I do it whenever I can since my hubby keeps us busy and out of the house (because of COURSE he suddenly wants to be an outdoorsman 😒) my advice is to stay up late and do them while everyone’s asleep, that’s how I’ve had to start doing it. It may take til 2 in the morning but it’s very peaceful
If your nails are prone to peeling, be careful with Orly Bonder - it bonds so well to my nails that it takes the top layer of my nail with it when it chips!
I put a layer of "Nail Therapy" polish on under the Bonder base coat. That way, when the Bonder inevitably peels off, it peels the layer of polish off rather than the topmost layer of my nail.
Disclaimer on the Cuccio base coat, definitely doesn’t prevent long term staining for anyone curious. It’s nice and sticky/grippy though and for some reason comes off of my nail with rubbing alcohol, not just nail polish remover.
I just had to say after coming back and watching this a second time...your videos are SO informative! I learn so much each time! Thanks for putting so much time, effort, detail, and thought into your videos. I also appreciate how authentic you are. If I'm spending money on products, I want to know all I can before making a decision and not all channels do that.
I'm going to have to try the Orly Shining Armor. I always use their In A Snap Quick Dry Topcoat, which I love. And for folks in the comments: I find Orly and OPI base/top coats at Marshalls and TJ Maxx all the time, so those are great places to look for discounted nailcare and polish.
I like Orly in a snap as well. Even when a bottle is years old it doesn't dry out and is usable to the end. No shrinkage and stays shinier longer than Seche Vite which dulls on me on day 3.
Thanks Kelli! I truly appreciate these types of videos you do. They help me a lot! I will say as a 49 year old woman with ridges in my nails now I love all the Orly brand products (as you always say they are super self leveling). When I wear Orly my ridges are completely covered up even with pearlized and shimmer polishes. Thanks for introducing me to Orly. 👏 It has become my fave for this reason. 😍
I like Sally Hansen insta dry clear Topcoat but it chips real fast! Now I use Zoya Armor Topcoat and Zoya Anchor basecoat, very chip resistant, flexible and very strong 💪 nail polish! But Zoya,Armor Topcoat isn't very shiny or glossy, which I like! Sometimes matte, sometimes shiny polish! UK 🇬🇧
I have to say, the Orly Bonder base coat is the best I’ve ever tried. I always see you use it and I was dying to try it 😂. Two coats of that and my color lasts for a minimum of 5 days before it starts to even think about chipping. OPI’s Natural Nail base coat is pretty good too.
Ahh yay I'm so happy you love it too! Fun Fact, OPI base coat was actually the first base I ever used! Definitely enjoyed that one but I did get a couple stains with more intense colors haha!
my favorite top coat to date! i feel like it's similar to seche vite, but i like using limitless much better!!! and i got it from Polish Pickup, where they had a gummy bear scent!! super yummy
@@heidistutzman3278 can i get ur rec on ur favorite indie top coat? or ur go to top coat in general! i like limitless but tbf i haven't tried too many :)
I use Orly Nail Defense as a base coat since some of my nail tips get small splits. When used on prepared/clean nails, Orly nail products last 6-7 days; minimal tip wear & rarely chips.💅🏻
I’m currently using OPI infinite shine base coat and Holo Taco super glossy taco and this combo is amazing! I get a good 10 days with my manicure before it starts to crack but it never chips by the time I’m ready to change it. I have no idea why it cracks instead of chipping but I’d rather have the cracks than chips 😅 I wanna try out the ILNP base and top coat. ILNP is my favorite nail polish formula so I’m sure I’ll love them 💕
I totally LOVE the Halo Taco Super Glossy Taco - every time I use it on anyone who hasn't tried it before, they go buy it. It's bomb! the Orly Bonder basecoat is honestly my go to favorite as well. :D
@@kikibirdballyeah I had the same experience with the regular glossy taco. Loved it when it was new and now after a few months it's already stringy and hard to get an even layer.
Orly Bonder is my go-to base coat, and Polished for Days has taken over as my favorite top coat! They have great blurring bases in different shades as well. I’m hoping to see them in a Small Brand Sunday. 😉
Orly bonder is amazing. Surprisingly I like the seche vite in the clear bottle. I don't get shrinkage with it, but I think applying it at the right time is key. Too wet and you get wrinkles and too dry and you get the shrinkage. You almost have to wait until your polish is just at the tacky stage.
@@jules_13 I think it does ok keeping the shine ✨ I’ve never found anything better than my tried & true Revlon gel (not actual gel) shiny top coat that used to come in the black bottle. Not sure if they’re still making it but that’s the best in my humble opinion.
Thank you so much! I have been using Seche Vite for years and thought I was doing something wrong because the shrinkage was so bad. I will check these out! 😍
This video was a game changer for me! The Orly Bonder + Armor topcoat give me a manicure that lasts a solid 4 days!! I’ve been doing weekly manis the last month and it’s ridiculous how happy my nails make me! Thanks!
Thanks for this! I used to get gel manicures, but switched over to now doing my own nails, and I know NOTHING. Lol. Well, now I know something because I've been binge watching your videos.
Idea for new video: advanced nail art (reverse stamping, foils, powders/pigments/chromes) over various [non-gel] 'sticky' bases. You do these comparison/101/nail art videos so well, Kelli! You're a real asset to the community...keep up the great work!!
Been waiting for this video. Thanks for the thoughtful reviews! Maybe one day you could talk about the science of how a base coat and top coat work. Perhaps a nail polish company would be happy to be interviewed about the topic. And how much nail prep is ideal. Oil... amount of minutes > dehydrator/alcohol/acetone + number of minues > basecoat, ridgefiller, polish, top coat, etc. A video on ridge fillers would be appreciated as well. Gets worse the older you get and I refuse to buff and remove any nail plate.
Have recently discovered the ILNP base and top coats. Love them both. They are the only ones I’ve found that don’t rub on the free edge. Brush is great in the top coat!
ILNP makes quality polish at a reasonable price. I love their products. I do, however have trouble with their website color presentation for some reason, the colors are always off when i get the polishes. Still, love their polishes.
@@lideabarker8161 i feel like i find that with ILNP, cirque (at times), and especially Mooncat. i have 4 mooncat polishes and i feel like they were all off from the website swatches which is annoying cuz they're so pricey
@@fairygrl999 Yes, I find that annoying as well, although, I will say ILNP was nice enough to send me a replacement color when I asked if I could return one of their colors i didn't think matched the swatch. free of charge.
It is definitely a different vibe. I've only seen the 1st 6 movies, and love the Mandalorian. Bobba Fett doesn't hold any interest, not super into the animated stuff, love Ewan McGregor, but didn't want to be disappointed in Obi Wan. Really started Andor out of boredom, but it has piqued my interest in the whole universe again, but maybe b/c it does feel different to me. The non-subtitled Kenari stuff threw me at first
@Jessica Stevens if you like the mandalorian you must watch the Book of Bobba Fett... its very very good. I only watched it because of the grogu story and was pleasantly surprised. There's quite a few references to the return of the Jedi.
@@melanopygus I haven't tried out any indie base or top coats, but I'm happy using what's easily available to me (and you can't beat the price of the drugstore!)
When I started getting into nail polish I fell into the Seche Vite craze and it caused so much shrinking on me. Then I discovered the fast dry top coat from Glisten & Glow and never went back. I've been using it for years and just love it!
KELLI IS HERE.....skids to a stop. Rejuvacote during the lock down days changed their bottle to look like the same size but the bottom of the glass is thicker - therefore same price, less product. This turned me off. Seche vite gel effects is the best top coat I have ever used in my life.
I have loved Dermelect Makeover since I got it in a Fab, Fit, Fun box years ago and you are the first person in the nail community who I've heard talk about it! I thought maybe I was crazy that I loved it so much but no one ever talks about it. I have gone through several bottles and just bought my first CamoNude. I gotta say my yellowish tips (natural, not stained) need that strong blue shimmer from the Makeover to make them appear whiter when I go 'bare' nailed.
I think you are a unicorn among Star Wars fans for saying that the prequel trilogy is the peak. I don’t think I agree, but I support your bravery in saying it! 😂
Fantastic topic! I watched it twice. The second time, I slowed down the video to compare the brushes. Thanks so much for your dedication and great quality videos!
Highly, highly, highly recomment Andor, The Clone Wars, and Rebels - I was a late comer to Star Wars (grew up watching them because friends made me, but didn't love them until The Force Awakens) and my absolute favorite pieces of the universe are those three series. They're just so darn good and do a fantastic job expanding out the world, mythology, and characters!
Oh, Kelly! Bless you for this beyond an informative video! I've used numerous top coats and they all had a considerable shrinkage so I gave up and thought that it was a characteristic typical to ALL top coats. I'm elated to learn that this isn't the case at all, you restored my faith in getting a non shrinking quality stuff that won't pull off my nail colour. It's an absurd how many expensive top coats I purchased in the recent months just to be met with a disappointment. I swear I could get masters in eye rolling for each and every top coat always did the same - ruined my perfectly painted nails. Thank you so much for this! I'm off to buy some of your recommended products and i know they'll work because I trust your judgement, Kelli. Love ya! Xx
Thanks to you Kelli I love the Orly base coat, kbShimmer top coat and Rejuvacote2. The Rejuvacote stopped my nails from peeling and splitting when I first started using it and now I use it once or twice a week as a base or over polish if I leave it on for a few days. I’ve also found the regular kbShimmer base coat smoothes out my ridged nail and levels out nicely. I so appreciate this video and all your help in my new love of nail polish. Also, I took a leap and bought my first jelly, ILNP Up Above. I love it so much I’m ready for more! ❤
I've tried a lot of indie brands and regular store brands, and found two amazing brands that does not shrink the polish, dries fast and makes it glossy. Cuticula Mic drop base coat and Vibrant Vinyls Fast & Hard top coat. Both comes in many different nice smells that usually holds in 2 days, at least on me. This is my 2 faves. Highly recommends. Thanks for a great video as always!😘
Wish all these products existed in the mid 1960's when I was a teenager and started doing my nails! Revlon was the popular brand back then. Been using original Seche Vite for years, I used to have shrinkage with it, but the past few years it hasn't been an issue.
Cuticula mic drop the base coat and limitless top coat- hands down, best combination I have used. Wear nail polish for 6-7 days and it lasts through toddlers and lots of dishes. But I also do love the orly bonder- used that all the time before I found Cuticula.
Orly binder base has actually helped with staining for me - mine stain really easily! I miss KBShimmer’s Free & Clear, but their Clearly on top is good too. If you want a scented top coat, try cuticula!
My absolute favorite base coat is Vibrant Vinyls Double Bond. I can get it scented. My favorite top coat is from Night Owl Lacquer. I've tried others and just always come back to these.
I always use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat, it makes my nails super strong and protects them well. If I am wearing a very light color, I will often use Cuticula Melt down on top of the nail envy to even out the color, and if I am wearing a super staining polish, I will use Starrily Guardian on top of the nail envy. I have tried lots of topcoats, but keep coming back to Seche Vite. I have used it for years and have never had the shrinkage so many talk about. Maybe it's all in the timing of when you put it on, I don't know, but it never shrinks for me.
Orly bonder is definitely my favorite but my all time favorite top coat is Cuticula’s quick dry. It’s amazing. Fries so fast and is the perfect hardness and amazing shine
Recently I’ve been enjoying Death Valley Nails base coat and top coat. The top coat especially is super duper thin which takes some getting used to but it makes for a lighter manicure
I used to use sally hansen before Holo taco launched because it was easy access. Almost 4 years later, I almost exclusively use smoothing base and glossy taco from Holo taco. I have tried orly bonder base coat and I do like it but their glosser is not very good imo
Oh my gosh I've been waiting for this for years 😅 thank you. I don't really worry about staining, because for me it seems dependent on the nail polish, and for the ones that stain there is no base coat that will stop it. I worry about durability and also what will not damage my nail -- some base coats seem to leave my nails more damaged.
My base coat is usually what is closest at hand. That's usually Orly Bonder or I use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat. Until recently I haven't found one base coat to be better than any other but I tried Essie's Here to Stay and I was really impressed. My polish has almost lasted a week with it. My HG top coat is Out the Door. I've used it for years. I've tried other quick dry topcoats and nothing dries as fast IMO. But i think it does cause shrinkage sometimes. I didn't know what it even was until recently. I 'd rather have shrinkage than smudged nails 😂 but I might have to branch out and try one of your suggestions.
ZOYA stan here!! Lovr the orginals but the super glossy from the naked line is 😍😍😍 i love holo taco too but those get so thick, goopy and stringy not even halfway through the bottles and polish thinner doesn't fix it..i honestly surprised more dont complain about it
Definitely saving this video! Thank you for doing this. I'm one of the ones who have been waiting (patiently!) Love the Orly Base Coat refill bottle! I could place that next to my gallon of acetone 😱Livin' life on the edge!
Oh my gosh I love you so much. You said… I do change my nails about three times a week so……… Take it what you will from a nail polish lover. God I love you for that
I use Nail Defense by Orly as a base coat and highly recommend it! I paint my nails 2-3x a week and have never had an issue with stains. It has also worked wonders for my brittle, chewed on, finger nails! I really want to try the top and base coats by ILNP!
Nail Defense saved my nails after I left acetone on them for way too long trying to remove reflective glitter. It was the only product that stopped them from shredding and peeling and now I can use regular base coat again.
@@shaniclarke8395 it’s when you get your hands wet and your nails absorb water and become more flat than normal at your free edge. usually after the shower they’re very fragile and prone to ripping from being swelled with water but nail defense prevents that for me!
So many good recommendations, orly bonder has been my favorite for many years now. But I have a super important question, what eyeshadow are you wearing? I love this look! 💜💜💜
You've made me fall in love with doing my nails again! OMG I can't get over the Seche Vive. I did the best manicure of my life the other day. I've been looking for this for soooo long! My nails dried. They were shiny for two days before I needed to redo it with a new color. Thanks for making this. Please don't be hesitant about your opinions. As long as you always say that it's been "your experience...." people still want to know what a SME thinks!!
I decided to paint my nails while watching this video. What a surprise that I started with the 1st base coat you talked about Orly Bonder, but I finished with the last top coat you talked abou, SecheVive. What a fun coincidence
inm Out the Door has been my go-to quick dry top coat for years now, after giving up Seche Vite because of the shrinkage. I really want to try Orly Shining Armor now, though!
Never liked the Seche Vite. I always found it too gloppy and much preferred the Sally Hansen Insta Dry top coat (favorite of all time), but I have some Seche Vive arriving today. Thought I would give it a try, and I’m glad to hear you’re a fan! As for base coat, I’ve used Orly Bonder for years and years. Love these videos!
OMG a fellow prequel fan?!?!?! This makes me soooooo happy hahaha they're my faves too! But everyone always bashed the heck out of them for years. I am absolutely loving the renaissance they're having now, it's so deserved. Ewan McGregor mentioned something similar during the Kenobi release, it just makes me so happy. So glad you enjoyed your foray into Star Wars and that you aren't turning back :)
Great video, I use Seche Vite fast dry for my topcoat and you're right it does separate the polish from the cuticle area, but I found a way to use it and it works. What I do is apply a clear polish and let it dry for about three minutes, then apply the fast dry Seche Vite, it really works for me. I will give Orly topcoat a try, TFS 👍🏽🥰
Thank you so much for clarifying the difference between the quality of Seche Vive vs. Seche Vite. I have used Seche Vite for so many years and thought I was doing something wrong. I also use Orly products which I love but I find Seche doesn’t smear my nail art. Thanks again I believe I asked a few years ago when you would recommend base and top coats!!!
I completely agree on Orly Bonder Base. It's so evident how good it is. Also agree on the Cirque ones but I wish the bottles were a bigger size. I go through them too quickly! Thanks for the tip on OPI Nail Envy - I am always looking for anything to grow my nails. 👌🏽
Had to leave a comment to say you were absolutely right about the orly bonding base and shining armor top coat. I watched your videos to choose between ILNP shades, and finally before buying I realized I needed a dependable base and top coat. I was very relieved you had a video on it. This combo gives me gel results and chip free longevity without the crazy removal process. Last brand I used before switching to gel was Essie and it doesn’t compare. The orly combo with ILNP has converted me back to polish for good. Gel removal was something I really put off/slowly damaged my nails and I was not a fan of committing to one manicure long enough to justify the removal time - But lacquer always chipped or dented within a day or two. Glad I gave it another shot. This has been a total game changer. Can’t wait to try more indie/boutique brands. (And glad I switched before developing a gel allergy or something. 😅)
Is there a RUclips setting to auto-like all videos by a creator??! I would totally hit that button! Thanks as always Kelli. 🙏 I personally am hooked on KB Shimmer’s Clearly On Top… it is AMAZING! (I like 2 x coats.) Stays super shiny, it’s a nice firm top to the nails, and no tip wear or chipping. 🥳
The Seche Vie is my favorite. I have had a bottle for over six months and it has not gotten thick like the regular. I take mine to my nail tech when I get fills and pedicures. It is that good!
Kbshimmer top and base coats were my original favorites too. My current favorite top and base coats are from vibrant vinyls. You can get it scented or not scented, it dries very quickly, and it doesn't cause shrinking. For reference, I have long natural nails and I wear nail polish for 2 weeks with no chipping. I also double top coat my nails cause they can get beat up from work.
The cuccio basecoat worked fantastic for me when I used it as a base for painting decals on plastic. It peeled up so nicely when I was finished. Then I used a thin coat of orly bonder base to make sure they stuck to my nails! I've really fallen in love the b-quick top coat from a brand called LynBDesigns. It is a little thicker, but it makes my nails so glossy and smooth! Also dries pretty darn quick. I'm impatient and don't time anything, so I couldn't tell you how fast. 😂 My nails are naturally brittle but I was using cuccio 3 in one treatment and ridge filler and that seemed to help my nails a lot over the winter. Thank you for the great video!
I've been waiting for this day! Such an anticipated topic. I would be curious to know how the top coats apply in terms of smudging? Could you do a video on no smudge top coats too?
I love orly bonder base and holo taco long lasting base. Seche vive used to be my favorite top coat but then i discovered cuticula limitless and thats been my favorite for awhile now. Once im done with that current bottle i have a glisten and glow top coat im going to try out.
I was using Rejuvacote 2 until I found out it had formaldehyde resin. I finally found a10 free strengthener that I love, Maxus Strengthener 2.0 😊 After that, I switched to Maxus base and top coats. Lol, I use seche vite on my swatch sticks. I can usually find them for around $3 a bottle. Great video. It's nice to know about other base and top coats.
My first base coat was Orly Bonder, which is great. After working with Bonder, I heard about Seche Vite and tried it. Since then, that's been my fave, and I use the top coat, too, with never any of the problems some users have cited. I rely on it! Chipping is extremely rare, but I don't keep a mani on for more than a few days. Tip wear happens, but it's minor and, again, I change polishes relatively frequently--2-3 times per week--just 'cause I'm having fun with this stuff. I might try the Seche Vive next time, though. Thanks for this helpful video!
I like the Seche Vite base coat because it's super thin and fries fully in only a few minutes! Other base coats all take 5 - 10 minutes to fully dry for me.
@@tomjones2157 Whew! I could never tolerate a base coat that took that long to dry! I'm trying OPI's base coat which I picked up recently at either Marshalls or TJ Maxx, and it's not bad. Does not take long to dry. I'm also trying Orly Glosser, bought at the same time. While I definitely prefer Seche Vite for the top, Glosser is not bad with *two* coats of it, for a look of depth, and is super-gleamy. The Seche Vite products are still my faves, though.
Anchor & Heart Lacquer has a beautiful line of base and top coats. That is what I primarily use now. Their nail care line is a chef's kiss. They are 5 free (sans toulene) whereas brands like seche vite, orly, and even Glisten and Glow are not.
I'm glad you did this video kelli I found this super helpful and the part about the layering your strengthener and base coat over each other before the polish is a really good idea and next time I'll definitely try it 😀
Thank you for making this video! I was on the lookout for another topcoat, because the Holo Taco’s glossy top coat takes wayyyy too long to dry 😢 defining gonna invest in a quick drying top coat! 😊
This is sooo helpful! Been wanting to try some new base coats as I've usually only tried Essie or OPI, but I wanna know what else may work well on my nails. I love that you give multiple options that aren't necessarily ranked. Now I've got plenty of new products to try throughout the year! Thank you!
I have been using CND Stickey base coat and Air Dry top coat for the last twenty or so years. If the polish is decent quality, I can reliably get ten days of wear on my fingernails (which are strong, but I'm hard on them and spend two hours per week in a salt/chlorine pool) with minimal tip-wear and no chipping. I do wrap my tips with base, one layer of polish, and one layer of top coat. I always use two layers of top coat. I've used more than two coats or a glitter grabbing top coat, then Air Dry, for chunky glitters; I haven't worn a glitter mani for many years, so I don't remember how long they last. If I wear my polish matte, I use one layer of Air Dry and one layer of matte top coat. I have less tip wear and more chipping with matte manis, so I don't wear them often. I _think_ they last about a week. I bought my favorite matte top coat during a Polish Pickup. I think it's labeled as a charmeuse, rather than fully matte. I like that it rides the line between shiny and matte, and gives the best of both worlds. My pedicures generally have to be stripped so I can trim my nails before there's any noticeable damage to the polish. That's at about four weeks. Occasionally, the polish, base coat and all, will pop off my next-to-last-toe on my right foot. I don't know why it's always that one toe. Even that only happens after the three-week mark. It's probably not the most healthy choice. I have so many health issues that I can't change my polish as often as I want to. I need something that will hang on until I have a good day to spend on my nails. Any extra exposure is a tiny drop in a very large bucket. 💙
I used Orly Bonder for YEARS (and is what I still recommend to friends not in the indie scene) but recently switched to Glisten and Glows base and top coat and love them!! Especially the top coat cause seche vite always gave me shrinkage 😅
Note: the ILNP top coat itself dries quickly on top of a fully dry base and polish rather than it being a traditional "quick dry" top coat that dries all the layers underneath.
This is my community. I thought I was the only one who changed my manicures 4-5 times a week.
😂 🙌🏼 💅
My dream 🥹 I have small kiddos so can’t do as many but I can’t wait to be that person lol.
2 or 3 times a week 😂
Not sure why but I’m always ready to go to the next color after applying polish.
I do it whenever I can since my hubby keeps us busy and out of the house (because of COURSE he suddenly wants to be an outdoorsman 😒) my advice is to stay up late and do them while everyone’s asleep, that’s how I’ve had to start doing it. It may take til 2 in the morning but it’s very peaceful
My partner is thinks im mad 😂
If your nails are prone to peeling, be careful with Orly Bonder - it bonds so well to my nails that it takes the top layer of my nail with it when it chips!
Oh gosh thanks for the heads up. My nails are so thin I can't afford to loose any more layer to peeling!
Good to know!!
I put a layer of "Nail Therapy" polish on under the Bonder base coat. That way, when the Bonder inevitably peels off, it peels the layer of polish off rather than the topmost layer of my nail.
The word shrinkage always reminds me of Seinfeld. 🤣
Thanks for all the great recommendations!
Disclaimer on the Cuccio base coat, definitely doesn’t prevent long term staining for anyone curious. It’s nice and sticky/grippy though and for some reason comes off of my nail with rubbing alcohol, not just nail polish remover.
Thanks for sharing your experience with it!
@@KelliMarissa Anytime Kelli! 😊
I just had to say after coming back and watching this a second time...your videos are SO informative! I learn so much each time! Thanks for putting so much time, effort, detail, and thought into your videos. I also appreciate how authentic you are. If I'm spending money on products, I want to know all I can before making a decision and not all channels do that.
Oh gosh thank you so much for the kind words! I'm so happy you find my content helpful :)
ABSOLUTELY AGREE
@@KelliMarissa.surprised you didn’t include Nailtiques, which has completely transformed my weak stubs into real lady nails! What do you think of it?
I'm going to have to try the Orly Shining Armor. I always use their In A Snap Quick Dry Topcoat, which I love. And for folks in the comments: I find Orly and OPI base/top coats at Marshalls and TJ Maxx all the time, so those are great places to look for discounted nailcare and polish.
Ooh great tip!!
I got an OPI top coat for $3 at TJ Maxx!
The ulta near me is having a sale on Orly for $2
I like Orly in a snap as well. Even when a bottle is years old it doesn't dry out and is usable to the end. No shrinkage and stays shinier longer than Seche Vite which dulls on me on day 3.
That Bonder Base flex! I wasn't expecting it hahaha
LOL, a lifetime supply 😂😂😂
Thanks Kelli! I truly appreciate these types of videos you do. They help me a lot! I will say as a 49 year old woman with ridges in my nails now I love all the Orly brand products (as you always say they are super self leveling). When I wear Orly my ridges are completely covered up even with pearlized and shimmer polishes. Thanks for introducing me to Orly. 👏 It has become my fave for this reason. 😍
Ooh good tip I'll have to try them!
Crazy as it sounds . . . I use Sally Hanson Insta Dry - Clearly Quick as top coat. Try it!! It drys instantly and I never have creases in the morning.
I’ve used that too, you’re right it dries soooo fast !
I like Sally Hansen insta dry clear Topcoat but it chips real fast! Now I use Zoya Armor Topcoat and Zoya Anchor basecoat, very chip resistant, flexible and very strong 💪 nail polish! But Zoya,Armor Topcoat isn't very shiny or glossy, which I like! Sometimes matte, sometimes shiny polish! UK 🇬🇧
I have to say, the Orly Bonder base coat is the best I’ve ever tried. I always see you use it and I was dying to try it 😂.
Two coats of that and my color lasts for a minimum of 5 days before it starts to even think about chipping. OPI’s Natural Nail base coat is pretty good too.
Ahh yay I'm so happy you love it too! Fun Fact, OPI base coat was actually the first base I ever used! Definitely enjoyed that one but I did get a couple stains with more intense colors haha!
@@KelliMarissa thank you for the great recommendations!
I never considered 2 coats of base coat! I’ll try that!!
@@kellyestrada2456 It works really well for me!
@@KelliMarissa Yes, my nails were blue today after using my OPI basecoat and OPI polish, so no excuse there, either.
Kelli, you’ve got to try the Cuticula Limitless topcoat! I’ve tried many many indie and mainstream topcoats and nothing compared, you will love it!
I knooow I have to try it!! It sounds amazing!
Cuticula Mic Drop Base is super quick drying and the Limitless Top is also amazing.
my favorite top coat to date! i feel like it's similar to seche vite, but i like using limitless much better!!! and i got it from Polish Pickup, where they had a gummy bear scent!! super yummy
Its so thin, my least favorite of indie top coats.
@@heidistutzman3278 can i get ur rec on ur favorite indie top coat? or ur go to top coat in general! i like limitless but tbf i haven't tried too many :)
I use Orly Nail Defense as a base coat since some of my nail tips get small splits. When used on prepared/clean nails, Orly nail products last 6-7 days; minimal tip wear & rarely chips.💅🏻
Another great indie top coat is the Glisten & Glow top coat! Retails for $6.50. Strong smell but works SO well
I use this one too!
I’m currently using OPI infinite shine base coat and Holo Taco super glossy taco and this combo is amazing! I get a good 10 days with my manicure before it starts to crack but it never chips by the time I’m ready to change it. I have no idea why it cracks instead of chipping but I’d rather have the cracks than chips 😅
I wanna try out the ILNP base and top coat. ILNP is my favorite nail polish formula so I’m sure I’ll love them 💕
I totally LOVE the Halo Taco Super Glossy Taco - every time I use it on anyone who hasn't tried it before, they go buy it. It's bomb! the Orly Bonder basecoat is honestly my go to favorite as well. :D
Holo Taco is wonderful!!
It's great but after a while the formula gets thick and unusable 😭
Edit: oops you said SUPER glossy taco not the glossy taco
@@kikibirdballyeah I had the same experience with the regular glossy taco. Loved it when it was new and now after a few months it's already stringy and hard to get an even layer.
Orly Bonder is my go-to base coat, and Polished for Days has taken over as my favorite top coat! They have great blurring bases in different shades as well. I’m hoping to see them in a Small Brand Sunday. 😉
Orly bonder is amazing. Surprisingly I like the seche vite in the clear bottle. I don't get shrinkage with it, but I think applying it at the right time is key. Too wet and you get wrinkles and too dry and you get the shrinkage. You almost have to wait until your polish is just at the tacky stage.
I really like the Seche Vite quick dry top coat in the blue bottle. It’s so glossy and dries super fast
@@tanhome7 Does it stay shiny for a long time? I use the seche vite in the clear bottle and it always seems to lose its shine after 3-4 days
@@jules_13 I think it does ok keeping the shine ✨ I’ve never found anything better than my tried & true Revlon gel (not actual gel) shiny top coat that used to come in the black bottle. Not sure if they’re still making it but that’s the best in my humble opinion.
Thank you so much! I have been using Seche Vite for years and thought I was doing something wrong because the shrinkage was so bad. I will check these out! 😍
Yeah, Seche is my go to. I cap it. That helps.
This video was a game changer for me! The Orly Bonder + Armor topcoat give me a manicure that lasts a solid 4 days!! I’ve been doing weekly manis the last month and it’s ridiculous how happy my nails make me! Thanks!
Oh my gosh that makes me so happy to hear! I'm glad it's helped 🤗😊
Thanks for this! I used to get gel manicures, but switched over to now doing my own nails, and I know NOTHING. Lol. Well, now I know something because I've been binge watching your videos.
Idea for new video: advanced nail art (reverse stamping, foils, powders/pigments/chromes) over various [non-gel] 'sticky' bases. You do these comparison/101/nail art videos so well, Kelli! You're a real asset to the community...keep up the great work!!
Would also love to see
Been waiting for this video. Thanks for the thoughtful reviews! Maybe one day you could talk about the science of how a base coat and top coat work. Perhaps a nail polish company would be happy to be interviewed about the topic. And how much nail prep is ideal. Oil... amount of minutes > dehydrator/alcohol/acetone + number of minues > basecoat, ridgefiller, polish, top coat, etc. A video on ridge fillers would be appreciated as well. Gets worse the older you get and I refuse to buff and remove any nail plate.
all those are great ideas! I second them!
Have recently discovered the ILNP base and top coats. Love them both. They are the only ones I’ve found that don’t rub on the free edge. Brush is great in the top coat!
Agreed, I really love them and I've been using them nonstop since they were released!
ILNP makes quality polish at a reasonable price. I love their products. I do, however have trouble with their website color presentation for some reason, the colors are always off when i get the polishes. Still, love their polishes.
@@lideabarker8161 i feel like i find that with ILNP, cirque (at times), and especially Mooncat. i have 4 mooncat polishes and i feel like they were all off from the website swatches which is annoying cuz they're so pricey
@@fairygrl999 Yes, I find that annoying as well, although, I will say ILNP was nice enough to send me a replacement color when I asked if I could return one of their colors i didn't think matched the swatch. free of charge.
@@lideabarker8161 ooh that's super good to know, thanks
Was pleasantly surprised by how phenomenal Andor is; and that's w/out seeing Rogue One. I'm sure I'll get more out of it when I catch up on the movies
Leah's been trying to convince me to watch Andor, although I'll admit I wasn't a big fan of Rogue One. Maybe it's time to give it a try lol!
It is definitely a different vibe. I've only seen the 1st 6 movies, and love the Mandalorian. Bobba Fett doesn't hold any interest, not super into the animated stuff, love Ewan McGregor, but didn't want to be disappointed in Obi Wan. Really started Andor out of boredom, but it has piqued my interest in the whole universe again, but maybe b/c it does feel different to me. The non-subtitled Kenari stuff threw me at first
@Jessica Stevens if you like the mandalorian you must watch the Book of Bobba Fett... its very very good. I only watched it because of the grogu story and was pleasantly surprised. There's quite a few references to the return of the Jedi.
Thank you for this video. I never thought the base coat was so important. Because of you, my manicure will last a lot longer. Your the best. 😊
I use the Revlon quick dry base and top coats and apart from some shrinkage from the top coat, they make for a quick manicure that is long lasting.
I've tried many base coats and the Revlon one gives me the longest wear time
@@melanopygus I haven't tried out any indie base or top coats, but I'm happy using what's easily available to me (and you can't beat the price of the drugstore!)
When I started getting into nail polish I fell into the Seche Vite craze and it caused so much shrinking on me. Then I discovered the fast dry top coat from Glisten & Glow and never went back. I've been using it for years and just love it!
That top coat is SO good. It's my favorite.
KELLI IS HERE.....skids to a stop. Rejuvacote during the lock down days changed their bottle to look like the same size but the bottom of the glass is thicker - therefore same price, less product. This turned me off. Seche vite gel effects is the best top coat I have ever used in my life.
😂😂💜💜💜 - oops, commented before you edited. That is terrible, I bought a bunch before lockdown so I haven't gotten a new bottle in a while!!
It is great, but toulene is terrible :( so I won’t use it anymore
@@Remingtons209 I feel the same way. I love the seche vite topcoat but the toluene in it deters me from using it
This is the most excited I’ve ever been for a video upload. I audibly gasped when I read the title. 😆 Just the advice I needed!
Haha yay! I hope you find a good pick in here!!!
I have loved Dermelect Makeover since I got it in a Fab, Fit, Fun box years ago and you are the first person in the nail community who I've heard talk about it! I thought maybe I was crazy that I loved it so much but no one ever talks about it. I have gone through several bottles and just bought my first CamoNude. I gotta say my yellowish tips (natural, not stained) need that strong blue shimmer from the Makeover to make them appear whiter when I go 'bare' nailed.
Man, your eyeshadow is BOMB today!
Thanks for this video! So far, my favorite top coat is the Glisten & Glow Top Coat 🙂
I think you are a unicorn among Star Wars fans for saying that the prequel trilogy is the peak. I don’t think I agree, but I support your bravery in saying it! 😂
I love the Seche Vive instant gel top coat!!!✨♡
Fantastic topic! I watched it twice. The second time, I slowed down the video to compare the brushes. Thanks so much for your dedication and great quality videos!
Highly, highly, highly recomment Andor, The Clone Wars, and Rebels - I was a late comer to Star Wars (grew up watching them because friends made me, but didn't love them until The Force Awakens) and my absolute favorite pieces of the universe are those three series. They're just so darn good and do a fantastic job expanding out the world, mythology, and characters!
I’m a fan of the Orly base coat binder and the Cirque Colors base and top coat. Chef 😘
Great picks!!
You should try the Glisten & Glow fast drying top coat, as well as their glitter grabber top coat!
I love the Mooncat Speed Demon Top Coat.
Ooh thats a really good one too!
I love the Essie Gel Couture top coat. It makes the nails thicker like gel.
Ohh yeah that's a good one!!
yesssss essie gel couture is amazing! super easy to work with too.
Oh, Kelly! Bless you for this beyond an informative video! I've used numerous top coats and they all had a considerable shrinkage so I gave up and thought that it was a characteristic typical to ALL top coats. I'm elated to learn that this isn't the case at all, you restored my faith in getting a non shrinking quality stuff that won't pull off my nail colour. It's an absurd how many expensive top coats I purchased in the recent months just to be met with a disappointment. I swear I could get masters in eye rolling for each and every top coat always did the same - ruined my perfectly painted nails. Thank you so much for this! I'm off to buy some of your recommended products and i know they'll work because I trust your judgement, Kelli. Love ya! Xx
Thanks to you Kelli I love the Orly base coat, kbShimmer top coat and Rejuvacote2. The Rejuvacote stopped my nails from peeling and splitting when I first started using it and now I use it once or twice a week as a base or over polish if I leave it on for a few days. I’ve also found the regular kbShimmer base coat smoothes out my ridged nail and levels out nicely. I so appreciate this video and all your help in my new love of nail polish. Also, I took a leap and bought my first jelly, ILNP Up Above. I love it so much I’m ready for more! ❤
I've tried a lot of indie brands and regular store brands, and found two amazing brands that does not shrink the polish, dries fast and makes it glossy. Cuticula Mic drop base coat and Vibrant Vinyls Fast & Hard top coat. Both comes in many different nice smells that usually holds in 2 days, at least on me. This is my 2 faves. Highly recommends.
Thanks for a great video as always!😘
Wish all these products existed in the mid 1960's when I was a teenager and started doing my nails! Revlon was the popular brand back then. Been using original Seche Vite for years, I used to have shrinkage with it, but the past few years it hasn't been an issue.
Cuticula mic drop the base coat and limitless top coat- hands down, best combination I have used. Wear nail polish for 6-7 days and it lasts through toddlers and lots of dishes. But I also do love the orly bonder- used that all the time before I found Cuticula.
I think the Bonder bottle is cute and I love that it stands out from all my other polish so it’s easy to pick out 🙂 I want to try that top coat now!
Orly binder base has actually helped with staining for me - mine stain really easily! I miss KBShimmer’s Free & Clear, but their Clearly on top is good too. If you want a scented top coat, try cuticula!
I loooove Holo Taco’s Glossy Taco! I used another one and it was eh. I tried Holo Taco’s and fell in love immediately!
It's Cuticula's Mic Drop 3-in-1 Scented Base Coat (in the scent Sorcery!) for me!
🥰 Edited to add: And I LURVE Glisten & Glow's Top Coat!
Love Glisten & Glow topcoat and ridge filler!
My absolute favorite base coat is Vibrant Vinyls Double Bond. I can get it scented. My favorite top coat is from Night Owl Lacquer. I've tried others and just always come back to these.
Ooh I haven't tried either!
@@KelliMarissa I still need to try Cuccio!
I always use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat, it makes my nails super strong and protects them well. If I am wearing a very light color, I will often use Cuticula Melt down on top of the nail envy to even out the color, and if I am wearing a super staining polish, I will use Starrily Guardian on top of the nail envy. I have tried lots of topcoats, but keep coming back to Seche Vite. I have used it for years and have never had the shrinkage so many talk about. Maybe it's all in the timing of when you put it on, I don't know, but it never shrinks for me.
Orly bonder is definitely my favorite but my all time favorite top coat is Cuticula’s quick dry. It’s amazing. Fries so fast and is the perfect hardness and amazing shine
Recently I’ve been enjoying Death Valley Nails base coat and top coat. The top coat especially is super duper thin which takes some getting used to but it makes for a lighter manicure
I used to use sally hansen before Holo taco launched because it was easy access. Almost 4 years later, I almost exclusively use smoothing base and glossy taco from Holo taco. I have tried orly bonder base coat and I do like it but their glosser is not very good imo
I use the same holo taco products 🙌
Nail envy is my go to. Yes I think it helps my nails grow. I use as a base coat
Oh my gosh I've been waiting for this for years 😅 thank you.
I don't really worry about staining, because for me it seems dependent on the nail polish, and for the ones that stain there is no base coat that will stop it. I worry about durability and also what will not damage my nail -- some base coats seem to leave my nails more damaged.
What a great video! Such great info thank u! I've tried Rogue Laquer's gel like topcoat desert sun, it's quick dry and glossy and 8.50!
My base coat is usually what is closest at hand. That's usually Orly Bonder or I use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat. Until recently I haven't found one base coat to be better than any other but I tried Essie's Here to Stay and I was really impressed. My polish has almost lasted a week with it. My HG top coat is Out the Door. I've used it for years. I've tried other quick dry topcoats and nothing dries as fast IMO. But i think it does cause shrinkage sometimes. I didn't know what it even was until recently. I 'd rather have shrinkage than smudged nails 😂 but I might have to branch out and try one of your suggestions.
ZOYA stan here!! Lovr the orginals but the super glossy from the naked line is 😍😍😍 i love holo taco too but those get so thick, goopy and stringy not even halfway through the bottles and polish thinner doesn't fix it..i honestly surprised more dont complain about it
Definitely saving this video! Thank you for doing this. I'm one of the ones who have been waiting (patiently!) Love the Orly Base Coat refill bottle! I could place that next to my gallon of acetone 😱Livin' life on the edge!
Oh my gosh I love you so much. You said… I do change my nails about three times a week so……… Take it what you will from a nail polish lover. God I love you for that
I use Nail Defense by Orly as a base coat and highly recommend it! I paint my nails 2-3x a week and have never had an issue with stains. It has also worked wonders for my brittle, chewed on, finger nails! I really want to try the top and base coats by ILNP!
Ooh I gotta try that one!!!
Nail Defense saved my nails after I left acetone on them for way too long trying to remove reflective glitter. It was the only product that stopped them from shredding and peeling and now I can use regular base coat again.
i absolutely LOVE nail defense!! i don’t get “duck nails” after the shower when i use it
@@emilylarsen3380 haha I have to ask, what are Duck nails??
@@shaniclarke8395 it’s when you get your hands wet and your nails absorb water and become more flat than normal at your free edge. usually after the shower they’re very fragile and prone to ripping from being swelled with water but nail defense prevents that for me!
I’m blown away at the idea of using the Bonder to make my stamping work better~ thank you!
Your analysis and eloquence are both phenomenal. Thank you so much Kelli. You’re amazing! 🤩
Oh you are so kind, thank you!!
So many good recommendations, orly bonder has been my favorite for many years now. But I have a super important question, what eyeshadow are you wearing? I love this look! 💜💜💜
Oh thank you! It's a mix of palettes haha, I've actually started listing the eyeshadows and polishes I'm wearing in the description!!
You've made me fall in love with doing my nails again! OMG I can't get over the Seche Vive. I did the best manicure of my life the other day. I've been looking for this for soooo long! My nails dried. They were shiny for two days before I needed to redo it with a new color. Thanks for making this. Please don't be hesitant about your opinions. As long as you always say that it's been "your experience...." people still want to know what a SME thinks!!
Oh yay I'm so happy you're enjoying the best hobby ever (nail polish!) 😊
I decided to paint my nails while watching this video. What a surprise that I started with the 1st base coat you talked about Orly Bonder, but I finished with the last top coat you talked abou, SecheVive. What a fun coincidence
Your shirt totally reminds me of your collab polish "Pink Hair Don't Care" I love it!
Ahh thank you!!
inm Out the Door has been my go-to quick dry top coat for years now, after giving up Seche Vite because of the shrinkage. I really want to try Orly Shining Armor now, though!
Ooh I've heard Out the Door is so good!! I have to try it.
I love Out the Door. I also like their Northern Lights too coat which is also quick dry and has a delicate scattered holo sparkle.
@@tomjones2157 Yes! I love Northern Lights, too. I have a few bottles of each on hand at all times!
Never liked the Seche Vite. I always found it too gloppy and much preferred the Sally Hansen Insta Dry top coat (favorite of all time), but I have some Seche Vive arriving today. Thought I would give it a try, and I’m glad to hear you’re a fan! As for base coat, I’ve used Orly Bonder for years and years. Love these videos!
OMG a fellow prequel fan?!?!?! This makes me soooooo happy hahaha they're my faves too! But everyone always bashed the heck out of them for years. I am absolutely loving the renaissance they're having now, it's so deserved. Ewan McGregor mentioned something similar during the Kenobi release, it just makes me so happy. So glad you enjoyed your foray into Star Wars and that you aren't turning back :)
Haha yeah everyone seems to hate them but honestly I think star wars really peaked in the prequel trilogy!!
Great video, I use Seche Vite fast dry for my topcoat and you're right it does separate the polish from the cuticle area, but I found a way to use it and it works. What I do is apply a clear polish and let it dry for about three minutes, then apply the fast dry Seche Vite, it really works for me. I will give Orly topcoat a try, TFS 👍🏽🥰
Thank you so much for clarifying the difference between the quality of Seche Vive vs. Seche Vite. I have used Seche Vite for so many years and thought I was doing something wrong. I also use Orly products which I love but I find Seche doesn’t smear my nail art. Thanks again I believe I asked a few years ago when you would recommend base and top coats!!!
I found the clearly on top really shines with glitters, reflective, or other textured polishes! No glitter grabber/smoother needed!
Thank you for this!! I've always wondered what your recommendations are, excited to watch x
Yay, hope you find it helpful!!
@@KelliMarissa I did! Also wanted to add I'm enjoying your new schedule, it gives me something to look forward to on Mondays haha
I completely agree on Orly Bonder Base. It's so evident how good it is. Also agree on the Cirque ones but I wish the bottles were a bigger size. I go through them too quickly! Thanks for the tip on OPI Nail Envy - I am always looking for anything to grow my nails. 👌🏽
Ooh I would LOVE to see Cirque start selling refill bottles, especially of their top coat.
Had to leave a comment to say you were absolutely right about the orly bonding base and shining armor top coat. I watched your videos to choose between ILNP shades, and finally before buying I realized I needed a dependable base and top coat. I was very relieved you had a video on it. This combo gives me gel results and chip free longevity without the crazy removal process. Last brand I used before switching to gel was Essie and it doesn’t compare. The orly combo with ILNP has converted me back to polish for good. Gel removal was something I really put off/slowly damaged my nails and I was not a fan of committing to one manicure long enough to justify the removal time - But lacquer always chipped or dented within a day or two. Glad I gave it another shot. This has been a total game changer. Can’t wait to try more indie/boutique brands. (And glad I switched before developing a gel allergy or something. 😅)
I’ve been using the Seche Vite top coat and love it. I’m going to have to try the Seche Vive.
Is there a RUclips setting to auto-like all videos by a creator??! I would totally hit that button! Thanks as always Kelli. 🙏 I personally am hooked on KB Shimmer’s Clearly On Top… it is AMAZING! (I like 2 x coats.) Stays super shiny, it’s a nice firm top to the nails, and no tip wear or chipping. 🥳
The Seche Vie is my favorite. I have had a bottle for over six months and it has not gotten thick like the regular. I take mine to my nail tech when I get fills and pedicures. It is that good!
It really is a superior formula to the original!
Kbshimmer top and base coats were my original favorites too.
My current favorite top and base coats are from vibrant vinyls. You can get it scented or not scented, it dries very quickly, and it doesn't cause shrinking.
For reference, I have long natural nails and I wear nail polish for 2 weeks with no chipping. I also double top coat my nails cause they can get beat up from work.
The cuccio basecoat worked fantastic for me when I used it as a base for painting decals on plastic. It peeled up so nicely when I was finished. Then I used a thin coat of orly bonder base to make sure they stuck to my nails!
I've really fallen in love the b-quick top coat from a brand called LynBDesigns. It is a little thicker, but it makes my nails so glossy and smooth! Also dries pretty darn quick. I'm impatient and don't time anything, so I couldn't tell you how fast. 😂 My nails are naturally brittle but I was using cuccio 3 in one treatment and ridge filler and that seemed to help my nails a lot over the winter.
Thank you for the great video!
The Holo Taco Super Glossy Taco is my absolute favorite top coat and smells so fricken good.
I've been waiting for this day! Such an anticipated topic. I would be curious to know how the top coats apply in terms of smudging? Could you do a video on no smudge top coats too?
I love orly bonder base and holo taco long lasting base. Seche vive used to be my favorite top coat but then i discovered cuticula limitless and thats been my favorite for awhile now. Once im done with that current bottle i have a glisten and glow top coat im going to try out.
I was using Rejuvacote 2 until I found out it had formaldehyde resin. I finally found a10 free strengthener that I love, Maxus Strengthener 2.0 😊 After that, I switched to Maxus base and top coats. Lol, I use seche vite on my swatch sticks. I can usually find them for around $3 a bottle. Great video. It's nice to know about other base and top coats.
I should try that other seche top coat. Lately, I've been drowning my nails with Out the Door fast drying top coat. It's great.
Girl we all knew you were gonna start with orly bonder lol
Could hear it in your voice too that you knew we knew ❤❤
😂😂😂 it really is the best!!
I ha e to try Orly Bonder base coat ASAP, love the look 💖💖💜💜
Sweet & Sour Lacquer’s Gloss Sauce and Dreamland Lacquer’s “Ooh Shiny” are my favorite quick dry top coats.
My first base coat was Orly Bonder, which is great. After working with Bonder, I heard about Seche Vite and tried it. Since then, that's been my fave, and I use the top coat, too, with never any of the problems some users have cited. I rely on it! Chipping is extremely rare, but I don't keep a mani on for more than a few days. Tip wear happens, but it's minor and, again, I change polishes relatively frequently--2-3 times per week--just 'cause I'm having fun with this stuff. I might try the Seche Vive next time, though. Thanks for this helpful video!
I’ve been using the Seche Vive since I saw it on Tati’s channel and I have to say it’s amazing . Looks and feels like a gel mani !
I like the Seche Vite base coat because it's super thin and fries fully in only a few minutes! Other base coats all take 5 - 10 minutes to fully dry for me.
@@tomjones2157 Whew! I could never tolerate a base coat that took that long to dry! I'm trying OPI's base coat which I picked up recently at either Marshalls or TJ Maxx, and it's not bad. Does not take long to dry. I'm also trying Orly Glosser, bought at the same time. While I definitely prefer Seche Vite for the top, Glosser is not bad with *two* coats of it, for a look of depth, and is super-gleamy. The Seche Vite products are still my faves, though.
Anchor & Heart Lacquer has a beautiful line of base and top coats. That is what I primarily use now. Their nail care line is a chef's kiss. They are 5 free (sans toulene) whereas brands like seche vite, orly, and even Glisten and Glow are not.
I'm glad you did this video kelli I found this super helpful and the part about the layering your strengthener and base coat over each other before the polish is a really good idea and next time I'll definitely try it 😀
Thank you for making this video! I was on the lookout for another topcoat, because the Holo Taco’s glossy top coat takes wayyyy too long to dry 😢 defining gonna invest in a quick drying top coat! 😊
I'm excited to hear which one you try!!
I'm due for a new base and top. Will consider the Bonder. I love INM Out the Door top coat. No shrinkage and fast dry/long lasting.
This is sooo helpful! Been wanting to try some new base coats as I've usually only tried Essie or OPI, but I wanna know what else may work well on my nails. I love that you give multiple options that aren't necessarily ranked. Now I've got plenty of new products to try throughout the year! Thank you!
I have been using CND Stickey base coat and Air Dry top coat for the last twenty or so years. If the polish is decent quality, I can reliably get ten days of wear on my fingernails (which are strong, but I'm hard on them and spend two hours per week in a salt/chlorine pool) with minimal tip-wear and no chipping. I do wrap my tips with base, one layer of polish, and one layer of top coat. I always use two layers of top coat. I've used more than two coats or a glitter grabbing top coat, then Air Dry, for chunky glitters; I haven't worn a glitter mani for many years, so I don't remember how long they last.
If I wear my polish matte, I use one layer of Air Dry and one layer of matte top coat. I have less tip wear and more chipping with matte manis, so I don't wear them often. I _think_ they last about a week. I bought my favorite matte top coat during a Polish Pickup. I think it's labeled as a charmeuse, rather than fully matte. I like that it rides the line between shiny and matte, and gives the best of both worlds.
My pedicures generally have to be stripped so I can trim my nails before there's any noticeable damage to the polish. That's at about four weeks. Occasionally, the polish, base coat and all, will pop off my next-to-last-toe on my right foot. I don't know why it's always that one toe. Even that only happens after the three-week mark.
It's probably not the most healthy choice. I have so many health issues that I can't change my polish as often as I want to. I need something that will hang on until I have a good day to spend on my nails. Any extra exposure is a tiny drop in a very large bucket.
💙
My go-to for base coat is Cuccio and China Glaze No Chip top coat.
Ooh I don't think I've tried that CG one!!
@@KelliMarissa It's the best I've tried and I have tried many.
I used Orly Bonder for YEARS (and is what I still recommend to friends not in the indie scene) but recently switched to Glisten and Glows base and top coat and love them!! Especially the top coat cause seche vite always gave me shrinkage 😅
Note: the ILNP top coat itself dries quickly on top of a fully dry base and polish rather than it being a traditional "quick dry" top coat that dries all the layers underneath.
Oh interesting! I've had a lot of success using it as a regular quick dry top coat as well!
This is throwing me for a loop. My understanding was that no top coat dries all layers of polish underneath-that only drying drops can do that.