All about base and top coat in long-lasting manicure

Manicure is one of the first components of the image of a beautiful girl. For several years now, women around the world have been giving preference to gel polish, since the coating is resistant to mechanical and chemical influences, lasts up to three weeks and looks impressive. Today, such a manicure can be done not only in a salon, but also at home on your own, but you need to know the important nuances of the procedure. What is applied first: base or top, what are the features of these important compositions, are they interchangeable? This and much more is in the article below.

What is the difference between top and base?

Top and base are the most important products that are applied to the nail plate during the manicure process with gel-based varnish, mandatory elements of three-phase coatings. The first to introduce these compositions into use was the American brand that became the founder of gel polishes - the company Creative Nail Design.

Important! You cannot neglect the use of top and base. A coating made without the use of the first or second composition not only chips, peels off and is easily exposed to any external influences, but also harms the nail plate.

The base is applied to the nail plate first; it is a cosmetic product that performs the following functions:

• ensuring optimal adhesion of the surface of the nail plate to the first layer of gel polish;
• preventing nail staining with decorative coating pigments;
• protection of the nail plate from the harmful effects of varnish;
• leveling the nail: the first layer fills the cracks, levels out the tubercles;
• careful removal of coatings with glitter, sequins, stones and other elements that can injure the nail;
• ensuring strength;
• expressive revelation of varnish effects.

The basic composition is divided into:

• according to the ability to make nails stronger - into regular and strengthening;
• based on substances - classic, rubber, silicone;
• according to the ability to create decorative effects - watercolor, camouflage, white, black.

The top is otherwise called the finish, since it is applied at the final stage. Functions of the tool:

• color protection from fading;
• Preservation of manicure from rubbing and loss of glossy shine;
• protection of varnish from chemical (detergents, cleaners, washing powders), mechanical (accidental impacts) influences;
• providing the coating with strength, elasticity, and durability.

As follows from the definition of the first base and top layers, they differ in purpose.

Important! The base and top will fulfill their functions if: they are applied not only to the surface, but also to the end of the nail; products from the same brand are used; the sequence of actions has been followed.

What to apply first - top or base?

Despite the fact that the level of awareness among salon clients regarding manicure procedures is growing, when a girl covers her nails with gel at home for the first time, the question may still arise: top or base - the first layer before shellac (gel polish)?

From the definition and functions of the two products it follows that they are applied strictly in a certain order, which cannot be changed. The compositions are not interchangeable.

The first thing you need to know when starting to model your nails is the correct sequence of actions. When designing with gel polish, first apply the base, then the top. The base is the first thing that covers the nail plate, the second stage is coloring, the result is secured with a finish. There is no need to experiment with the order, as this can not only ruin the manicure, but also harm the nail plate.

If, by mistake or ignorance, the girl applied the top first instead of the base, or, conversely, the base was used instead of the top, the result will not be durable, and the nail plate will not be properly protected.

Attention! The initial and third layers (base and top) are not applied only if the gel polish is classified as single-phase.

Execution Rules

Before applying varnish, you need to prepare the nail plates. To do this, the master does a regular manicure, removes cuticles and gives the nails the desired shape. After this, you can begin applying gel polish.

This manicure is performed in several stages:

After all layers have been applied, the so-called sticky layer is removed from the nails, which is necessary for fixing rhinestones and other decorative elements. Finally, the nails are treated with oil, which protects them from overdrying in the UV lamp.

Applying gel polish is a rather lengthy process. After all, you will need to not only apply several layers, but also dry each of them in a special UV lamp.

Source

Rules for applying base and top

The base is applied according to the following rules:

• the first coating (base) should be as thin as possible so as not to enlarge the nail;
• a small amount of gel is collected onto a brush and applied to the nail plate, starting from the middle. The base is not just covered, it is, as it were, rubbed into the surface;
• the initial coating is applied to the front surface and end;
• the base is thoroughly dried in an ultraviolet or LED lamp;
• The sticky layer is not removed - it is needed for adhesion to the next composition.

Warning! Before applying the first layer (base), the nails are prepared by performing hygienic manicure procedures: the outline and length are drawn up, the cuticle is removed, and the surface is polished. This is done for the purpose of optimal adhesion to the base.

Girls who do their own manicure sometimes use gel instead of a base, making it the first layer. This is allowed if the gel can be used as a single-phase gel.

Rules for applying the finish:

1. The top is applied after colored varnish.
2. The finishing layer is thicker than the first base layer.
3. The brush must be squeezed out thoroughly.
4. The end of the nail is sealed, carefully painting hard-to-reach areas at the base and sides.
5. The final topcoat is well dried in a lamp, otherwise the manicure will quickly lose its shine and will not be resistant to external influences.
6. The sticky layer of the top is removed with a special product.

Attention! After removing the sticky layer of top coat, nail technicians advise applying a special oil to the cuticle, which will moisturize delicate skin damaged by the use of drying agents.

Experts warn that rearranging the stages will ruin the result. The sequence “first top, then base” is unacceptable.

When performing a manicure with gel polish for the first time, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the training videos.

How to apply primer on nails before base coat when

Apply primer to nails before base coat as follows:

1. File them to the desired length, desired shape, and treat the surfaces with a buff.
2. Remove the keratinized part of the cuticle, clean the sinuses and the plates themselves.
3. Brush off sawdust.

4. Wipe nails and skin with a cloth moistened with degreaser.
5. Dip the brush from the bottle into the primer.
6. Get rid of excess liquid by lightly squeezing the fluff against the edge of the container.
7. If there is still a lot of product on the brush, you need to touch it with a dry lint-free cloth.
8. Apply primer for gel polish to the middle of the plate and allow it to spread slightly.
9. Then coat the sides of the nail and the end.
10. The product is drawn up again, repeating steps 6-9 with each plate.

11. It needs to be allowed to air dry or cured in a lamp, the method depends on the type of product.
12. Then the base coat is applied.

It is important to avoid contact of the product with the skin. If this happens, it must be washed off with water.

If you have no experience working with gel polishes, it is better to coat 2-3 nails at a time. The product retains its properties for up to 40 minutes, during which time you need to apply a base to it.

How to dry, how long it takes to dry

The primer should be air dried, that is, just wait until the moisture disappears. This manifests itself externally, no matter what type of product is used. When acid-free, the nails return to the same appearance as before applying the liquid, or shine. And their surface becomes slightly rough. Acidic leaves behind a white coating.

Any product is applied in a thin layer, so the nail primer dries in 60-120 seconds.

It is extremely rare to find products that need to be dried in a lamp. Usually this information is contained in the instructions. If there is no requirement, then the acidic or acid-free primer does not need to be dried in a lamp under any circumstances. This can damage your nails.

Why doesn't it dry on my nails?

If the primer does not dry on your nails, there may be one of three explanations:

• It needs to be polymerized in a lamp. You need to look at the instructions to make sure of this.
• It has residual stickiness. The most likely reason is that the product has dried, but left a layer that will help lay the base more evenly.
• The product was applied too thickly. This means we need to wait a little longer.

How to use for shellac

For shellac, you need to use the product in the same way as when strengthening with gel or coating with gel polish, that is:

1. After preparing the nails, wiping with a degreaser.
2. With a semi-dry brush, not a drop.
3. Apply along the center line of the nail from the base to the free edge, along the sides and end.
4. Avoid contact with skin.
5. Dry in air until moisture evaporates.

There is only one caveat - you need to take an acid-free product.

What happens if you apply a top coat instead of a base?

Nail technicians do not advise swapping the first and third stages or using products not intended for one or another action and remind you that the rule for shellac coating is first the base, then the top. This sequence preserves the technology, ensures the nails are healthy and look beautiful.

If you apply a top coat instead of a base, the varnish will not obtain the necessary degree of adhesion to the first layer and will come off the nail in the lamp or during wear. The manicure product may harm the plate.

Will gel polish last without primer?

Gel polish without a primer will stick if:

• nails are healthy, smooth and non-greasy;
• no tendency to break off;
• there is no hyperhidrosis;
• the base is well chosen and correctly applied.

You don’t even have to use a nail primer at home because it’s easy to remove the coating and apply a new one any day. But if they are problematic, you still need to use a drying liquid under the gel polish or strengthening gel. Many manicurists already adhere to these principles, knowing the nails of their clients.

But when building with gel or acrylic, a primer is needed, and in the latter case, an acidic one. Otherwise, the artificial material may fall off on the same day.

Reviews of top and base two in one

Reviews about the 2 in 1 product are not the same: for some masters this composition suited their work, for others it did not. Below are some reviews.

Anastasia, 28 years old, St. Petersburg

I went to the store to buy a Kodi base and top. It turned out that the base composition was not available, only the finishing one was available, and I needed both. The consultant suggested Kodi 2 in 1. I usually distrust this kind of product, but there was no choice, I had to take it. I bought the composition for the first and last time, after work it turned out that my fears were not in vain. One of the disadvantages of the process is that the texture is too liquid, it applies poorly, and flows under the cuticle. As a result, I encountered detachment for the first time. Even though my practice is small - 1.5 years, but this has never happened before. The advantage is that the brush is easy to use. I discussed this issue with a neighbor who works in a salon; she used the same composition. She says that perhaps I came across a fake, because, having previously encountered the same Kodi two in one, she was pleased, the product was applied well. My conclusion is that I won’t buy it again, the price did not justify the quality.

Kristina, 34 years old, Stavropol

I purchased Base Top Gel Cody and decided to test it to form my own opinion. I liked it both as a base and as a finish, it applies smoothly. No complaints about either the first purpose or the second. I will buy more, it's convenient.

Victoria, 24 years old, Vitebsk

For the first time I tried Koto from two-in-one formulations. The company is not promoted, the price is reasonable. Decent product for this price. The consistency is moderately liquid and applies evenly. With nails coated with this base-finish, my girls walk comfortably for 3 weeks. The downside is that it does not smooth out the surface of the nail, possibly due to its watery texture. Among the advantages: first - the price; large volume, easy application, durable coating. For problem-free nails, it is quite suitable as the first and last layer.

Which primer is best for gel polish, how to choose it

For gel polish, it is better to use a primer with a minimum amount of acids, especially for the first time. Most likely, it will be enough to wear a manicure for a long time, and the liquid will not harm your nails. You need to look for a suitable one among the following compositions:

• Bluesky,
• Kodi Ultrabond
• Lady Victory,
• Patrisa nail,
• TNL,
• Irisk,
• RuNail.

The bottles must be labeled “Non Acide”. The same products are suitable for strengthening and creating length with gel.

If the decorative coating hardly lasts, you should choose an acidic nail primer:

• IBD,
• EZ Flow
• Rio Profi,
• Yoko.

The bottle may be labeled Strong or Acrylic. Almost all manufacturers producing ultrabonds also have such products. But when using acidic products, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the nails, as they may become thinner, begin to flake or break. When performing acrylic extensions, it is also worth using a liquid with a high acid content.

Which company has the best nail primer can be judged by the reviews of those who like to wear manicures for a long time, they highlight: Kodi, TNL, ONIQ, Lianail, IBD, InGarden, Vouge Nails, EZ Flow.

The individual characteristics of marigolds also matter when choosing.

bluesky

Primer from Bluesky is acid-free, quite liquid, oily. The product is sold in bottles of 8 and 10 ml. A convenient synthetic brush is attached to the lid. The composition is used both for healthy, strong nails and for thin, bendable ones. It is also suitable for gel.

After application, a sticky layer remains that holds the coating like double-sided tape. There is no need to remove it. The price of the product is 250 rubles. for 10 ml.

The company produces several types of primers, Bluesky Nail Systems primer is one of them. It is also acid-free, suitable for colored gels and strengthening ones. A manicure with this system, even with problem nails, lasts 2-3 weeks. The product has a noticeable odor, but it also works for hyperhidrosis. It costs 300 rubles. for 10 ml.

Bluesky primers air dry.

Cody

Cody produces 2 types of liquids: acidic and low in aggressive substances called Ultrabond. The first one preserves manicure for a long time even with constantly wet hands and oily nails. Therefore, it is popular among nail artists. Its cost is 400 rubles. per 10 ml bottle. Ultrabond has a gentler effect on nails, but is not suitable for extensions. But gel polish manicure, including strengthening, retains its beauty for up to 3-4 weeks. This product costs 390 rubles. for 12 ml.

Both products have a comfortable texture; the bottles have convenient brushes. The products are not dried in the lamp, you just need to wait until they evaporate.

Primer Air Dry Ledy Victory

Primer Air Dry Ledy Victory is an inexpensive but effective product that extends the wear of gel polish. It is acid-free and has a liquid texture. The product is safe for the skin and therefore suitable for beginners. It dries in air for 1-2 minutes. Cost – 200-250 rubles. per bottle of 10 ml.

With a sticky layer

Many companies have products with a sticky layer that should not be removed, for example, primers:

• Kodi Ultrabond
• Patrisa nail,
• Vogue Nails,
• TNL Primer Bond,
• Irisk Gel Primer and extension product,
• Masura Primer Basic,
• Tertio Super bond primer.

They are all acid free. The advantage of the products is that the sticky layer reliably holds the base, gel polish and gel on the nails, avoiding peeling. At the same time, the irritating effect on the plates is minimal. Another plus is that when performing a manicure, the residual stickiness prevents the base from spreading too much.

Acrylic

An acrylic product is any acid primer, and the most used ones are:

• Runail Professional Primer Acrylic System,
• Irisk Acrylic Primer,
• TNL,
• IBD,
• EZ Flow.

But there are also safer ultrabonds that firmly bind the artificial material to the natural nail:

• Le Vole Ultra Bond,
• Kodi Professional Ultrabond,
• Yoko APR-15.

They go well with acrylics if your hands are not wet or greasy. Be sure to use a dehydrator for these liquids.

With a brush

Almost all small volume products are sold in bottles with a brush. You should look for bottles of 8,10,12, 14 ml. There are also larger containers, but they are more convenient for those who professionally do nail art and have a high consumption of liquid. The primer is used little by little. And for a home manicure, you don’t need a large bottle, since the product’s shelf life will expire faster than the product itself.

Watch the video on how to choose a primer:

Le Vole Ultra Bond

Le Vole Ultra Bond is acid-free and can therefore be used on thin nails and sensitive skin. It does not harm them as it maintains a neutral PH value. The product is more suitable for gel polish and gel. It is applied in small quantities and air dried. Cost – 250-270 rubles. for 10 ml.

EZ Flow

EZ Flow is an American made acid product. Sold in 14 ml bottles. It should be used for hyperhidrosis under gel polish and for gel or acrylic extensions. In both techniques, the product has proven itself excellent if applied in 2 layers, each drying in air. But it is necessary to take care of the skin around the nails. The cost of a small bottle is from 1000 rubles.