Top coat for nails: what is it, how to choose and use?

Top Coat nail polish is a special finishing gel that is used to cover the finished nail during manicure. The coating is used when applying gel or acrylic. This is the so-called last layer that completes the manicure.

As a rule, the process of nail design while performing a professional manicure consists of three stages: base - color - top. The top coat, Top Coat, has a protective function. The last, finishing layer does not allow paint and other decorative elements to cling to household items, taking this "blow" on itself. This gel has a rather dense and dense structure, and it is not so easy to apply it to the nail plate, this requires experience and skill.

Top Coat coated nail shines beautifully in the sun. Some products contain mica, glitter, shimmer, due to which the nails are given an additional design. The top evens out the surface of the nail plate, prevents chips and cracks, prevents the fading of the varnish coating. In addition, the top contributes to the quick drying of the varnish.

When using a topcoat check out some guidelines.

• Each layer - base and color - requires careful drying in a UV lamp, but this is not enough, so each type of manicure ends with the application of a top. Cover the nails with a top with a thin layer, and dry for at least 3 minutes.
• Do not shake the fixer bottle, as these actions can provoke the appearance of bubbles, which are difficult to get rid of.It is advisable, in general, not to move the bottle once again, otherwise irregularities can be seen on the nails after drying in a UV lamp - this is how burst bubbles look like.
• The master should first determine the amount of the product that needs to be covered with one nail. If the drop seems too large to cover the nail plate, then it is better to draw a new portion, since too large a layer can lead to poor-quality hardening. Such a manicure quickly deteriorates.

• Do not cover the nail with Top Coat at an angle, as this can cause irregularities in the color of the varnish. For example, light shades may appear on a dark background.
• Correct application of the finishing gel - from the cuticle upwards, but not smearing, but sealing on each section of the nail plate. This technology will keep the manicure for a long time. The cuticle itself cannot be touched with the product.
• It is necessary to carry out the procedure very carefully and make sure that the gel does not run off the edges of the nail.

Modern cosmetic studios and online stores offer different types of top-end coverage.

• Top with a sticky layer. The dispersion is removed with a specialized compound or a lint-free cloth.
• No sticky layer. A more convenient option that does not require additional steps.
• Top drying. Designed for quick drying of the varnish.
• Top with a glossy or matte effect.
• Top with design elements included: glitter, holographic effect, cat-eye effect, Party Top - one that glows in the dark.
• Universal. It combines the functions of a base coat and a top coat, adds shine.

For each type of manicure, you should choose a top gel of a specific structure. Take advantage of the professional advice for choosing Top Coat.

• For gel polish. Try to choose a product that is not too liquid consistency, as the watery substance will drain outside the nail. And this reduces the quality of the procedure, moreover, drying in a lamp can be painful when the top hits the skin. Do not pass by the two-in-one products that combine the base and the top - this tool will save you money on your purchase. Otherwise, buy the base and top coat of the same brand. Give preference to a top without dispersion, when using it there is no need to remove the sticky layer.
• For regular varnish. UV Top Coat is hardly suitable in this case, so you should pay attention to the varieties that contain vitamins A, B5, E and silk. A home manicure using a top will last much longer than usual.
• For building. If you plan to use the product for nail extension, then you need to choose a product with a viscous texture, but not very thick.

How to apply the top correctly, see the video below.