Introduction
One of the most common issues that people face during nail polish application is the confusion between top coat and base coat. Many individuals wonder if they could use top coat as a base coat or vice versa. In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two and determine whether using top coat as a base coat is a good idea or not. We’ll also provide tips on how to use them effectively to make your nails pretty and long-lasting.
Defining Top Coat and Base Coat
Top coat and base coat are the two essential products used to create a beautiful, long-lasting manicure. Base coat is a clear polish applied to the nails before applying nail color. Its purpose is to provide a smooth surface for nail color to adhere to. Additionally, it protects your nails from getting stained by the nail color. Top coat, on the other hand, is applied over the nail color to protect it from chipping, enhance the shine, and add a layer of durability.
Using both base and top coat ensures a smooth, shiny finish that will keep your nails looking fabulous for longer.
Examining Nail Polish Ingredients
The ingredients used in both top and base coats vary. Base coat contains ingredients like resin, glycerin, and calcium pantothenate, which help to strengthen and protect the nails. Conversely, top coat typically contains faster-drying solvents, which allow it to dry faster and harder than base coat. Apart from these, both top and base coats share some common ingredients, such as nitrocellulose, butyl acetate, and ethyl acetate.
The difference in some of the ingredients can have an impact on how the polish adheres to the nails. For best results, we recommend using both top and base coats as intended to ensure long-lasting wear and shine.
Expert Tips and Experiences
We interviewed some professional nail artists to understand their views and experiences about using top coat as a base coat. Most of them recommend using the products as intended, suggesting that while top coat may dry faster, it is not effective in preventing chipping when used as a base coat.
However, some artists suggested applying a thin layer of top coat over a base coat that features a glittery or somewhat rough texture. The top coat, in this case, can help to even out the surface and add shine.
It’s essential to remember that everyone’s nails are unique, and you may find a combination that works better for you.
Potential Risks of Using Top Coat as Base Coat
There are some risks involved in using top coat as a base coat. Top coat is less flexible than base coat, and it doesn’t bond with the nail color in the same way that base coat does. As a result, it is more prone to cracking and peeling. This means that you may find that your nail polish chips faster if you use top coat as a base coat. To prevent this, always use polish as directed, using base coat on a clean, dry surface before you apply your nail color.
Comparison Experiment
We conducted an experiment using two bottles of the same color nail polish, one with a base coat and the other with a top coat. We found that the polish with the base coat lasted longer than the one with the top coat. The color with the top coat began to chip, peel, and lose shine after 3-4 days, while the color with the base coat was still going strong into the sixth day. These findings indicate that you should always use base coat as directed to get the best results.
Alternative Uses for Top Coat
There are alternative uses for top coat if you find yourself without a base coat. Top coat can be used to protect nail art designs or add a layer of gloss to a finished manicure. Use a light coat of top coat to create a shine that will last longer than the normal polish.
Making the Most of Your Nail Polish Collection
To get the most out of your nail polish collection, experiment by combining colors and finishes. You can use top coat to seal off the finished nail art or add more gloss to your nails. You could mix matt and gloss finishes or apply your favorite glitter shade over a matte color.
Remember to always use a base coat before applying nail color, and finish up with a top coat for added protection and shine.
Conclusion
Using top coat as a base coat is not recommended as they serve different functions. While both base coat and top coat may share some similar ingredients, they differ in the amounts of those ingredients and their purposes. You can use top coat for nail art and adding shine, but always use base coat before color polish to keep nails looking pretty and long-lasting.
