My Favorite Base Coats & Top Coats for the BEST Manicure! (Nail Polish 101) || KELLI MARISSA

Check out my vlog channel: bit.ly/kellimarissavlog
Hello! Today we have a HIGHLY requested video - my favorite base coats and top coats to get your nail polish looking perfect every time :) In my opinion, these are the BEST base and top coats for your manicure and I wanted to share my top 5 with you! Which is your favorite??
Base coats -
Orly Bonder Base Coat - amzn.to/41fst7E *
Cuccio Base Coat - amzn.to/3HQDW6V *
Cirque Get Ready Base Coat - (code KELLI for 10% off first time order*) bit.ly/3M63Plu
ILNP Lockup Base Coat - bit.ly/3SyzDRH
KBShimmer Fillin’ Groovy Ridge Filling Base Coat - bit.ly/3fSPM2Q
There is a smaller Orly Bonder refill on Amazon here - amzn.to/3M867AP *
Strengtheners -
Duri Rejuvacote - amzn.to/42dxZJp *
OPI Nail Envy - amzn.to/3HMniFi *
Dermelect Transfix - howl.me/cjHx0FKH0kB *
Dermelect Camo-Nude - howl.me/cjHx1xvULm5 *
Dermelect Makeover - howl.me/cjHx0948rRI *
Top coats -
Orly Shining Armor Quick Dry Top Coat - amzn.to/3VGVsjw *
Cirque Looking Glass Top Coat - bit.ly/42jd6wq
ILNP Glass Candy Top Coat - bit.ly/41cSBjr
KBShimmer Clearly On Top Quick Dry Top Coat - bit.ly/3pt4ikP
Seche Vive Top Coat - amzn.to/41kGUaq *
On my nails: Orly Kelli's Solar Flare
On my eyes: Colourpop Cashmere Forever palette, Whats Up Beauty Geodes Palette
My nail care routine: bit.ly/3yv4Ifl
Hey! I’m Kelli Marissa and I am a nail polish lover! On my channel, you will see swatches of new nail polish collections, as well as beginner nail art that anyone can do at home. I also teach nail polish hacks like how to file your nails, how to dry your nail polish quickly, how to remove glitter nail polish, and how to make your manicure last longer! I also have a Makeup 101 series where I teach beginner makeup tricks like how to apply eyeshadow and how to wear colorful makeup. Make sure you subscribe to become a part of the Galaxy Gang! I usually post on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays :)
And I post weekly on my vlog channel where you can see more about my life behind the scenes: bit.ly/kellimarissavlog
I also have a PODCAST about popular nerdy film franchises: bit.ly/374HvqU
My Amazon must-haves: www.amazon.com/shop/kellimarissa
DISCOUNT CODES:
Use code KELLI for 10% off at Cirque Colors bit.ly/3jVRyFd *
Use code KELLI for 22% off at www.hbbeautybar.com *
Use code KELLI10 for 10% off at www.modelones.com *
Use code KELLIMARISSA for 10% off at www.nailstuff.ca *
Use code KELLI for 10% off at www.starrily.com
Use code KELLI20 for 20% off at www.iscreamnails.com *
Use code KELLI for 10% off at Beyond Polish bit.ly/3lXidhl *
Use code KELLI5 for 5% off at www.deathvalleynails.com *
Use code KELLI2021 for 5% off at www.beetlesgel.com/referral/k... *
Use code KELLI for $10 off the ORLY Color Pass at www.orlybeauty.com/pages/sign-up-for-color-pass
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NAIL POLISH 101:
How to fix gloopy top coat: bit.ly/gloopytopcoat
How to paint your nails perfectly every time: bit.ly/paintyournailsperfectly
How to clean up your manicure: bit.ly/cleanupnails
How to do gradient nail art: bit.ly/ultimateombre
How to fix smudged polish: bit.ly/smudgedpolish
How to paint with your non-dominant hand: bit.ly/paintbothhands
How to cover up chipped nail polish: bit.ly/chippednailpolish
What is jelly polish? And how to use it: bit.ly/jellypolish
All about stamping nail art: bit.ly/2Swd2rk
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The camera I use: amzn.to/36Ie7nr *
LIQUID LATEX: amzn.to/2T0KaaJ *
MATTE TOP COAT: amzn.to/2yzmzoP *
Dotting Tools: amzn.to/2xqIRJo *
Striping Tape: amzn.to/2WXlZMm *
Nail art brushes: nailstuff.ca/#ak99ya4lfko (code KELLIMARISSA for 10% off!*)
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INSTAGRAM: @kellimarissa
TWITTER: @kelli_marissa
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FTC: Polishes are PR with no obligation to post unless stated otherwise. Links marked with * are affiliate links, which means I make a small commission off any sales :) I appreciate your support!!!
00:00 Introduction
00:22 Disclaimers
01:41 My favorite base coats
09:32 My favorite nail strengtheners
14:56 How top coat works
16:55 My favorite top coats
23:45 Reminders
25:40 Fun fact

[@teresawise7331]

This is my community. I thought I was the only one who changed my manicures 4-5 times a week. 😂 🙌🏼 💅

[@chisanainoris5364]

My dream 🥹 I have small kiddos so can’t do as many but I can’t wait to be that person lol.

[@mae1813]

2 or 3 times a week 😂

[@immnotaboutthatlife2086]

Not sure why but I’m always ready to go to the next color after applying polish.

[@PinkWytchBytch]

I do it whenever I can since my hubby keeps us busy and out of the house (because of COURSE he suddenly wants to be an outdoorsman 😒) my advice is to stay up late and do them while everyone’s asleep, that’s how I’ve had to start doing it. It may take til 2 in the morning but it’s very peaceful

[@kelsiechiles2457]

My partner is thinks im mad 😂

[@mnn-np5li]

I just had to say after coming back and watching this a second time...your videos are SO informative! I learn so much each time! Thanks for putting so much time, effort, detail, and thought into your videos. I also appreciate how authentic you are. If I'm spending money on products, I want to know all I can before making a decision and not all channels do that.

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh gosh thank you so much for the kind words! I'm so happy you find my content helpful :)

[@jodyricottone1388]

ABSOLUTELY AGREE

[@jilllandefeld3829]

⁠@@KelliMarissa.surprised you didn’t include Nailtiques, which has completely transformed my weak stubs into real lady nails! What do you think of it?

[@rachelgarcia2116]

The word shrinkage always reminds me of Seinfeld. 🤣 Thanks for all the great recommendations!

[@lauratarkenton4869]

Thanks Kelli! I truly appreciate these types of videos you do. They help me a lot! I will say as a 49 year old woman with ridges in my nails now I love all the Orly brand products (as you always say they are super self leveling). When I wear Orly my ridges are completely covered up even with pearlized and shimmer polishes. Thanks for introducing me to Orly. 👏 It has become my fave for this reason. 😍

[@tomjones2157]

Ooh good tip I'll have to try them!

[@emilyr2836]

If your nails are prone to peeling, be careful with Orly Bonder - it bonds so well to my nails that it takes the top layer of my nail with it when it chips!

[@tomjones2157]

Oh gosh thanks for the heads up. My nails are so thin I can't afford to loose any more layer to peeling!

[@eileen58]

Disclaimer on the Cuccio base coat, definitely doesn’t prevent long term staining for anyone curious. It’s nice and sticky/grippy though and for some reason comes off of my nail with rubbing alcohol, not just nail polish remover.

[@KelliMarissa]

Thanks for sharing your experience with it!

[@eileen58]

@@KelliMarissa Anytime Kelli! 😊

[@poturtle]

That Bonder Base flex! I wasn't expecting it hahaha

[@KelliMarissa]

LOL, a lifetime supply 😂😂😂

[@Motley14]

I'm going to have to try the Orly Shining Armor. I always use their In A Snap Quick Dry Topcoat, which I love. And for folks in the comments: I find Orly and OPI base/top coats at Marshalls and TJ Maxx all the time, so those are great places to look for discounted nailcare and polish.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh great tip!!

[@carolineseneca]

I got an OPI top coat for $3 at TJ Maxx!

[@2cut32handle]

The ulta near me is having a sale on Orly for $2

[@tomjones2157]

I like Orly in a snap as well. Even when a bottle is years old it doesn't dry out and is usable to the end. No shrinkage and stays shinier longer than Seche Vite which dulls on me on day 3.

[@suzannelove5436]

Kelli, you’ve got to try the Cuticula Limitless topcoat! I’ve tried many many indie and mainstream topcoats and nothing compared, you will love it!

[@KelliMarissa]

I knooow I have to try it!! It sounds amazing!

[@nikkumsnails]

Cuticula Mic Drop Base is super quick drying and the Limitless Top is also amazing.

[@fairygrl999]

my favorite top coat to date! i feel like it's similar to seche vite, but i like using limitless much better!!! and i got it from Polish Pickup, where they had a gummy bear scent!! super yummy

[@heidistutzman3278]

Its so thin, my least favorite of indie top coats.

[@fairygrl999]

@@heidistutzman3278 can i get ur rec on ur favorite indie top coat? or ur go to top coat in general! i like limitless but tbf i haven't tried too many :)

[@melisa_moore]

This is the most excited I’ve ever been for a video upload. I audibly gasped when I read the title. 😆 Just the advice I needed!

[@KelliMarissa]

Haha yay! I hope you find a good pick in here!!!

[@ReillyWilde]

I use Orly Nail Defense as a base coat since some of my nail tips get small splits. When used on prepared/clean nails, Orly nail products last 6-7 days; minimal tip wear & rarely chips.💅🏻

[@juliesnyder2344]

Crazy as it sounds . . . I use Sally Hanson Insta Dry - Clearly Quick as top coat. Try it!! It drys instantly and I never have creases in the morning.

[@shaz8486]

I’ve used that too, you’re right it dries soooo fast !

[@pristinabread]

KELLI IS HERE.....skids to a stop. Rejuvacote during the lock down days changed their bottle to look like the same size but the bottom of the glass is thicker - therefore same price, less product. This turned me off. Seche vite gel effects is the best top coat I have ever used in my life.

[@KelliMarissa]

😂😂💜💜💜 - oops, commented before you edited. That is terrible, I bought a bunch before lockdown so I haven't gotten a new bottle in a while!!

[@Remingtons209]

It is great, but toulene is terrible :( so I won’t use it anymore

[@taylorm1965]

@@Remingtons209 I feel the same way. I love the seche vite topcoat but the toluene in it deters me from using it

[@glitterallynat]

Orly Bonder is my go-to base coat, and Polished for Days has taken over as my favorite top coat! They have great blurring bases in different shades as well. I’m hoping to see them in a Small Brand Sunday. 😉

[@ajwilliams9725]

I totally LOVE the Halo Taco Super Glossy Taco - every time I use it on anyone who hasn't tried it before, they go buy it. It's bomb! the Orly Bonder basecoat is honestly my go to favorite as well. :D

[@pamelaleconte4457]

Holo Taco is wonderful!!

[@kikibirdball]

It's great but after a while the formula gets thick and unusable 😭 Edit: oops you said SUPER glossy taco not the glossy taco

[@mkg2124]

​@@kikibirdballyeah I had the same experience with the regular glossy taco. Loved it when it was new and now after a few months it's already stringy and hard to get an even layer.

[@elevatedintuition]

Thanks for this! I used to get gel manicures, but switched over to now doing my own nails, and I know NOTHING. Lol. Well, now I know something because I've been binge watching your videos.

[@Brittfawn]

I’m currently using OPI infinite shine base coat and Holo Taco super glossy taco and this combo is amazing! I get a good 10 days with my manicure before it starts to crack but it never chips by the time I’m ready to change it. I have no idea why it cracks instead of chipping but I’d rather have the cracks than chips 😅 I wanna try out the ILNP base and top coat. ILNP is my favorite nail polish formula so I’m sure I’ll love them 💕

[@bribri0786]

I have to say, the Orly Bonder base coat is the best I’ve ever tried. I always see you use it and I was dying to try it 😂. Two coats of that and my color lasts for a minimum of 5 days before it starts to even think about chipping. OPI’s Natural Nail base coat is pretty good too.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ahh yay I'm so happy you love it too! Fun Fact, OPI base coat was actually the first base I ever used! Definitely enjoyed that one but I did get a couple stains with more intense colors haha!

[@bribri0786]

@@KelliMarissa thank you for the great recommendations!

[@kellyestrada2456]

I never considered 2 coats of base coat! I’ll try that!!

[@bribri0786]

@@kellyestrada2456 It works really well for me!

[@cynthiajfaulkner8655]

@@KelliMarissa Yes, my nails were blue today after using my OPI basecoat and OPI polish, so no excuse there, either.

[@beckihuynh5337]

Thank you so much! I have been using Seche Vite for years and thought I was doing something wrong because the shrinkage was so bad. I will check these out! 😍

[@MoodysMood-lt6wh]

Yeah, Seche is my go to. I cap it. That helps.

[@auburrito5168]

Orly bonder is amazing. Surprisingly I like the seche vite in the clear bottle. I don't get shrinkage with it, but I think applying it at the right time is key. Too wet and you get wrinkles and too dry and you get the shrinkage. You almost have to wait until your polish is just at the tacky stage.

[@tanhome7]

I really like the Seche Vite quick dry top coat in the blue bottle. It’s so glossy and dries super fast

[@jules_13]

@@tanhome7 Does it stay shiny for a long time? I use the seche vite in the clear bottle and it always seems to lose its shine after 3-4 days

[@tanhome7]

@@jules_13 I think it does ok keeping the shine ✨ I’ve never found anything better than my tried & true Revlon gel (not actual gel) shiny top coat that used to come in the black bottle. Not sure if they’re still making it but that’s the best in my humble opinion.

[@spindlesending]

Man, your eyeshadow is BOMB today!

[@jenw5854]

This video was a game changer for me! The Orly Bonder + Armor topcoat give me a manicure that lasts a solid 4 days!! I’ve been doing weekly manis the last month and it’s ridiculous how happy my nails make me! Thanks!

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh my gosh that makes me so happy to hear! I'm glad it's helped 🤗😊

[@christineanonymoud925]

I'm glad you did this video kelli I found this super helpful and the part about the layering your strengthener and base coat over each other before the polish is a really good idea and next time I'll definitely try it 😀

[@violetviolet888]

Been waiting for this video. Thanks for the thoughtful reviews! Maybe one day you could talk about the science of how a base coat and top coat work. Perhaps a nail polish company would be happy to be interviewed about the topic. And how much nail prep is ideal. Oil... amount of minutes > dehydrator/alcohol/acetone + number of minues > basecoat, ridgefiller, polish, top coat, etc. A video on ridge fillers would be appreciated as well. Gets worse the older you get and I refuse to buff and remove any nail plate.

[@claudia8861]

all those are great ideas! I second them!

[@sarw522]

Another great indie top coat is the Glisten & Glow top coat! Retails for $6.50. Strong smell but works SO well

[@leisarock]

I use this one too!

[@teresagabriela5806]

I’m blown away at the idea of using the Bonder to make my stamping work better~ thank you!

[@mimibeard7460]

Thank you for this video. I never thought the base coat was so important. Because of you, my manicure will last a lot longer. Your the best. 😊

[@darrellwendyjenkinson8972]

Thank you thank you thank you!! Been waiting for this video for a long time and it doesn't disappoint!

[@luciditykitty2960]

Definitely saving this video! Thank you for doing this. I'm one of the ones who have been waiting (patiently!) Love the Orly Base Coat refill bottle! I could place that next to my gallon of acetone 😱Livin' life on the edge!

[@kathryng9296]

Thank you for this!! I've always wondered what your recommendations are, excited to watch x

[@KelliMarissa]

Yay, hope you find it helpful!!

[@kathryng9296]

@@KelliMarissa I did! Also wanted to add I'm enjoying your new schedule, it gives me something to look forward to on Mondays haha

[@lifeandrandomness1868]

Idea for new video: advanced nail art (reverse stamping, foils, powders/pigments/chromes) over various [non-gel] 'sticky' bases. You do these comparison/101/nail art videos so well, Kelli! You're a real asset to the community...keep up the great work!!

[@TheFelinescience]

Would also love to see

[@Claire21438]

Have recently discovered the ILNP base and top coats. Love them both. They are the only ones I’ve found that don’t rub on the free edge. Brush is great in the top coat!

[@KelliMarissa]

Agreed, I really love them and I've been using them nonstop since they were released!

[@lideabarker8161]

ILNP makes quality polish at a reasonable price. I love their products. I do, however have trouble with their website color presentation for some reason, the colors are always off when i get the polishes. Still, love their polishes.

[@fairygrl999]

@@lideabarker8161 i feel like i find that with ILNP, cirque (at times), and especially Mooncat. i have 4 mooncat polishes and i feel like they were all off from the website swatches which is annoying cuz they're so pricey

[@lideabarker8161]

@@fairygrl999 Yes, I find that annoying as well, although, I will say ILNP was nice enough to send me a replacement color when I asked if I could return one of their colors i didn't think matched the swatch. free of charge.

[@fairygrl999]

@@lideabarker8161 ooh that's super good to know, thanks

[@angelaa1083]

Thanks! I was looking for a super shiny top coat. I love your videos! ❤

[@hayleycooper9264]

Yay!! Been looking forward to this video for awhile, I recently got Orly Bonder because you always use it in your swatch and reviews and I am very impressed. Can't wait to try out a couple more of your favorites. Thanks for the great video, as always!

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh thank you so much!! I'm glad you're enjoying it, it's definitely my fave 😄

[@claudia8861]

Fantastic topic! I watched it twice. The second time, I slowed down the video to compare the brushes. Thanks so much for your dedication and great quality videos!

[@urbeautifil641]

Love Your Vids! Been watching several years! Still so informative & thorough as usual! Thanks So Much! Your Shadow is Pretty!😊

[@jessicastevens5782]

Was pleasantly surprised by how phenomenal Andor is; and that's w/out seeing Rogue One. I'm sure I'll get more out of it when I catch up on the movies

[@KelliMarissa]

Leah's been trying to convince me to watch Andor, although I'll admit I wasn't a big fan of Rogue One. Maybe it's time to give it a try lol!

[@jessicastevens5782]

It is definitely a different vibe. I've only seen the 1st 6 movies, and love the Mandalorian. Bobba Fett doesn't hold any interest, not super into the animated stuff, love Ewan McGregor, but didn't want to be disappointed in Obi Wan. Really started Andor out of boredom, but it has piqued my interest in the whole universe again, but maybe b/c it does feel different to me. The non-subtitled Kenari stuff threw me at first

[@xpresson6338]

​@Jessica Stevens if you like the mandalorian you must watch the Book of Bobba Fett... its very very good. I only watched it because of the grogu story and was pleasantly surprised. There's quite a few references to the return of the Jedi.

[@Valsveryown]

Yay!!! thank you thank you thank you for these recommendations!!!

[@jennyamessler3805]

Your analysis and eloquence are both phenomenal. Thank you so much Kelli. You’re amazing! 🤩

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh you are so kind, thank you!!

[@leslie6485]

Thanks for the video! Very useful for us nail polish enthusiasts!

[@lisapierce525]

Thanks to you Kelli I love the Orly base coat, kbShimmer top coat and Rejuvacote2. The Rejuvacote stopped my nails from peeling and splitting when I first started using it and now I use it once or twice a week as a base or over polish if I leave it on for a few days. I’ve also found the regular kbShimmer base coat smoothes out my ridged nail and levels out nicely. I so appreciate this video and all your help in my new love of nail polish. Also, I took a leap and bought my first jelly, ILNP Up Above. I love it so much I’m ready for more! ❤

[@bluefroggy99]

I’ve been using the Seche Vite top coat and love it. I’m going to have to try the Seche Vive.

[@heartandseoul1299]

Orly bonder is definitely my favorite but my all time favorite top coat is Cuticula’s quick dry. It’s amazing. Fries so fast and is the perfect hardness and amazing shine

[@meganlestrange]

I love orly bonder base and holo taco long lasting base. Seche vive used to be my favorite top coat but then i discovered cuticula limitless and thats been my favorite for awhile now. Once im done with that current bottle i have a glisten and glow top coat im going to try out.

[@tanhome7]

I use that blue bottle Seche Veet all the time and like the glossy finish as well as the quick dry!

[@tinaesshaki4963]

When I started getting into nail polish I fell into the Seche Vite craze and it caused so much shrinking on me. Then I discovered the fast dry top coat from Glisten & Glow and never went back. I've been using it for years and just love it!

[@laceym3662]

That top coat is SO good. It's my favorite.

[@etzweilerl]

Recently I’ve been enjoying Death Valley Nails base coat and top coat. The top coat especially is super duper thin which takes some getting used to but it makes for a lighter manicure

[@dominiquesangiovanni6902]

I’ve been waiting for this!!!

[@nykka3]

I’m a fan of the Orly base coat binder and the Cirque Colors base and top coat. Chef 😘

[@KelliMarissa]

Great picks!!

[@bluefroggy99]

I like the ILNP base and top coat!

[@christophersmeriglio1408]

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Ive been waiting for this for YEARS! :D

[@KelliMarissa]

Haha! It's finally here!!

[@kimalonzo3363]

Hey Kelli 👋 Thanks for the info. I will be checking out one of the top coats!

[@continuallycountingchicken7338]

I loooove Holo Taco’s Glossy Taco! I used another one and it was eh. I tried Holo Taco’s and fell in love immediately!

[@randomharts]

Thank you Kelli! This was a much anticipated video and very much appreciated. I love Orly's products and Essie's Strong Start and Speed Setter...super easy to get my hands on both of them! Excited to try KBShimmer and ILNP's versions though🥰

[@pinpingmckay8041]

Nail envy is my go to. Yes I think it helps my nails grow. I use as a base coat

[@laceym3662]

I use the KBshimmer fillin' groovy under all my white crellies! It's so good.

[@Creppycookies]

I ha e to try Orly Bonder base coat ASAP, love the look 💖💖💜💜

[@subi1677]

Yes, yes, YES!!! So glad you did this video ❤. So helpful. Thx😊

[@KelliMarissa]

Yay I'm happy you enjoyed it!! 😋

[@lindseyn3413]

i’m so excited! i loved seche vite but the shrinkage! i will try seche vive:)

[@hhcompletesme]

Your shirt totally reminds me of your collab polish "Pink Hair Don't Care" I love it!

[@KelliMarissa]

Ahh thank you!!

[@monicariley4096]

Hi, Kelly. I am hooked on all Orly products. Thank you for the strong recommendations.

[@KelliMarissa]

I'm so glad you enjoy them too! Orly has such amazing quality.

[@nikkumsnails]

I love KB Shimmer's Top Coat, too!!! Wearing it now over a thermal! Amazing shine!!!

[@stephaniemoulton]

How quickly does it dry for you?

[@nikkumsnails]

@@stephaniemoulton dry to the touch in a mere couple of minutes.

[@stephaniemoulton]

@@nikkumsnails Thanks for replying! Yup, gonna have to buy this one now. :D

[@jmdoula]

I have loved Dermelect Makeover since I got it in a Fab, Fit, Fun box years ago and you are the first person in the nail community who I've heard talk about it! I thought maybe I was crazy that I loved it so much but no one ever talks about it. I have gone through several bottles and just bought my first CamoNude. I gotta say my yellowish tips (natural, not stained) need that strong blue shimmer from the Makeover to make them appear whiter when I go 'bare' nailed.

[@elizabethannveronica]

Cuticula mic drop the base coat and limitless top coat- hands down, best combination I have used. Wear nail polish for 6-7 days and it lasts through toddlers and lots of dishes. But I also do love the orly bonder- used that all the time before I found Cuticula.

[@jeannettebarnes2193]

I love the Ilnp base and top coat. I was using the orly bonder base and the orly top coat. I've switched over to ilnp. I haven't had any chipping when I wear either of them.

[@pattiespolishcorner3274]

I was using Rejuvacote 2 until I found out it had formaldehyde resin. I finally found a10 free strengthener that I love, Maxus Strengthener 2.0 😊 After that, I switched to Maxus base and top coats. Lol, I use seche vite on my swatch sticks. I can usually find them for around $3 a bottle. Great video. It's nice to know about other base and top coats.

[@chie261]

Yessss. I’ve been waiting for this video. I’ve been using the Orly Bonder Base Coat since I noticed you use it so often, and it’s been my go-to along with the Holo Taco Smoothing base. I’ve been looking a favored top coat for awhile, but you rarely mention your top coat in your videos. 🤣 I’ve been using the Seche Vite and I haven’t noticed any shrinkage but it gets thick really quickly. I’ll have to pick up a bottle of the Orly when I next place my order.

[@laquerisma]

I'm due for a new base and top. Will consider the Bonder. I love INM Out the Door top coat. No shrinkage and fast dry/long lasting.

[@iijellydog]

Orly binder base has actually helped with staining for me - mine stain really easily! I miss KBShimmer’s Free & Clear, but their Clearly on top is good too. If you want a scented top coat, try cuticula!

[@sadhsingh]

I completely agree on Orly Bonder Base. It's so evident how good it is. Also agree on the Cirque ones but I wish the bottles were a bigger size. I go through them too quickly! Thanks for the tip on OPI Nail Envy - I am always looking for anything to grow my nails. 👌🏽

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh I would LOVE to see Cirque start selling refill bottles, especially of their top coat.

[@kathymathiesen7436]

My current favorites are Orly Bonder basecoat, Rejuvacote 2 and Orly Polishield. I can't wait to try Orly Shining Armor.

[@katiepare9685]

I tried polishield for the first time this week and love it whereas when I tried the shining armor last year, I wasn't thrilled. Bc of this video, in going to retry the shining armor❤

[@catalina9844]

I will definitely out that cirque or inlp top coats. I just got my first order from cirque and I cannot believe how gorgeous their jellies are! I have seen your searches but they are next level

[@jenXer]

I decided to paint my nails while watching this video. What a surprise that I started with the 1st base coat you talked about Orly Bonder, but I finished with the last top coat you talked abou, SecheVive. What a fun coincidence

[@itsthemintbunny]

This is sooo helpful! Been wanting to try some new base coats as I've usually only tried Essie or OPI, but I wanna know what else may work well on my nails. I love that you give multiple options that aren't necessarily ranked. Now I've got plenty of new products to try throughout the year! Thank you!

[@JennSterner07]

Highly, highly, highly recomment Andor, The Clone Wars, and Rebels - I was a late comer to Star Wars (grew up watching them because friends made me, but didn't love them until The Force Awakens) and my absolute favorite pieces of the universe are those three series. They're just so darn good and do a fantastic job expanding out the world, mythology, and characters!

[@BrittneyLovesGames]

Kbshimmer top and base coats were my original favorites too. My current favorite top and base coats are from vibrant vinyls. You can get it scented or not scented, it dries very quickly, and it doesn't cause shrinking. For reference, I have long natural nails and I wear nail polish for 2 weeks with no chipping. I also double top coat my nails cause they can get beat up from work.

[@carolgerstmann4852]

What a great video! Such great info thank u! I've tried Rogue Laquer's gel like topcoat desert sun, it's quick dry and glossy and 8.50!

[@MissBinkerton]

The cuccio basecoat worked fantastic for me when I used it as a base for painting decals on plastic. It peeled up so nicely when I was finished. Then I used a thin coat of orly bonder base to make sure they stuck to my nails! I've really fallen in love the b-quick top coat from a brand called LynBDesigns. It is a little thicker, but it makes my nails so glossy and smooth! Also dries pretty darn quick. I'm impatient and don't time anything, so I couldn't tell you how fast. 😂 My nails are naturally brittle but I was using cuccio 3 in one treatment and ridge filler and that seemed to help my nails a lot over the winter. Thank you for the great video!

[@NinaBobina3]

The orly rubberized base coat is my favourite!

[@KelliMarissa]

Imo it's the best!!

[@FrOzMOB10]

You should try the Glisten & Glow fast drying top coat, as well as their glitter grabber top coat!

[@marissaho2576]

I found the clearly on top really shines with glitters, reflective, or other textured polishes! No glitter grabber/smoother needed!

[@mimi-xx]

orly bonder is amazing! definitely has its good reputation for a reason. i love seche vite & vive as top coat options, although my go-to right now is essie gel couture! (despite the name, its not a gel polish!) i dont even really use their polishes that often, but that top coat is SO easy to work with! i especially appreciate that, as opposed to seche vite, you can use it on dry nails, because i definitely like to take my time with mine.

[@Littlesamsnails]

I've been waiting for this day! Such an anticipated topic. I would be curious to know how the top coats apply in terms of smudging? Could you do a video on no smudge top coats too?

[@eightmagpies]

Oh my gosh I've been waiting for this for years 😅 thank you. I don't really worry about staining, because for me it seems dependent on the nail polish, and for the ones that stain there is no base coat that will stop it. I worry about durability and also what will not damage my nail -- some base coats seem to leave my nails more damaged.

[@ericajaye666]

I love the Essie Gel Couture top coat. It makes the nails thicker like gel.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ohh yeah that's a good one!!

[@mimi-xx]

yesssss essie gel couture is amazing! super easy to work with too.

[@irenemoneeo]

I've tried a lot of indie brands and regular store brands, and found two amazing brands that does not shrink the polish, dries fast and makes it glossy. Cuticula Mic drop base coat and Vibrant Vinyls Fast & Hard top coat. Both comes in many different nice smells that usually holds in 2 days, at least on me. This is my 2 faves. Highly recommends. Thanks for a great video as always!😘

[@denisebynum3533]

You've made me fall in love with doing my nails again! OMG I can't get over the Seche Vive. I did the best manicure of my life the other day. I've been looking for this for soooo long! My nails dried. They were shiny for two days before I needed to redo it with a new color. Thanks for making this. Please don't be hesitant about your opinions. As long as you always say that it's been "your experience...." people still want to know what a SME thinks!!

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh yay I'm so happy you're enjoying the best hobby ever (nail polish!) 😊

[@boymomgirlingkinda55]

So excited to see Seche Vive top coat in you favs! It’s the only one I will use because of how good it is and how fast it dries and yet I never see anyone mention it!

[@Woolsa]

I love NailAid base coats. They make my nails so strong

[@GlassShark86]

I'm more excited for this video than for regular polish videos!

[@KelliMarissa]

Haha! I hope you find it helpful!!

[@amybourget6046]

I do like the Orly Bonder Base and was using that one for a long time. Now I use Beauty Garde Rocket Fuel which has been helping me grow my nails and thicken them up. It is $22, but does work really well. I love the Seche Vite Gel Effect Top Coat. I have been using it for years and it dries so fast. I do have the Orly armor one that I received in my Orly Color Pass that I receive. I am going to try that one today when I do my nails. Thank you for this video. I was happy to see the Seche Vite in this video. I value your opinion very much and at least I know that you approve of this top coat and agree that this a good one. Hope you have a wonderful day.

[@tracywren9681]

I love Orly Bonder, and I've been using the Starrily Guardian lately. My nails don't stain as bad with Guardian and I love the Dermelect too but they are pricey and I'm almost out of them. I really like this video and I seem to always find the shrinking top coats, so I took notes 💜 Thanks Kelli.

[@KelliMarissa]

Yay I'm glad we have some overlapping faves! I love the Starrily Guardian as well! It's also got that blurring quality to it.

[@venusianshadow]

The Holo Taco Super Glossy Taco is my absolute favorite top coat and smells so fricken good.

[@janea87ta]

I just tried the Orly Shining Armor and I love this top coat! I stopped doing acrylic and just started painting my nails and was using the Insta Dry clear from Sally Hanson for my top coat. It’s good but used this one and..wow..it dried my color fast and much shinier. Thank you for your videos 🤗

[@KelliMarissa]

I'm so glad you like it too!!

[@stellamarie1065]

My base coat is usually what is closest at hand. That's usually Orly Bonder or I use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat. Until recently I haven't found one base coat to be better than any other but I tried Essie's Here to Stay and I was really impressed. My polish has almost lasted a week with it. My HG top coat is Out the Door. I've used it for years. I've tried other quick dry topcoats and nothing dries as fast IMO. But i think it does cause shrinkage sometimes. I didn't know what it even was until recently. I 'd rather have shrinkage than smudged nails 😂 but I might have to branch out and try one of your suggestions.

[@bethwood-young5967]

The Seche Vie is my favorite. I have had a bottle for over six months and it has not gotten thick like the regular. I take mine to my nail tech when I get fills and pedicures. It is that good!

[@KelliMarissa]

It really is a superior formula to the original!

[@geniej2378]

I use the Revlon quick dry base and top coats and apart from some shrinkage from the top coat, they make for a quick manicure that is long lasting.

[@melanopygus]

I've tried many base coats and the Revlon one gives me the longest wear time

[@geniej2378]

@@melanopygus I haven't tried out any indie base or top coats, but I'm happy using what's easily available to me (and you can't beat the price of the drugstore!)

[@beckyschmidt8347]

I recently started using the Orly Breathable Protein Boost treatment and it's totally on my list of faves.

[@rachelm.7435]

This was much needed, thanks so much for taking the time… Completely understand everyones nails are different, but will try some out… just did my nails and yes, top coats are needed… smudged in 1st hr after using nail LED like to dry each coat🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@hearnoevil7]

Had to leave a comment to say you were absolutely right about the orly bonding base and shining armor top coat. I watched your videos to choose between ILNP shades, and finally before buying I realized I needed a dependable base and top coat. I was very relieved you had a video on it. This combo gives me gel results and chip free longevity without the crazy removal process. Last brand I used before switching to gel was Essie and it doesn’t compare. The orly combo with ILNP has converted me back to polish for good. Gel removal was something I really put off/slowly damaged my nails and I was not a fan of committing to one manicure long enough to justify the removal time - But lacquer always chipped or dented within a day or two. Glad I gave it another shot. This has been a total game changer. Can’t wait to try more indie/boutique brands. (And glad I switched before developing a gel allergy or something. 😅)