PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Prep

The product that is primarily used to achieve a glossy finish on nails is a top coat. Top coats are designed to provide a shiny, protective layer over the nail polish, enhancing the overall appearance and longevity of the manicure. They seal in the color, help prevent chipping, and create a smooth surface that reflects light, resulting in that desirable gloss.

Base coats serve a different purpose by preparing the nails for polish, promoting adhesion, and protecting the nails from staining. Nail polish itself provides color but lacks the protective and finishing qualities of a top coat. Nail buffers are used to smooth the nail surface and can enhance shine, but they do not provide the same glossy finish or protection that a top coat does. Thus, the role of the top coat is essential for achieving that high-shine, polished look after a manicure.