Top coat

A top coat is a clear nail polish that is applied over colour to form a hard, glossy film, which protects the colour from abrasion and chips and adds shine.

Also known as: topcoat, top coat nail polish, clear top coat, glossy top coat

A top coat is a clear lacquer with a higher share of hard resins and film-formers than a colour polish. It dries to a tough, glossy film that takes the abrasion of daily life, so the colour beneath stays intact. It also levels small brush marks and adds depth to the shade.

Reapplying top coat every 2 to 3 days is the standard advice for long wear, because the surface film is where chips begin (Manucurist). Capping the free edge with the top coat seals the tip, where most chips start.

There are several types. A standard glossy top coat gives shine and protection. A quick-dry top coat uses more fast-evaporating solvents, sometimes with silicone, and sets in about 1 to 2 minutes. A matte top coat adds silica to remove the gloss. A gel-effect top coat is thicker and sets by air and ambient light for a plumper look. Gel systems use a no-wipe top coat cured under a lamp, which also acts as the tacky base for chrome powder (Essie).

Top coat goes on after the colour is touch-dry, 1 to 2 minutes after the last coat, in one thin, even layer. A thick coat traps solvent and stays soft for longer. Top coat and base coat are different products. Base coat is tacky to grip the colour. Top coat is hard to protect it.