How to Choose High-Quality Manicure Materials: Tips from Professionals

Gel polishes, base coat, and top coat are three components that directly determine the quality of the nail coating, its durability, and the health of the natural nail plate. Choosing the right products helps avoid lifting, cracking, yellowing, and protects nails from damage. Below you’ll find the key purchasing criteria and advice from experienced nail technicians.

1. Gel Polish: What to Pay Attention To

Ingredients and Safety

• Choose brands that oversee their product quality and use safe components (free of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde or toluene).
• Pay attention to hypoallergenic lines if you or your clients have sensitive skin.

Density and Pigmentation

• A high-quality gel polish has a rich color that can be easily applied in 1–2 coats.
• If it’s too runny, it may spread; if it’s too thick, application becomes difficult and can cause air bubbles.

Curing Time

• Select products tailored to your lamp (UV or LED) and its power.
• If curing time is too long, it reduces comfort during the procedure, while if it’s too short, the polish may not fully harden and can lift.

Color Durability

• Some gel polishes fade or turn yellow quickly when exposed to sunlight or cleaning agents.
• A quality product retains its color and vibrancy until the next fill or manicure session.

2. Base Coat: The Foundation of a Long-Lasting Finish

Adhesion

• The base coat determines how firmly the gel polish adheres to the nail.
• A good base provides excellent adhesion and shields the natural nail plate from pigments.

Consistency

• The base shouldn’t be too thick or too thin: if it’s too thick, it can be difficult to apply and might create a layer that’s too thick; if it’s too thin, it may spread and fail to offer sufficient protection.

Self-Leveling

• Some base coats spread evenly across the nail, creating a smooth surface without irregularities.
• This makes the process easier, speeds up application, and improves the final result.

Strengthening Properties

• Look for special bases enriched with vitamins, calcium, or other nourishing components if you want to simultaneously strengthen the natural nail plate.

3. Top Coat: The Final Accent for a Perfect Manicure

Finish

• The top coat protects the gel polish from scratches and color fading.
• Choose a matte, glossy, or “cat’s eye” effect top coat according to the desired style and client preference.

Resistance to Chipping and Scratches

• A high-quality top coat is highly resistant to wear: the manicure looks fresh for several weeks and retains its shine.

No Wipe Layer

• Some top coats leave no tacky layer after curing, allowing you to work faster and save time.
• “Classic” top coats with a tacky layer often give a sturdier finish and can add even more shine. The choice here depends on personal preference and technique.

Protection from Yellowing

• This is particularly relevant for light, pastel shades. Read reviews and check the brand’s reputation to avoid unwanted yellowing.

4. Additional Professional Tips

Choose Trusted Brands

• Well-known manufacturers (especially those specializing in nail care) maintain stricter quality control and provide certifications and guarantees.

Monitor Clients’ Reactions

• If you notice allergic reactions, a burning sensation during curing, or nails lifting too quickly, consider trying another line or a different manufacturer’s products.

Test New Products

• Before purchasing large quantities of gel polishes or bases, try them on yourself or with your regular clients (with their consent).
• This allows you to evaluate texture, pigmentation, wear time, and identify any drawbacks.

Store Properly

• Gel polishes, bases, and top coats are sensitive to light and temperature. Don’t leave bottles in direct sunlight or too close to the lamp.

Buy from Reliable Suppliers

• Avoid counterfeits or damaged goods by purchasing from official distributors or reputable online stores.

Conclusion

Choosing high-quality manicure materials is an investment not only in the beautiful appearance of nails but also in the health of the natural nail plate and client comfort. Pay attention to the product composition, the manufacturer’s reputation, and your own experience working with these products. A proper base ensures the durability of the coating, a pigmented and safe gel polish provides the perfect color, and a reliable top coat protects the final result from damage. This comprehensive approach helps achieve a flawless manicure that lasts for a long time.