How to Choose the Right Base, Top, and Color – MONLIS School Munich

The quality of a manicure depends not only on technique but also on the materials used. The base, top, and color form the foundation of a durable, beautiful, and professional manicure. At MONLIS School Munich, one of the leading academies for manicure and pedicure, students learn how to select, combine, and apply these products correctly to achieve a flawless and long-lasting result.

Why Base, Top, and Color Matter

Each product has its own unique role, and their combination determines how well the manicure lasts and how polished it looks.

• Base coat – ensures adhesion between the nail and the polish, while protecting the natural nail from staining.

• Color coat – provides expression, style, and creativity to the design.

• Top coat – seals the color, adds shine or matte finish, and protects from chipping or scratches.

At MONLIS School Munich, students are taught how these materials interact chemically and visually to create professional-quality results.

Choosing the Right Base

The base coat is the foundation of every long-lasting manicure. It strengthens the nail, evens out imperfections, and improves adhesion.

Expert Tips from MONLIS School:

• Match the base to the nail type: flexible for soft nails, strengthening for brittle ones.

• Pay attention to viscosity – thicker bases are ideal for nail structure correction, while thinner ones work best for fast application.

• Opt for self-leveling bases to achieve a smooth surface without excessive filing.

Through hands-on practice, students at MONLIS School learn how different bases behave during application and curing.

Finding the Perfect Color

Color is not just a matter of taste – it expresses personality, season, and style.

Professional Advice:

• Choose shades that complement skin tone and personal style.

• Use highly pigmented polishes for even coverage and vivid color.

• Combine colors harmoniously – neutral tones for classic looks, bold hues for creative designs.

At MONLIS School Munich, color theory is a core part of the curriculum: students learn how undertones, lighting, and finishes influence the final result.

Selecting the Right Top Coat

The top coat gives the final touch and determines the finish and longevity of the manicure.

What to consider when choosing a top coat:

• With or without tacky layer: non-wipe tops are ideal for nail art and glossy finishes; wipe tops give extra sealing.

• Finish type: glossy, matte, or velvet — each gives a different mood to the design.

• Durability and flexibility: a good top coat prevents cracking and keeps the surface protected for weeks.

At MONLIS School, students experiment with different top coats to learn how to achieve a perfect finish on various nail types.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Products

Even skilled nail artists can compromise results through incorrect product combinations.

Common mistakes include:

• Mixing incompatible brands or formulas.

• Applying too thick layers of base or color, leading to bubbles or lifting.

• Skipping proper nail preparation or dehydration.

In training sessions at MONLIS School Munich, students learn to identify and avoid these errors for consistent, professional outcomes.

Sustainable and Professional Product Selection

The modern nail industry offers endless brands, but not all meet professional standards. At MONLIS School Munich, instructors emphasize the importance of choosing safe, certified, and sustainable products.

Tips for responsible product selection:

• Choose EU-certified professional brands.

• Pay attention to consistency, texture, and odor.

• Invest in quality products — cheap formulas often cause lifting or uneven coverage.

Professional responsibility starts with mindful product choices that ensure client satisfaction and long-term trust.

A flawless manicure is the result of skill, precision, and the right materials. At MONLIS School Munich, students learn not only how to apply products but also how to understand their composition and compatibility.

By mastering the balance between base, top, and color, future nail artists can achieve long-lasting, elegant, and salon-quality results — every time.