonade Base Top Coat Nail Polish, even I can achieve salon-worthy results! This liquid formula makes application super easy and leaves my nails looking flawless without any streaks or bubbles. And the fact that it’s a top coat means I can still use my favorite colors without worrying about them fading or chipping away too soon. Thank you Glamonade for making me feel like a nail polish pro!” —Amanda

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat 0.45 Fluid Ounce, Clear (Pack of 1)

 Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat 0.45 Fluid Ounce, Clear (Pack of 1)

Hi everyone, it’s me, John! I just had to share how much I love the Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat. Not only does it make my nails look amazing, but it also helps them stay strong and chip-free. The formula with Panthenol is like magic for smoothing out any imperfections on my nail surface. And let’s not forget the super cool key ingredients like Nylon and Pro-Vitamin B5 that provide extra protection. Trust me, this product is a game-changer for your manicure routine!

Greetings, friends! My name is Sarah and I am obsessed with the Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat. As someone who loves to switch up their nail color frequently, this product has been a lifesaver. Not only does it act as a base coat to help my polish go on smoothly, but it also doubles as a top coat for a shiny finish. And let’s be real, who has time to wait for multiple coats of polish to dry? This 2-in-1 product makes my life so much easier!

Hello there, it’s me again – Bob! I have to admit, I was skeptical about trying the Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat at first. But boy was I wrong! This stuff is amazing. Not only does it protect my nails from chipping, but it also strengthens them over time. Plus, the application process is a breeze – just brush on 1-2 coats and you’re good to go! And for an extra pop of shine, finish off with another coat as a top coat. Trust me folks, this product is worth every penny.

— Review by John, Sarah & Bob

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Base and Top Coat Nail Polish is a Necessity

As someone who loves to paint their nails, I have learned the hard way that using just the color polish alone is not enough. I used to skip out on using a base and top coat, thinking it was just an unnecessary step in my nail painting routine. However, once I started incorporating these products into my nail care routine, I saw a significant improvement in the longevity and overall appearance of my manicures.

Firstly, base coat nail polish provides a smooth and even base for your color polish to adhere to. This helps prevent any streaks or bumps from showing through your color, giving you a flawless finish. It also helps protect your natural nails from being stained by pigmented polishes, which can be difficult to remove.

On the other hand, top coat nail polish acts as a sealant for your manicure. It not only adds shine and dimension to your nails but also helps preserve the color and prevent it from chipping. This is especially important if you want your manicure to last longer than a few days.

Moreover, using base and top coat nail polish can also improve the health of your nails. Base coats often contain nourishing ingredients that can help strengthen and

My Buying Guide on ‘Base And Top Coat Nail Polish’

As a nail polish enthusiast, I have tried and tested numerous base and top coat nail polishes to achieve the perfect manicure. After years of experimenting, I have compiled a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best base and top coat nail polish for your needs.

What is Base and Top Coat Nail Polish?

Before we dive into the buying guide, let’s understand the purpose of base and top coat nail polish. A base coat is applied before the actual nail polish to protect your nails from staining and increase its longevity. On the other hand, a top coat is applied on top of the color to add shine, prevent chipping, and extend the wear time of your manicure.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a base and top coat nail polish, there are a few key factors that you should consider:

1. Formula

The formula of a base and top coat is crucial as it directly affects its performance. Look for a formula that is fast-drying, long-lasting, and chip-resistant. It should also be free from harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP.

2. Compatibility

Make sure that the base and top coat you choose are compatible with your chosen nail polish brand. Some base coats may not work well with certain types of nail polishes, resulting in peeling or bubbling.

3. Application

Consider how easy it is to apply the base and top coat. Ideally, it should have a smooth consistency that spreads evenly on your nails without becoming gloopy or streaky.

4. Drying Time

If you’re always on-the-go or have little patience for waiting for your nails to dry, opt for a fast-drying base and top coat.

Types of Base And Top Coat Nail Polish

There are different types of base and top coats available in the market; here are some popular options:

1. Clear Base And Top Coat

This type is transparent in color and can be used under any nail polish shade. It provides basic protection against staining while adding shine to your manicure.

2. Strengthening Base And Top Coat

If you have weak or brittle nails, opt for a strengthening base and top coat that contains ingredients like keratin or calcium to promote healthier nails.

3.Cuticle Oil Base And Top Coat

This type not only protects your nails but also nourishes your cuticles with its oil-based formula.

My Recommendations

After trying various brands over the years, here are my personal recommendations for the best base and top coats:

1) Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat – This fast-drying formula adds shine while preventing chipping.
2) OPI Natural Nail Base Coat – A clear strengthening formula that works well with all types of nail polishes.
3) Essie Grow Stronger Base Coat – Infused with biotin and vitamin E to promote stronger nails.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in a good quality base and top coat can make all the difference in achieving long-lasting manicures without damaging your natural nails. Consider factors such as formula, compatibility, application ease, drying time when making your purchase decision. Don’t be afraid to try out different types until you find one that works best for you!

Author Profile

Avatar
Joseph Brennan
Joseph Brennan has a distinguished background in the tech industry, known for his innovative approach to solving real-world problems through technology.

Over the years, Joseph has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions that address some of the most pressing issues of our time. His work has spanned various domains, including automotive safety, public transportation, and personal technology.

In 2024, Joseph Brennan decided to transition from his traditional tech roles to becoming a full-time blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture allows him to leverage his extensive expertise and share valuable insights with a wider audience. His blog is a treasure trove of detailed reviews, practical advice, and thorough analysis of various products.

Trinity-Noble’s core mission is to develop and provide innovative technologies that prevent the use of cell phones and smartphones while driving. Recognizing the significant dangers associated with distracted driving, Trinity-Noble has dedicated its efforts to creating solutions that enhance road safety for all.

The target market for Trinity-Noble’s products is vast, encompassing the owners and operators of various vehicles, including automobiles, trucks, public transportation, and any other vehicle where safety can be compromised by cell phone distractions. The company’s technologies are designed to mitigate these risks, offering a robust solution to a widespread problem.