What's a Base Coat?

1 : the plaster underlying the finish coat and consisting of a single coat or of separately applied scratch coat and brown coat. 2 : priming sense 1b(2)

What does a base coat do?

Base coats nourish the nail and can keep polishes from staining the nail. A good base coat formula is loaded with nail conditioners, moisturizers, vitamins and minerals. Different base coat formulas can target issues such as ridges or weak and breaking nails.

Can you use a top coat as a base coat?

Can you use a top coat as a base coat? A top coat can be used as a base coat, although the two polishes do have their differences. A base coat is always recommended as the first step in your manicure routine. When applied to the natural nail it acts like an adhesive, making it easier for the colour pigment to stick.