Rubber, liquid or camouflage base? How to choose a base for gel polish

The base is the first layer of a manicure, and it largely decides how long the coating will last. The Shelly range includes rubber, liquid, camouflage, milky and colour bases. Each type solves a different problem, so choose it for the specific client, not out of habit.

Rubber Base — when the nail plate needs levelling

It has a medium consistency and is self-levelling, so a thin layer smooths small irregularities without correcting with the brush. It works under gel polish and under building materials. A good choice for uneven nail plates or when the manicure should last longer. HEMA-free formula.

How to work: apply a thin layer to the prepared nail plate and cure (UV — 2 minutes, LED — 1 minute). If the plate needs more levelling, add a second layer and cure again.

Liquid Base — when speed and a thin layer matter

It spreads with one brush stroke and lays very thin. It does not level the plate; it creates a base layer that ensures adhesion of the next layers. An option for healthy, even nails, when the manicure should be light and the work quick.

How to work: a very thin, even layer without building, then cure in the lamp.

Camouflage base — when you want to hide discolouration

It covers discolouration and evens out the surface, so the plate is smooth before colour is applied. The shimmer version adds a subtle, soft glow — spread the material so the particles lie evenly.

Milky Base — for a clean-style manicure

It evens out the nail colour straight away, masks discolouration and smooths the surface. The medium-thick, self-levelling formula lays in a uniform milky layer — a good base for delicate looks and nail art.

The category also includes colour bases — use them when the base should give the manicure a shade right away.

Quick cheat sheet

• Uneven nail plate, longer wear — rubber base.
• Even nails, quick and thin manicure — liquid base.
• Discolouration — camouflage base (also with shimmer).
• Delicate milky effect, even nail colour — milky base.

What to watch out for with every base

Layers should be thin — a thick layer cures worse and chips more often. The material should not touch the cuticles or the skin around the nail. Before applying colour, remove the dispersion layer from the base, as described in the instructions for Shelly gel polishes. The products are for professional use.

All bases are in the Base coats category, and colours in Gel polishes.