Best Nail Polish Base Coat of 2025

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

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A nail polish base coat is a crucial step in achieving a perfect manicure. It is a clear, adhesive layer that is applied to the nails before the coloured polish. The primary function of a base coat is to protect the nails from staining and to provide a smooth surface for the polish to adhere to, resulting in a longer-lasting and more even finish. Additionally, some base coats are formulated to strengthen and nourish the nails, promoting healthy growth. There are various brands and types of nail polish base coats available in the market, each offering unique benefits and features.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Rimmel London 7 in 1 Nail Treatment Cover #TOP 1
Rimmel London 7 in 1 Nail Treatment
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mylee Nail Gel Rubber Base Coat 10ml Cover #TOP 2
Mylee Nail Gel Rubber Base Coat 10ml
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Beetles No Wipe Gel Base Coat 15ml Cover #TOP 3
Beetles No Wipe Gel Base Coat 15ml
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Nail Polish Base Coat

#TOP 1

Rimmel London 7 in 1 Nail Treatment

3616304789861
Clear
12 ml (Pack of 1)
Rimmel London 7 in 1 Nail Treatment Cover
Rimmel London Nail Care 7 in 1 Multi Benefit Base & Top Coat

The Rimmel 7 in 1 Treatment is an all-in-one solution for your nails. It features a quick-dry formula, allowing you to get on with your day without waiting ages for your nails to dry. As a base coat, it helps to protect your natural nails and enhances the longevity of your nail polish. The glossy top coat adds a beautiful shine, giving your nails a polished look. Additionally, it strengthens and fills ridges, which means healthier, smoother nails for you.

What We Like
Quick-dry formula
Glossy finish
Nail strengthener
Ridge filler
Colour protection
#TOP 2

Mylee Nail Gel Rubber Base Coat 10ml

MG-BASE-RUB-10
Rubber Base Coat
10 ml (Pack of 1)
Mylee Nail Gel Rubber Base Coat 10ml Cover
Mylee Nail Gel Polish Rubber Base Coat 10ml - UV/LED Nail Art Manicure Pedicure for Professional, Salon & Home Use - Lasts up to 3 Weeks, Easy to Apply, No Chips, Durable & Safe, Vegan & Cruelty Free

The Mylee Rubber Base Coat is designed to provide strength and flexibility, making it ideal for those with soft, thin, or splitting nails. Its smooth formula helps to eliminate ridges and imperfections, ensuring a salon-quality finish. With each layer, you'll reinforce and protect your nails, extending the life of your manicure. Additionally, this base coat pairs perfectly with Mylee's extensive range of gel polish shades, allowing you to achieve a chip-free look that lasts up to three weeks with ease and confidence.

What We Like
Strengthens weak nails
Smooths out imperfections
Long-lasting, chip-free results
Compatible with various nail types
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 3

Beetles No Wipe Gel Base Coat 15ml

BT-BC001AU
301-Base Coat
1 ml (Pack of 1)
Beetles No Wipe Gel Base Coat 15ml Cover
beetles Gel Polish 15ml Base Coat - No Wipe Gel Base Coat Shine Finish and Long Lasting Soak Off LED UV Nail Lamp Gel Top and Base Coat Nail Art Design Manicure

The Beetles Gel Base Coat is a 15ml product designed to enhance your nail polish application. Its no wipe formula ensures that the colour gel adheres effectively to your nails, preventing peeling and prolonging wear for over three weeks with proper use. The base coat is made from 9 toxin-free ingredients, making it a healthier option with low odour. Additionally, it is easy to remove, with no need to wipe off tacky residue, allowing for a smoother application process and better performance of your nail art.

What We Like
Long-lasting up to 3 weeks
Toxin-free and low odour
No wipe needed after application
Compatible with all gel brands

Essie Strong Start Ridge Filling Base Coat

3600531512743
13.5 ml (Pack of 1)
Essie Strong Start Ridge Filling Base Coat Cover
Essie Nail Polish Nail Care Strong Start Ridge Filling, Smoothing Nail Polish Clear Base Coat, 13.5ML, Strong Start (As Strong As It Gets)

Essie Strong Start is designed to strengthen weak and brittle nails. With its new strength-boosting formula infused with biotin, it helps to reinforce your nails, making them more resilient against peeling, chipping, and breakage. This means you can enjoy a beautiful manicure without the worry of damage. The clear base coat provides a smooth surface, ensuring that your nail polish applies flawlessly. Experience the benefits of stronger nails with Essie Strong Start, and enjoy the confidence of a lasting manicure.

What We Like
Strengthens weak and brittle nails
Infused with biotin
Prevents peeling and chipping
Provides a smooth application
Enhances overall manicure durability
#TOP 5

Maybelline Superstay Primer for Stronger Nails

3600531400309
10 ml (Pack of 1)
Maybelline Superstay Primer for Stronger Nails Cover
Maybelline Superstay Strength Primer Protecting Base Coat

The Maybelline Superstay Primer is designed to prep, plump, and perfect your nails with its unique super coats trio. This protecting base coat leaves your nails feeling stronger, ensuring they withstand daily wear and tear. As part of the Maybelline New York range, this nail primer not only guards against damage but also fortifies your nails, giving you peace of mind. Its easy application makes it convenient for anyone looking to enhance their nail care routine.

What We Like
Strengthens nails effectively
Protects against damage
Easy application process
Part of a reputable brand
#TOP 6

Nail Experts 7-in-1 Treatment by Avon

Avon
10 ml (Pack of 1)
Nail Experts 7-in-1 Treatment by Avon Cover
Nail experts 7-in-1 Nail Treatment by Avon

The Nail Experts Treatment by Avon is a versatile 7-in-1 nail treatment designed to nourish and protect your nails. With a convenient 10 g size, this product serves as a base coat for nail polish, ensuring a smooth application and a longer-lasting finish. It helps strengthen your nails, making them less prone to breakage, while also providing hydration for improved health. By incorporating this treatment into your nail care routine, you can enjoy beautifully manicured nails that look and feel great.

What We Like
Versatile 7-in-1 formula
Strengthens nails
Hydrates for healthier nails
Base coat for polish
Convenient 10 g size
#TOP 7

Nails.INC Get Hard Base Coat with Retinol

Clear
14 ml (Pack of 1)
Nails.INC Get Hard Base Coat with Retinol Cover
Nails.INC Get Hard Base Coat, Hardening Base Coat Infused with Retinol, Protects and Smooths Nails, Chip Resistant, Cruelty Free, Vegan

The Nails.INC Get Hard Base is designed to nourish and strengthen your nails with its hardening formula, which includes biotin, kale, spinach, and mushroom. This unique base coat works to protect and smooth your nails in just one week, helping to prevent breakage and encouraging healthy growth. It also features a chip-resistant shield enriched with retinol, ensuring your manicure lasts longer and looks impeccable. With easy application, you can enjoy beautiful nails with minimal effort.

What We Like
Nourishing hardening formula
Strengthens and protects nails
Chip-resistant shield
Easy to apply
Cruelty-free and vegan
#TOP 8

Beetles Gel Base and Top Coat Set

0.5 ml (Pack of 2)
Beetles Gel Base and Top Coat Set Cover
Beetles 2Pcs Gel Base and Top Coat Set No Wipe Upgraded Mild Formula Glossy UV Top & Base Coat Long Lasting Effect Soak Off No More Damaged Nails Gift for Women Girls

The Beetles Gel Coat Set features an upgraded mild formula that ensures a healthier nail care experience, making it safe for your nails. Its easy-to-use design includes a soft brush that smooths nail pits and enhances polish adhesion, allowing you to achieve a professional finish at home. The long-lasting formula provides a glossy, mirror-smooth effect that can endure for over 14 days with proper application. Additionally, the no-wipe feature reduces the steps needed for application, making it efficient and convenient for busy users.

What We Like
Healthier ingredients for nails
Easy application with soft brush
Long-lasting glossy finish
No wiping required

Modelones Gel Top and Base Coat Set

20 ml (Pack of 1)
Modelones Gel Top and Base Coat Set Cover
Modelones Gel Top Coat and Base Coat, 2Pcs 10ml Gel Nail Polish No Wipe Top and Base Coat Set, Glossy Shine Long Lasting LED Soak Off For Home DIY and Nail Salon

The Modelones Gel Coat Set offers an impressive long-lasting effect, ensuring your manicure lasts for over 28 days. Its upgraded formula provides a smooth, mirror-like finish, making it easy for you to achieve beautiful gel nail designs at home. The set is made from 11 toxin-free ingredients, ensuring safety for your skin while enhancing adhesion between your nails and colour gel. Additionally, the flexible top coat protects against nicks, chips, and smudges, giving you a glossy shine that looks freshly done for weeks.

What We Like
Long-lasting up to 28 days
Toxin-free ingredients
Easy application for beginners
Glossy, mirror-like finish
Protects against nicks and chips
#TOP 10

Modelones Nail Prep Dehydrate for Strong Adhesion

MZ-0322
15 ml (Pack of 1)
Modelones Nail Prep Dehydrate for Strong Adhesion Cover
Modelones Professional Natural Nail Prep Dehydrate, Nails Superior Bonding Primer for Acrylic Powder and Gel Nail Polish 0.5 oz 1pcs Dual-use, Fast Dry Dehydrator Base Varnish Manicure Bonder Liquid

The Modelones Nail Prep is designed to ensure strong adhesion for your acrylic and gel nail applications. By using this product, you can effectively prepare your natural nails, preventing lifting issues that often occur. It reduces nail oil levels, creating a balanced base for your gel application. This means you can enjoy a longer-lasting manicure and a more professional finish. Moreover, it is compatible with all gel varnishes and acrylic supplies, making it a versatile addition to your nail care routine.

What We Like
Prevents lifting issues
Reduces nail oil
Compatible with all nail products
Easy to apply
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is base coat nail polish?

A base coat creates a protective layer between your nail bed and the nail polish in order to keep nail damage at bay—think peeling, stripping, breaking, and all the bad stuff—and to shield your nails from the gross yellow discoloration that often comes along with reddish, pinkish, or dark colors.

2. Is nail polish base coat necessary?

A base coat is your best defense against staining. It "provides a clear protective layer between the nail and the pigment of the polish above," says Waldorf. A good rule of thumb is that the darker the color, the more important it is to use a base coat.

3. What is a good base for nail polish?

Best Long-Lasting: Orly Bonder Base Coat This product is made on a base of rubberized resin, so it's designed to give polish the best chance at longevity. It actually dried slightly tacky, but this is on purpose to give polish something to hold on to.

4. What happens if you don't use a base coat with nail polish?

It all depends on what color you plan on using on your nails. If you are using a clearer coat polish not using a base coat would allow you manicure to not last as long as using one would. If you are planning on using a color polish without a base coat, it may stain your existing nails after you remove the polish.

Editor's Notes

During our nail polish base coat research, we found 198 nail polish base coat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 201,687 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nail polish base coat list. We found that most customers choose nail polish base coat with an average price of £6.83.

The nail polish base coat are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nail polish base coat, including Rimmel, MYLEE, beetles Gel Polish, essie, Maybelline.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.