Base Coats Vs Nail Primers & Dehydrators - Differences

Summary

This video explains the differences between base coats, nail primers, and dehydrators, all of which extend the life of manicures and prevent lifting. Nail dehydrators remove moisture to help acrylics or gels adhere, while nail primers treat the nails for better adhesion, with acid-free primers being the safest. Base coats, which are either for gel or regular nail polish, create a flexible, adhesive layer. The video provides guidance on when to use each product, how they work together, and debunks common myths, such as the misconception that a base coat can replace a nail primer for acrylics.

Takeaways

• 😀 Base coats, nail primers, and dehydrators all work to extend the life of your manicure and prevent lifting.
• 😀 Dehydrators remove moisture and oil from the nails, allowing acrylics or gels to adhere better.
• 😀 Nail primers treat the nails to make acrylic or gel products adhere more effectively.
• 😀 There are two types of nail primers: acid-free (gentler and safer) and acid-based (stronger and harsher).
• 😀 Base coats are clear polishes applied before gel or regular nail polish to increase durability and prevent chipping.
• 😀 There are two types of base coats: gel base coats (for gel products) and regular base coats (for regular nail polish).
• 😀 Base coats are usually applied first, before gel nails, poly gel, gel polish, or regular nail polish.
• 😀 Nail primers are typically used before applying nail extensions like acrylics or gel nails, but can also be used for regular polishes or press-on nails.
• 😀 Nail primers should only be used when necessary, especially if you have issues with lifting, peeling, or chipping.
• 😀 You can use a primer and base coat together to improve the durability of your manicure, but it’s not required unless you're prone to chipping or lifting.
• 😀 Base coats cannot be used as a substitute for a nail primer in acrylic nails; acrylic nails require nail primers and dehydrators.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of base coats, nail primers, and dehydrators?

The main purpose of base coats, nail primers, and dehydrators is to extend the life of your manicure and prevent lifting by improving adhesion of the polish, gel, or acrylic to the nail.

How do dehydrators work and when should they be used?

Dehydrators work by removing moisture and oil from the surface of the nails, allowing acrylics or gels to adhere better. They are generally used before applying acrylics or gel to ensure proper bonding.

What is the function of a nail primer?

A nail primer treats the nails to make acrylic or gel products adhere better. It works either by creating a sticky layer that holds the product in place or by creating microscopic tears on the nail surface for better grip.

What are the two types of nail primers and how do they differ?

The two types of nail primers are acid-free primers, which are the safest and most common, and acid-based primers, which create microscopic tears on the nail plate but are harsher and can be more damaging to nails.

What is a base coat and how does it help a manicure?

A base coat is a clear polish applied to nails before the main nail product (gel or regular polish). It helps the product adhere better, makes the manicure last longer, and provides a flexible layer to prevent chipping.

Can you use a nail primer and base coat together?

Yes, using a nail primer and dehydrator along with a base coat will help make your gel nails or regular polish more durable. However, it is not necessary unless you're prone to chipping or lifting.

When should you use a nail primer?

A nail primer should be used before applying acrylic or gel extensions, or when you're experiencing issues with lifting, peeling, or chipping. It is not always necessary for regular nail polishes.

Can a base coat be used as a primer for acrylic nails?

No, a base coat cannot be used as a primer for acrylic nails because base coats are designed for gel products or regular nail polishes, not acrylics. Acrylics require specific nail primers.

Are there different types of base coats for different types of manicures?

Yes, there are gel base coats for gel nail products and regular base coats for regular nail polishes. These base coats are formulated to enhance the adhesion and durability of their respective products.

Is it safe to use an acid-based primer regularly on nails?

No, acid-based primers are harsher and should be used sparingly. They are effective for better adhesion, but frequent use can damage the nails. Acid-free primers are a safer option for regular use.