Can You Use a Top Coat as a Base Coat?

If you’re getting ready to do an at-home manicure but notice you only have a top coat - no base coat - you might start to panic.

You know the importance of a base coat, but a top coat appears to be the same thing.

But are they really?

If you’re wondering if you can use a top coat nail polish as a base coat, you’ve come to the right article.

This informative article shares the importance of the top coat plus specific reasons why it might not be the best choice as a base coat.

What is a Top Coat?

After applying nail polish - whether you’re applying gel nail polish or other nail polish formulations - you will top it off with something called a top coat.

The top coat does many things. For one, it encourages a long-lasting manicure.

For two, it creates a shiny finish that looks dazzling on all kinds of nails, but especially gel nail polish.

The added shine really makes nail color pop - yes, including regular nail polish!

Aside from that, it also acts as a layer of protection for your manicure. It works to prevent chipping and other undesirable mishaps like scratches that can ruin your nails instantly.

What is a Base Coat?

A base coat also provides a protective layer, but it works differently thanks to the ingredients. (Base and top coats do not share the same ingredients!)

The base coat focuses on protecting your nail bed from whatever kind of manicure comes its way.

For example, a base coat will ensure that a manicure - such as a gel manicure or acrylics - doesn’t cause peeling or stripping the nail plates.

When applying a gel base coat or regular base coat, you will notice a sticky layer.

That’s because base coats create a sticky surface on the nail surface for nail polish to adhere to while locking out excess oils.

Ultimately, this sticky residue works to extend nail polish effectively, so it’s critical to have.

Can You Use a Top Coat as a Base Coat Nail Polish?

Now that you know the differences between a top coat nail polish and base coat nail polish, it’s time to discuss whether or not they can be used interchangeably.

As a general rule, you should not use a top coat as a base coat (and vice versa). Base coats tend to be thinner and stickier, while top coats are more for protection and finishing.

Will Not Adhere As Well to Your Natural Nail Plate

The biggest reason you should avoid a topcoat as base coats is that they won’t adhere to your natural nails properly.

Even with two coats, you won’t achieve the same results as base coats.

Shorten Manicure Longevity

Because your clear topcoat, gel top coat, or any other kind of top coat does not have the stickiness, the nail polish will not adhere to the nail plate as well.

What does this mean for your nails? Less longevity_. _If you try to use a topcoat as a base coat, your manicure won’t last as long, regardless of the style.

Won’t Protect Natural Nails

Your nail tech will use a base coat for many reasons, but one of the biggest is to fend off stains and damage.

Think of it this way: the nail technician will start with a nail polish remover, which dries the nails automatically.

Then, they will need to apply the gel polish for gel nails or acrylics, followed by some time spent under a UV or LED lamp. As you guessed, these are damaging, too.

Your nail beds will not be protected without the gel base coat or regular base coat.

Even if you’re doing your own nails, you still need to use a base coat. As mentioned earlier, nail color can seep into the thin layers of the nail bed, causing unwanted stains.

Exception to the Rule: All-in-One or Two-in-One Base Coat and Top Coat

Some products on the market are labeled “base and top coat” all-in-one products (and vice versa).

This product can be used before placing nail polishes, such as gel polish, but a proper base coat and top coat are preferred.

Why?

Basically, a product containing both a base and topcoat will not be as effective.

The durable layer might not be as strong, and the sticky resins might not be as prominent.

You likely won’t get the desirable high shine, and nails may tend to chip quicker without proper materials.

Needless to say, it’s better to get a high-quality base coat to place on your natural nails before applying polish to protect them better and enhance longevity.

At the same time, a separate topcoat will give you a more colorful and shiny polish in the end.

And don’t wear the wrong coat!

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have a base coat?

If you do not have any base coat, don’t settle for a topcoat. Instead, use a solid white or clear layer of polish on your nails.

This will help to protect your nails while also allowing for the polish color to pop without having to worry about the natural color of your nails shining through.

You may have to use a few extra coats, especially if you’re using a clear polish rather than white.

Also, make sure you buff your nails generously to provide a rough surface for the coats to hold onto.

Can you use a gel top coat as a base coat?

A gel top coat should never be used in place of base coats, especially when applying gel polish. It simply won’t work the same, and your gel polish won’t last long.

Can I use nail hardener as a top coat?

Nail hardener and strengthener can be used as a topcoat (but not base coats). This is a good idea for those with nails that chip easily.