The Ultimate Top Coat Guide
Discover the best top coats for long-lasting, salon-quality manicures. From quick-dry formulas to high-gloss finishes, find your perfect match.
Why Top Coats Matter
One of the most frequently asked questions we get from you is if our nail wraps require any sort of top coat. The cool thing is, you really don't have to, but the addition to a top coat can extend the life of your Nerd Manicure for up to two weeks!
⭑ While definitely not required, adding a top coat to your #MisfitManicure is like unlocking an extra shield for your nail armor. Think: more shine, extra chip-resistance, and your wraps lasting up to two weeks! (Who doesn't want bonus days of fabulous?)
✨🥚EASTER EGG🥚✨: That is the one and only Ashley Johnson with the Baker Street Nail Wraps while on set with us! Check it out the BTS here! ⬆️⬆️⬆️
In our trial and error, we actually found that when it comes to our nail wraps, not every top coat brand is created equally and in fact, some may actually damage your manicure before you've had the chance to really enjoy your nail art.
That being said, we've compiled a list of brands of top coats we've found to work well with the wraps, and a few that actually hinder their longevity.
✧ ESPIONAGE TEAM TESTED & APPROVED TOP COATS ✧
- ✧ Beauty Secrets Top Coat
- ✧ Essie Gel Setter Top Coat
- ✧ FingerPaints Endless Wear Top Coat
- ✧ Formula X Shine Nail Top Coat
- ✧ Revlon Colorstay Gel Envy Nail Enamel
- ✧ Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish Top Coat
- ✧ Wet 'n' Wild Wild Shine Top Coat
- ✧ Wet 'n' Wild Wild Matte Top Coat
- ✧ Wet 'n' Wild Glitter Top Coat
- ✧ INM Out the Door Super Fast Top Coat
✧ TOP COATS TO AVOID ✧
- ✧ China Glaze Fast Forward Top Coat
- ✧ INM Out the Door Fast Drying Top Coat
- ✧ Julep Freedom Polymer Top Coat
- ✧ Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat
- ✧ Revlon Quick Dry Top Coat
- ✧ Rimmel Lasting Finish Pro Base & Top Coat
- ✧ Sally Hansen Ultimate Shield Base & Top Coat
- ✧ Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
- ✧ Essie No Chips Ahead
Got a fave (or a horror story) not listed here? Help us keep this list fresh— and leave a comment on this blog with your recommendations!
✦ SUPER PRO-TIPS: Top Coat Edition ✦
⭑ Fast Dry Top Coats = Game Changer
If you're all about living life in the fast lane (or just super impatient like us), fast dry top coats are your new BFF. They set in minutes and come in every finish—classic glossy, no-UV gel, matte, and even iridescent shimmer for those unicorn vibes.
⭑ Glossy Isn't the Only Option
Want to level up your nail wrap game? Try a sheer opalescent or glittery quick-dry polish as your top coat! If you live for extra sparkle, this is the move. We love the sheer/iridescent fast-dry polishes from Sally Hansen—specifically the Insta-Dri Illusion Top Coats and Miracle Gel Step 2 lines. They're drop-dead gorgeous!
⭑ Seal the Deal: Target Your Tips
Short on time? Focus your top coat on the ends and edges of your nails. Sealing these spots helps prevent your wraps from lifting, keeping your mani looking flawless longer.
⭑ Top Coat Touch-Ups = Longevity
For max staying power, reapply your top coat every 2–3 days. Be sure to get the edges, not just the top surface. This extra step seals your wraps in place and keeps your mani looking fresh.
