I'm just wondering because my nail polish doesn't really stay on for very long even with a top coat. I've heard mixed reviews that a top coat is necessary, but I'm not really sure. What do you all think????

When I get my nails done at the salon, they use a base coat, two coats of color and a top coat. And it really does last a lot longer.

When doing them myself, I'm a fan of the '5 minute manicure'. Get all ready, lay out the keys and sunglasses, then paint one sheer coat on your nails and spray with a quick drying spray. Light colors don't show chipping as bad.

kk~

I usually try to put a top coat over. Usually two coats of color. I've never had it last longer. When I was living at my parents doing outside chores, dishes every day and showering just wore down my nails too much. Now they may last a tiny bit longer because I don't have to wash dishes every day, but they still chip fairly quickly.

My nails last longest with a base coat and a top coat. It could also be that you aren't using a very chip-resistant brand of nail polish.

If I want my nail polish to last a while, I use a base coat, then a coat or two of color (depending on how opaque I want the polish to look), then a top coat. It lasts pretty well without chipping if I do it that way.