Which product is commonly used to prevent nail polish from chipping?

The product commonly used to prevent nail polish from chipping is the top coat. A top coat is a clear or slightly tinted polish that is applied over the colored nail polish to seal it in and provide a protective layer. This layer helps to enhance the longevity of the manicure, offering a smooth finish that repels chips and scratches. In addition to preventing chipping, a top coat can also provide a glossy finish or a matte look, depending on the formula used.

While a base coat is important for preparing the nails and ensuring better adherence of the nail polish, it primarily serves to protect the nail surface and improve the look and wear of the color applied on top. Nail hardeners strengthen the nails themselves rather than affecting the polish directly, and cuticle cream is used for nail health and hydration but does not play a role in the longevity of nail polish. Hence, the top coat is specifically formulated to address chipping, making it the ideal choice for this purpose.