A place |
Name |
Feature Rating |
1 | Ultrabond Kodi | The most popular product among pros |
2 | Ultra bond Naomi | The safest |
3 | Primer Bond TNL | Extensive use |
4 | Formula profi | Better adhesion |
5 | Primer Bluesky (acid free) | The best ratio of price and quality |
At first glance, applying a primer at the beginning of the modeling of nails with gel, acrylic or gel polish is an optional procedure. They say that in order to degrease the nail plate, it is enough to treat it with ordinary acetone or alcohol, and instead of an extra bottle it is better to buy an extra lacquer jar.
But increasingly, in their articles, reviews, and master classes, nail art mentions primers as an important component of a professional manicure, because it is a liquid that works in three directions simultaneously:
- promotes evaporation of excess moisture and removes the natural fatty film from the surface of the nails;
- disinfects and deprives microorganisms of conditions for their further development;
- lifts keratin scales and forms an additional sticky layer.
As a result, the applied coating, be it a gel polish or bio-gel, firmly adheres to the nails and retains its original appearance much better - chips and peeling are no longer threatened.
Depending on the composition, there are 2 types of nail "primer":
- acid (Acid Based) - contains fairly aggressive methacrylic acid and is mainly used for treating problematic (fatty, spring-growing, gnawed) nails;
- acid-free (Free Acid) - there are no acids in it, the solvent in its composition (ethyl acetate) has a softer effect on the plates, so the tool is used for weak and dry nails.
Judging by the reviews, with the use of a primer, wearability of a manicure is actually extended by several weeks. However, to get such a noticeable effect, you need to pay attention to the choice of a quality product - the majority of those who showed their dissatisfaction with the prime means most likely faced counterfeit.
In order not to waste money on fakes and not to jeopardize your professional reputation, study the rating of the top five primers. It is based on the analysis of user ratings and key characteristics: safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Top 5 best primers for application under the gel varnish
5 Primer Bluesky (acid free)

A country: China
Average price: 230 rubles / 10 ml
Rating (2019): 4.4
Those who like Bluesky gel varnishes will also like the primer. The manufacturer recommends that it be applied on a mandatory basis to people suffering from hyperhidrosis. They usually have little synthetic material on their nails, but with a primer, this problem disappears. Apply it immediately after the degreasing step, using a thin brush from a bubble.
Users have no complaints about the primer for efficiency and user-friendliness: the brush has an elastic, non-shedding nap, the liquid dries instantly — without smudges and stains. There are a few comments about the rather sharp smell and relatively small volume of the bottle. But due to the liquid consistency, the product is consumed slowly, and for quick odor removal it is recommended to work in a well-ventilated room.
4 Formula profi

A country: Russia
Average price: 400 rubles / 10 ml
Rating (2019): 4.5
On independent review sites, this primer consistently receives the highest user ratings. And all because the tool really helps to prevent chipping and detachment of the modeling coating. Moreover, the application of a thin layer of primer does not take much time, while protecting the nail plate from the appearance of yellowness, the development of fungal colonies and delamination.
Saving time and material costs are obvious.But still, this agent should not be confused with acid-free: its active ingredient is the very methacrylic acid that can cause skin burn. Therefore, when working, it is necessary to observe safety precautions: remove excess liquid from the brush and avoid its contact with the skin in every possible way.
3 Primer Bond TNL

A country: Korea
Average price: 240 rubles / 15 ml
Rating (2019): 4.7
This composition also refers to acid-free, and besides the basic functions, it is able to fill small irregularities and microcracks on the nails, thereby leveling their surface. Suitable for both professional and home use, and is applicable for application under the gel varnish or other modeling material of any company.
In the reviews, not everyone likes his harsh smell, but they are willing to put up with him, because the aroma quickly dispelled. The effect of application is noticeable after the first time - the manicure remains perfect for at least 3 weeks. Some users recommend using a primer from TNL as a degreaser and dehydrator.
2 Ultra bond Naomi

A country: USA
Average price: 250 rubles / 12 ml
Rating (2019): 4.7
Acid-free primer from another, no less eminent manufacturer from the United States is also very effective and does not allow for the premature appearance of various manicure defects. The basis of the product is hypoallergenic and low toxic (subject to the precautionary measures) compounds. Another advantage is the absence of a pronounced "chemo" odor.
The product is supplied in a glass jar and applied with a convenient brush. Based on the reviews, it dries very quickly, within 15-30 seconds. Primer is used sparingly, especially if applied only on the tips of the nails. After drying, a sticky film remains, which provides better adhesion of gel polish, biogel or acrylic to the nail surface.
1 Ultrabond Kodi

A country: USA
Average price: 450 rubles / 15 ml
Rating (2019): 4.8
Professionals of the nail industry hold in high esteem all the means of the American company Kodi Professional, and the acid-free Ultrabond primer among them. It is composed of substances with a low risk factor, so it is completely harmless to natural nails, without burning their surface and without damaging the cuticle. In addition, the tool is very convenient to apply and does not require drying in a UV lamp. Thanks to its use, gel polish is worn for at least a month.
Means represents transparent liquid, on a consistence similar to usual water. Even allergy sufferers specify that its smell, despite the synthetic components, is quite tolerable. Also, in most reviews indicate the cost-effectiveness of the primer - the bottle lasts about six months or even a year, depending on the intensity of use.