Top coat for nails - how to use, what to replace, 7 best top coats

Many girls, probably more than once, have seen on bottles of clear nail polish on the shelves of cosmetic stores such an inscription in English - “TOP COAT” or “TOP GEL”.
But, like me, they didn’t really understand what it was and why it needed to be applied in another layer on top of the varnish. After all, even without this additional layer, it looks very nice. These bottles of clear polish are called topcoat or topcoat for nails. It can be used to give durability to manicures: 1) made with regular nail polish; 2) gel polish; 3) after nail extensions; 4) after strengthening the nails.

This is such a variety of applications for one top coating. But, not everything is so simple, for almost every occasion you need your own type of top. Do you know how many of these species there are? There just aren’t enough fingers on your hands to count them. And how can you avoid getting confused in this case? How to choose the right type of top? And is this top necessary at all, or is it a cunning marketing ploy? Let's figure it out together.

What is a gel polish topcoat?

All types of nail toppers are divided into two large groups: tops for regular polish, and tops for gel polish. Since, as a finishing coat, for the durability of the manicure after extensions or strengthening of nails, it is customary to use a top coat for gel polish. But, in this case, you need to choose the right type of top. And there are some nuances here, which I will talk about a little later. Now let's talk about what place gel polish occupies in a manicure.

"TOP COAT" or "TOP GEL" is translated from English as "top layer" or "top gel". And this is no coincidence. Since, a top is a fixing top coating that is applied to the nails at the end of the manicure. That is, this is the same “top layer”. But this layer is only available in two gel polish application systems - two-phase and three-phase. In a single-phase system, the top is combined with a base and gel polish (that is, 3 in 1).

In general, the classic gel polish application system consists of three layers - the first layer is the base layer, the second is the gel polish itself, and the third is the top coat. This system is called three-phase.

The two-phase system consists of two layers - the first layer is gel polish combined with the base (that is, 2 in 1), and the second layer is the top coat.

Single-phase and two-phase systems were developed specifically to facilitate and speed up the manicure procedure. But the most DURABLE manicure is considered to be one performed using a three-phase system. For example, a manicure performed using a single-phase or two-phase system lasts about 1-2 weeks, and a three-phase one lasts 3-4 weeks.

Its four main functions

Now let's find out what a nail top is for and what functions it performs.

• Protection of gel polish from damage: chips, scratches, cracks, hard water, household chemicals. In addition, if the top contains a UV filter, it additionally protects the gel polish from fading in the sun.
• Adding super shine to your manicure. Without using a top coat, this is impossible.
• Reliable fixation of design elements - rhinestones, sliders, bouillons, drawings.
• It can be an additional decorative element - it will add a matte finish to the manicure, add a cat-eye or ombre effect.

When dry, the varnish coating loses its gloss and becomes dull. If you cover it with topcoat, this will not happen. With just one bottle, you can turn an ordinary coating into a glossy and attractive one.

So, the top ensures durability and protection of the manicure from various damages. If you want your manicure to be shiny and last a long time, you must use a top coat.

Frequently asked questions or FAQ for beginners

Which top coat for gel polish is better?

The one that is more convenient to work with and copes with the tasks that you set for it. Uno Supershine is recognized by craftsmen as almost universal: without a sticky layer, elastic, medium in thickness, has a bright gloss, rubs off slowly, does not bluish much, does not yellow much, does not bubble, dries quickly, you can rub rubs into it and fix small decor with it.

Why does the top fit with bald spots?

There are several reasons for this. This often happens when covering with a top coat without l/s in two layers, or applying it over a gel paint without l/s, or when applying a matte finish to a finish without l/s. This may also be due to sebum or cosmetics getting on the surface to be coated - degreasing it with nail prep will help. Or the colored gel polish you are applying the top on has too much greasy dispersion - then remove the sticky layer and try again. Or, on the contrary, the color/paint/finish has no dispersion and the material rolls off a too smooth surface - then lightly buff the color to make roughness appear. And also, one should not rule out simply the low quality of the material, especially purchased from Chinese online stores.

Is it possible to apply gel polish and gel paint to the top?

Can. But it is better to choose a top coat with residual stickiness for such techniques, remove the stickiness and paint on top with gel polish or gel paint in a not too thin layer, otherwise chips are possible. If you need to completely cover the finish on top with colored gel polish, then first buff it, degrease it, and then cover it. And cover the top again with a layer of sealer.

Rubber top for gel polish. What is it and why

These are very thick materials with good adhesion. They are suitable for fixing volumetric decor, but are not convenient for completely covering nails, as they spread slowly and self-level.

Is it possible to use a top instead of a base?

No need. These materials are created to solve different problems. The base ensures adhesion to keratin, strengthening the natural nail, and the finish fixes the color and prevents it from fading in the sun and rubbing off under mechanical stress. They are not interchangeable.

Hypoallergenic top for gel polish

Any artificial material can cause allergies. Its risk can be reduced due to its quality and lack of contact with the skin. Choose a top without residual dispersion from the premium segment.

How to replace top coat for gel polish

Single-phase transparent gel (it will be hard) or single-phase 3 in 1 gel polish. In a three-phase system, base, color and top are not interchangeable.

Types of topcoats for gel polish

Now there are quite a few types of nail toppers:

• With a sticky layer
• No sticky layer
• Universal
• Matte
• Rubber
• With shimmer
• With cat eye effect
• With UV filters
• Hypoallergenic
• Camouflage
• Holographic
• Thermo tops

Using a top, you can give your manicure various effects or create an interesting design. You can create a glossy or matte finish. You can add glitter or a holographic effect to your manicure. Decorate the design with rhinestones or stickers.

In addition, if the top is chosen correctly, then your manicure, on natural nails or on nails after extensions, will last you a long time without cracks or chips.

The choice of top will depend on the problems that you want to solve with its help. There are a lot of options, now I’ll tell you about all types of top coatings in order. And we’ll start with the types of top coats for gel polish.

The gel polish top turns yellow or blue. Which finish to choose for black and which for white?

Any topcoat can turn yellow, regardless of the signs described above. Typically, yellowing becomes noticeable when applying a leveling finish over a light gel polish, when thickness appears. Yellowness can be either an intrinsic property of the material or the result of pigments from bright gel polish entering it. So, when red shades overlap, residual color dispersion gets onto the top brush, and as it accumulates in the bottle, the transparent material acquires a yellowish tint. This happens approximately in the second half of the bottle. We recommend wiping your brush after bright colors or getting a separate bottle of finish for light shades.

The “blue” finish is usually the opposite, on dark and bright colors and only in natural light, which contains ultraviolet light. This is due to the presence of UV filters in the material. Black gel polish can turn blue under bright sunlight, brown - purple, scarlet - crimson, etc. Therefore, for dark shades, we recommend choosing a top without UV filters. Whether it turns yellow or not does not matter.

For the cleanest and freshest jacket possible, as well as white and all light shades, get a strong blue top with UV filters. For example, without l/s: Bagheera Nails B-5 Lite or Uno Supershine. For black, dark and bright colors, choose a top without a UV filter, which may yellow slightly - it will not be noticeable. For example, top with l/s NeoNail Hard Top.

Top with sticky layer

In the classic gel polish manicure system, tops are divided into tops with and without a sticky layer. What is the difference, and why do you need a gel polish top coat with a sticky layer if there are already top coats without it? Why bother and remove this sticky layer with a special liquid at the end of the manicure if you can do without it? Now we'll figure it out.

Let's start with a topcoat with a sticky layer. That sticky layer is the dispersion. That is, a chemical reaction as a result of which, when the coating is dried in a lamp, a sticky film is formed on the surface. This film is formed when all three coatings dry: base, gel polish and top coat.

The main function of this adhesive film is to bond (glue) all layers of the gel polish system together as tightly as possible. Since the top is the last layer, of course, there is nothing else for it to stick to, so it has no direct need for an adhesive film.

But this stickiness was useful for decorative purposes. Top with a sticky layer is great for attaching foil and creating painted designs. This finish will help secure the details of the design better and more reliably, and after several days of wear, micro-cracks or chips will not appear on your nails.

In addition, a finish with a sticky layer is considered more flexible than a finish without a sticky layer. Therefore, this top is well suited for thin, soft, bendable nails.

If your nails are soft and thin, they will still bend, even with a coating applied to them. And this can lead to the appearance of microcracks, detachments, and the gel polish will begin to peel off the nail. To avoid these unpleasant consequences, pay attention to the condition of your nails when choosing a top coat. For such nails, it is better to take a top coat with a sticky layer.

How to remove the sticky layer

After we applied the top and dried it in the lamp, a sticky layer formed on the surface. Let's figure out how to remove the sticky layer from a gel polish top coat and how to do it correctly.

There are several ways:

• With the help of a clinser - this is a special means for degreasing and removing the sticky layer from nails

• Use any wet hand wipes from a hardware store - just take the edge of the napkin and gently pull off the sticky layer from the cuticle to the edge of the nail with pulling movements
• Any cuticle oil - carefully apply the oil to the nail, take a dry cotton pad, and remove the sticky layer along with excess oil, using soft circular movements until it squeaks

Glossy and matte top: is there a difference in application?

Classic fixatives in the gel system have a glossy shine. Manufacturers are competing for the hearts of craftsmen, developing materials with an ever brighter and more durable gloss. The brighter the gloss and the smoother the highlight, the more expensive the manicure looks. Therefore, clients often choose the specialist whose coating shines better and lasts longer.

A few years ago, matte tops . And here, too, a wide choice is provided - the degree of matte varies from a smooth satin shimmer to the velor effect of an anti-slip surface. You can find names like these: satin, velvet, corduroy, velor, cashmere.

The nuances of using a matte finish. How to properly apply matte top over gel polish

• Often this finish serves only a decorative function. Therefore, before applying it, for reliability, it is better to cover the nails with a regular gel polish fixer with residual stickiness, dry, remove the stickiness and apply a layer of matte top;
• Matte finishes actively absorb dyes and fats, rub off and begin to shine after just a week of wear, so they require care. They are not suitable for colorists, chefs, artists and anyone whose hands are subject to heavy workload. If the matte top gets dirty, you can clean it with a cotton pad soaked in alcohol. Do not use acetone, it will dissolve the gel polish.
• The more velvety the matte top, the more it feels on your hands, like it’s “braking” the entire surface. For girls with high sensitivity, we recommend choosing satin tops - they will provide a fashionable lack of gloss and will not irritate.

Top without sticky layer

Now let's talk about the top coat for gel polish without a sticky layer (Top Coat no wipe).

From the name it is already clear that this top, after drying in a lamp, does not have a sticky layer. That is, there is no need to wipe the surface of the nail to remove the sticky layer. This allows you to speed up the manicure procedure and save on the purchase of means for removing it.

This top is stiffer and less elastic. Therefore, it is well suited for nails after extensions or strengthened with gel.

If you apply it on thin, bendable nails, or on an elastic base, then the manicure may become covered with microcracks after 3-5 days. In this case, an elastic top can be applied to a rigid base.

It is worth noting that after drying in a lamp, this top gives us a very beautiful glossy finish. It is believed that its gloss is slightly stronger than that of a topcoat with a sticky layer. But this super-glossy effect wears off faster than the calm glossy finish of a top coat with a sticky layer.

Topcoats without a sticky layer are applied in only one layer, otherwise your manicure will develop chips and cracks.

In addition, nail rub is usually applied to a top coat without a sticky layer, since applying it to a top coat with a sticky layer will be very problematic. The rub may form lumps or appear in spots. You can, of course, remove the sticky layer and try to apply the rub onto the top with the sticky layer, but here you already need to know some nuances. You can find out more about this here.

Also, tops without a sticky layer are indispensable for finishing coating of convex volumetric design elements, such as rhinestones, bouillons, and modeling. Since after drying in the lamp, you will not need to try to crawl into all the bumps to remove the sticky layer from them with a napkin.

In order to find out whether your top is hard or soft, you can take a drop of top, apply it to a regular plastic bag and dry this drop in a lamp. If the drop bends, you have a soft top; if not, then it’s a hard one.

So, a top coat with a sticky layer is flexible and more suitable for natural nails. It creates an enveloping veil of protection for both the nail plate and the color coating, which will accurately and permanently protect it from chips, scratches and cracks. The shine that comes out of this coating will last as long as possible.

As for the top without a sticky layer, we immediately get a super beautiful glossy effect. But such tops are tougher and therefore more suitable for nails after extensions or strengthening.

Leaders among glossy tops

Gelish Harmony Top It Off/Sealer Gel

This tacky finish has many benefits:

• easy-to-apply texture - medium viscosity, non-spreading and well-leveled;
• narrow brush;
• economical consumption;
• fast polymerization;
• compatibility with gel polishes of other brands;
• glass gloss that does not fade for 3 weeks;
• 100% transparency that does not change the shade of the gel polish;
• effective protection against mechanical damage, chips, coating peeling and color fading;
• resistance to water, household chemicals and temperature changes;
• simple and gentle removal - using Gelish Harmony Mini Artificial Nail Remover.

The Top It Off finish from Gelish Harmony is quickly and evenly applied to the nails and forms a thin layer that does not thicken the plate at all. This fixative is great even for damaged and brittle nails!

No Wipe Top Gel from Grattol Professional

This finish has a formula without a sticky layer, a hypoallergenic composition and an easy-to-apply texture - medium thickness, economical and well distributed over the surface. Among its additional advantages:

• comfortable drying in a lamp;
• due to the lack of stickiness - saving time and consumables when creating nail images;
• enhancing the gloss of the gel coating;
• preservation of its color;
• giving the design high strength and durability while maintaining the original elasticity and flexibility;
• excellent fixation of decor;
• reliable protection from mechanical damage and other influences for up to 3–4 weeks;
• resistance to clouding, desquamation and flaking;
• compatible with nails of all types, including sensitive and prone to allergic reactions.

High Gloss top coat from UNO Lux

This fixative has a non-sticky formula and a high content of UV filters. It provides the coating with a high degree of gloss, effective protection against yellowing and fading, integrity and durability for up to 4 weeks.

To apply this finish, use an elastic brush that thinly and evenly distributes the material over the surface. Polymerization of the coating in a UV lamp occurs in 2 minutes, and in an LED lamp – in 30 seconds. Ease of use and excellent characteristics have made this top a sure hit of sales!

Elite Carbon Top from Irisk Professional

Our rating continues with a heavy-duty top coat without a dispersion layer. Nail professionals value it for its comfortable consistency, long-lasting gloss, durability and excellent protective characteristics. This finish polymerizes in a UV lamp in 2 minutes, and in an LED device in 0.5–1 minute.

It reliably holds nail decor and keeps the manicure looking flawless for a long time, without yellowing or loss of shine. Thanks to the content of UV filters, this product guarantees color fastness and protection from fading. It also firmly protects the finished image from damage, peeling, edge rubbing and other integrity violations.

No Scratch Top Coat No Sticky by E.Co Nails

Another popular top coat without a dispersion layer, an excellent choice for thin and long nails. Its main advantages:

• manufacturing from premium quality raw materials, like products of the Emi and Luxio brands;
• great price;
• medium consistency, causing no problems during application;
• good volume retention - can be used for final straightening of springboard-shaped, arched or deformed nails;
• bright and durable gloss;
• plastic;
• excellent resistance to scratches, mechanical damage and other impacts;
• reliable protection of the design from clouding, cracking, chipping and peeling;
• There are different options for removal - either by cutting or soaking.

Polymerization of this coating in a UV lamp occurs in 2 minutes, and in an LED lamp - twice as fast.

Top Coat Black Flakes from RuNail

This glossy top coat without a sticky layer differs from its analogues in its unusual texture with black flakes. They provide any color coating with an ultra-fashionable “quail egg” design. This finish looks amazing on pastel-colored gel polishes. It also looks interesting in a matte finish. To achieve this effect, simply treat the Black Flakes coating with a buffer and apply a matte or velvet finish on top.

Iron Top from TNL Professional

Another fixer without a sticky layer, reliable and easy to use. The list of its advantages:

• harmless composition;
• optimal density;
• flexible brush for uniform and economical application of the product;
• excellent gloss that lasts up to 2 weeks;
• preserving the color of gel polish and enhancing its depth;
• comfortable polymerization;
• excellent fixation of decor;
• the most durable protection;
• durability up to 2–3 weeks without chipping, peeling, fading, scratches or other defects;
• superpower - recovery from damage in a minute!

Hypoallergenic top

For sensitive hand skin and girls with allergies, it is better to use a hypoallergenic nail topcoat. To understand how safe and hypoallergenic a top is, you need to look for the corresponding marks on the label: 2-Free, 5-Free, 7-Free or 9-Free. The higher the number, the fewer hazardous substances the top contains. Therefore, it will be safer and hypoallergenic.

Such tops are produced by the following companies: CND, Grattol, Gelish Harmony, Jessica Geleration and ECO Puf. In their production, raw materials that are more expensive and less hazardous to health are used, so their prices are correspondingly higher than for regular non-hypoallergenic tops.

Rubber top

Rubber top for gel polish is a top that contains rubber. Rubber is a substance that has rubber properties. Due to this, the coating is thicker, denser, more elastic and durable.

In everyday life, we often hit our nails on all sorts of surfaces. The nails of women who often do housework have to endure a lot of micro-impacts. A rubber coating more reliably protects nails from these micro-impacts, as if pushing them away from surfaces. It perfectly covers each nail and prevents chips and microcracks from forming on the nails.

Liquid or thick top. Which one for what

Liquid top for gel polish

Forms a drop on the brush in 1-2 seconds. Self-levels quickly, lays down in a thin layer and is suitable for experienced craftsmen who save time. Not suitable for fixing voluminous decor such as bouillons, rhinestones and studs. Beginners and those who apply the coating themselves often experience problems with leakage into the nail cavity.

Medium consistency top coat for gel polish

It forms a drop in 3-5 seconds. It is applied in a medium thickness layer and self-levels well. It can be called universal, as it is easy to use at any level of skill, on nails of any length and volume.

Thick top for gel polish

Forms a drop on the brush in 6-8 seconds. It is applied in a fairly thick layer, at least 0.5 mm, which adds volume to the coating and takes a long time to self-level. As a main fixative, it is interesting for complete beginners with no experience, as it does not spread and is suitable for slow motor skills. Experienced craftsmen use it to secure rhinestones, bouillons, studs, and for local application.

Matte (satin, velvet) top

Matte nails have thoroughly settled in the hearts of all fashionistas. And for years in a row, they occupy leading positions in the charts of the most popular manicures.

Matte tops for nails come in super-matte finishes, they are called velvet tops. And less matte, with a nubuck effect on the nails. These are satin tops, also called velor or corduroy, for their softer matte finish.

Due to its strong porosity and the presence of large velvety microparticles, the velvet top feels like velvet. But, because of this porosity, it gets dirty very quickly. Therefore, a velvet top is ideal for dark shades of gel polish; it’s better not to risk it with light shades.

Satin top has less porosity and feels like nubuck. It gets dirty less, so it is very good for light shades of gel polish. It also works very well for designs as it doesn't eat up them as much as a velvet top would.

Matte

The third category of finishing coatings, characterized by a matte texture.

A matte top cannot be applied over a glossy one after leveling, otherwise it will chip or peel off as a film. If it is necessary to combine materials in this approach, then after using the glossy top it is necessary to remove the dispersion, sand the surface with a polisher or buffer, and then only apply the matte finish.

Matte top is easily soiled when worn. It looks better on dark versions of gel polish, and over time it turns gray on light ones. For the latter, it is better to take more rubberized versions of top coatings with less velvety expression.

Glossy top (diamond, diamond)

The glossy top gives your nails a chic, glossy finish. It can also be found under the names Super Shine (super shine), High Gloss (high shine), Ultra Gloss (ultra shine), diamond top and top diamond (Top Brilliant) - because of the super shine that it can give to the nails. Gloss always attracts attention. In addition, it protects nails from damage and gives them shine and shine.

Comparison table of characteristics

The table presents all the above information in a compact form.

Camouflage top

Camouflage top coat for nails is a translucent colored top coat, available in nude shades: peach, pink and milky. It is designed to create delicate nude nails.

In order to create a beautiful nude manicure using this top, it is recommended to first apply a base coat to your nails. Then cover it with a transparent top with a sticky layer. And then apply one or two layers of camouflage colored top. The number of layers of camouflage top depends on the intensity of the shade that you want to achieve as a result. It protects nails from damage, gives shine and a delicate shade to the nails.

For design, fixing

Decor such as rubbing, sliders, sand, rhinestones require special top coatings. They often come with the For Sliders prefix.

Rubbing: what it is, how to use it and all application methods with step-by-step instructions

Velvet sand on nails: features, application technology, design ideas

These tops are flexible. They can be with or without a sticky layer. For example, a finish without dispersion will be required when making a design with rub-in or pigments. The best option is Alena Kapriz.

For sliders we use a final coating with a sticky layer. They are plastic and have a porous texture. Ib.Di brands are suitable. Nails, Neonail, Nollon Pro, Clio For Sliders.

For sand and powder, the consistency should be very thick, with a sticky layer. For example, the Artex Rubber Top brand is suitable. This finishing coat must be applied in an even layer without excess volume, so that it then dries well in the lamp and does not chip when worn.

Top with UV filter

Thanks to the powerful UV filters in the top, the white color of the gel polish will acquire a boiling white hue and retain it throughout the entire period of wear. And it will give black gel polish a bluish-black tint that will delight you for up to 3-4 weeks. Ultraviolet filters in the top coat prevent the manicure color from fading in the sun. In the summer, such a top is simply irreplaceable. Also, it protects nails from damage and adds shine.

Best lists

We present to you some more great top options for your perfect manicure:

• Glossy – Artex Artylac Top gel.
• Velvet – ROXY Nail Collection, Velvet Top Coat.
• Matte – Lianail matte effect A Top 4-10.

We will talk about each of them in the material below.

Glossy – Artex Artylac Top gel

Long-lasting finishing coat with ultra-bright shine. The gel perfectly preserves the integrity of all layers of the coating due to good adhesion and ensures long-lasting manicure wear.

Price: 850 rub.

top for gel polish Artex Artylac Top gel

Velvet – ROXY Nail Collection, Velvet Top Coat

Apply a thin layer onto colored gel polish. The coating becomes matte (velvet) effect for up to 3-4 weeks. Protects against scratches and chips. It has a thick viscosity, fits perfectly in one layer, and goes with any colors.

Price tag: 550 rub.

top for gel polish ROXY Nail Collection, Velvet Top Coat

Matt – Lianail matte effect A Top 4-10

Gives the effect of a fantastically soft powdery coating on the nails. The consistency is slightly thicker than usual matte finishes, the texture is creamy, cloudy, self-leveling, suitable for creating designs. The brush is wide. No problems were noticed in wearing.

Price range: 500 rub.

top for gel polish Lianail matte effect A Top 4-10

Top for securing designs

In manicure stores, you can also find tops for securing designs, such as Top for slider. In general, you can fix the design on your nails with any topcoat. But, if you need a perfect result, it is better to turn to specially designed tops.

Tops for securing designs are more elastic in composition. Therefore, they are excellent for rubbing in, airbrushing, attaching slider designs and voluminous decorative stickers. They cover and hold all types of small decor with high quality: rhinestones, kamifubuki, broken glass, etc. They self-level perfectly and align design elements underneath them, holding them as efficiently as possible.

How to make gel polish matte without topcoat?

Yes, a matte effect can be achieved on gel polish not only using a top coat, although this is the easiest and fastest way, as for varnish. Let's consider other options:

1. Sanding with a file. Remember how we remove the gloss on our nails before applying gel polish? In the same way, glitter can be removed from the finished coating. To do this, you simply need to apply the finish and then sand the surface and remove dust. But there are some nuances: It is better to apply the top in two layers, so that when sanding you do not remove too much along with the colored gel polish.
2. It will be very difficult to properly work out the curves of the cuticle and side ridges with a file. A sanding cutter can help here, but it will still take longer than using a matte topcoat.
3. The file can scratch the top and leave marks, so it is important to choose the right abrasiveness for these purposes.

Top with shimmer (glitter)

This top, with a transparent color base, and with a lot of reflective particles buried in it, will give your manicure a shimmering effect. The particles can be either fine or coarse, or it can be a mixture of large and small glitter. Sequins can be the same color: gold, silver, red, blue, green. Or they can be a mixture of different colors. If you want to shine brighter than the stars, feel free to choose this type of top coat. In addition, it protects your nails from damage and gives them a festive glow.

Magnetic top

Using a top coat with a magnetic effect, you can easily achieve a beautiful “Cat Eye” effect on any color of your favorite gel polish. In order to get the desired effect, you need to apply this topcoat to your nails at the end of the manicure, and before drying in the lamp, hold it over its surface with a special magnet.

Due to the presence of small metallized particles in this top, which are attracted to a magnet, you can create various interesting effects. For example, a stripe in the center, like a cat's eye, or several oblique stripes. In general, here you can experiment.

In addition, you can choose the color of these particles: gold, silver, blue, green. This effect is especially beautiful on black gel polish.

Manufacturers rating

Many brands offer high-quality top coats for gel polish, both foreign and domestic. The best of the best are considered to be finishes from well-known brands from Europe and the USA: Kodi Professional, CND, Grattol, Gelish Harmony, ONIQ, Patrisa Nail. The products ]UNO Lux[/anchor] (an American brand with factories in China), Haruyama (Japan), E.Co Nails, Bluesky, Born Pretty (China) are practically not inferior to them.

Of the Russian brands, Irisk Professional, RuNail, AdriCoco, TNL Professional, Masura, BeautyFree, Pashe, Lianail, POLE cosmetics Russia, Boheme, “Option” and other brands received recognition from professionals and amateurs of the nail industry. They offer products of decent quality at an excellent price, so finishes from Russian brands often become bestsellers.

Holographic and thermal top

A holographic nail topper will create a “rainbow glow” or “holographic shimmer” effect on your nails. These stunning shimmering glitters will make your manicure simply magical. It will look equally good on both a light and dark background.

Contains many tiny particles that reflect light and shimmer in different shades. If you apply a holographic top on a black or blue background, you will get the feeling that you have space or something otherworldly on your nails.

A top with a thermal effect will also help you create a very interesting and unusual design, similar to an ombre manicure. The only condition is that the color of the gel polish should be a tone lighter than the color of the thermal top.

The gradient effect on the nails is obtained due to changes in temperature: either the environment or the fingers and nails themselves. These color shifts will change throughout the day. In warm weather the top will be colorless, but in cold weather its thermo-color will appear.

In addition, the thermal top can appear on the tips of the nails, as if it were a French effect. This happens because there is heat from the finger under the nail, but not at the tip. Therefore, the tip of the nail will be cooler than the nail itself.

Experiment and try different types of tops, so you will determine which one you are most comfortable with, and which top is best and lasts the longest, keeping your manicure in its original form.

What to look for when choosing

When choosing a durable and high-quality top coating, you should pay attention to:

• Consistency.

You should choose a product with a viscous consistency; if you have little experience working with gel polishes, this will help you carefully distribute it over your nails.

• Sticky layer.

If you are not going to make a design or glue additional decorative elements on top of the topcoat, feel free to take a topcoat without a sticky layer. This allows you to do without removing the dispersion.

• Brush.

The brush in the bottle should be of high quality, dense and easy to use, without protruding fibers.

• Brand.

Buy original products from trusted brands; it is recommended to combine the base, top and color coating from the same manufacturer. Funds from different companies may conflict.

What is a top coat for regular varnish and its types?

In a manicure using regular nail polish, you can also use a top coat. It also serves to give durability to the manicure and protect it from external damage - fading, chips, scratches, household chemicals. And most importantly, it gives your nails a beautiful shine.

But, the top for regular polish, unlike the top for gel polish, does not need to be dried in a lamp; it dries in the open air. This is both its advantage and disadvantage. The advantage is that you don't need to spend money on a UV or LED lamp to dry your nails, but the disadvantage is that your nails take much longer to dry outdoors.

In addition, a manicure done with regular polish, without using a top coat, will last much less than a manicure with a top coat. For example, a manicure with regular polish without using a top will last 3-6 days, and with a top it will last as long as 7-10 days.

And of course, without a top coat, regular varnish will look dull and uninteresting. The top gives it an unparalleled shine.

Do an experiment. Paint one hand with just varnish, as usual, and the other with varnish along with the top coat. You will see that the manicure on the first hand will look untidy after 2-3 days, the first chips will appear, especially on the edge. And the second hand, where the top was used, will continue to please the eye.

Types of topcoats for regular varnish:

A glossy top is a top that gives your manicure an expressive shine and shine. It can be called Super Shine (Shine Gloss), Diamond Top (Brilliant) or just glossy top. Protects manicure from damage, gives shine and shine to nails.

The “quick dry” top is a top combined with drying, which helps to significantly reduce the drying time of nail polish. Works within a couple of minutes. Gives shine and shine to nails.

Top with the effect of wet nails - forms a durable, super-glossy coating on the varnish, extends its wear life, protects from scratches and chips. Creates a wet shine effect on nails.

Magnetic Topcoat is a decorative top coat that will easily allow you to create a “Cat Eye” effect on any nail polish shade. To create a beautiful design, you only need to use a magnet, which usually comes with the top. In addition, the top protects the manicure from damage and gives it shine.

Top with a matte nail effect - helps to give any color of your polish a fashionable matte finish. Protects manicure and extends wear time.

A universal top is a universal 2 in 1 or 3 in 1 product; it can act as a base for varnish, as a top coat, and as a care product. May contain various nutritional components, oils and vitamins. Protects manicure from damage, cares for it and adds shine.

A top with glitter (glitter, shimmer) is a top with small or large sparkles. It can be with sparkles of the same color, different colors or with a holographic effect (Holographic Top). It looks very beautiful, both on colored varnish and on bare nails. Extends wear time and gives nails shine.

Top with gel polish effect – a transparent top that creates additional volume with the effect of a gel coating. Advantages of this top: 1) nails look as if they were covered with gel polish; 2) This top is used without lamp. Protects manicure from damage and gives them shine.

A top with a UV filter is a top that protects the color of your manicure from fading in the sun. In summer it is simply irreplaceable. Protects manicure from damage and gives it shine.

Preparing nails for a manicure with gel polish: what you need to pay attention to. TOP 10 mistakes made by beginners.

Careful and high-quality nail preparation will help the master quickly and correctly apply the color coating, as well as ensure good adhesion of the nail to subsequent layers of applied materials. Unfortunately, mistakes happen at this stage in the work of both experienced craftsmen and those who have purchased kits for home application of shellac for the first time. What are the consequences of the shortcomings made when processing marigolds and applying materials for degreasing, cleansing, dehydration and improving adhesion?

• Mistake No. 1:
  The gel polish base came out with sagging.

Reason:
You did not completely remove the old coating. You need to carefully file down all the layers of the previous design with a nail file or a nail file, so that the layer of the new gel polish base lays perfectly flat on the nail and evens out all the grooves and depressions.

• Error No. 2:
  microbubbles and mini-voids are visible in the layer of the polymerized base.

Reason:
during the untrimmed manicure process, you did not completely remove the cuticle, pterygium and eponychium. During the baking process in the lamp, microgaps formed between the nail layer and the particles of skin remaining on the nail. When wearing such a design, detachments at the cuticle and cracks may form due to water getting under the base layer.

• Mistake #3:
  The color coating peeled off the nail, starting with the base layer.

Reason:
this is due to the fact that the master could skip the stage of removing the top keratin layer with a buff. Damn the nail, it’s important not to damage it. Do not apply significant force when pressing the tool on your nails and follow the correct direction of movement. Correctly buff from the cuticle to the free edge, with light movements. The same picture is observed if a nail polisher is used instead of a buff. It will make the nail smooth instead of rough, and the coating on the nail will simply not stay on.

• Mistake No. 4:
  under the layer of gel polish, cracks formed in the nail plate, which led to the nail breaking.

Reason:
cracks and chips in the nail resulted from thinning of the natural nail due to excessive sanding. The other extreme - not treating the nail well enough with a buff - can result in peeling of the coating due to the peeling keratin scales not being completely removed by the master.

• Mistake #5:
  The gel polish peels off as a whole sheet.

Reason:
particles of pterygium remained unnoticed on the nail, and delaminations on the free edge were not removed. With subsequent regrowth and peeling of the pterygium from the keratin of the natural nail, the gel coating also comes off. The continued delamination of the natural nail in depth (under the gel polish) leads to detachments of the manicure already from the end.

• Mistake #6:
  Shellac nails and gel polish chip a lot a few days after application.

Reason:
this phenomenon can have three reasons at once - the periungual ridges and the surface of the nail are poorly degreased with a special preparation; the primer application step was skipped; you touched the nail after degreasing and before removing the stickiness from the top coat. How to solve this problem?

• Degrease the nail step by step: disinfect your nails and hands with spray or foam. Next, remove the fat from the nails with a lint-free cloth, and finally treat the nails and side ridges with a dehydrator;
• Don't skip applying acid-free primer. It is advisable to use a product from the same manufacturer as the gel polish base. This way you guarantee maximum adhesion between the base and the natural nail;
• Try not to let your fingers touch the treated nails. If such an incident occurs, re-treat the surface with a stick remover and a lint-free puff.

• Mistake #7:
  The coating cracks and breaks off in small pieces.

Reason:
you may not have sufficiently cleaned the nail from dust (sawdust), dirt and sebum (you did not properly treat the surface with a degreaser or used a substitute containing oil instead).

• Mistake #8:
  Natural nails, even without blows, develop cracks right down to the flesh.

Reason:
nails suffered from overdrying. You or the technician may have used inappropriate preparations (alcohol, acetone, solvent) for cleaning and degreasing. Their regular use without subsequent treatment of nails with oil or cream leads to weakening, deep dehydration and thinning of natural nails.

• Mistake #9:
  when using the base directly on a dried primer (the quality of both products is good and the expiration date has not expired), after a few days your coating still chips and peels off.

Reason:
if you have gone through and eliminated all other options, remember: do not remove the remaining degreaser from the nail with ordinary cotton pads. You can't do this. The discs leave lint that is invisible to the eye, impairing the application of coatings and leading to a loss of aesthetics of the manicure. Residual traces of oil or cream that have not been removed are also contraindicated for gel polish (they also need to be thoroughly “washed off” from the nails with a gentle degreaser). Also monitor the quality of degreasing. If you have applied the base, dried it and see bald spots, repeat the application of the base and be sure to seal the end of the nail.

• Mistake #10:
  Your client has long but thin nails, the length of which you mutually decided not to remove.

Reason:
gel polish certainly shields nails from external negative influences, but cannot 100% eliminate the risk of cracks and chips. The coating maintains elasticity on the nail. And if the nail plate bends and breaks, the same will happen to the nail. Hence the deep cracks in the nail and the shellac itself. The way to eliminate the problem is to first strengthen the nails with biogel or correct the length.

How to use nail top

Basic rules for applying and using gel polish top:

1. The top is applied strictly after gel polish.
2. Before using the top, to stir it, you need to take the bottle and gently roll it between your palms for 1 minute. Under no circumstances should the bottle of top coat be shaken or shaken, as this may cause the top coat to bubble when applied to the nails.
3. All topcoats are applied from the cuticle to the edge of the nail plate with light movements, holding the brush parallel to the nail. Don't put too much pressure on the brush. Then the top will lie beautifully and evenly.
4. Be sure to seal the end and sides of your nail when applying top coat, this will help make your manicure last longer.
5. The drying time for the top in UV, hybrid or LED lamps is indicated by the manufacturer on the bottle with the top. Always follow this time exactly. The top should not be under-dried, otherwise it will release toxic substances that can enter the stomach. And if the topcoat is too dry, it can lead to cracks and chips in your manicure.

If you want to give your nails a well-groomed look and protect them from harmful influences, but you don’t like colored polish or the situation requires you to follow a certain etiquette, you can apply the base directly to the top. It will be minimalistic and stylish.

Basic rules for using and applying top coat for regular nail polish:

1. The top is applied after the colored varnish has completely dried, as the last layer.
2. You don't need to shake it before use, otherwise it may leave bubbles on your manicure.
3. You can coat your nails with top coat 1 or 2 times, if desired, the main thing is to thoroughly dry each layer in the open air.

Features of professional application of nail topcoat

A manicure will be more neat and will retain its presentable appearance longer if it is done in compliance with the following technology:

• Before application, the composition should not be shaken to prevent bubbles from appearing on the coating.
• It is necessary to distribute the product with a brush strictly parallel to the surface of the nail.
• Be sure to seal the ends of the nails and dry them in a lamp for as long as indicated on the package.

Tips and life hacks for using top

• It is advisable to use all gel polish system products of the same brand. Since sometimes, when using a top brand of a different brand than the base and gel polish, the top may conflict with the gel polish and roll off in the cuticle area. Or on your nails, chips can begin to form very quickly.
• Chips and cracks can also form due to too thin layers of base and top, that is, the nail will “walk” because it is not strengthened enough.
• To prevent the top with a sticky layer from becoming cloudy, after drying your nails in the lamp, you need to let them cool for literally 2 minutes, and only after that you can remove the sticky layer with a special product. Then the top will not become cloudy.
• Since all tops are relatively liquid, unlike bases, they cannot be used to greatly level the nail plate. You can only slightly smooth out the surface of the nail. To do this, you need to coat your nails with top coat 2 times, and after each application, dry each layer of top coat well in a lamp.

But, the more layers of top coat you apply to your nails, the harder it will be to remove the gel polish from them later. The main alignment is still best done using a nail base.

• If the gel polish top has thickened, it can be diluted with a fresher or new top. You can also try putting the bottle of top coat in a container of hot water for 5 minutes, gently mix the contents with a brush and start applying it to your nails. But, there is a possibility that the top will lose its former durability, or become cloudy and will not shine as before.
• If you accidentally applied a base instead of a top coat, then the next day you can take a file with a hardness of 180 grit, and with its help, carefully file off this layer, and then apply the top coat to your nails.

Applying a base instead of a top coat is almost pointless, since when you remove the sticky layer from the base, the coating will remain cloudy.

• Be sure to follow the order of applying products to your nails: first comes the base, then the gel polish, and then the top. The durability of your manicure depends on this.

Hardness and softness

As with bases, tops can be soft or hard. This criterion affects whether the product will crack during wear.

Causes of cracking:

• Incorrect combination of base and top in terms of rigidity and elasticity;
• If the top layer is severely overdried in the lamp, its elastic properties “burn out”;
• Very thin layers of soft both base and top: the nail “walks”.

Soft can always be applied to hard, but hard to soft cannot be applied, hence all the problems with the durability of coatings.

How to check this characteristic? We apply a small drop of material to a plastic surface, for example, a thick film, and polymerize it in a lamp. The resulting sample can be bent and twisted, and how it behaves can reveal its characteristics of elasticity, hardness and brittleness.

Also stretchy are all tops with the definition of For Sliders. Brands: Emi, Neonail, Nollon Pro, CND, Ib Di.

They have a thick texture, are plastic, and after polymerization do not leave a pronounced gloss. At the same time, airbrushing, rubs, pigments, sliders, sequins, foil, and mica hold up well on them. They don't scratch. They often turn yellow. This type of finish is a must have in a craftsman’s kit for attaching designs to the main coating.

The topcoat marked Rubber is not elastic.

A fragile or hard topcoat on an elastic base coat and gel polish can crack, creating a web-like network in which dirt and dust get clogged. After just a few days, your nails look untidy. Therefore, it is necessary to select the appropriate material for the top coat on natural or extended nails.

The finish can be used to highlight and level, although it is better to use the base for leveling. The top eliminates all color unevenness and creates a perfect highlight.

Base coatings: types, selection criteria, review of the best

If you apply a lot of topcoat, bubbles will form at points of large accumulation of the layer, and the area may turn yellow more intensely.

How can you replace nail topcoat?

When performing manicures with gel polish, masters do not recommend replacing the top coat with some other product. Since this can affect the durability of the coating and its quality.

For example, if you cover gel polish with a base instead of a top coat, then when you remove the sticky layer, the surface may become cloudy and your manicure will be ruined. In addition, the base is not intended to protect the manicure from damage or fading in the sun. Therefore, the duration of wear can be significantly reduced.

There is also an option to replace the topcoat with a topcoat that is used to fix regular nail polish. This option is possible. Please note that you do not need to dry this top in a lamp; it is simply air dried. But, you must understand that the durability of such a coating will not be long.

But replacing the top coat for regular polish with a top coat for gel polish is definitely not worth it. Since this top coat will remove regular polish and your manicure will be ruined.

Of course, these options can be used in emergency situations. For example, when the top is unexpectedly lost, dried out or runs out. But, it is better to use a gel polish top coat as a finishing coat, or in order not to bother with different jars, you can simply purchase a single-phase system.

Below I’ll tell you about the 7 best top coats for nails. And in this video you can see which budget top to choose for a beginner for manicure with gel polish.

The gel polish top is bubbling. Who is to blame and what to do

Air bubbles in gel polish are a serious problem, since they do not disappear during polymerization and look sloppy on the surface of the material, like garbage. They appear due to sudden movements of the brush in the bottle, forcing air into the material. If you do not want to have aesthetic defects in the coating, then get used to smooth and neat, precise movements. Do not throw the brush into the bottle, do not shake the gel polish, do not stir it right before use.

There are materials that are more prone to the formation of bubbles; you should be extremely careful with these. There are less sensitive exceptions, but even with them you should not allow yourself unnecessary sudden movements. Check for bubbles before polymerization and, if found, carefully burst each one. To do this, lightly poke the bubble with the tip of a thin brush or orange stick.

TOP 7 best finishing coatings for nails

Each brand has its own top coatings, in different price categories and with different characteristics. To find the most suitable coating for your taste and budget, you just need to try several different ones and choose the golden mean for yourself. Now let's look at several popular tops for gel polish and regular polish, both among masters and among ordinary girls.

The best top coats for gel polish

UNO Top Coat – Glossy top coat for gel polish with a sticky layer

Volume 15 ml

Average price 590-650 rub.

UNO nail top reliably fixes the color of gel polish, maintaining its brightness and strength. It also protects your manicure from color fading, scratches or chips. Even after several weeks of wear, your nails look well-groomed and flawless. UNO brand products do not harm natural nails. This is a brand that produces high-quality products for the nail industry.

• Elastic top
• Doesn't lose its shine throughout the entire wear period.
• Good volume/price/quality ratio
• Does not harm natural nails
• Very high quality composition
• Easily removed without files or sanders in 5-7 minutes

BlueskyTop Coat – Glossy top coat for gel polish without a sticky layer

Volume 10 ml

Average price 150-180 rub.

Bluesky nail top simplifies the process of creating a manicure, as it does not require removing the sticky layer. In addition, it not only provides manicure protection from chips and scratches for three weeks, but also gives a fashionable glossy effect.

• Hard top
• Doesn't lose its shine throughout the entire wear period.
• Attractive price
• Removed using a special gel polish remover

Kodi Rubber Top - Rubber top for gel polish with a sticky layer

Volume 8 ml

Average price 500-550 rubles

Rubber top coat for nails Kodi (Kodi) provides strength, beautiful shine, and also protects against cracking and peeling; a manicure with this coating will last for 2-3 weeks. Can be used to nourish nails, as the unique formula, with moisturizing and nutrients, eliminates the effects of negative factors and does not dry out nails.

• Elastic top
• Doesn't lose its shine throughout the entire wear period.
• Contains moisturizing and nourishing components
• Doesn't dry out nails
• Removed using a special gel polish remover

Ice Nova Top Shimmer - Top for gel polish with shimmer without a sticky layer

Volume 10 ml

Average price 350-400 rubles

A top with shimmer gives the manicure a velvety and shimmering effect. Protects gel polish from chips and scratches, does not have a strong odor after drying in a lamp. When applied to light shades, it creates a delicate glow effect, and on dark shades it leaves reflections of different colors.

• Hard top
• Creates a velvety and radiant effect
• No pungent odor after drying
• Removed using a special gel polish remover

Strength and wear test

A clear indicator of the quality of the finishing coat is its durability and behavior on the nails. If the applied top remains confidently for 2-3 weeks - without the appearance of cracks, chips, peeling and other defects - it deserves to be included in the rating of the best gel polish finishes. Gradual loss of shine is allowed because... The coating is exposed to external influences every day. But the best topcoats confidently withstand all tests and retain their gloss longer.

Of course, you can judge the quality of a top by its durability and behavior on nails only if the materials used are fully compatible and the gel manicure technology is strictly followed. For example, cracks and chips can appear due to an incorrect combination of base and finish. Remember that an elastic sealer can be used with a rigid base, but a rigid finish must not be applied to an elastic base!