Most top coats leave your nails with a shiny finish, though some provide a more reflective, high-gloss effect. If your nails dull within a few days, you can always apply a touch-up coat to refresh the shine.

Christine Doan is a former nuclear engineer turned licensed cosmetologist and content creator. Her brand, Gloss House, features nail art and design services in the San Diego area. UK mainland only. Surcharges apply to the following locations The Channel Islands & Isles of Scilly OPI Topcoat is a clear nail lacquer that helps to protect your nails, prevent chipping (of polish) and helps to deliver a high gloss shine. You use OPi Topcoat once you have applied your nail lacquer, and it has had sufficient amount of time to dry.

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OPI Rapid dry has extended-wear technology, so as it is fast drying, it also helps your nail polish last longer.

It does contain Formaldehyde Resin, which appears to be a derivate Formaldehyde, and is added for its nail strengthening effects.Though, its important to note that it may cause allergies in those with particularly sensitive skin. Then there's matte polish, which delivers a flat sheen. Matte top coats can be applied over regular shiny polishes to dull the finish and provide a shine-free velvety effect.

For best results, OPI recommend that you use a base coat, preferably the OPI base coat, before you apply your nail lacquer, and then the topcoat. What Is OPI Topcoat Made Of (The Ingredients)Regular nail lacquers are similar to paint in that they air-dry. Gel nail polish, on the other hand, will only dry and cure under a special UV or LED lamp. You can get one of these lamps online or at a beauty supply store. In short, it will help to seal in color and extend wear of your manicure. How Do You Use OPI Top Coat?

I also find it can be quite the challenge to apply evenly, which is essential to get the most out of it.

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As long as your regular nail polish is completely dry, you can apply a gel top coat over it. For best results, wait several hours before applying the gel on top to ensure the lacquer is completely hardened underneath. Full ingredient list: Ethyl Acetate, Butyl Acetate, Acrylates Copolymer, Alcohol Denat./SD Alcohol 40-B, Cellulose Acetate Butyrate, Tosylamide/Formaldehyde Resin, Trimethyl Pentanyl Diisobutyrate, Etocrylene, Benzophenone-1, Dimethicone, CI 60725 (Violet 2). My Experience With OPI Topcoat OPI Top coat is a good option if you want to seal in your manicure and better protect your nails from day-to-day wear and tear. AB, DD8, DD11, IV, KW1 KW14, PA21 PA40, PH17, PH26, PH30, PH35, PH37,PH39, PH41, PH49, PH50, KW15, KW16, KW17, ZE, HS, PA20, PA41, PA49, PA60, PA75, PA77, PA78, KA27, KA28, PH42, PH44, IV40