10 Best Matte Top Coats For Nails, According To A Makeup Artist – 2024
Give your nails that velvety matte finish that lasts long and looks oh-so-luxurious!
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Nail paints are always hard to choose from, for their wide variety of colors, as well as matte plus glossy features. Putting the best matte topcoat gives the smooth finishing touch that everyone needs after the end of a nice manicure. Since everybody is all about DIY self-care, from beauty, hairdos, to personal grooming, it is good to find your own products that suit you best. For nails to look flawless, the top layer needs to provide protection as well as look good. It will also make the color stay longer. Nail enhancement products are evolving immensely and offer a variety of options with healthy formulas and color tones, that glide on smooth and are chip-resistant. Of course, taste differs as per individual, so choosing a matte topcoat according to the personal preference is quite important.
We have curated a list of the 10 best ones in the market, that you can trust blindly and purchase without any apprehension. Your color shade will last long too with these.
In This Article
10 Best Matte Top Coats – 2024 Update
1. Best Gel Top Coat:O.P.I Matte Top Coat
This award-winning matte top coat by OPI gives you a superior, velvety matte finish. It seals in color to prevent any chipping, scratches, or smudges for up to 7 days. The formula is a popular choice as it also prevents your nail polish from yellowing or staining and ensures a long-lasting protective layer. Check this video to learn more about a reviewer’s experience of using the product.
Pros
- Does not bubble up
- Smudge-proof
- Easy to apply
- Smooth finish
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Expensive
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 34,347 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Cruelty-Free Top Coat:Barry M Cosmetics Matte Nail Paint
Spice up your look and fingernails with this matte nail paint by Barry M Cosmetics! It provides you with ultimate chipping protection and gives a quality matte finish. It offers a pearlescent finish and pairs perfectly with any nail paint, providing a long-lasting manicure. The product is an affordable option and is not tested on animals, which makes it ideal for people seeking ethically conscious nail paint options.
Pros
- Vegan
- Smooth application
- Comes off easily
- Fast drying
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This nail polish holds up well and delivers a subtle and non-glossy finish. It is quick-drying and does not irritate my cuticles. I like that it enhances my overall nail health and appearance."
Quick Tip3. Best Salon-Quality Top Coat:Essie Matte About You Top Coat
This classic gel top coat by the celebrity-favorite Essie is a must-have in your vanity. It is equipped with a patent-pending curve nail-hugging brush and gives you seamless and precise coverage. This fast-drying formula is super long-lasting and can stay put for up to 14 days. The texture of the top matte clear coat is designed to glide over the nails for a seamless matte finish without streaks. The precise formula provides your nail polish with a velvety finish in just a swipe! It can be removed easily and does not require any harsh scrubbing, soaking, or scraping. The product does not undergo animal testing, which makes it a cruelty-free option for ethically conscious nail art enthusiasts. This video details a tester’s experience with the product. Watch it before making a purchasing decision.
Pros
- Instant results
- Seamless application
- Vegan
- DB-free
- Toluene-free
- Formaldehyde-free
Cons
- Hardens soon
| O.P.I Matte Top Coat Best Gel Top Coat | Barry M Cosmetics Matte Nail Paint Best Cruelty-Free Top Coat | Essie Matte About You Top Coat Best Salon-Quality Top Coat | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Matte Finish Top Coat | Diamond Glitter | MATTE ABOUT YOU TOP COAT |
| Dimensions | 4 x 4 x 6 inches | - | 1.38 x 1.85 x 3.47 inches |
| Weight | 0.53 Ounces | - | 2.29 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 34,347 | 20,475 | 15,913 |
| Price | $14.49 | $6.28 | $9.5 |
4. Best Quick-Drying Top Coat:Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat
If you are a manicure lover, this topcoat treatment by the statement-making brand Sally Hansen is a definite must-buy! It enhances your nail color and sits into a flawless matte finish. It also helps protect your nails from chipping, smashing, or wearing off too fast. The quick-drying top coat is specifically designed for even application and preserves your nail color’s texture and look. In addition, the long-lasting formula can stay put for up to 10 days. This video details a reviewer’s experience of using the product for better understanding. The reviews available online sing praises about its smooth and long-lasting finish.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Precise application
- Prevents yellowing
- Lightweight
- Does not bubble
- Good staying power
Cons
- None
"This matte topcoat gives me a velvety matte finish. It dries quickly and makes my nails appear glamorous. I retouch after a few days to keep the matte effect intact. It is perfect for quick nail styling!"
5. Best Budget-Friendly Top Coat:Beetles Gel No Wipe Matte Top Coat
The Beetles Gel No Wipe Matte Top Coat is one you will surely be coming back for! This alcohol-free top coat provides the ultimate matte finish to your nails, which can effortlessly compete with any salon-done nails. The formula does not solidify easily, so you can trust it for its durability. Many reviewers online have mentioned that the product with velvet finish is easy to use and delivers good coverage. It is suitable for beginners and professionals.
Pros
- Toxin-free
- Alcohol-free
- Velvety matte finish
- Chip-resistant
- Smudge-resistant
- Durable finish
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May cause an allergic reaction
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 10,901 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
6. Best Fast-Drying Top Coat:AIMEILI UV & LED Soak Off No Wipe Matte Top Coat
The AIMEILI UV & LED Soak Off No Wipe Matte Top Coat is an easy-to-use, long-lasting product. It works tremendously and is guaranteed to provide you with a top-notch, salon-like finish. It is ideal for securing any form of nail art design. The top coat provides good coverage and durability for up to 21 days, so you won’t have to worry about reapplying it. Reviewers love this product because it is easy to apply and comes with anti-fading properties. It also provides UV protection and is non-yellowing.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Beginner-friendly
- Smooth matte finish
- Hema-free
- Chip-resistant
- Smudge-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 10,346 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
7. Best Applicator Brush:China Glaze Matte Magic Top Coat
This unique top coat by China Glaze gives you a precise and seamless application every single time. It is free of any harsh toxins and chemicals and is safe and gentle on your nails. In addition, it turns any shiny nail polish to a beautiful matte finish in just a matter of seconds. Its application brush is one of its best features.
Pros
- Instant results
- Seamless application
- Value for money
- Prevents chipping
- DBP-free
- Toluene-free
- Formaldehyde-free
Cons
- None
"The top coat dries quickly and does not stain the skin around my nails. I like that it does not require daily touch-ups. It does not chip or budge easily which is great for my active lifestyle."
8. Best Lightweight Top Coat: Kupa Gelfinity Gel Top Matte Coat
The Kupa Gelfinity Gel Top Matte Coat is a must-have high-quality gel polish. It is formulated with non-toxic materials that do not harm the nail bed and give desired results. The lightweight product delivers a neat glaze that efficiently covers the nail art design without smudging it. It is long-lasting and works for all nail types, from natural, acrylic, and hard gels to artificial. It can be applied smoothly for a consistent finish.
Pros
- Formaldehyde-free
- Non-toxic formula
- Easy to apply
- Long-lasting
- Smooth matte finish
Cons
- None
"This matte top coat is very easy to apply. It stays intact for a long time. I don't have to deal with streaks or odd textures when I use it. It also works well under gel polish."
9. Best Value Added Pack:Eternal Matte Top Coat
This duo pack of top coats by Eternal enhances, protects, and complements your favorite color. It is apt for gel, natural, and acrylic nails. The polish gives your statement-making manicure a new dimension and dries into a velvety matte finish. The salon-quality results are sure to make you receive numerous compliments. It is easy to apply, and dries quickly! Ethically conscious consumers are obsessed with this product because it does not undergo animal testing.
Pros
- Fast-drying
- Long-lasting wear
- Easy to apply
- Formaldehyde-free
- DBP-free
- Toluene-free
Cons
- None
"I really like this nail polish. It dries fast and keeps my nails smooth and shiny. It gives me a subtle finish and stays for a long time. It is easy to apply and spreads without staining the skin around my nails."
10. Best Professional Quality Top Coat:Orly Matte Top Coat
This professional-grade matte topcoat instantly turns your glossy finish nail lacquer to a gorgeous soft matte finish. It prevents your nails from yellowing or staining. Your nail shade stays the same from day one. The formula of the matte polish is also self-leveling and dries into a smooth and elegant finish that does not peel off. It is easy to remove and does not damage your nails during the procedure.
Pros
- Does not bubble up
- Prevents chipping
- Long-lasting
- Easy to apply
- Smooth finish
- Fast-drying
Cons
- None
"This matte top coat gives me a sophisticated manicure. I like that it is durable and does not chip easily. It dries quickly and makes my nails shine without any glossiness."
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a matte topcoat.
What To Look For In A Matte Topcoat?
- Drying Time
Most topcoats are formulated to dry fast on your regular polish. If the product dries within a few minutes, it is most likely to be indicated on the label. Otherwise, you can expect most of the topcoats to dry within 10 minutes and get fully set in hard in roughly 30 minutes. Another word of advice is that the more coats you apply, the longer it takes to dry. It can be extremely irritating to wait for the top coats to dry when you are in the mood to recreate your favorite celebrity-inspired makeup looks.
- Gel Vs. Lacquer
Regular nail lacquer is quite similar to paint, so they air dry. On the other hand, gel top coats only dry or cure under special LED or UV lamps and last longer.
- Applicator
The expertly crafted applicator brush’s shape, texture, and length are important points to be considered. The right applicator gives a precise and seamless application.
- Long-Lasting
Choose a top coat that stays put for a long time, thereby keeping your manicure intact and giving a matte finish throughout.
Infographic: Why A Matte Topcoat Is A Must-Try Product
A matte topcoat is a perfect way to add a unique and trendy touch to any nail polish color and give it a velvety finish. It not only hides any flaws in your manicure but can also lengthen its lifespan. Check out the infographic below to learn more about matte effect topcoats and their benefits.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Nail beauty products are versatile, trendy, unique and can be tailored to individual needs. Top coats are a very thoughtful addition to the beauty industry. The fashion-forward top coats can instantly turn glossy to matte with one single application. Professionals and nail artists widely use top coats to create an artistic look. Ideal top coats make the nail color stay long. The O.P.I Matte Top Coat is the perfect choice for a smooth and long-lasting finish. The Barry M Cosmetics Matte Nail Paint is an affordable, cruelty-free option that adds a little shimmer to your matte top coat, while the Essie Matte About You Top Coat is ideal for a professional, salon-like finish. These long-lasting, chip-resistant, bubble-free, and quick-drying top coats come as a great savior. But, avoid coats that harden, have a strong scent, or that don’t provide a smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a matte top coat last?
A matte top coat can last for up to 10 days. Then, as it starts wearing off, it gives a semi-shiny or satin finish.
Can we use a matte top coat on gel nail polish?
Yes, you can use a matte top coat on gel nail polish.
Does the matte top coat dry faster?
The surface of a matte tends to feel less tacky faster than a regular top coat. So, while the surface might feel solid, half of the product underneath still has to dry – but you will be able to touch the top layer.
Can you do two coats of matte topcoat?
A matte top coat gives a matte finish to your manicure and protects the gloss underneath. One top of a matte top coat nail is usually sufficient. However, there’s no harm in using one extra coat.
Do you have to cure a matte top coat?
Yes, it is ideal to cure your nail polish after every coat. This way you can ensure that your manicure is thoroughly dried and will not smudge or smear unexpectedly.
How do I keep my matte nails from chipping?
Since most chipping begins at the tip of the nail, to keep chipping away, paint a vertical swipe of polish at the tip of your nail.
Can you put matte top coat over regular nail polish?
Yes, you can put a matte top coat over regular nail polish.
What’s the difference between a top coat and a matte top coat?
Top coats are used to make your manicure last longer. They protect your nail polish and prevent chipping. A matte top coat provides the same benefits but without the high-shine.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Certified in makeup techniques, Baishali Bhattacharya is a makeup and fashion fanatic. In this post, she brings you a list of the best matte topcoats that are easy to apply and fast-drying. These products add shine to the nails and help the polish last longer. Baishali has intensively researched various topcoat brands in the market to shortlist matted coats that give your nails a manicured finish. She also shares handy tips on things to consider when choosing a matte topcoat.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Krati Darak
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