Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Olystyle Acid Free Primer | Best Cast |
2 | TNL Professional Bond Primer | Does not require drying in a lamp. High quality hitch |
3 | JessNail profBAR | Does not dry cuticles, spreads easily |
4 | VITA UDIN | Neutral odor |
5 | Runail Professional | The cheapest primer. Suitable for sensitive nails. Professional tool |
1 | Kodi Ultrabond | The most popular product among pros |
2 | Dance Legend M+collection | Suitable for extensions |
3 | Iris Professional Gel Primer | Quick dry, high quality |
4 | Formula Profi Primer Pro | Prevents the appearance of yellowness |
5 | Vogue Nails | with sticky layer |
1 | GELISH ProBond | Gentle composition. With increased moisture in the nails |
2 | IBD Stick Primer | Methacrylic base |
3 | UNO Lux Ultra Bond | Effective peel prevention |
4 | Kinetics Primer Acid | Star primer known worldwide |
5 | Cosmolac Primer Acid Free | Available in various sizes. Protects against fungus |
In their articles, reviews and master classes, nail art experts mention primers as an important component of professional manicure, since this liquid works simultaneously in three directions: it helps to evaporate excess moisture and removes the natural fatty film from the surface of the nails; disinfects and deprives microorganisms of the conditions for their development; lifts keratin scales and forms an additional sticky layer.
Primer Tips
To choose the best primer for your purposes, pay attention to the following parameters.
primer type. Depending on the composition, there are 2 types of primers. The acid type contains a rather aggressive methacrylic acid and is mainly used to treat problem nails. It is more suitable for oily, springboard growing and brittle nail plates. If used incorrectly, it can cause burns or damage the structure of the nails. Therefore, it is better not to use acid varnish primers for beginners. Acid-free primer is used for weak, sensitive, thin and dry nails. The main active ingredient in its composition, ethyl acetate, has a much milder effect on the plates.
Drying. There are primers on the market that dry on their own, and there are products that require the use of a UV lamp. Of course, the first option is much more convenient. Without a lamp, the procedure will take an order of magnitude less time.
Texture. In general, this is not the most important parameter. Most primers have a liquid texture, making them economical to use. However, if you have uneven nail plates, then it is better to choose a product with a more viscous composition.
price segment. For home use, primers from the budget and middle segments are quite suitable. This is especially true for users with healthy nail plates.For professionals or in case of problematic nails, it makes sense to overpay and purchase a more expensive product.
Most Reliable Primer Companies
Every major manufacturer of gel polishes has primers on sale. However, not all of them have the same quality as the price. Based on the reviews, we have chosen the most worthy companies:
Kodi. The American manufacturer has long managed to establish itself in the Russian market. At Kodi, not only gel polishes are of high quality, but also primers. The range includes acidic and non-acid products. In terms of price and quality, this is one of the best options for craftsmen and home use.
TNL. Primers from this Korean brand have received high marks from users. Manicurists especially praise the acid-free product. It dries well, moisturizes nails, protects the gel coating from chips and cracks.
Dance legend. The Russian brand did not disappoint its fans with the quality of primers. The products of this manufacturer have a gentle composition, good protective properties and economical consumption.
The best primers for gel polish from the budget segment
In this category, we have included primers with the lowest price and decent quality. The average cost of all models does not exceed 300 rubles. Last but not least, the low price is due to the fact that most of the models are Russian-made. In terms of the main parameters, budget primers are not much different from more expensive ones. But still this category is more suitable for home use. The exception is a few models from the professional line. They can be used for clients in salons.
5 Runail Professional
Country: Russia
Average price: 165 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 4.5
Runail often pleases users with inexpensive high-quality manicure products. This primer is no exception. Despite the modest price tag, the tool belongs to the professional line. Therefore, it can be recommended not only for home use, but also for salon use. The tool gently cleans the nail plate from grease, dust and other small particles, providing a reliable bond between the nail and gel polish. It does not cause allergic reactions, so it is great for sensitive nails.
Numerous reviews confirm that this primer is a strong competitor for analogues from the middle price category. It is unpretentious in working with gel polishes of various brands, degreases the nail plate with high quality, and dries quickly. Along with it, the durability of the manicure is greatly enhanced. Another plus is the cost savings. With regular use, a 15 ml jar lasts at least 8-10 months.
4 VITA UDIN
Country: Russia
Average price: 179 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 4.6
Acid-free primer from a Russian brand at a very nice price. It is designed to firmly connect the surface of the nail with gel polish or acrylic. The primer degreases and dries the nail platinum well, thanks to which the varnish quickly adheres to the nail plate. The product contains ethyl acetate, butyl acetate and isopropyl alcohol - standard components for inexpensive primers. In general, the tool is well suited for amateurs and beginners.
Users say that finding such a high-quality primer in a budget line is a great success.It has good adhesion to gel polish, a comfortable manicure brush, quick drying, and no strong smell. For home use, it is ideal, but for professional purposes, masters still recommend more expensive models. This is due to the fact that the VITA UDIN brush is too small for a pedicure, and the surface is not sticky enough for some varnishes.
3 JessNail profBAR
Country: Russia
Average price: 265 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 4.7
JessNail worked great with gel polishes and acrylics, it firmly connects the nails to the coating. Only the composition gives out low cost: only 3 ingredients, including alcohol. The primer is packaged in a glass jar, similar to a quality essential oil. The brush is thin with an even cut, the pile is of medium length. In the reviews, she was praised by both professionals and amateurs. The formula has a liquid texture, it does not dry the plate and cuticles. Will not harm even sensitive nails, does not change the level of acidity.
Using JessNail allows you to wear a manicure for up to a month without chipping. The reviews praise a very economical consumption, even popular craftsmen have enough funds for a long time. However, it is better not to apply it to the cuticle, as it contains acrylates. Accurate work requires skills, getting used to the brush. The latter is small, easily sneaks into any place. The formula dries in 15 seconds, there is no time to correct the error.
2 TNL Professional Bond Primer
Country: Korea
Average price: 240 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 4.8
This composition also applies to acid-free.In addition to the main functions, it is able to fill small irregularities and microcracks on the nails, thereby leveling their surface. Suitable for both professional and home use, applicable for application under gel polish or other modeling material of any company.
In the reviews, not everyone likes its harsh smell, but buyers are ready to put up with it, as the aroma quickly dissipates. The effect of the application is noticeable after the first time - the manicure remains flawless for at least 3 weeks. Some users recommend using TNL primer as a degreaser and dehydrator.
1 Olystyle Acid Free Primer
Country: Russia
Average price: 277 rubles/10 ml
Rating (2022): 5.0
Olystyle Acid Free Primer does the job perfectly. It provides perfect adhesion by gluing artificial materials and the nail plate. As a result, the period of wearing a manicure is significantly extended. The tool does not affect the color of the gel polish. It has a liquid oily texture and a pungent smell. The manufacturer has added ingredients that prevent yellowing of the nail plate. It gives a guarantee of durability, promises ease of removal. Although it is not recommended to enter the cuticle, nothing bad will happen to it.
The composition of the primer is chosen in such a way as to give the best effect with gel polishes of this company. Therefore, buyers in the reviews recommend purchasing a starter kit, it is inexpensive. The company gives full information about expiration dates, composition, application and GOST on the label. The undoubted advantage is the absence of allergenic components. The smell, although unpleasant, does not irritate the eyes.
The best primers for mid-range gel polish
In this rating, we included primers in the range from 300 to 500 rubles. This price segment is considered average and is often chosen by professional craftsmen. From budget models, such funds differ in more comprehensive care. Primers not only prolong the durability of gel polish, but also prevent the appearance of chips, delaminations and other deformations of the manicure. They are also more versatile and can be combined with the means of other companies.
5 Vogue Nails
Country: Russia
Average price: 350 rubles/10 ml
Rating (2022): 4.5
Acid-free, tacky primer designed to work with a wide variety of gel polishes, including soft textures. When applied to the nail plate, it dries instantly, without requiring drying in the lamp. After that, it is recommended to apply a rubber base, although even without it, the primer perfectly adheres the nail to the gel polish. The durability of manicure along with Vogue Nails increases several times. The protective properties of the product are also on top.
Primer from Vogue Nails goes well with gel polishes of any brand. The reviews often mention that there are no problems when wearing and removing varnishes. However, it is worth noting that Vogue Nails has two primers with the same name. One in a black jar, without a sticky layer, the second - in a white jar, with a sticky layer. They have different compositions and even the color of the texture. Online stores often confuse these models, so before buying, you should clarify what color container they will send you.
4 Formula Profi Primer Pro
Country: Russia
Average price: 330 rubles/10 ml
Rating (2022): 4.6
Acid-based primer that perfectly prevents chips, delamination and peeling of gel polish. It not only improves the adhesion of the nail polish to the nail, but also helps to eliminate the development of yellowness and prevents the appearance of fungal microorganisms. Therefore, it is often used on problematic nails or with whimsical varnishes. Given that the composition of the product contains an acid, it must be applied with special care. So that there are no extra drops on the brush, it is better to wet it with a napkin first.
The customers were satisfied with the performance of the primer. With it, the wear of a manicure increases up to 2-3 weeks. During this period, no chips, detachments, color changes are observed. The tool is combined with almost all popular gel polishes. The brush is thin, more suitable for manicure. There is no pungent smell, despite the acid base. Of the minuses, only the risk of skin burns can be noted if the primer gets on the cuticles or fingers.
3 Iris Professional Gel Primer
Country: Russia
Average price: 430 rubles/18 ml
Rating (2022): 4.7
Acid-free Irisk Professional is designed to improve the adhesion of artificial materials to nails. It is suitable for both gel polish and when strengthening the plate, coating with natural compounds. This version contains an improved formula that air dries faster. There is no sticky layer left. According to the company, the composition does not affect the structure of the cuticle, it acts softer than competitors. The bottle contains only 5 ml of the product, it lasts for a short time.
A huge plus is the absence of a pronounced smell, the application will not harm sensitive users.The primer has a transparent color, does not spoil the shades of gel polishes. A brush with a pliable bristle easily spreads the composition throughout the nail. The formula is fixed if the shine is gone. The tool is most popular among professionals, it can be seen in luxury salons. For the absence of an alcohol smell, the masters are ready to overpay quite a lot.
2 Dance Legend M+collection
Country: Russia
Average price: 315 rubles/10 ml
Rating (2022): 4.9
Acid-free primer for degreasing and cleansing nails. The tool has a transparent color and liquid consistency, it is easy to apply on the nail plate. The active substances in the composition are ethyl acetate and hema. According to the instructions, apply the primer with a semi-dry brush around the perimeter of the plate or on its free edge. The product dries up on its own. You can use it with gel polishes of different textures. The primer retains its properties for 36 months from the date of opening.
One of the best products in terms of price and quality ratio in our rating. Dance Legend M+collection often becomes the choice of professional masters. In the reviews, they claim that the tool is suitable not only for a classic manicure with gel polish, but also indispensable for extensions. After applying the primer, the varnish becomes smoother and lasts longer. In the process of wearing detachments or chips were not noticed. Bottle consumption is economical.
1 Kodi Ultrabond
Country: USA
Average price: 350 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 5.0
Professionals of the nail industry hold all the products of the American company Kodi Professional in high esteem, and the acid-free primer Ultrabond is one of them.It contains substances with a low hazard factor, so it is completely harmless to natural nails, without burning their surface and without damaging the cuticle. In addition, the product is very easy to apply and does not require drying in a UV lamp. Thanks to its use, gel polish is worn for at least a month.
The product is a clear liquid, similar in consistency to ordinary water. Even allergy sufferers specify that its smell, despite the synthetic components, is quite tolerable. Also, most reviews indicate the primer's economy - a bottle is enough for about six months, or even a year, depending on the intensity of use.
The best gel polish primers from the luxury segment
Professional tools with a price tag of 500 rubles and more. Often they are sold as a set along with the base and top. Such primers have more powerful protective and bonding properties, and they are also less whimsical when working with gel polishes from different companies. Luxe primers are designed for professional purposes. For home use, more budget models are quite suitable.
5 Cosmolac Primer Acid Free
Country: Russia
Average price: 675 rubles/20 ml
Rating (2022): 4.6
The primer qualitatively prepares the nail for the subsequent application of gel polish. It degreases, cleans the plate and protects it from fungus. It has an acid-free liquid texture and an easy-to-apply brush. Best of all, the tool manifests itself in a three-phase manicure system, including the base and top from the same line. In addition to the 20 ml capacity. There is also a trial jar of 7.5 ml on sale. This is very convenient for those who doubt the purchase of funds.
The tool does its job well. It is ideal for problematic nails: dry, flaky, with uneven relief. Of the luxury products, Cosmolac Primer Acid Free is the most budgetary. Such a jar can last for 1.5-2 years of regular use. The quality of the coupling and the protective functions of the primer are excellent. Serious shortcomings when working with the tool were not noticed. However, there are practically no reviews from the masters about its compatibility with gel polishes from other companies.
4 Kinetics Primer Acid
Country: USA
Average price: 874 rubles/14 ml
Rating (2022): 4.7
KINETICS is one of the youngest brands to conquer the world. Appearing in 2001, he quickly penetrated the championships in nail products. Today, the brand produces products for manicure and hand care. The company offers several primers, the one chosen by us deserves the greatest popularity. It effectively degreases the surface, removes excess moisture, provides adhesion of gel polish. The acid-free composition allows you to work with sensitive hands without harming the cuticle.
Formula ingredients protect allergy-prone nails. However, the cost bites, and finding a primer in ordinary stores is not easy. Since 2018, the company has been actively expanding its network in the domestic market, professionals are waiting for a price reduction. The main advantage, which slightly justifies the cost, is American production. Factories and control centers are located in the US, not in Asia, like most modern nail brands.
3 UNO Lux Ultra Bond
Country: China
Average price: 500 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 4.8
Under the UNO brand, high-quality cosmetics for nail service are presented. The brand has settled in China, although offices are located around the world. The quality is monitored by professionals from Europe, the formulas are tested in Italy, Germany, England. This explains the high price, although the volume of bottles is quite impressive. Acid-free primer works great with gel polish and acrylic, suitable for split nails. The formula effectively removes excess moisture without damaging the plate.
The texture of the product resembles clear water, it is very liquid. However, the primer sets instantly, without spreading, leaving a slight stickiness. The manufacturer tried to mask the alcohol smell with a fragrance, but buyers did not appreciate such care. But they praised a thin long brush. It is this primer that is recommended for those whose hands do not hold artificial materials. It will save a manicure on nails prone to delamination.
2 IBD Stick Primer
Country: USA
Average price: 1044 rubles/14 ml
Rating (2022): 4.9
IBD is an American brand that has earned fame all over the world for its high quality products. The 14 ml primer provides the strongest adhesion of the artificial coating to the natural nail, but it does not work with acrylic. The formula is suitable for clients who are faced with the problem of peeling gel polish. The drug is consumed very slowly, which justifies the cost. A convenient brush allows you to apply the product without touching the cuticle. Although the firm is aimed at masters, beginners will cope with the process.
The readiness of the formula is determined by the shade: when the nail becomes whitish, you can work on. The primer goes well with professional gel systems.The basis is methacrylic acid, and not alcohol, like cheap analogues. The formula effectively protects against yellowness, minimizes the risk of fungus under the old coating. It does an excellent job with "wet" nails, which analogues do not work with.
1 GELISH ProBond
Country: USA
Average price: 1040 rubles/15 ml
Rating (2022): 5.0
Gentle, acid-free primer designed for use in salons. It is applied to the nails not only before gel, but also acrylic modeling. The tool is ideal for nail plates with high humidity, preventing gel polish from peeling off from it. The texture of the product is liquid and transparent, retains its properties for three years from the date of opening. The maximum quality of manicure can be achieved by using a primer together with the base of the same line.
Manicurists appreciate this tool primarily for its uniqueness. The primer is suitable as a base for gel, conventional varnishes, acrylic and fabric systems. Its composition is completely safe for the nail plates. Moreover, the tool helps to strengthen exfoliating, brittle and thin nails. The ideal option is to use a primer with the means of the same company. However, it is combined with varnishes from other manufacturers. In addition to the high price, the minuses of the model were not noticed.