Every fashionista wants her nails to look well-groomed and beautiful. For this, today there are many varnishes and decorative elements, with which you can create a very beautiful and stylish manicure. Girls do the latter both in beauty salons and at home. Of course, in the second case, it is necessary to purchase all the elements necessary for the formation of a manicure. The top also belongs to them. Today we will analyze what it represents, how to choose and use it in business.
What it is?
Before we begin a more detailed acquaintance with the top coating for gel polish, we must answer the main question: what is it? Top or topcoat is a very important thing in manicure that performs such serious functions:
- makes gel polish more stable, reduces the likelihood of damage or cracking;
- gives the already applied shellac a more interesting appearance - gloss makes it velvet and matte, can create the effect of the original “wet nails”, gives the nails gloss or pearl shine.
Top is a liquid and viscous consistency. Similar characteristics belong to the topcoat, because they resort to it with a variety of manicure techniques. But keep in mind that the top is not designed to make ladies' nails too voluminous or thick. It only protects the color coating. However, all other indicators remain within normal limits.
Kinds
The range of topcoats for gel polish today is so great that you can "get lost" in it.A wide variety of tops are presented to the choice of lovely ladies, from fairly simple to original and unusual. You can choose the right option for any nail design.
Let us consider in detail what varieties of finish coatings today exist and what features they possess.
- Matt Today, a matte top is insanely popular. A manicure with a similar nail coating is in trend and looks stylish. However, if you decide to turn to the use of this fashionable top, you should be aware that it usually brightens the main color. Do not be afraid of this effect, it does not spoil the manicure, but emphasizes its color. Matte top can be used with any basic varnishes. Today in stores you can meet more original items, complemented by sparkles. When applied, the nails acquire an expensive and eye-catching appearance.
- With the effect of mica. An interesting top with the effect of mica is no less popular today. Basically, apply it on a plain coating of nails. This top is neatly distributed over the base color, making it more original and attractive. Ladies with such a non-trivial manicure rarely go unnoticed.
- Craquelure. Craquelure is the latest fashion. Such a topcoat is usually chosen by fashionistas who want to decorate their nails in a non-standard and avant-garde manner. This top creates the effect of broken or cracked into many different pieces of the coating, "seasoned" with sparkles. When applying craquelure, it is recommended to contact ordinary saturated shellac. In this case, the manicure will turn out as bright and stylish as possible.
- Rubber. Such a top is distinguished by a viscous and rather thick structure, so it is easy to apply. In addition, a rubber topcoat is distinguished by the ability to level on its own. The rubber top does not yellow, so it can be safely applied to a snow-white base - it will not spoil it. It is also worth noting that the rubber coating is considered one of the most durable. In this matter, it is ahead of many analogues. Putting a rubber top on the nails, you can get a wonderful glossy silicone shine that does not "go out" in the first week - it will be stable and durable. Thanks to the characteristic brilliance, the manicure is truly luxurious.
- Pearl. The beautiful mother-of-pearl top is in great demand among fashionistas and masters. This nail coating is different in that it contains the smallest particles of golden, silver, blue, pink and other colors. On the nails such a finish looks very bright and fresh, so many young ladies choose it.
- Protecting from ultraviolet rays. The nails of some girls are prone to the formation of an unattractive yellow hue on the nail plates. Such ladies should buy special tops that do not let ultraviolet rays through. With the help of such a cosmetic product, it will be possible to hide many of the defects and imperfections that are present on women's nails. In this case, the base varnish will become more attractive and well protected.
- Metal. Often fashionistas give preference to the original metallic tone. It is able to give the nails an eccentric look, creating an unusual mirror shine. Especially chic and brightly similar coating looks on long nails. With the help of a metal finish, you can emphasize the passion of the nature that chose him, as well as its “iron” character. Most often, young women who love to be in the spotlight turn to such a design. A metal finish is a common choice for the younger generation.
- Cat's eye. This ultra-modern top is also recognized as a trend. He appeared on the market relatively recently, but has already managed to win the love of many fashionistas, because he is distinguished by the ability to create unique effects on the nails.With the help of this finish it is possible to organize various kinds of patterned compositions on the nails. Any base can be applied under the “cat's eye” top, but the tandem with dark coatings looks most effective. Thus, it will be possible to form a deeper and "denser" color.
- Suede. This very beautiful coating has much in common with matte, but has an unusual flickering effect. The latter takes place exclusively in "suede" tops. This coating has one important advantage - its layers are superimposed evenly, if you compare this parameter with classic matte means. It is also worth noting the fact that the presence of a flickering effect can revive almost any manicure: from plain to multi-colored.
- Creamy. Manicure coatings from this category are rightfully recognized as one of the most popular. Their demand is due to the fact that such products are able to maintain a “clean” color of the base varnish, and they lie seamlessly on any varnishes. After applying a fashionable cream coating, female nails come to life, but will not shine and shine. They will become perfectly even and smooth. Not a single roughness will be noticeable. Experienced craftsmen advise those young ladies who prefer to often change the color of their nails to turn to this plain top.
- With a sticky layer and without dispersion. Adhesive coatings and dispersion-free finishes are also distinguished. So, in the case of funds with a sticky layer, you will first need to remove the dispersion using a lint-free cloth. If we are talking about a composition without dispersion, then the fixative agent simply does not have a sticky layer, so it is considered more convenient to use.
- With a holographic effect. This finish is very popular and widespread today. When applied, it is possible to create a very beautiful and eye-catching color modulation.
Such a tool is an excellent alternative to various rubbing.
- Party Top. This interesting coating makes women's manicure more original, because it begins to glow in the dark. This finish is often done for fun club parties. In such conditions, luminous nails look very impressive and attract a lot of attention.
- Sand. In fashion today, a beautiful sandy finish, allowing you to create an unusual velvet manicure. The top itself is a special acrylic composition, which is crushed to a state of tiny grains of sand. The result is a real coarse powder that fits perfectly on the nail plate, making it more attractive and fashionable. Often, the specified powder is supplemented with such a component as viscose. She makes the sand grains flicker.
The result is a solemn manicure that is perfect for visiting the holiday. However, it must be taken into account that glittering grains of sand will not work to form an ideal velvet surface.
How to choose?
The topcoat for gel polish must be selected as carefully as possible, because the durability and beauty of the manicure will depend on it. In addition, we must not forget that poor-quality products can cause serious damage to the health of the nail plates, so it’s better not to be mistaken. When choosing a suitable top, it is advisable to adhere to the recommendations.
- The finish for gel polish should not be excessively liquid. Otherwise, he will simply numb for the cuticle. For this reason, experienced craftsmen always recommend taking a closer look at the structure of the selected product before making a purchase.
- Modern tops without dispersion, as mentioned earlier, do not require prior removal of the sticky layer, which makes working with them easier. They save both free time and money.
- Allows you to save and finish "2 in 1".
- Buy exclusively branded nail polish fixation products.Fortunately, there are a lot of them, so you will not have restrictions on choosing the right composition. It is strongly discouraged to buy products that are too cheap from unknown companies. Typically, such products are sold in street shops and all kinds of dubious outlets. Do not risk the health of your nails by buying such things.
Please note that both the top and the base must be from the same brand. Compliance with this rule will guarantee that in the end you get a high-quality and attractive manicure that lasts long enough and does not harm female nails.
How to use?
As mentioned above, it is possible to apply the topcoat to gel polish not only when decorating the nails in the salon, but also at home. Let's take a closer look at how to properly use the top so that the nails look beautiful for maximum long. Formulations for gel polish are usually applied to a manicure with a thin layer and only after the color layer has completely dried. If a special finish-drying is used, then it is necessary to draw out a fingernail before the varnish sets. A high-quality top will perfectly cope with all its functions, if applied according to all the rules. Let's take a step-by-step look at how to do this.
- First you need to prepare the finish. Even before starting work on decorating the nails, slightly roll the bottle with the composition in the palms, while carefully mixing the product. To be zealous at this stage is not necessary. Act carefully and carefully.
- Next, proceed to applying the top on the varnish. The brush must be moved parallel to the nail plate, covering it with a thin layer of fixing agent.
- Pay attention to the fact that the brush should have very little finishing composition, otherwise it will simply begin to spread on the nail and it will be difficult to cope with it. It should not be applied in thick layers.
- Gently spread the coating over the entire surface of the nail plate. The top should also affect the end of the nail.
- Repeated application of the top coat should be carried out after drying of the previous layer under a UV lamp.
If the brush itself is painted in the shade that has already been applied during the process of nail decoration, it is recommended to bake gel polish in the lamp again and only then continue to work.
Rating of the best firms
As mentioned above, the top coat for nails must be chosen, paying due attention to its quality. Only if this simple condition is met, it will be possible to get a really beautiful and durable manicure. In order not to be mistaken in choosing a top, it is necessary to consider branded products of the highest quality. Today, there are many well-known companies that produce finishing liquids.
Bluesky
Open our rating high-quality rubber tops from this brand.
They differ in the following positive characteristics:
- high strength coating;
- the ability to adapt to the bend and structure of the nail;
- homogeneous consistency;
- very comfortable brush.
To update the ladies' nails and cover them with the finish from Bluesky, it is not necessary to prepare the plate for a long time and carefully. Minor flaws will not interfere with this quality top. Even after 3-4 weeks, a beautiful coating does not begin to crack, which indicates its reliability and high quality. Both experienced craftsmen and beginners can work with such coatings.
Runail
The next brand in our ranking is RuNail. In its assortment there are both expensive and budgetary compositions. Moreover, the latter are pleased with their quality not only inexperienced home masters, but also professionals.
Tops of RuNail company have the following distinctive features that attract customers:
- have a very comfortable brush, which, like a fan, fits on the nail plate, while creating an almost perfect coating;
- differ in average density - the tops of this company are obedient and remarkably overlap the space of the nail plate;
- durable - maintain an aesthetic appearance during socks, do not crack and do not fade.
The disadvantage of such products is only that it is characterized by a slightly yellowish tint. He is able to slightly modify the color rendering of light-colored shellac.
Kodi
Finishing coatings from this famous brand, as well as branded varnishes (from simple to three-phase gels) are very popular among buyers. They are great for both home and professional use. Kodi branded tops are popular for their attractive nails. In addition, they last long enough and have an affordable cost.
Gelish harmony
Many topcoats from this well-known company are elite. Their quality is unsurpassed, as evidenced by the reviews of many experienced nail service masters.
The main advantages of GelishHarmony tops are:
- high strength coating;
- wonderful mirror effect;
- vials of sufficient volume (15 ml);
- wide and comfortable brush;
- very economical consumption of the composition;
- seamless compatibility with gels from other manufacturers.
The price of GelishHarmony top-up liquids cannot be called democratic, however, they are still approached by many consumers, who then leave only enthusiastic reviews about these products.
Shellac NDC
Tops from Shellac NDC were not in vain in this rating. These products are distinguished by the fact that they are chosen not only by fans of beautiful shellac, but also by lovers of the usual aesthetic manicure.
Branded tops from Shellac NDC boast that:
- they do not spread because they have good density;
- have a safe composition and do not cause allergic reactions;
- characterized by a beautiful glossy shine, natural, but no less bright;
- differ in durability both in drawing, and storage.
However, it must be borne in mind that if you plan to cover the nail plates with this top, then you will need to enlist the “help” of a more powerful lamp. Using this apparatus, the film quickly polymerizes, creating a sufficiently strong layer.
Reviews
Consumers leave different reviews about different finishes.
Branded Bluesky products attract many fashionistas with such qualities:
- beautiful shine;
- lack of spreading;
- ease of application;
- tops are easy to take off;
- are inexpensive;
- can be found in many stores.
Some buyers did not find any advantages for themselves in products from Bluesky, claiming that they doubt the originality of the goods. Fake tops are of poor quality - working with them is difficult, and they do not look very beautiful.
As for products from the RuNail brand, in it, customers found the following advantages:
- affordable price;
- ease of application;
- enough for a long time;
- the top is kept long on the nails;
- safely removed.
Of the minuses, consumers noticed:
- the nail design under these tops often loses attractiveness - the gloss disappears;
- sometimes it happens that the composition quickly rolls;
- unpleasant odor;
- "Friends" not with all gel polishes.
Some buyers did not notice the disadvantages of RuNail products at all. The main thing is to purchase the original product, not a cheap fake.
Kodi tops liked customers for:
- can be combined with different gels;
- economical in consumption;
- beautiful and long wear;
- easy to align;
- hide the imperfections of the nail plate;
- allow you to create a beautiful manicure.
As for the minuses, here consumers noted the following:
- the tops are not too thick, so some people want to dilute them;
- gloss is worn off the ends;
- unpleasant odor;
- too thick brushes;
- are expensive for beginners.
GelishHarmony tops fell in love with customers for:
- large bottles
- beautiful and dense cover;
- comfortable brush and consistency;
- strength;
- beautiful effects;
- wide range of.
People noticed some disadvantages, for example:
- too high a price;
- unpleasant odor;
- the appearance of yellowness over time.
In the tops of Shellac NDC, buyers noticed such advantages:
- high reliability and durability;
- harmless composition;
- lack of chips and cracks on the coating;
- easy to apply and just as easy to replace with new coatings.
Of the minuses, people noted:
- not the most economical expense;
- do not strengthen natural nails;
- do not promote nail growth.
Some buyers were disappointed that Shellac NDC branded varnishes do not have the therapeutic effect that nails need when decorating with shellac.
In the next video you will find a comparative test of tops for gel polish.