Primer, Base, and Finish Coat
The combination of primer and base coat promotes the adhesion of semi-permanent polish or gel applied afterwards. The nails are also protected by these products against the color applied in the next step, while finishing products accentuate and extend the life of the polish.
What is the use of these products?
The Importance of Primer
It is not necessary to use a primer when doing your manicure, but it is highly recommended. It is primarily used to prepare the nail surface before applying polish to increase its adhesion.
Base Coat, the Essential Accessory
As for the base coat, it is indispensable! After applying the primer, it is used to strengthen the nail and improve polish adhesion. It can also include nourishing ingredients to strengthen nails.
The texture of the base coat is significantly less liquid than that of the primer. It is obvious that this step is essential when applying semi-permanent polish, gel, or tips.
It can be packaged in a bottle and needs to be cured with a UV or LED lamp.
Top Coat, for a Spectacular Finish
Top coat is used to finish a semi-permanent or gel manicure. It protects the color from daily mishaps and provides a brilliant finish. It is the ultimate step in a manicure. It ensures vibrant color and prevents scratches.
Top coat is available in various finishes:
The ultra-glossy finish, also called gloss, is the most popular and frequently used. It offers an impeccable lacquered result and adds shine to all color bases. This will bring a new dynamic to your manicure.
The matte finish provides a perfect matte finish to the nails, making it an elegant and distinctive choice. The product may be purple, but it will be perfectly transparent once applied to your nails.
The shimmering finish adds a feminine touch to your shade. Rather than buying glitter gel or polish, you can opt for a glitter top coat.
How to apply it?
After applying and curing your last layer of gel or semi-permanent polish, pick up some product with a brush and apply it evenly to your nail. Then, cure the product using a lamp (UV or LED depending on the technology you use).
To enhance the glossy, matte, or glittery effect, you can double the layer of gloss. To do this, apply another coat and polymerize.
Are they complements or substitutes?
Primer is not an essential step in a manicure, but rather a product that improves hold. This differs from the base coat, which is essential when creating artificial gel nails or semi-permanent polish.
Furthermore, excessive use of primer (especially acid primer) can be detrimental to the nail because its component aims to lift the small scales of the nail to improve base adhesion.
It is recommended to choose an acid-free formula and not to use it excessively.
