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

[@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 😂

[@twobluestripes]

I think you are a unicorn among Star Wars fans for saying that the prequel trilogy is the peak. I don’t think I agree, but I support your bravery in saying it! 😂

[@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!

[@95turbogirl1980]

Good to know!!

[@joywagner979]

I put a layer of "Nail Therapy" polish on under the Bonder base coat. That way, when the Bonder inevitably peels off, it peels the layer of polish off rather than the topmost layer of my nail.

[@alliarsenic]

I heard if you out a protein polish before it-this wont happen.

[@rachelgarcia2116]

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

[@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?

[@poturtle]

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

[@KelliMarissa]

LOL, a lifetime supply 😂😂😂

[@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! 😊

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@thriftyminia]

I’m gonna have to give Snap a try, I think I also have Orly Sec n Dry. They both came with my Orly Bonder which I also purchased at TJ or Marshalls. I’m always checking out their polishes

[@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

[@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.💅🏻

[@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.

[@scali1121]

@@tanhome7 It's the best top coat. Gel like, super glossy and fast drying. Vegan & cruelty free.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 !

[@asboukcomfortable1670]

I like Sally Hansen insta dry clear Topcoat but it chips real fast! Now I use Zoya Armor Topcoat and Zoya Anchor basecoat, very chip resistant, flexible and very strong 💪 nail polish! But Zoya,Armor Topcoat isn't very shiny or glossy, which I like! Sometimes matte, sometimes shiny polish! UK 🇬🇧

[@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 :)

[@blissfulregret]

Orly Shining Armor Quick Dry Top Coat. Period. SO SHINY! DRIED SO QUICK! ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. Thank you so much for this. I've been struggling to find a top coat that didn't completely ruin my carefully laid color!

[@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. 😉

[@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

[@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!!!

[@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!

[@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. 😊

[@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 🤗😊

[@faith8303]

I recently started polishing my natural nails and the amount of joy I have when I finish is surprising. I use to dread the process of going to a salon. I am so grateful I don't have to walk in a salon ever again.

[@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

[@katelynp12]

I think the Bonder bottle is cute and I love that it stands out from all my other polish so it’s easy to pick out 🙂 I want to try that top coat now!

[@MeowMammy]

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.

[@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.

[@lalalaxbrittny]

ZOYA stan here!! Lovr the orginals but the super glossy from the naked line is 😍😍😍 i love holo taco too but those get so thick, goopy and stringy not even halfway through the bottles and polish thinner doesn't fix it..i honestly surprised more dont complain about it

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!)

[@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!😘

[@scali1121]

Orly Nail Defense Treatment does it all. Great as a base coat, nail strengthening and as a top coat. Another great one is the China Glaze First & Last base & top coat. Seche Vive gel like top coat in the blue bottle for the extra glossy finish is unbeatable.

[@spindlesending]

Man, your eyeshadow is BOMB today!

[@gaylecooley3630]

I always use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat, it makes my nails super strong and protects them well. If I am wearing a very light color, I will often use Cuticula Melt down on top of the nail envy to even out the color, and if I am wearing a super staining polish, I will use Starrily Guardian on top of the nail envy. I have tried lots of topcoats, but keep coming back to Seche Vite. I have used it for years and have never had the shrinkage so many talk about. Maybe it's all in the timing of when you put it on, I don't know, but it never shrinks for me.

[@rubyspolishednailz]

Great video, I use Seche Vite fast dry for my topcoat and you're right it does separate the polish from the cuticle area, but I found a way to use it and it works. What I do is apply a clear polish and let it dry for about three minutes, then apply the fast dry Seche Vite, it really works for me. I will give Orly topcoat a try, TFS 👍🏽🥰

[@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!

[@Kastil]

My absolute favorite base coat is Vibrant Vinyls Double Bond. I can get it scented. My favorite top coat is from Night Owl Lacquer. I've tried others and just always come back to these.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh I haven't tried either!

[@Kastil]

@@KelliMarissa I still need to try Cuccio!

[@shaniclarke8395]

I use Nail Defense by Orly as a base coat and highly recommend it! I paint my nails 2-3x a week and have never had an issue with stains. It has also worked wonders for my brittle, chewed on, finger nails! I really want to try the top and base coats by ILNP!

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh I gotta try that one!!!

[@erinmabry9047]

Nail Defense saved my nails after I left acetone on them for way too long trying to remove reflective glitter. It was the only product that stopped them from shredding and peeling and now I can use regular base coat again.

[@emilylarsen3380]

i absolutely LOVE nail defense!! i don’t get “duck nails” after the shower when i use it

[@shaniclarke8395]

@@emilylarsen3380 haha I have to ask, what are Duck nails??

[@emilylarsen3380]

@@shaniclarke8395 it’s when you get your hands wet and your nails absorb water and become more flat than normal at your free edge. usually after the shower they’re very fragile and prone to ripping from being swelled with water but nail defense prevents that for me!

[@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.

[@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! ❤

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@MinaLobo]

It's Cuticula's Mic Drop 3-in-1 Scented Base Coat (in the scent Sorcery!) for me! 🥰 Edited to add: And I LURVE Glisten & Glow's Top Coat!

[@sandra37cooks]

Love Glisten & Glow topcoat and ridge filler!

[@teresagabriela5806]

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

[@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.

[@LenaSudnikowicz]

Oh, Kelly! Bless you for this beyond an informative video! I've used numerous top coats and they all had a considerable shrinkage so I gave up and thought that it was a characteristic typical to ALL top coats. I'm elated to learn that this isn't the case at all, you restored my faith in getting a non shrinking quality stuff that won't pull off my nail colour. It's an absurd how many expensive top coats I purchased in the recent months just to be met with a disappointment. I swear I could get masters in eye rolling for each and every top coat always did the same - ruined my perfectly painted nails. Thank you so much for this! I'm off to buy some of your recommended products and i know they'll work because I trust your judgement, Kelli. Love ya! Xx

[@christinecassien8248]

So many good recommendations, orly bonder has been my favorite for many years now. But I have a super important question, what eyeshadow are you wearing? I love this look! 💜💜💜

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh thank you! It's a mix of palettes haha, I've actually started listing the eyeshadows and polishes I'm wearing in the description!!

[@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.

[@InvisibleRen]

I’m currently using Essie ‘Here to Stay’ longwear base and Ella + Mila ‘What the Gel’ gel-like top coat. The E+M has a glass finish (not a squishy finish as some other gel effects). Because of this, it would crack if your nail bent (not chip but literally a long crack along with the polish underneath) so I discovered this hack after reading about real gel top coats cracking after curing: I paint my nails, let them dry for 18-24 hours depending on the number of coats and formula, then apply the top coat. No more cracking! 😊 I saw many in reviews complain about the cracking with ILNP’s top coat and I think this hack could work. Unfortunately, applying it to 100% dried nail polish a day later might cause it to shrink 🙃 (it doesn’t shrink if applied just a few minutes after your nail polish); I’m still trying to test out if the shrinkage is just with certain polishes or universal. I probably need to find the right window of time to prevent both cracking and shrinking; I do want to finish this bottle before I try something else. My bottle of Seche Vive is already sitting barely used in my case because I didn’t know it contained toulene when I bought it. On a side note, I tried both my current base coat and top coat with other base and top coats, and my nail polish would still peel off in sheets after 1-3 days. Only by using both together do I get actual chips after 3+ days. 🤔 Orly Bonder never did much for me. It is a big bottle; I still have my first bottle I bought years ago because I periodically try it again since everyone loves it but 1. It doesn’t prevent my polish from chipping or peeling 2. It doesn’t protect against staining and 3. It smells way too strong. I thought it might be because I have oily nail plates but hearing that you also do 💔 guess that’s not it. 😅 I always get upset because I just don’t understand why it doesn’t work for me when it works so well for so many others. But now that I have Essie ‘Here to Stay’ which works really well, I’m not as upset 😂

[@tomjones2157]

To use up my Seche Vite I apply by an open window.

[@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. 😅)

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@joeleenkline946]

Thank you so much for clarifying the difference between the quality of Seche Vive vs. Seche Vite. I have used Seche Vite for so many years and thought I was doing something wrong. I also use Orly products which I love but I find Seche doesn’t smear my nail art. Thanks again I believe I asked a few years ago when you would recommend base and top coats!!!

[@tanhome7]

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

[@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!) 😊

[@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.

[@Siw4545]

I used to use sally hansen before Holo taco launched because it was easy access. Almost 4 years later, I almost exclusively use smoothing base and glossy taco from Holo taco. I have tried orly bonder base coat and I do like it but their glosser is not very good imo

[@radayar]

I use the same holo taco products 🙌

[@nykka3]

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

[@KelliMarissa]

Great picks!!

[@lilphoenix]

I use Seche Vite and you saying it's prone to shrinkage suddenly makes so much sense!! I used some cute nail stickers on my last manicure and they all warped like crazy, I was so confused and upset! I think I might try the Orly top coat next, I've been using their polish a lot lately and their brushes are so comfy to hold. Also! As you go through all things Star Wars, I highly highly HIGHLY recommend Andor!! I did not know what to expect from that one, but it ended up being one of my favorite shows to come out recently.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh everyone's recommending Andor! I'll add it to my list to watch next haha!!

[@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!

[@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

[@jennyamessler3805]

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

[@KelliMarissa]

Oh you are so kind, thank you!!

[@cerddoriaeth21]

OMG a fellow prequel fan?!?!?! This makes me soooooo happy hahaha they're my faves too! But everyone always bashed the heck out of them for years. I am absolutely loving the renaissance they're having now, it's so deserved. Ewan McGregor mentioned something similar during the Kenobi release, it just makes me so happy. So glad you enjoyed your foray into Star Wars and that you aren't turning back :)

[@KelliMarissa]

Haha yeah everyone seems to hate them but honestly I think star wars really peaked in the prequel trilogy!!

[@BreezyStreamy]

I have both Shining Armor and Power Shield ORLY top coats and I think I like Power Shield better! It pretty much dries my nails in a minute where Shining Armor does too but there is still time for indentions. I think the difference between the two is that Shining Armor may be just a tad bit more thicker than Power which is probably why I don't prefer it since I tend to put on thicker layers. Power Shield was the lil added extra to the new ORLY Summer box and I think that was my favorite from that box in total. That collection wasn't bad, but wasn't getting me hyped either.

[@mollymccray6648]

I love the Seche Vive instant gel top coat!!!✨♡

[@sheilasamuels1066]

Thanks for this video. I like Orly Bonder and Duracote. I think the #1 is for people whose nailed are recovering from wearing gel nails. For top coat my #1 is Rogue lawyer Desert Sun. It is the only one that keeps my nail polish from yellowing, like pink polish looking orange or blue turning green within two days. Also lasts and wears well.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh I havent tried their top coat but I have been loving Rogue!!

[@marissaho2576]

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

[@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?

[@pinpingmckay8041]

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

[@FrOzMOB10]

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

[@katrinhasnolife]

My friend recommended their base and top coats and I've had mixed results with staying power. Sometimes just the top cost peels off :/ Also their top cost smells really strong to me.

[@ashleymainmakes]

I do love the orly bonder for wear time, it really helps. Although I do think more polishes stain through it, but you only figure it out because you are wearing them so long 😝 (I wore here for the pay day for the whole week last week... yikes) I still use regular seche vite, I wasnt a big fan of the gel one and I can get it in industrial bottles like the orly base on amazon, but I think they reformulated because I havent had that issue in several years with it. I think having a sticky base coat like the orly one is helpful too.

[@lideabarker8161]

Well, I tried the KB Simmer ridge filling base coat and although I think the filling part is good it took FOREVER to dry. The top coat seems good, but I'll have to wait and see how well it holds up. I have used Sally Hansen hardener for years and like it as it dries quickly and also works well as a general base coat. Sinful colors also has a really good base coat but it can be hard to find, so my last bottle I had to get online. Sally hansen Hard as Nails top coat has been my "go to" for a long time, so I will have to see how these products compare. Do love your reviews and you have saved me money on buying things I would probably not like. Thank you.

[@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!

[@leahchase3699]

Is there a KZbin setting to auto-like all videos by a creator??! I would totally hit that button! Thanks as always Kelli. 🙏 I personally am hooked on KB Shimmer’s Clearly On Top… it is AMAZING! (I like 2 x coats.) Stays super shiny, it’s a nice firm top to the nails, and no tip wear or chipping. 🥳

[@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

[@SometimesMyself]

Never liked the Seche Vite. I always found it too gloppy and much preferred the Sally Hansen Insta Dry top coat (favorite of all time), but I have some Seche Vive arriving today. Thought I would give it a try, and I’m glad to hear you’re a fan! As for base coat, I’ve used Orly Bonder for years and years. Love these videos!

[@KathleenGWhiz]

I should try that other seche top coat. Lately, I've been drowning my nails with Out the Door fast drying top coat. It's great.

[@leopardqueen86]

I want to try the KBshimmer products! I currently use the orly bonder and i use the seche vite in the clear bottle. I haven't noticed shinkage but i do notice that it makes certain polishes crinkle, depending on the finish. Maybe thats also shinkage? Not sure.

[@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!

[@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.

[@CallMeGussie]

Ooooh been hoping you'd do one of these. I have personal favorites and I also change mine 2-3 times a week so I try not to break the bank. Hot take: combo base and top coats aren't actually both 😂 base should dry to a grabby finish, top should dry fast to a glossy smooth. I find most combos only work as base. My favorite top coat is a drugstore, LA Colors Color Last in the square bottle. Thick gel style but air dry polish no lamp needed, wide flat brush, dry in about two minutes, $2 at Walmart and $3 most other places, no shrink but the thick formula takes some getting used to.

[@evayaaasantewaa448]

My first base coat was Orly Bonder, which is great. After working with Bonder, I heard about Seche Vite and tried it. Since then, that's been my fave, and I use the top coat, too, with never any of the problems some users have cited. I rely on it! Chipping is extremely rare, but I don't keep a mani on for more than a few days. Tip wear happens, but it's minor and, again, I change polishes relatively frequently--2-3 times per week--just 'cause I'm having fun with this stuff. I might try the Seche Vive next time, though. Thanks for this helpful video!

[@barbaramarino6191]

I’ve been using the Seche Vive since I saw it on Tati’s channel and I have to say it’s amazing . Looks and feels like a gel mani !

[@tomjones2157]

I like the Seche Vite base coat because it's super thin and fries fully in only a few minutes! Other base coats all take 5 - 10 minutes to fully dry for me.

[@evayaaasantewaa448]

@@tomjones2157 Whew! I could never tolerate a base coat that took that long to dry! I'm trying OPI's base coat which I picked up recently at either Marshalls or TJ Maxx, and it's not bad. Does not take long to dry. I'm also trying Orly Glosser, bought at the same time. While I definitely prefer Seche Vite for the top, Glosser is not bad with *two* coats of it, for a look of depth, and is super-gleamy. The Seche Vite products are still my faves, though.

[@cynthiacarter532]

Wish all these products existed in the mid 1960's when I was a teenager and started doing my nails! Revlon was the popular brand back then. Been using original Seche Vite for years, I used to have shrinkage with it, but the past few years it hasn't been an issue.

[@urbeautifil641]

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

[@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.

[@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🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@hippie2mars]

Sweet & Sour Lacquer’s Gloss Sauce and Dreamland Lacquer’s “Ooh Shiny” are my favorite quick dry top coats.

[@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!!

[@venusianshadow]

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

[@bluefroggy99]

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

[@koalalily]

If you're ever open to trying a new brand top coat, i strongly recommend polished for days crystalline. 5 free quick dry. Once i used it, i never looked back.

[@KelliMarissa]

Ooh I'm still dying to try that brand in general! I'll get my hands on them soon!

[@ashemobaby]

I was thinking about getting the ILNP base coat and top coat set they have on their website. I watched this video first because I wanted to see if you had any favorites that could be better. I have the Seche Vite (clear bottle) top coat and the shrinkage is awful. Plus it thickens up quick and has to be thrown out. I was so disappointed with it because I had heard good things about it from friends. So thank you. I will finally have a base and top coat I really like. I already have the Bonder base coat from Orly. I also have the Orly spritz dry so if nail polish takes forever to dry just spritz it on and it dries within a minute or two. It is great! I have like five bottles of it so I never run out. 😂 Orly and ILNP are definitely my favorite nail polish brands so I am happy to hear they have great base and top coats. 😁 Thank you Kelli for an informed and great video!

[@marissaakins6546]

Anchor & Heart Lacquer has a beautiful line of base and top coats. That is what I primarily use now. Their nail care line is a chef's kiss. They are 5 free (sans toulene) whereas brands like seche vite, orly, and even Glisten and Glow are not.