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Though we’re always game for a paint job that involves the brightest and boldest colors sitting atop our dresser or at the salon, some 2020 nail trends call for the exact opposite. Yes, vibrant shades aren’t going anywhere, but there’s also negative space to consider. We’re talking nail beds that aren’t covered in one color but accented with lines, dots or textured accessories instead. And if there’s one non-negotiable tool for pulling off this trend, it’s without a doubt the best base coat nail brands have to offer.
We know what you’re thinking–who needs to really think about which base coat to get when they’re all practically the same? True, most of them are clear, but when you’re also combatting setbacks like chipping, pesky out-of-place ridges and stains from previous manis, we’d say they’re worth considering a bit more. Plus, the technology behind this underrated, but important part of the polish process is in the midst of a serious upgrade.
These days, there’s everything from spray-on bases to superfood-infused ones to choose from, depending on your specific needs. And as always, the ones with that deliver super glossy finishes are always in vogue. So whether you’re keeping it clean and simple with a cool neutral or prepping your nail beds for an updated French manicure, here are the best, top-rated base coats to choose from.
Dermelect.
This pro-strength, sheer nude polish does everything from fill ridges to brightening the nail beds to protecting against polish stains.
Sally Hansen.
This new base coat is key to strengthening your nail beds during and in-between manicures. It’s also part of a larger “Beautifiers” set with a product for every part of your nail routine.
Sally Hansen.
The staple nail care brand made dreams come true with this time-saving formula, a first of its kind. Formulated with actives that deliver nourishment to dry nail beds, prepping your digits for cool designs has never been easier…or more fun, TBH.
Tenoverten.
We love everything about this vegan nail brand, but especially the 8-free base coat, made with horsetail leaf extract, an ingredient that’ll up the strength of your nail beds.
Nails Inc.
No, you can’t eat it, but this base coat is all about feeding your nails botanical extracts and plenty of keratin so they can feel as good as they look with a fresh coat of paint.
Deborah Lippmann.
Protein-rich to strengthen fragile nails, this starter and finisher deliver a glossy finish so you can feel just as fab without color on your digits.
OPI.
If you’re working on your at-home gel mani, this two-part system ensures that you’ll have high gloss shine that lasts, whether you’re opting for color in between or not.
Londontown.
No soaking or UV light needed to get that high shine finish on your naked or color mani, minus the chipping of course.
essie.
This formula is infused with ceramides, aka the stuff that forms your skin’s barrier, to fill uneven surfaces, strengthen the nail and deliver a sleek-looking finish.
Zoya.
Vitamins, proteins and amino acids that mimic the natural structure of the nail. What more could you want in a base coat?
Morgan Taylor.
The best part about this base coat meant for gel polish is that you don’t have to soak your hands to remove it.
butter London.
In addition to horsetail extract for strengthening, this powerhouse base coat also includes biotin for pumping up growth and calcium for addressing chips and ridges.
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