UV Topcoat and Basecoat

UV Topcoat and Basecoat

UV top coat and base coat are important components of a gel manicure or pedicure. They are specially formulated nail polishes designed to be used with UV (ultraviolet) or LED (light emitting diode) lamps, which help harden the polish and create a durable, long-lasting finish.

Base coat: The base coat serves as the basis for a gel manicure or pedicure. It is applied directly to the natural nail surface after proper nail preparation, which includes cleaning, polishing and degreasing the nail plate. The base coat has some important functions:

Adhesion: It helps the gel to adhere to the natural nail and ensures a longer durability of the manicure or pedicure. Protective: It provides a barrier between the natural nail and the gel polish, preventing potential stains or damage. Smooth surface: It creates an even and smooth surface for the gel color application. After applying the base coat, it needs to cure under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time, which varies depending on the specific product and lamp used (usually between 30 seconds to 2 minutes).

Top coat: The top coat is applied after the gel color coat and serves as the last layer in the gel manicure or pedicure. It has several important functions:

Gloss: It gives a high-gloss, shiny surface to the nails and gives them a salon-like appearance. Protective: It seals and protects the gel polish and prevents it from chipping, peeling or fading. Durability: It improves the overall durability and longevity of the gel manicure or pedicure. Just like the base coat, the top coat needs to cure under a UV or LED lamp for the recommended time (usually between 30 seconds to 2 minutes). After the topcoat has cured, a sticky inhibiting surface may remain on the surface, which can be removed with a lint-free cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol or a specialized cleaning product.

It is important to use appropriate base and top coats that are designed for gel polish systems because regular nail polish base and top coats do not provide the same benefits or curing properties.