Everything You Need to Know About Nella's Top Coats
Choosing the right top coat can make all the difference in your manicure. Whether you're new to Nella or exploring our top coat collection for the first time, we've compiled answers to the most common questions to help you get the best results.
General Top Coat Questions
Q: Do I really need a top coat?
A: Absolutely! A top coat is essential for protecting your nail polish from chips, scratches, and everyday wear. It seals in your color, adds shine (or a matte finish), and can extend your manicure's life by several days. Think of it as insurance for your beautiful nails.
Q: Are Nella top coats vegan and cruelty-free?
A: Yes! All Nella products, including our three top coats, are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. We're also 5-FREE, meaning our formulas exclude toluene, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, and DBP. Beautiful nails shouldn't compromise your health or values.
Q: Can I use Nella top coats with other nail polish brands?
A: Absolutely! While Nella top coats are formulated to work perfectly with Nella nail polish, they're compatible with any nail polish brand. You'll get professional results no matter what color you're wearing.
Q: How long do Nella top coats last once opened?
A: When stored properly (upright, tightly sealed, in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight), Nella top coats typically last 12-18 months after opening. If your top coat becomes thick or goopy, it's time to replace it.
Gel Top Coat (No UV Light Needed)
Q: How is this different from regular gel polish?
A: Nella's Gel Top Coat gives you the high-gloss, long-lasting finish of gel nails without requiring a UV or LED lamp. It air-dries naturally and removes with regular nail polish remover—no soaking or filing needed. You get the gel look with the convenience of regular polish.
Q: How long does the Gel Top Coat take to dry?
A: The Gel Top Coat typically dries to the touch in 5-10 minutes and fully hardens within 15-20 minutes. For best results, allow your base color to dry completely before applying the Gel Top Coat.
Q: Will the Gel Top Coat work over dark colors?
A: Yes! The Gel Top Coat works beautifully over any color—from pale nudes to deep blacks. It won't yellow or alter your polish color, just adds that gorgeous gel-like shine and protection.
Q: How do I remove it?
A: Simply use regular nail polish remover, just like you would with any standard polish. No special removal process needed—that's the beauty of this formula!
Q: How long will my manicure last with Gel Top Coat?
A: With proper application, you can expect 7-10 days of chip-free wear, depending on your lifestyle and nail care routine. Many customers report even longer wear time!
Matte Top Coat
Q: Can I make any nail polish matte?
A: Yes! Nella's Matte Top Coat transforms any glossy nail polish into a sophisticated matte finish. It works on all colors and brands.
Q: Why does my matte finish look streaky?
A: Streaking usually happens when applying too thick a coat or going over the same area multiple times. Apply one thin, even coat in smooth strokes without going back over it. Let your base color dry completely first.
Q: Can I use matte top coat over the gel top coat?
A: We don't recommend layering these two top coats as they're designed for different finishes. Choose one or the other based on the look you want—glossy gel or velvety matte.
Q: How do I create nail art with matte and glossy finishes?
A: Great question! Apply your base color and let it dry completely. Then, use a small brush to apply Matte Top Coat only where you want the matte effect, leaving other areas glossy. Or apply Matte Top Coat to all nails, then use regular clear polish to create glossy designs on top.
Q: Does matte top coat chip more easily than glossy?
A: Not at all! Nella's Matte Top Coat is just as durable as our other top coats. The matte finish is purely aesthetic—it doesn't compromise wear time or chip resistance.
Q: Can I make my matte nails glossy again?
A: Yes! Simply apply a glossy top coat (like our Gel Top Coat or All-In-One) over the matte finish to restore shine. No need to remove the matte coat first.
All-In-One Base & Top Coat
Q: How does one product work as both base and top coat?
A: Nella's All-In-One formula is specially designed to protect nails from staining (like a base coat) while also sealing and adding shine (like a top coat). It's a versatile, multi-functional product that simplifies your routine without sacrificing quality.
Q: Do I need to use it as both base AND top coat?
A: You can use it either way or both ways! Some people use it only as a base coat with a different top coat, others use it only as a top coat, and many use it for both steps. It's completely flexible based on your needs.
Q: Will it prevent my nails from staining with dark polish?
A: Yes! When used as a base coat, the All-In-One creates a protective barrier that prevents pigment from dark or highly saturated polishes (like reds, blacks, and deep purples) from staining your natural nails.
Q: Is the shine as good as the Gel Top Coat?
A: The All-In-One provides beautiful high shine, though the Gel Top Coat offers an even more dramatic, ultra-glossy gel-like finish. If maximum shine is your priority, go with the Gel Top Coat. If you want great shine plus the convenience of a 2-in-1, the All-In-One is perfect.
Q: Can I use this for quick touch-ups?
A: Absolutely! The All-In-One is perfect for refreshing your manicure mid-week. Just apply a fresh coat over your existing polish to restore shine and extend wear.
Q: Does it strengthen nails?
A: Yes! The All-In-One formula includes strengthening properties that help fortify nails and prevent breakage over time with regular use.
Application Tips
Q: Should I shake the bottle before using?
A: Roll the bottle between your palms instead of shaking. Shaking creates air bubbles that can transfer to your nails and create an uneven finish.
Q: How many coats of top coat should I apply?
A: One coat is typically sufficient for all three Nella top coats. Applying multiple coats won't improve results and may actually increase drying time or cause issues.
Q: What's the "cap the free edge" technique?
A: After applying top coat to the nail surface, swipe the brush across the free edge (tip) of your nail. This seals the edge and significantly reduces chipping.
Q: My top coat is getting thick. What should I do?
A: Thick top coat usually means it's been exposed to air too long. You can try adding a few drops of nail polish thinner (not remover!) to restore consistency. Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use.
Q: Can I apply top coat over wet polish?
A: No, always wait for your color coat to dry completely before applying top coat. Applying top coat over wet polish can cause smudging, bubbling, or uneven drying.
Choosing the Right Top Coat
Q: I'm new to Nella—which top coat should I start with?
A: If you want maximum versatility and convenience, start with the All-In-One Base & Top Coat. If you love high shine and long wear, go for the Gel Top Coat. If you're into trendy, modern looks, the Matte Top Coat is your best bet.
Q: Can I own all three?
A: Absolutely! Many Nella fans keep all three on hand to switch up their look. Use Gel Top Coat for special occasions, Matte for trendy everyday looks, and All-In-One for quick, convenient manicures.
Q: Which top coat is best for nail art?
A: The Matte Top Coat is fantastic for creating contrast in nail art designs. The All-In-One works great for sealing detailed nail art. The Gel Top Coat is perfect when you want your nail art to really pop with high shine.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! If you have additional questions about Nella's top coats or any of our products, don't hesitate to reach out to our customer service team. We're passionate about helping you achieve beautiful, healthy nails.
Ready to find your perfect top coat? Explore our complete collection and discover the Nella difference today.