13 best nail hardners for base coats

  • Benefits: They help fortify nails, reducing breakage and promoting healthier growth.
  • Nail Care:

    • Base Coat Function: Nail hardeners serve as an excellent base coat before applying nail polish.They create a smooth surface, enhance polish adherence, and protect the natural nail.
    • Protection: By forming a barrier, they shield nails from environmental factors, preventing damage and promoting overall nail health.
  • Foot Hand Nail Care:

    • Hydration: While nail hardeners strengthen, it's important to balance with moisture. Regular hand and nail care routines, including moisturizing, contribute to optimal nail health.
    • Cuticle Care: Healthy cuticles also play a role in overall nail well-being.
  • Beauty Personal Care:

    • Prevention of Breakage: Nail hardeners act as a preventive measure against brittleness and breakage, common issues faced by those seeking longer, healthier nails.
    • Application Tips: Applying a thin, even layer and allowing sufficient drying time is key to maximizing the benefits of a nail hardener.
  • Remember, incorporating a nail hardener into your nail care routine can contribute to the strength and resilience of your nails. However, balance is key, so ensure your overall nail care routine includes hydration and proper maintenance for optimal results.

    Below you can find our editor's choice of the best nail hardners for base coats on the market
      

    LONDONTOWN kur Nail Hardener and Base Coat

    LONDONTOWN

    Based on 187 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Give your nails the best with Londontown®’s Nail Hardener & Base Coat. Set a strong base, and create a durable surface to bond polish and extend wear. Florium Complex Infused; rapeseed flower oil, cucumber extract, garlic extract, evening primrose oil, chamomile exract and vitamin E. Gluten-free, Cruelty-free and Vegan 9-free

    Brand Story

    Designed to amplify New York, Paris, and London Fashion Week trends and set the new standard in beauty, LONDONTOWN’s luxe nail care system and superior line of lacquers nourish and dazzle from matrix to tip.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Are they cruelty free
    Answer: pretty hard...
    Question: Should I use nail polish remover to take this off at some point? I didn’t realize it was a polish. It says use twice a week
    Answer: Hello, This brush uses natural bristles and it will groom your hair, if your thick hair it will take longer to groom. Best,
    Question: What are the ingredients for the base coat? A beauty magazine said it was 9-Free but it doesn’t claim that any place else
    Answer: It comes in a quite nice presentation box. I don't know if that's what you mean by a gift box.
    Question: Are the base coat and top cot also vegan and 9-free
    Answer: The wooden handle should be kept dry. I occasionally set the brush in a shallow pan of soapy water, just deep enough to cover most of the bristles. I also use a special comb to remove hair from the brush. I am very well pleased with the quality of this brush. It is the finest I have ever owned.

    Ellie Chase Nail Strengthening & Growth Nail Polish Treatment With Horsetail Grass Extract, 0.5 Fl oz - No Formaldehyde, Toluene or DBP - Can Be Used as Base Coat or Top Coat

    AmazonUs/BEJNJ

    Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    No formaldehyde, toluene or DBP. Works great on nails that break, crack, chip, split and have no flexibility. Specialized formula conditions, strengthens & hardens nails while also promoting nail growth. Helps normalize the natural nail plate so nails grow longer & stronger. Horsetail is rich in nutrients & high in silica to promote strong healthy nails. Use as basecoat, topcoat or alone as a nail treatment. 0.5 fl oz Made in USA.

    • No formaldehyde, toluene or DBP
    • Works great on nails that break, crack, chip, split and have no flexibility
    • Specialized formula conditions, strengthens & hardens nails while also promoting nail growth.
    • Helps normalize the natural nail plate so nails grow longer & stronger
    • Horsetail is rich in nutrients & high in silica to promote strong healthy nails.
    • Use as basecoat, topcoat or alone as a nail treatment
    • 0.5 Fl oz Made in USA

    User questions & answers

    Question: What are ingredients? Pic lighting is too dark and print too small to see
    Answer: about ten inches....have used Kent brushes since 1955
    Question: Has anyone noticed their nails to glow in black light or look more beautiful in the sunlight than indoors when using this product
    Answer: Hello, This brush has a bit of plastic on the handle only. If you prefer a brush with no plastic try the LG3 same shape with white bristles (stiff) if you prefer soft seek the DA4S from Kent Brushes as well. Best Regards, The Bayside Brush Co
    Question: Is this polish uv reactive, or glows in black light? looking to replace my old polish that does glow in uv lights. thank you
    Answer: Hello Dean, Yes, you are correct the bristles are of boars hair. Hope this helps. Best Regards, The Bayside Brush Co
    Question: Is it shiny
    Answer: Dear Customer, Kent is a well-known brand in the market. They have been up and running since 1777 which makes them the oldest brush manufacturer in the world. Their quality of the brushes is superb and you can realize the finish of the wood and the way the bristles are pressed into the brush with no glue. Hope this helps you. Best,

    MYSTIC NAILS Base Coat Top Coat Strengthener Nail Hardener 15ml - 0.5 fl oz

    Mystic Nails

    Based on 178 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    15ml - .5 fl oz

    • MYSTIC NAILS
    • Base coat, top coat, & strengthener
    • 15ml - .5 fl oz
    • Free from Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Formaldehyde, Methylene Glycol/Formalin, Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin & Camphor
    • One product that does it all. Grow long, strong nails.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Can this be used as an only coat or do you need to use it with a polish
    Answer: This product does contain collagen which is animal derived. Need to know about our products and ingredients … or find out how to create a regimen of nutritional supplements, diet, and exercise that’s customized for your needs? Call our Wellness Specialists toll-free at 1-800-226-2370. You can reach them from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekends ET.
    Question: I would like to cancel the orders I made for the three nail hardener pleas because I messed up and I was to pay $20 and change its saying $31 and chan
    Answer: Life Extension products are all top quality. Nourishing the skin and hair internally is important.
    Question: Is this the same product that originated in Staten Island
    Answer: I purchased this because my hair started thinning, and since I have been using this product my hair thinning has significantly slowed and I would say that the shedding is normal hair loss now, I mean everybody loses a certain amount of hair each day.. It also has sped up my hair growth. The other plus is my nails, they have always been strong, but this product has made them stronger and they rarely break.
    Question: What is clavos
    Answer: Hello, This brush from will be more a medium bristle. If you are looking for a different stiffness please let me know since I will be able to guide you. Hope this helps. Best Regards, The Bayside Brush Co

    DEBORAH LIPPMANN Top and Base Coat, Hard Rock Hydrating Base & Top Coat, 0.5 fl. oz.

    deborah lippmann

    Based on 178 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    For Nails That Are Solid as a Rock Deborah Lippmann, manicurist to the stars, started out as a songstress and, as a result, many of her nail products are named after major pop icons, and other pop culture songs and figures. Make wimpy, thin nails both stronger and longer with Hard Rock Hydrating Nail Hardener and Base Coat. Especially Suited For: All skin types. Before adding a pop of color, try Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Hydrating Nail Hardener and Base Coat. If applied daily, it will help weak nails grow naturally, because of the inclusion of Aucoumea Klaineana extract, a natural resin from west African trees in the formula. Aucoumea also helps to strengthen nails, and prevents ridges for smoother, healthier nail growth. This nail hardener also contains protein-building biotin (a cell regenerator) for strengthening, and hydrolyzed soy protein for hydration, to keep your nails strong yet pliable. For Best Effect: Apply a light, single coat, and add one coat on top of another daily for a week. Then remove and begin again. If you have just removed artificial nails of any kind, you may also use Hard Rock daily. Start with it as a base coat, add two coats of color, and finish with Hard Rock as a top coat, while re-growing nails. Then, after about three months, just use it once or twice each week to keep nails strong and beautiful.

    Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann, luxurious hand & foot care treatments. In 2018, Allure magazine awarded Deborah Lippmann winner of the best nail polish formula.

    Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann, luxurious hand & foot care treatments. In 2018, Allure magazine awarded Deborah Lippmann winner of the best nail polish formula.

    User questions & answers

    Question: I love the polish line it is very good but I am disappointed that my brush came apart on this very recently. Is there a replacement
    Answer: Yes you should. I’m sure everybody is different. I work on a computer all day so my nails tend to start looking a little rough after about a week. So once a week I’ll clean my nails with nail polish remover and put a fresh base coat on.
    Question: does this refresh and restore a manicure
    Answer: Here is the full list of ingredients: Ethyl Acetate, Butyl Acetate, SD Alcohol 40-B, Nitrocellulose, Adipic Acid/Neopentyl Glycol/Trimellitic Anhydride Copolymer, Isopropyl Alcohol, Trimethy Pentanyl Diisobutyrate, Triphenyl Phosphate, Sucrose Benzoate, Etocrylene, Dimethicone, Water, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria (Chamomile) Extract, Allium Sativum (Garlic) Bulb Extract, Butylene Glycol/Iron, Calcium Pantothenate, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Violet 2
    Question: can you use this with gel pro lab nail polishes
    Answer: Yep! All their products are!
    Question: is this tuolene and formaldehyde free
    Answer: The label says it all. I actually just take 3 Tablets.

    Barielle Hydrating Ridge Filler, With Silk Protein Fibers, Fill and Smooth Unsightly Nail Ridges, For Dry, Brittle or Ridged Nails, Enhances Nail Growth and Strengthening, Base Coat 0.5 Ounce

    Barielle

    Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
    • Dehydrated nails can cause ridges, cracks and an imbalance. Repair, restore and smooth your nails today with Barielle’s Hydrating Ridge Filler.
    • The deep hydration and strengthening silk protein fibers will help your nails grow in nourished and moisturized, leaving them strong and healthy.
    • Treats dehydrated, ridge filled nails. Deeply moisturizes with silk protein fibers.
    • Best used as a base coat, prior to polish.
    • Made in USA

    User questions & answers

    Question: Has anyone noticed the remaining 1/4 or more left in bottle thickens and goes on gloppy
    Answer: I haven't noticed that. Carla from Florida
    Question: Will it fill in ridges from acrylic nails
    Answer: It does not. Dries clear. Great for splitting nails tho
    Question: is this clear? or does it have a color to it when it dries
    Answer: It's moderately shiny. Not high gloss like a gel, but definitely not a matte finish.
    Question: Can you wear this without polish on top
    Answer: Yes they are.

    Product features

    Repair, restore and smooth your nails today with Barielle’s Hydrating Ridge Filler.

    NAIL-AID 3-in-1 Gel Base + Top + Hardener, Clear, 0.55 Fluid Ounce

    Nail-Aid

    Based on 92 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    With a super unbreakable gel formula & nail hardening vitamin B5, this 3-in-1 combination of gel base + gel top coat + gel hardener protects color from chipping and provides shine as it reinforces soft, fragile nails.

    • Base coat glues color to nails for a 14 day, chip-free gel wear.
    • Top coat gives a thick gel-gloss finish.
    • Hardener transforms soft, fragile nails to strongest, hard as salon gels.
    • Fast-drying without UV light.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Can you just use this bottom and topcoat without color in between I just want the clear?or
    Answer: Ingredients : Ethyl Acetate, Butyl Acetate, Nitrocellulose, Adipicacid/Neopentyl Glycol/Trimellitic Anhydride Copolymer, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Trimelhylpentanediyl Dibenzoate, Polyvinyl Butyral, Benzophenone-1, Violet 2, Equisetum Arvense Horsetail Extract Directions :Hope this helps

    Daggett and Ramsdell Invisishield Ultra Strong Nail Hardener Base Coat

    Daggett & Ramsdell

    • Is Discontinued By Manufacturer :
    • Item Weight :
    • UPC :
    • Manufacturer :
    • ASIN :

    Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener, Base Coat, .47 oz

    Quimica Alemana

    Based on 128 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener Strengthener Polish Treatment 0.47 oz



    USE: shake gently. Apply to clean, dry, bare nails. when you start its use brush a thin coat from the middle of the nail toward the tip. Once your nails are hard brush a thin layer over the whole nail, avoid cuticles.



    CAUTION: If you feel a burning sensation on the nail, or a persistent discomfort, suspend its use. Avoid cuticles.

    • Strengthens Nails
    • Promotes Rapid Nail Growth
    • Ends cracking and splitting nails

    User questions & answers

    Question: i have been told one of the chemical components of the Quimica Alemena Nail hardener is formaldehyde.. is this true
    Answer: Can definitely be used as an only coat. It's the only polish that has successfully hardened/grown my fingernails.
    Question: Hi, what do I use to remove the Hardener and top coat, regular mail polish remove
    Answer: You should contact customer service . Unfortunately with the coronavirus situation they may not be accepting returns. Good luck
    Question: if i use Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener 0.47 oz, will this topcoat work also
    Answer: Im not sure... i feel it works as well as the product i used to get in NJ... i believe it is the same product but never knew where it originated from.
    Question: If i use Quimica Alemana Nail Hardener, can i use this Quimica Alemana Top Coat - Brillo, on top of the hardner
    Answer: In Spanish clavos is nails...like nail and hammer. OR IF you are speaking if spices then it can mean cloves...the spice. Hope it helps

    Sally Hansen Mega Strength, Hardener, 0.4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

    Sally Hansen

    Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Size:1 Count  |  Color:Mega Strength Hardener Mega Strength. Our Strongest Formula. Strengths your nails while you wear.

    • Our Strongest Formula
    • Strengths your nails while you wear
    • Strengthening Formula

    User questions & answers

    Question: Is that gorgeous turquoise color just the packaging color or the color of the hardener
    Answer: No, very solid! WANMAT pedicure tools worked well after 10 times! i had been used Harperton nail clippers which broke after twice. but this is Very surprise!
    Question: Does this ultimate top coal make a nice glossy shine coat to your nails or does it dry as a matte color
    Answer: I am guessing they might be German made. Really great product- very sharp and strong. They also come in a nice tin. I am very pleased with mine!
    Question: Is this product clear
    Answer: this toenail nippers for thick toenails normally lasts 10 years? Because my last wanmat product was used for a long time and still works very well.
    Question: Do I need to apply a base coat before I put on the Mega strength polish
    Answer: No just a quality sharp blade cuts evenly clean no tearing

    Product features

    Mega Strength

    Our strongest formula yet! Mega Strength protects nails from cracking, peeling and breaking. Available in 30 gorgeous colors for instantly healthy and stronger looking nails.

    • Color and Strength
    • Strengthens and Fortifies Nails

    Always Extra (016)
    Boss Babe (054)
    Small But Mighty (052)
    Stay Classy (006)

    NAIL-AID Ceramide Extreme Thickener, Clear, 0.55 Fluid Ounce

    Nail-Aid

    Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    A nail binding treatment rich in ceramide that provides nails with strength to reinforce the thinnest nail layers to prevent bending and breaking.

    • Resists bending and tearing.
    • Longer, stronger, thicker nails in just 3 days.
    • Ridge-free, smoother nails with a long-wear shine.
    • Dries quickly to a plump gel finish.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Do you need a UV Light
    Answer: Yes it dry's completely clear. it is a bit shiny
    Question: is this a matte or glossy finish
    Answer: Depends entirely on how often you use it...how many coats etc, I am surprised at how long it does last and I do have the best looking nails I have ever had and I am guessing I have used it six weekdays. If you use it as frequently as directed it really works
    Question: Can I put a Regular top coat over the 2 coats of this
    Answer: Yes
    Question: Does this help prevent nails from splitting down the middle (not just peeling or breaking
    Answer: NOT FOR CARRY-ON, Nail Clippers are on the prohibited items listed, so the other pointy tools won't quality either for "CARRY-ON" But they are OKAY in your checked-in luggage.

    Product features

    NAIL-AID Ceramide Extreme Thickener

    A nail binding treatment rich in ceramide that provides nails with strength to reinforce the thinnest nail layers to prevent bending and breaking.

    • Resists bending and tearing.
    • Longer, stronger, thicker nails in just 3 days.
    • Ridge-free, smoother nails with a long-wear shine.
    • Dries quickly to a plump gel finish.

    Directions

    Use alone: Apply 2 coats over dry, clean nails. Let each coat dry before applying another coat. Use with nail color: Apply as base & top coat. For longest-lasting protection, apply another coat every 3 days. Remove easily with nail polish remover.

    Prolana Nail Optimizer One-Step Multi Use Nail Fortifier, Nail Hardener, Nail Strengthener - Optium Strength Nail Treatment .5 ounces/ 15 milliliters

    Prolana

    Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
    • Enriched Nail Hardener Formula That Contains Protein and Calcium to Grow Healthy Nails, Strong Nails, and Flexible Nails
    • Does NOT contain Toluene or DBP.
    • Repairs thin nails, cracked nails, and peeling nails with regular use. Nail Optimizer is recommended with regular manicure application as a base coat.
    • Provides a high shine finishing with instant dry time.
    • Contains Formaldehyde at a minimal dosage

    User questions & answers

    Question: Cruelty free
    Answer: Teslas and iPhones are also made in China. It all depends on whether the designer is trying to make it on the cheap or not.
    Question: Can I use this under nail polish
    Answer: Sharper than normal pair of clippers. So it clips through your nails like butter (instead of sometimes bending), your nails have cleaner edges so it doesn't peel, and it lasts longer - sometimes cheaper pairs will fall apart after not so long.
    Question: Once applied, does leave a shine
    Answer: I just checked amazon.com. You may buy a wire cutter for about $5.00. Why on earth would you use a $20 NAIL CLIPPER to "cut though 22 Gauge wire"?
    Question: Where can i buy the original nail optimizer made by olan laboratories
    Answer: Sharp blades and other tools are made using AUS-34 stainless steel, but even the highest quality stainless steel is not completely rustproof. It’s best to dry them after use.

    Product features

    Nails Seeking Repair: TREATMENT

    • Apply one coat daily to clean, dry nails.
    • Remove all Nail Optimizer after 5 to 7 days, using a non-acetone polish remover, then repeat application.
    • As the condition of the nails improve, begin applying Nail Optimizer every other day for optimal strength and protection.

    Nails Seeking Maintenance: BASE COAT

    • After nail condition has improved and desired results have been achieved, Nail Optimizer should be used as a base coat during manicures to maintain results.
    • Those with artificial nails should use Nail Optimizer in between applications as a base coat to strengthen natural nails.

    Proudly Made in USA

    Prolana makes manufactures its product in the United States where it employs hardworking Americans to Assemble thousands of products annually.

    Not Tested on Animals

    Prolana products and its raw materials are NOT tested on animals and are Cruelty Free.

    Leader in the Beauty Industry Since 1997

    Nail Optimizer has been a leader in the beauty industry since 1997.

    Probelle Formula 2 Nail Maintenance with Garlic and Lime, Nail Hardener and Strengthener with Fungal Protection and Color protection .5 fl oz/ 15 mL

    Cosmetics LK, LLC

    Based on 147 reviews Check latest price
    • Probelle Nail Maintenance is formulated to strengthen, harden & protect thin, weak nails. Also, use if seeking additional treatment after Probelle Nail Hardener Formula 1.
    • Supercharged with garlic to protect against fungus, lime to whiten & brighten the nail, & safflower seed oil for natural moisturization.
    • Targets nails in need of growth, conditioning, and protection.
    • Utilize as a stand-alone treatment or base coat to prolong the life of your manicure.
    • To utilize as a stand-alone treatment, apply every other day or as needed. Remove weekly. To utilize as a base coat, apply 1 coat to natural nail before polish.

    User questions & answers

    Question: Does this have a garlicky scent
    Answer: Do not know. I have never had this happen
    Question: Can this work on top of a gel manicure? Just got nails done and they are splitting
    Answer: Seems thicker than most top coats. Very good shine, yes a good touch up & refresher
    Question: Do you use Formula 2 alone then switch over to Formula 1 when your nails improve or use the two together? Also what do you remove with
    Answer: Yes
    Question: Where do these products come from
    Answer: Yes it appears it is. Look at the last frame on the advertising. It is a picture of the ingredients and also addresses what is not included.

    duri Rejuvacote 1 Original Maximum Strength Nail Growth System, Base and Top Coat, 0.61 fl.oz.

    duri

    Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Top-Selling nail treatment product that works to extend the life of a manicure, while warding off dryness and encouraging strong, healthy nail growth. The intensive strengthening formula contains keratin and calcium to mend split, weak, brittle, peeling and cracked nails. The proprietary ingredients work with the body’s natural chemistry to stimulate nail growth, leaving nails more flexible and pliable with added protection against breakage and damage.

    • Rejuvacote 1 Original Maximum Strength Nail Growth System, Base and Top Coat, 0.61 fl.oz.
    • Creates a protective layer over nails for faster nail growth, works on natural nails, promotes flexibility, pliability and stimulates nail growth
    • Enriched with hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, keratin and calcium to stimulate healthy nail growth
    • Seals in moisture, collagen and fatty acids naturally produced by your nail plate
    • When used according to directions, Rejuvacote 1 promotes nail hardening, reduces brittleness, minimizes chipping and prevents breaking. Dramatic improvement in 2 to 3 weeks

    User questions & answers

    Question: What makes it's burn
    Answer: Yes, I tried shaking every use too. I wish I had discovered this before I ordered a second bottle. 🙃
    Question: My nails split at the sides. Will this product help to prevent that
    Answer: Overall, it goes on smoothly and fills ridges nicely however deep ridges remain visible.
    Question: Salons filed down to much, nails like paper now. Once this helps grow them, can I use as bottom coat on my own gel system. No filing
    Answer: There is no shine it dries clear but with a very slight hint of white. It's a very nice natural finish and smooths the nail nicely I use two coats.
    Question: A couple of my fingernails split right down the middle as soon as they grow beyond the quick. Will this product keep them from splitting
    Answer: I do not wear polish ever. I find that two layers of this product produces a glossy finish, not terribly high shine, but a nice gloss only. However, if you prefer to wear polish over the top, there is nothing to stop that either.

    Product features

    Rejuvacote 1 Nail growth base and top coat system

    Rejuvacote 1 nail strengthening formula was designed by our in-house chemists to help clients with problem nails, nails that do not grow due to exposure to outside elements, and nails affected by acrylics and gels.

    This amazing professional base and top coat nail growth system is enriched with hydrolyzed wheat protein, hydrolyzed soy protein, keratin, calcium to stimulate healthy nail growth.

    How to use Rejuvacote for best results

    Rejuvacote 1 works just as great with or without nail polish. If used alone, apply 2 coats t and let it dry. Continue applying as a top coat for 7 days and then remove with polish remover and start again. With the nail polish application, apply it as a base coat, following by 2 coats of nail polish and continue applying as a top coat for 7 days. Remove all with a nail polish remover and start again. You will see results as soon as 2 weeks of proper application.

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