Illinois Nail Technician Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

The product that is specifically designed to prevent chipping and enhance the shine of nails is the top coat. Top coats are applied over nail polish to create a protective layer that seals in color and adds a glossy finish. This not only improves the durability of the nail polish, helping to resist chipping and fading, but also adds a brilliant shine that enhances the overall appearance of the nails.

Base coats serve a different purpose; they provide a foundation for nail polish and can help with adhesion and prevent staining of the natural nail. Nail hardeners are formulated to strengthen the nails, often helping those with weak or brittle nails, but they do not primarily focus on shine or chipping prevention. Cuticle oil is used to nourish the cuticles and surrounding skin, promoting healthy nail growth but does not directly contribute to the polish's durability or shine. Thus, the top coat is the key product for achieving a long-lasting, shiny finish on nails.