Which product provides a protective layer to prevent polish chipping?

• A. Top coat
• B. Base coat
• C. Nail bleach
• D. Speed dry

Answer: (A)

The protective layer that goes over colored polish is the top coat. It forms a hard, sealing finish on top of the color, which helps lock in the manicure and resist daily wear. By smoothing the surface and reducing friction, a top coat minimizes micro-damage that leads to chipping, so the polish lasts longer and still looks glossy.

Base coat, by contrast, lives under the color and helps the polish adhere to the nail and protects the natural nail from staining. Nail bleach is for whitening or removing stains, not for protecting polish. Speed dry speeds up drying time and isn’t the protective barrier itself, though some products combine quick-dry formulas with a top coat.