What Is the Difference Between Top Coat and Base Coat?

Base coats are generally thicker and tackier, which allows the nail polish to adhere better.

Topcoats are thinner and contain more ingredients that create a durable surface on the nail. They are made to add strength, dry quickly, and protect polish from daily wear and tear.

Can you use a top coat as a base coat?

A base coat can be used as a top coat, and a top coat can be used as a base coat. But you won’t get the same level of performance as if you were using the right diaper. Top coats and base coats tend to use the same ingredients. But they use them in different proportions.

Is the base coat or top coat more important?

The top coat will help prevent chipping and keep it looking better for longer, while the base coat helps the polish stick to your nail and prevent smudging. If you only have one, you can use it as both a base and a top coat, as they are essentially the same but are a bit better at what they were made to be.

What goes on first, the top coat or the base coat?

The clear base coat is first applied to the natural nail to bond to the nail bed and act as an adhesive bed for the pigment to set. The topcoat is then applied over the varnish to seal in the color and protect it.

Are the gel base and top coats the same?

A gel base and a top coat are two very different things. The base coat is designed to “cling” to the color coat above and help it adhere to your nail. Base coats adhere to the color coat and help it stick and stay on the nail, while a top coat gives a shiny, protective finish.

What happens if you don’t use a base coat with gel polish?

Is a base and top coat required for gel nail polish?

A gel manicure is a system with different layers, not just a single coat or product. But without a top or base coat, your gel polishes won’t live up to the task and won’t last very long. since they would be prone to lifting and peeling easily.

How long should you wait before applying the topcoat?

Yes, two full minutes between base coat and color, two minutes between color coats, then two minutes before top coat. She says that’s all you need to wait for in between to get a surface dry enough for the next coat to adhere.