Which Base Coat Is Right for You?
Different nail needs, different bases — choose the one that preps your nails best.
All About the Base
Everyday Base Coat
For smooth, even polish application
Preps nails for polish with a clean, balanced base.
Cover Your Bases
Ridge-Filling Base Coat
For ridges and uneven-looking nails
Visually smooths the nail for a more even look.
Firm Foundation
Strengthening Base Coat
For weak or peeling nails
Adds support and helps nails feel stronger.
Helpful add-ons
Make touch-ups, re-dos, and fresh starts easier.
- Effectiveness
- Durability
- Strength
- Damage
- Application
Easy steps to long-lasting nails
A simple routine for smoother application and longer wear
STEP 3
Color (2–3 thin coats)
Apply 2–3 thin coats, letting each layer dry before the next.
STEP 4
Top Coat (seal + protect)
Finish with a top coat to seal and protect your manicure.
As seen in
Thoughtfully made for your nails
Made without the harsh chemicals commonly found in traditional polish
FAQs
Answers to common questions about choosing, applying, and using base coats.
A base coat helps prep the nail surface before color, creating a smoother canvas for polish and improving the overall look of your manicure.
If your nails are generally healthy, start with All About the Base.
If you notice ridges or uneven tone, Cover Your Bases is a better fit.
If your nails feel weak or peel easily, choose Firm Foundation.
Yes. Cover Your Bases can be worn alone for a more even-looking, natural finish. The other base coats are designed primarily to be worn under polish.
Apply one thin layer to clean, dry nails before your color. Allow it to dry briefly before applying polish.
Yes. All ella+mila base coats are designed to work with ella+mila nail polishes and most standard nail polishes.
Absolutely. You can use different base coats depending on how your nails feel or look at the time—there’s no need to stick to just one.
Yes. All ella+mila base coats are 17-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.