A quality base coat forms the foundation of a lasting manicure. Base coats fortify and improve the health of your nails by preventing them from breaking and peeling. Some base coats are formulated to thicken weak, thin nails, while others fill the ridges in nails to provide a smooth foundation for nail polish. A base coat may also help promote nail growth and prevent nail polish from staining nails. Naturally, it’s best to first assess the needs of your nails and then choose an appropriate base coat.
Performance
Since base coats are usually hidden under nail polish, their performance is the most important factor to consider. Base coats perform many functions including strengthening nails, filling ridges in nails, and stimulating nail growth. The best base coats will perform their specified functions, protect nails from damage, and provide a suitable foundation for nail polish.
Features
Base coats offer a variety of features which will benefit your nails in different ways. Certain ridge-filling base coats are infused with silk fibers to create an even base, while other options are fortified with calcium and protein to prevent chipping and peeling. Other features may include UV inhibitors which protect nails against sun damage or formaldehyde-free formulas.
Appearance
In the case you end up wearing a base coat on your nails by itself, its standalone appearance is another element to consider. Most base coats don’t provide much emphasis on appearance, but most will appear translucent on nails. The finish depends on the type and brand of nail base coat with some imparting a matte finish while others offer a sleek, shiny appearance.
Types of Nail Base Coat
Ridge-filling Base Coats
Nail surfaces can develop ridges, which are often a result of wearing acrylic nails or nail dehydration. Ridge-filling base coats fill in these gaps, creating a smooth, even surface for nail polish. Using a ridge-filling base coat not only protects nails, but improves the overall appearance of your manicure as well.
Strengthening Base Coats
Weak, delicate nails are susceptible to peeling, breaking, and splitting without the use of a strengthening base coat. This type of base coat fortifies fragile nails, making them more resistant to damage. As a result, nails grow healthier and manicures will last longer.
Thickening Base Coats
Thin nails bend and split easily, shortening the duration of a manicure. Thickening base coats typically use fortifying ingredients such as calcium fluoride, calcium, and protein to build up nails and improve their health. These base coats also provide a smooth foundation for nail polish application.