Base coat and top coat: what they really do

Base coat and top coat sound like an optional step, but they’re exactly what separates a manicure that lasts a day from one that stays perfect all week. Here’s what each one does and how to use them.

What a base coat is

It’s the first layer, clear, applied on the bare nail. It serves to:

  • Improve colour adhesion.
  • Stop intense shades from staining the nail.
  • Smooth the surface for a more even finish.

What a top coat is

It’s the last layer, applied over the already-dry colour. It serves to:

  • Seal and protect the design.
  • Add shine (or a matte effect, depending on the finish).
  • Multiply how long the manicure lasts.

The right order

Base coat → colour in thin coats → top coat. Simple, but it makes all the difference.

An extra tip

Go over the top coat every two or three days: it refreshes the shine and reinforces protection without having to redo the manicure.

Everything you need

At Velynails you have the base coat and top coat pack to go with your pen nail polishes and get the most out of them.

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