What is the difference between a rubber base and a regular one and how to apply the top. What is the difference between a rubber base and a regular rubber top for gel polish?

A top helps to extend the life of any manicure. Its application is an integral final stage of the procedure. It protects nails from damage and prevents cracks and chips. Rubber top has better performance in this regard.

What is the difference between a regular top and a rubber one?

These two products have fundamental differences, which can be detected immediately after the start of use and in the future.

Advantages of rubber top:

  1. It has a denser texture, so it is easy to apply and does not flow onto the edges of the nail.
  2. It spreads evenly over the plate, hiding all the flaws and shortcomings.
  3. Does not turn yellow or darken over time.
  4. Gives flowers brightness and richness.
  5. The wearing time of this top is much longer than the classic one. It is not subject to mechanical damage, does not chip and retains the original appearance of the manicure for a long time.
  6. The product is hypoallergenic and has no unpleasant odor.
  7. Gives nails a beautiful glossy shine, well-groomed and neat look.

This product will be much more convenient to use for beginners who have not yet gotten their hands on it. But many experienced craftsmen prefer rubber.

How to apply it correctly?

There are some features of using a rubber top. If you know them, your manicure will be high-quality and professional. Apply top coat to the dried layer, then dry for 30-120 seconds, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Experienced professionals who work with rubber tops advise starting to apply the product from the middle of the nail, then distributing it along the edges, without touching the cuticle and nail folds. Before use, it is advisable to warm the jar of topcoat by rubbing it between your palms or placing it in warm water.

The brush should be held parallel to the nail plate and not pressed on it. A gentle touch is enough to cover the top evenly. The finish should not be thick, so excess should be removed from the brush.

Finally, it is recommended to treat the nail with drying agent or cuticle oil, so the finish will retain its properties longer, even if it has not dried properly. With a rubber top coat, your nails will gain strength and shine.

Rubber bases for gel polishes differ from regular ones in consistency and composition. They contain urethane rubber, which has the ability to remain plastic even after the coating has polymerized. Thus, the base helps prevent chipping and cracking of the varnish, strengthens thin nails, reinforcing them. As a result, the manicure remains unchanged for up to 3 weeks.

The consistency of such bases is thicker, they do not spread over the nail, they need to be stretched with a brush in the desired direction. This density is a separate advantage, since the base does not flow under the cuticle and does not form sagging or bald spots.

We have compiled a list of the best rubber bases based on expert assessments and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice that suits your needs and desires. There are many competitors in the beauty industry, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend paying special attention to them:

  1. Bluesky
  2. Masura
  3. Prima
Self-leveling Transparent Camouflage

*Prices are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Manicure bases: Self-leveling

*from user reviews

Minimum price:

Main advantages
  • The composition of this base is selected in such a way as to guarantee good adhesion to the surface and maximum durability of the manicure. The coating does not chip off the tips of the nails, does not crack, and lasts until correction even on long and thin nails
  • The base is thick, but spreads well and fills cracks. The brush is neat, thin and even, it is easy to draw a line at the cuticle.
  • The layer of product polymerizes very quickly, drying in a UV lamp will take no more than a minute, in an LED lamp - 10-20 seconds
  • This base is universal, it can be combined with all types of gel polishes, and can also be used as an independent product if you need to strengthen thin nails
  • Easily and quickly removed with any gel polish remover. Does not stain the nail plate

Camouflage / Transparent / Self-leveling

Without a beautiful manicure, any woman's look will seem a little unfinished. A correctly selected varnish will successfully emphasize business, evening, and beach style and will make your nails more graceful and well-groomed. And in order for it to last longer, to please the eye with a bright glossy shine or a muted matte shine, you should master some subtleties, one of which is the use of a special base (primer). Well, in the case of today’s current gel polishes, coating without a good base is generally unthinkable!

What is a gel polish base and what functions does it perform?

The base for gel polish, also known as the base, is a product designed primarily to firmly adhere the colored polish to the nail plate. Also, the base will visually even out the surface of the nail and extend the life of the manicure, significantly reducing the likelihood of chipping and erasing the decorative coating on the tips of the nails. Experienced professionals know that the final result depends much more on the quality of the base than the gel polish itself.

In addition, a good base will protect your nails from the negative effects of dyes, solvents and other chemicals contained in varnishes. It is the base that will save your nails from yellowing after using varnishes of rich, flashy colors and will help them remain strong and strong.

However, that's not all! Many modern medicinal bases for gel polish contain caring components, thanks to which the bases can have a positive effect on the health of the nails. For example, fight their fragility and stimulate growth, protect against moisture loss, nourish with vitamins and microelements, protect from ultraviolet radiation and even prevent the development of fungus, and when applied solo, also save from the effects of aggressive cleaning agents and detergents. Among the ingredients of such foundations you can find hydrolyzed keratin, proteins, calcium, and particles of nylon or silk.

Most often, bases for gel polish are colorless, but there are also light pink or beige options. Their consistency also varies - there are liquid primers and thicker primers. The second ones are designed to smooth out nails with defects in the form of waves, grooves or cracks.

How to apply foundation correctly

Before covering your nails with base, they need to be prepared - treated with nail files, sanded with buff and degreased. Then the base will lie in an even layer and adhere well to the surface of the nail plate. Apply the primer using light rubbing movements. After the first layer has dried, you can apply a second one, dry it thoroughly again, and only then proceed to the decorative coating.

And pick up the best Our rating, compiled taking into account the opinions of nail experts and reviews of ordinary users, will help you with the base for gel polish.

Manicure is a set of procedures for caring for nails and hand skin. In recent years, the cosmetics industry has introduced the world to many new products that allow you to give your nails a beautiful and flawless look. Today's popular gel polishes have received the greatest recognition. In combination with the base and durable coating, they last quite a long time, withstanding everyday mechanical stress.

Modern manicure technologies

Over the past few years, the chemical industry has invented various formulations that have been used to improve nail care and extend the life of the coating. In addition to the classic, women have the opportunity to choose more complex procedures with better results:

  1. Minx manicure - a thin film sticker is applied to the nails, which is fixed under the influence of the rays of a UV lamp while simultaneously being pressed onto the nail plate. Metal imitation films are mainly used for decoration. Today this technology is at the peak of popularity in Europe.
  2. Acrylic coating - the nail plate is covered with acrylic and decorated with modeling. This manicure lasts a long time and looks solemn.
  3. Permanent manicure - a thin layer of gel polish or biogel is applied to natural nails. This manicure lasts up to 2-3 weeks and looks neat. To perform it, additional tools are required: a base, a coating and a drying lamp.

What is a base

Base for gel and gel polish is, in other words, a corrective base used under gel polish or gel. According to classical technology, it is applied in a thin layer to previously cleaned and degreased nails or using drip technology to level the nail plate. The base has a transparent color and allows you to hide minor imperfections on the nail surface.

The base for gel and gel polish is designed to give greater durability to the gel coating and strengthen the nail plates themselves. By the way, the bases of some manufacturers contain medicinal components that help improve their structure. The service life of the manicure directly depends on the quality of the base.

Benefits of using the database

Using the database provides certain advantages:

  1. Durability of manicure. The base for gel and gel polish ensures the durability of any gel coating for up to 3 weeks. Manicure can withstand any mechanical and chemical influences.
  2. Thanks to its thick texture, the base is excellent for shaping. It allows you to build up broken corners.
  3. The base easily lays on the nail plate and fills all the unevenness. The nail acquires an ideal shape and a mirror shine.
  4. The nail plate is not only leveled, but also becomes stronger. The texture of the base replaces biogel.

For your information, all masters always use a base for gel polishes. Among experts, this product is considered mandatory in the gel coating process.

Cosmetics Kodi Professional

Among the many companies producing nail care products, one of the first places is occupied by the American brand Cody Professional. This company produces professional cosmetics and tools for various people. Many craftsmen use only products of this brand in their daily work because of their high quality. The advantage of Kodi Professional materials is their ease of use. The products of this brand can significantly reduce the time of all stages of manicure and simplify the work of the master.

Kodi Professional cosmetics can be used both for professional manicure and at home. Materials of the named brand are presented in various online stores and in salons selling nail cosmetics.

Rubber base

For manicures with gel coating, the Cody Professional company produces a professional base - Rubber Base Gel. This is a transparent base of a unique composition that can be used under different gel polishes.

The rubber base for gel polish promotes uniform coverage of nails with colored varnish and makes it durable. The rubber base significantly extends the life of the manicure and prevents peeling of the coating. Gel polish lasts up to 20 days.

The rubber base for gel polish from the Cody Professional brand is available in bottles of 7.14 and 30 ml. There is a small brush inside the lid for applying the product.

In summary, here are the advantages of the Kodi Rubber Base:

  • super durability;
  • no unpleasant odor;
  • safe composition;
  • strengthening effect on the nail plate;
  • does not cause allergies;
  • after polymerization it acquires a beautiful shine;
  • fits easily;
  • Can be used even on brittle nails.

Application technology

But in order for gel polish to last a long time and maintain a beautiful appearance, it is important not only to use high-quality materials, but also to follow a certain technology. Applying the base should consist of the following steps:

  1. Cleaning your nails. It is necessary to remove the previous coating, remove cuticles and dead tissue.
  2. Use a buff to remove shine from the nail plates. Their edges and areas near the cuticle should be treated especially carefully.
  3. Give the nails the desired shape, file the edges and clean out external defects.
  4. Treat with a degreaser.
  5. Cover each nail with an acid-free primer and leave for 20-30 seconds to dry. The primer strengthens the adhesion of the nail plate to the base.
  6. Apply the base in a thin, even layer, avoiding contact with cuticles and skin. The edge of the nail should be sealed.
  7. Dry the applied base under In this case, the Kodi Professional base must be dried for 2 minutes at a power of 36 W.

After this, you can apply other manicure products to your nails, decorate with stones or draw colored patterns.

Bluesky Products

Another popular brand of nail care cosmetics is Bluesky. The gel, base and coating of this brand are produced by a large Chinese company under a registered trademark. Bluesky products are of good quality and are sold in many countries around the world. The manufacturer guarantees the durability of the manicure for up to 14 days.

All Bluesky products are safe for health and meet European quality standards. In many respects, the products of this brand are not inferior to the best American analogues.

The most popular among buyers is Bluesky gel polish. The base perfectly evens out the nails and also protects them from the pigment effects of colored varnishes. The manicure looks attractive and neat.

The company also produces a 2 in 1 product - base and top in one bottle. It can be used as a coating on nails at the finishing stage. Baze+Top Bluesky securely sets the gel coating.

Features of applying Bluesky Base Rubber

Bluesky rubber base should be applied in a thin layer, covering the entire surface of the nail plate. Places with noticeable external damage can be covered with a thicker layer of base. It fills in all the unevenness and gives your nails a perfect look. After application, the base must be dried under a 36 W LED or UV lamp.

It is important that it does not come into contact with the skin, otherwise the gel coating will peel up. The base should be applied carefully, sealing the tips of the nails. And if you follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer, gel polish applied to the Bluesky base can last up to 3 weeks.


Gel polish is a coating that is highly resistant due to the combination of the properties of gel and varnish, which is already clear from the name. Currently, an increasing number of girls prefer home manicure, since if equipment and materials are available, the procedure is cheaper than visiting a salon specialist. However, to ensure that the result does not disappoint, it is important to know all the features of coating nail plates with gel polish. First of all, we are talking about a three-stage application system - base, color and top.

The base (foundation) is the first and one of the most important stages. Thanks to this coating, the nails are aligned, protected from the harmful pigment of the color coating, and the adhesion of the gel polish to the natural nail is increased. Each manufacturer recommends purchasing the base, color and top from them for the best combination of products with each other. But as user reviews show, there are many successful combinations of coatings from different manufacturers. This trick allows you to save on the purchase of more expensive and branded bottles, especially if the top is left unused until the end, or you purchased several colors from different brands at a promotion.

  • user voting;
  • ratio of positive and negative reviews;
  • opinions of nail industry experts.

The best regular gel polish bases

A base is necessary when covering nails with gel polish in order to even out the surface. With its help, it is possible to prevent the negative impact of the colored layer on the natural nail plates. The base is applied to previously prepared nails, which have already been given a shape and length, and from which the cuticle has been removed. The absence of a base layer will immediately affect the durability of the manicure. To avoid chips, cracks and peeling, it is imperative to use a base that acts as a guarantor of adhesion.

3 Entity Base Coat

High polymerization rate
Country: USA
Average price: 1,250 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The base from Entity Van is fixed in an ultraviolet lamp for one minute, and in an LED lamp it demonstrates an incredible polymerization speed of 10 seconds. Users note that using this base provides good grip. The manicure is durable, without chipping or peeling of the coating. Reviews speak positively about the convenient brush for applying gel polish base. The disadvantage is the high cost. The base is suitable for using color and topcoats from other companies.

Advantages:

  • rapid polymerization of the composition;
  • high-quality grip;
  • short comfortable brush;
  • Compatible with gel polishes from other manufacturers.

Flaws:

  • high price.

2 Haruyama Base

Affordable price
Country: Japan
Average price: 250 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The Haruyama base is loved by many users, judging by the number of positive reviews. It is suitable for polymerization in both UV and LED lamps. Fixation takes 2 minutes. The manicure lasts for three weeks without a single chip or crack. Good consistency allowing for quick and easy application. The low price in this case does not correspond to the high quality at all. A special feature is poor compatibility with Chinese gel polishes. Does not conflict with other manufacturers.

Advantages:

  • low price;
  • comfortable flat brush;
  • good durability.

Flaws:

  • conflicts with Chinese gel polishes.

1 CND Base Coat

Best quality
Country: USA
Average price: 1,720 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The original base from SND, the brand that is the founder of shellac, according to users is considered the highest quality, however, unaffordable for most gel polish lovers. The composition is applied in one thin layer to the prepared nail plates. Fixed in a UV lamp (9-36 W) for 30 seconds. The reviews mention such advantages as a convenient brush for applying base, as well as a good consistency. The bottle is used economically. The base is combined with color and topcoats from other manufacturers.

Advantages:

  • best quality;
  • ease of application and convenient brush;
  • good consistency, ensuring economical consumption;
  • matches the color and top from other companies.

Flaws:

  • high price.

The best rubber bases for gel polish

Rubber bases for gel polish differ from regular ones in a thicker consistency. They are designed to reliably protect natural nail plates from dyes, as well as strengthen them. As nail service experts note, it is easier to work with such a base. The manicure does not become cracked or chipped for a longer period. As the nails grow, thanks to the rubber base, the top moves plastically, maintaining a single tight grip.

3 Ingarden Ideal Nails

Durable coating
Country Russia
Average price: 595 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The base for gel polish from Ingarden Ideal Nails already states by its name that after using it, nails become perfect. Judging by user reviews, the application is really even, the brush is comfortable, and the consistency is thick. Opinions differed about compatibility with other manufacturers. Some claim that the base goes well with other brands, others refute this fact using specific examples (Masura and Kodi). The manicure lasts about three weeks without blemishes.

Advantages:

  • uniform application;
  • comfortable brush;
  • durable coating.

Flaws:

  • does not combine with gel polishes from Masur and Kodi.

2 Beautix Royal Base

Ideal for brittle nails
Country: France
Average price: 999 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The rubber base from Betics Royal Base self-levels on the nail plate. Recommended for brittle and brittle nails. Has protective functions. Users note the convenient brush, thanks to which it is possible to apply the coating as close to the cuticle as possible. The polymerization time in a UV lamp is 2 minutes, in an LED or hybrid lamp – 30 seconds. As for compatibility, experts recommend combining coatings from different manufacturers after preliminary testing on a palette, in order to avoid spreading due to differences in consistency.

Advantages:

  • strengthening effect;
  • comfortable brush;
  • high-quality alignment of nail plates;
  • Compatible with other manufacturers, but preliminary testing is recommended.

Flaws:

  • high price.

1 Kodi Rubber Base

Best Chemical Formula
Country Ukraine
Average price: 500 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Cody's rubber base is characterized by increased durability due to a unique chemical formula containing rubber. The product is hypoallergenic. Users note the ease of application thanks to the flexible brush. The polymerization time in a UV lamp is 2 minutes. A manicure with this base shows an average of three weeks of results. According to those who have tried combining with color and top from other manufacturers, the base goes well together. The disadvantages include the difficulty of removing the coating, which sometimes requires washing down.

Advantages:

  • unique hypoallergenic composition;
  • flexible, comfortable brush;
  • lasting results;
  • compatibility with other manufacturers.

Flaws:

  • difficulty in removing.

The best camouflage bases for gel polish

Camouflage bases for gel polish are a type of rubber base, however, they are distinguished by a pronounced camouflage effect. They are designed to create perfectly even and smooth nail plates. Such coatings are intended for problematic nails - damaged, flexible, brittle, weak and thinned. A special feature of camouflage bases is that they can be applied in both thin and thick layers for a longer lasting manicure. This is an ideal option for a French look, as the product combines a base and a nude color.

3 Vogue Nails Rubber

Good compatibility with any gel polishes
Country Russia
Average price: 550 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The rubber base has a thick consistency and has a universal camouflage shade, perfect for a French manicure. The product has a strengthening effect and evens out problematic nail plates. Recommended drying time is 3 minutes in an ultraviolet lamp and 1 minute in an LED lamp. Experts advise applying in two layers. Among the shortcomings noted by users in reviews is the small volume of the bottle - 10 ml, for which the cost seems overpriced. Regarding compatibility with other manufacturers, the majority spoke in favor of compatibility.

Advantages:

  • strengthening effect;
  • uniform application;
  • compatibility with gel polishes from other manufacturers.

Flaws:

  • small volume;
  • the need to apply two layers;
  • overcharge.

2 Bluesky Rubber Base Cover

Excellent base for French manicure
Country: China
Average price: 320 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Bluesky's camouflage effect base has a thick consistency. The coating demonstrates high durability. Applies evenly. Users note the budget price in reviews. The brush is considered by many to be uncomfortable. Another disadvantage is the short shelf life - six months. This product successfully combines a base and color coating, which is the best option for creating a French coat. This base makes a good combination of color and topcoat from other brands.

Advantages:

  • affordable price;
  • uniform coverage;
  • thick consistency;
  • compatibility with other gel polishes.

Flaws:

  • uncomfortable brush;
  • Shelf life – 6 months.

1 Klio Professional Base

Best Strengthening
Country Russia
Average price: 650 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Camouflage base for gel polish from Clio on a rubber base combines the properties of a base and camouflage. Users note the ideal alignment of the nail plates, as well as a pronounced strengthening effect. Regular use of this base minimizes the negative impact of pigment and even allows you to grow strong natural nails. Polymerization takes two minutes in a UV lamp and 1 minute in an LED lamp. Compatible with gel polishes from other companies. Some consider the price too high for a little-known brand.

Advantages:

  • perfectly aligns;
  • strengthens nail plates;
  • Compatible with other gel polishes.

Flaws:

  • overcharge.

The best leveling bases for gel polish

This type of product creates perfect coverage even on damaged nails with cracks, waves and other imperfections. Usually, all samples spread over the surface on their own; the technician only needs to ensure that the composition does not flow onto the cuticle and nail folds. These bases create the “ideal highlight” that all girls strive for in pursuit of an unrivaled manicure.

3 Irisk Rubber Base

Good product for natural nails
Country: USA
Average price: 390 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The gel polish base from an American manufacturer has high adhesion to the nail. The trademark states that Irisk Rubber is a leveling agent. The consistency in the bottle is quite liquid, so the sample is more suitable for professionals rather than beginners. Most likely, a person who has not completed the course or at least does not have many years of experience behind him will find it difficult to cope with the spreading product. It is not recommended to apply the base on wide nails, as imperfections are possible. Otherwise, the product guarantees long-term preservation of the manicure and a spectacular highlight achieved through leveling.

Some girls consider the base to be the best and not at all liquid. Many reviews reveal the sample as an excellent strengthener, which, moreover, helps to grow healthy length. The product works great on natural nails, but extensions will most likely be difficult to apply. The master considers a strong unpleasant odor to be a significant drawback. However, inexpensive coating is still in high demand.

2 Gloss Soak Gel Off Premium Base

Self-leveling composition
Country: Germany
Average price: 800 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

An ideal and relatively inexpensive choice for girls with soft and brittle nails. The properties of the leveling agent are similar to a viscous gel. The coating created protects soft nails and thickens them. The effect is noticeable throughout the entire time of use. The innovative formula protects the plate from chips and detachments, has high adhesion and lasts a long time. In addition, the composition is considered self-leveling, that is, the artist does not need extra layers of gel polish to achieve an ideal coating. The moderately thick consistency allows you to create small build-ups, as well as restore and consolidate imperfections.

According to reviews, a significant advantage of this base is the lack of odor. Despite its viscosity, the coating can be easily removed either by sawing it off with a milling cutter or by soaking it for a long time with acetone. The duration of “operation” was also tested in practice. Experts note the absence of chips and detachments even on problem nails for up to two months.

1 Nano professional Nanlac Gum

High efficiency
Country Russia
Average price: 1,050 rub.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The domestic product of the highest viscosity is characterized by increased elasticity. This base coat is perfect for problem nails that don't adhere well to polish. When applied, the product does not spread and perfectly holds the “drop” necessary for leveling the plate. The jar comes with a convenient brush with short bristles, which opens like a fan when processing the surface. However, experts still advise applying the coating with a separate brush. This will help to avoid possible mistakes in work.

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