Nail bonder and base coat can be confusing at times. Both products aid in one common goal which is increasing adhesion to the natural nail. Although they differ both chemically and in the way they promote adhesion.
Nail Bonder vs Base Coat
A nail bonder is a UV gel base that is applied directly to the natural nail. The product is a 2-in-1 product that acts as a primer and as a gel base. The nail bonder is acid-free which increases the adhesion of the gel.
A small amount of the product is applied after polishing the natural nail and the product has to dry in the UV lamp for 1 min. These bonders are of great importance to a great and durable manicure session and can make you stress-free for a longer duration.
A base coat is a clear nail polish designed specifically for adhesion to natural nails. Although the polish may visually appear the same as any other clear top coat type, that’s why base coats have unique chemical compositions for a sleek manicure or pedicure job.
Spreading colored nail polish directly onto nails may produce a lumpy and chipped appearance. That’s why base coat polishes use specialized solvents as conveyances for the other polish ingredients. In addition, applying base coats to the nail bed ensures that the nail is safe from damaging chemicals that may occur in colored nail polishes.
Nail Bonder vs Base Coat: When To Use?
Nail binders consist of about 10 different resins which are used in different combinations to meet the manufacturers’ desired function. A popular resin currently being used in nail bonders is called a BISGMA, which is UV light-activated and also popular in the dental industry for fillings and fastening crowns on teeth. Therefore, nail bonders should be used;
- Before nail polish
- Before gel polish
- Before UV/LED Gels
- Bonders can be used with any nail enhancement to help promote adhesion.
Note: For acrylic nails, a nail bonder should be used before primer on clients who are prone to lifting.
For the base coat, the product should be applied before polishing. Wearing a base coat will help the polish to stick better on your nails. It will improve the durability of your nail polish application.
Note: Whenever you’re applying the base coat apply it the same way you would polish, with three strokes, and always seal the free edge. This way, it will prevent the nail polish from chipping too soon
Nail Bonder vs Base Coat: How To Apply
For the nail bonder, apply a thin layer like nail polish and let it dry in the air. It takes approximately 3 to 5 seconds, to prepare the nail for the application of the acrylic base. Nail Bonder increases the adhesion of the gel or acrylic layers applied afterwards.
For the base coat, apply 2 thin coats. Make sure not to put too much product on the nail, and remember to only a thin coat. The main reason why it is important to add a second coat of base is that it adds flexibility to the nail.
It also helps the color gel to adhere to the nail, creating a perfect finish overall. Then cover the entire surface edge to edge then cap the free edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Nail Bonders The Same As Base Coat?
Not all but some versions of a nail bonder can be used as a base coat polish. Nail bonders provide maximum adhesion of polish upon the nails and work best with fake nails.
What Goes First? Nail Bonder or Base Coat?
The base coat should be applied first, then the nail bonder. Followed by the gel nail polish and the top coat.
You might want to check out: How to Apply Jamberry Nails – 4 Easy Steps