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The Best Nail Polish Top Coats of 2024

Get ready for the ultimate nail game-changer! Find the best products to keep your nails looking flawless for days.

  (photo credit: PR)
(photo credit: PR)

Our Top Picks

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O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat
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INM Nail Polish Top Coat
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Seche Vite Nail Polish Top Coat
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Zoya Nail Polish Top Coat
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Sally Hansen Nail Polish Top Coat

It's a situation we've all faced: you've just finished painting your nails in your favorite hue, only for it to chip or lose its shine within a day or two. Enter the nail polish top coat, the unsung hero in the world of at-home manicures. This clear polish acts as a protective layer, prolonging the life of your meticulously applied color and giving it that fresh-from-the-salon gloss. We dove into a sea of top coats, scrutinizing their gloss, durability, dry time, and ease of application, all to help you navigate this often overlooked part of your beauty routine. Relying on our rigorous research methodology, we've narrowed down the seemingly endless options to our top picks. Whether you're a nail-art enthusiast or just someone seeking a chip-free daily wear, there's a top coat amongst our selections that will meet your needs. Now, let's dive in and find your perfect match.

1

O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat

O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat
O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat

Despite being the final step of your manicure, the O.P.I. Nail Polish Top Coat is the most important to achieve that high shine and long-lasting effect. This brilliant topcoat will transform any color into a glossy and durable finish, making your nails look like they were done by a professional. This product will keep your nails chip-free for days. With an affordable price point, this topcoat is a must-have in your nail polish collection.

Rated 9.8 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Brilliant high shine, Chip and smudge resistance, Fast-drying classic formula
Cons
Doesn't offer extra-strength protection

2

INM Nail Polish Top Coat

INM Nail Polish Top Coat
INM Nail Polish Top Coat

If you want a top coat nail polish that provides a long-lasting shine without breaking the bank, look no further than INM Nail Polish Top Coat. This 2.3-ounce bottle packs a punch with its quick-drying formula, creating a smooth and glossy finish. Plus, its easy application process means you can have salon-quality nails without leaving your home.

Rated 9.6 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Fast-drying formula, Long-lasting shine, Smooth application
Cons
May cause shrinkage

3

Seche Vite Nail Polish Top Coat

Seche Vite Nail Polish Top Coat
Seche Vite Nail Polish Top Coat

Picture yourself with salon-quality nails without having to spend a fortune. The Seche Vite Nail Polish Top Coat is the ultimate solution for those who want to achieve a glossy, chip-resistant finish that can last for weeks. This 2-piece assortment comes with a generously sized 4 oz refill and a 0.50 oz bottle, giving you more bang for your buck. This top coat dries quickly, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about smudges.

Rated 9.4 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Fast drying with shine finish, Long-lasting wear, UV protection
Cons
Strong smell

4

Zoya Nail Polish Top Coat

Zoya Nail Polish Top Coat
Zoya Nail Polish Top Coat

This nail polish top coat provides a high-gloss finish that will keep your nails shining for days. With its chip-resistant formula, your nails will remain protected while the topcoat seals in your nail polish for an extended wear time. Overall, this nail polish top coat is a high-quality and affordable option that will elevate your nail game to new heights.

Rated 9.3 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
UV-resistant finish, Quick-drying formula, Protects and extends wear
Cons
Consistency may be a little thick

5

Sally Hansen Nail Polish Top Coat

Sally Hansen Nail Polish Top Coat
Sally Hansen Nail Polish Top Coat

Sally Hansen Nail Polish Top Coat is the ultimate solution for a long-lasting and glossy manicure. This pack of two top coats is a game-changer, providing up to 14 days of chip-resistant wear without UV light. The formula dries quickly, giving your nails a salon-quality finish. And the best part? This top coat is incredibly affordable, making it the perfect addition to your beauty routine without breaking the bank.

Rated 9.1 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Gel-like finish, Creates a sleek, finished look, Easy to apply and remove
Cons
Not entirely chip-resistant

6

INM Nail Polish Top Coat

INM Nail Polish Top Coat
INM Nail Polish Top Coat

The INM Nail Polish Top Coat is the ultimate product that dries super fast and lasts for days! The top coat is formulated to give your nails a high-gloss finish that is resistant to chipping and fading. One coat is all you need to achieve a professional-looking manicure. This top coat is affordable, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to keep their nails flawless without breaking the bank.

Rated 8.8 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Dries super fast, Non-yellowing formula, Prevents chipping and extends the wear
Cons
Small size

7

O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat – Vegan & Cruelty-free

O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat – Vegan & Cruelty-free
O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat – Vegan & Cruelty-free

Step into a world of vibrant, cruelty-free nails with the O.P.I Nail Polish Top Coat. This top coat provides a high-shine finish made from natural and vegan ingredients. You'll love the long-lasting results and the fact that it's generously sized at 0.5 fl oz. Not only does it offer exceptional value, but it's also easy to apply. Treat yourself to a guilt-free, affordable manicure and experience the best of both worlds: beauty and ethics.

Rated 8.6 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Vegan and cruelty-free, High shine, Natural origin ingredients
Cons
Not the most durable formula on the list

8

Excuse Me Nail Polish Top Coat

Excuse Me Nail Polish Top Coat
Excuse Me Nail Polish Top Coat

If you've ever faced the frustration of waiting for your nail polish to dry, you need Excuse Me Nail Polish Top Coat. The top coat dries your nails in a flash, leaving them with a mirror-like shine. Whether you're a nail polish enthusiast or a professional, this top coat is guaranteed to become your go-to for achieving a fast-drying and super shiny finish.

Rated 8.5 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Doesn't smudge polish, Great value for money, Fast-drying formula
Cons
May have strong odor

FAQ

Q: Why do I need a nail polish top coat?

A: A nail polish top coat protects your manicure, preventing chipping and adding shine. Some also strengthen nails or speed up drying. Overall, it's essential for a lasting and attractive finish.

Q: How do I apply a nail polish top coat?

A: First, make sure your colored nail polish is completely dry. Then, apply a thin layer of top coat over each nail, making sure to cover the tips of your nails. Allow the top coat to dry completely before adding a second layer, if desired.

Q: How often should I apply a nail polish top coat?

A: It is recommended to apply a nail polish top coat every 2-3 days to maintain the longevity and shine of your manicure. However, if you notice any chipping or dullness, you can add an additional layer of top coat to refresh your nails.

Conclusions

After researching and testing various nail polish top coats, it's clear that a good nail polish top coat is essential for achieving a long-lasting, glossy manicure. The top coats we reviewed each had their own unique qualities, but all provided a high-shine finish and quick drying time. No matter your requirement, there is a product to fit every need. Overall, incorporating a top coat into your nail routine is a simple yet effective way to elevate your at-home manicure game.