You must be thinking, what’s to check in nail polish? Well, there’s a lot that needs to be taken into note since these are not just meant to be applied but need to protect your nails well enough. Here’s what you need to check:
What to Look for in a Top Coat Nail Polish
Consistency
A thick consistency in a top coat nail polish is quite difficult to spread on nails, and a thin one never holds its shape. So, it would be best to opt for one with a glue-like consistency that applies well and prevents any ugly smudges that some top coats can cause.
Durability
Durability is one of the most essential factors of a top coat. You need to have a top coat nail polish that prevents chipping and should be durable enough to keep scratches at bay while avoiding any smudges.
Sheerness
A top coat is meant to bring your manicure or pedicure to life with ultra-gloss, matte, or plumped finishes. It should not dilute the lacquer's presence in any way. Make sure to get a top coat nail polish that is transparent and sheer so the main nail paint or nail art can shine through.
Easy to dry
The top coat doesn't need to dry in mere seconds, but ideally, it should also not take more than two or three minutes to dry. Also, opt for a product that doesn’t require a curing lamp (particularly if you don’t have one) and will dry properly by itself.
Good brush
It can be really tough to apply nail polish with a round brush. For an even application, make sure the brush that comes with the top coat nail polish is either angular or flat so it takes fewer coats and sets in one time.
Long-lasting
Since the whole point of a top coat nail polish is to make sure your manicure stays looking great for longer, choose one that lasts for at least 10 days. If it will only last for five or six days, you may want to select a stronger one.
Price
A regular top coat comes for as low as $3, but it doesn't guarantee long-lasting capabilities or durability. You can easily get a good-quality top coat nail polish with a durable formula that is free from toxins and lasts for an extended period for under $6.
From Our Celebrity Expert, Olivia Elgart:
"I really, really like top coat nail polish for adding both shine and depth to your nails. Celebrity make up artists like James Charles will also tell you that top coat nail polish is an essential part of any manicure as it works well to give your manicure more longevity. You can also mix and match different polishes for different looks and effects."
Benefits of Applying Top Coat Nail Polish
Prevents chipping
No one likes to see their nail paint or nail art chip off a day or two after the application. To prevent this, a top coat nail polish comes to the rescue. Its supreme-quality formula not only keeps chipping at bay but also protects from scratches and cracks.
Eliminates smudges
Hate the nail paint blobs that collect at one section of your nail after you’re done applying? A top coat nail polish stops that section from smudging and gives you salon-like finished nails that look clean and fresh.
Helps the manicure last for a longer period
Since a top coat gives an extra protection layer to your manicure, it automatically increases the duration of your manicure. So, say goodbye to short-term manicures that barely last for a week. A fresh top coat is here to make it stay for at least ten days, if not longer.
How to Apply Top Coat Nail Polish
Applying a top coat nail polish isn't a complicated or time-consuming task. Simply follow the steps below for an easy experience:
- If needed, apply your nail polish or do your nail art and let it dry and set for at least five minutes. If you're using gel or quick-dry nail paint, let it cure for at least one minute.
- With the help of an angular or flat brush, apply the top coat from the bottom of your nail to the top. Make sure the brush spreads well onto the nail for an even application.
- Let it dry in the air for two minutes or if it needs to be cured, place it under the lamp for 30 seconds.
- If required, apply a second layer and seal the look.
