Posted on October 6, 2022
If you want your home manicure to look more professional, make your nails last longer or give them the care they deserve, you’re in the right place. Our nail polish and gel polish topcoats protect your nails and elevate your manicure.
At Nail Polish Direct, we can help you achieve the perfect at-home manicure. That’s why we’ve put together a guide on some of our more frequently asked questions about topcoats to give you everything you need to know about them and how they can help to improve your manicure.
Table of Content
- What is topcoat nail polish?
- Is a topcoat necessary?
- Why should I use a topcoat nail polish?
- How do I use topcoat nail polish?
- When should I apply the topcoat?
- How long should I let the nail polish dry before applying the topcoat?
- How long does topcoat nail polish take to dry?
- What is the difference between regular nail polish and gel polish topcoats?
- Do you need a topcoat with gel polish?
- How long does it take to cure a gel polish topcoat?
What is topcoat nail polish?
Topcoat nail polish is the final layer you apply in the manicure process. Topcoats contain nitrocellulose, which creates a high shine and glossy appearance.
Is a topcoat necessary?
You don’t have to use a topcoat. However, it significantly increases the look and quality of your manicure. If you want your manicure to last longer and have a professional-salon feel, then topcoats are necessary.
Why should I use a topcoat nail polish?
Topcoats act as a sealer to coloured nail polish and help prevent your nail polish from chipping.You can also use a nail polish topcoat to create a specific look. For example, you can use Nails Inc to get a creamy marble effect with their Marble Effect Topcoat. Or, check out Cuccio topcoats for a high sleek gloss, shiny finish. Try our Opi Nail Polish Matte Top Coat to set your manicure apart from the rest with a matte finish.
Topcoats can also smooth out and diminish small bumps or smudges, giving you an even finish.
How do I use topcoat nail polish?
You should use topcoat nail polish to finish your manicure or pedicure. Make sure you apply a thin layer to each nail with three strokes, one in the middle and two to the outside. Seal off the free edge or nail tip to avoid chips or peels to help make your nail polish last longer.
When should I apply the topcoat?
As the name suggests, you should apply a topcoat on the top layer of nail polish. It should come last in your nail painting routine, after the nail colour and basecoat.
How long should I let the nail polish dry before applying the topcoat?
It is crucial to let your nail polish colour dry before applying topcoat to your nails. You need at least 2 minutes between each coat before applying the next one, or your varnish may smudge.
How long does topcoat nail polish take to dry?
Most topcoats will take the same time to dry as your regular nail polish. However, you can use quick-drying nail topcoats such as Duri Nail Polish Miracote Quick Dry Through Topcoat or our Jessica Quick Dry 60 Second Topcoat for speedier results.
What is the difference between regular nail polish and gel polish topcoats?
Regular topcoat nail polish and topcoat gel polish are fundamentally and chemically different. Regular topcoat nail polish can dry on its own; however, you need a UV or LED lamp to dry a gel topcoat.
You should never mix regular nail polish and gel nail polish topcoats because they will not bond or dry properly. Nail varnish can take up to 24h to completely dry, while gel polish cures within 30-60 seconds, creating a much harder consistency. If you use gel polish on top of regular nail polish, you will confine moisture underneath. Moisture between your nail polish layers is a breeding ground for fungus.
Do you need a topcoat with gel polish?
You should always use a topcoat for your gel nails because it provides a protective seal for your gel manicure and prevents chips and cracks. So, if you use a gel topcoat, your manicure will last longer.
How long does it take to cure a gel polish topcoat?
You should cure your gel topcoat for no longer than 60 seconds. Topcoat curing should take longer than your basecoat and colour layers because it is a sealant. However, don’t cure it any longer than recommended because it will change it into a solid, making it difficult to remove with acetone. You will then need to manually remove it, which could damage your nails.
To summarise, nail and gel polish topcoats are essential to keeping your nails healthy, looking fantastic and lasting longer. Why not look at our range of nail polish topcoats or gel polish topcoats to elevate your home manicure?
Topcoats at Nail Polish Direct
If you’re looking for a topcoat to get that at-home professional manicured look, check out our range of nail and gel topcoats at Nail Polish Direct. Our range includes top brands such as OPI, Orly and more.
Now you understand how important it is to pair a topcoat with your nail colour, why not add a basecoat to your nail routine? Read more about nail and gel basecoats here.
Related Posts:
- 5 Top Tips on How to Make Your Nail Polish Last Longer
- How can I Keep my Nail Polish from Peeling Off?
- Easy Mistakes to Make When it Comes to your Nails
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