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essie Gel Couture clear nail polish top coat - 0.46 fl oz
$12.99
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About this item
Highlights
- Essie gel couture shiny top coat: longwear clear nail polish with a gel-like shiny finish
- Long-lasting gel-like nail polish: chip and fade-resistant nail color meets gel-like high shine no base coat no uv lamp
- Easy two step system: high adherence nail color + gel-like high shine top coat step 1: apply 2 coats of gel couture color step 2: apply gel couture top coat
- Looks like gel removes like regular polish: remove gel couture nail polish with any acetone or non-acetone nail polish remover; no harsh soaking, scrubbing or scraping
- Precise generous application: swirl stem brush for precise, generous coverage and flawless at home application
- Vegan nail polish formula: zero animal derived ingredients and no animal testing
- Essie, america’s nail salon expert: essie is the go-to nail brand for celebrities, beauty professionals, fashion icons and the color obsessed
Description
inspired by haute couture essie Gel couture is salon quality & longwear at home without the uv lamp. chip and fade resistant color meets gel-like high shine in just 2 easy steps. no base coat, no uv lamp needed. 91% agree it looks like gel, but removes like regular polish, with no harsh soaking, scrubbing or scraping needed. available in a collection of exquisite, long lasting colors.
step 1- apply 2 coats of Gel couture color to clean, bare nails, step 2- finish with 1 coat of Gel couture top coat
step 1- apply 2 coats of Gel couture color to clean, bare nails, step 2- finish with 1 coat of Gel couture top coat
Health Facts: Vegan, Formaldehyde-Free, Formaldehyde Resin-Free, Animal By-Product-Free
Color Finish: Gloss
Color Palette: Translucent
Product Form: Gel
Includes: Nail Polish
Beauty Purpose: Shine Enhancing, Nail Care
Net weight: .46 fl oz (US)
Features: High Shine
TCIN: 50637455
UPC: 095008021409
Item Number (DPCI): 052-06-0004
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
If the item details aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.
Allergens & Warnings:
CAUTION: KEEP FROM HEAT OR FLAMEShipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 1.26 inches length x 1.29 inches width x 2.91 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.12 pounds
We regret that this item cannot be shipped to PO Boxes.
This item cannot be shipped to the following locations: American Samoa (see also separate entry under AS), Guam (see also separate entry under GU), Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico (see also separate entry under PR), United States Minor Outlying Islands, Virgin Islands, U.S., APO/FPO, Alaska, Hawaii
Return details
This item must be returned to any Target store.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup.
See the return policy for complete information.
Q: If I have a gel allergy could I use this? Does this contain acrylates or HEMA?
submitted by Etroth - 7 months ago
A: I have a gel allergy as well but haven’t had any issues with their nail polish thus far. I haven’t tried this topcoat specifically, but their normal polish containing acrylates haven’t given me any reaction.
submitted byCami - 6 months agoA: Hi there! Thak you for reaching out to us about the essie Gel Couture clear nail polish top coat. A list of ingredients can be found under the label information section of the website as well as on the product itself. As always we suggest speaking with your Dr. if you do have any sensitivities for usage. If you need further assistance please call us directly at 1-866-313-7845, monday - friday, 9 am to 5 pm (est).
submitted byEssie Team - 7 months agoBrand expert
Q: Can you use the Essie couture nail color alone or do you have to use the top coat for it to set and dry?
submitted by Tina - 8 months ago
A: Great question Tina! The Essie Gel Couture clear nail polish is a 2-step process. Simply apply two coats of your chosen Essie Gel Couture color, then finish with one coat of the clear Gel Couture top coat to seal in the color and achieve a gel-like shine; no base coat is needed, and you don't require a UV lamp to cure. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 8 months agoBrand expertA: Great question Tina! The Gel Couture clear nail polish is a 2-step process. Simply apply two coats of your chosen Gel Couture color, then finish with one coat of the clear Gel Couture top coat to seal in the color and achieve a gel-like shine; no base coat is needed. We hope this information is helpful and you give it a try!
submitted byEssie Team - 8 months agoBrand expert
Q: Can this be used with other nail polishes?
submitted by Kat - 5 years ago
A: Hi Kat! This Top Coat is formulated to work best with the essie Gel Couture Nail Polishes, but can definitely be used with other nail polishes as well. Hope this helps!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years agoBrand expertA: Hey there Kat! We agree, the Gel Couture Top Coat was made to give the Gel Couture nail enamels a tough, long lasting finish with loads of shine, but it can be use over any nail enamel.
submitted byEssie Team - 5 years agoBrand expert
Q: Is this fast drying?
submitted by L - 5 years ago
A: Hi L! Yes! This is a fast drying top coat that is easily removed with regular nail polish remover. Hope this helps!
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 5 years agoBrand expertA: Hi there L! The Gel Couture Top Coat is part of the long wear Gel Couture collection. This long wear top coat may actually take an extra minute longer to dry compared to other top coats. As a rule, the longer the wear, the longer a nail product takes to set.
submitted byEssie Team - 5 years agoBrand expert
Q: What type of finish does this top coat provide?
submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 10 days ago
A: The top coat delivers a glossy, gel-like shine that enhances the overall appearance of your nails.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 10 days agoAi generated
Q: Can this top coat be used without a base coat?
submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 10 days ago
A: Yes, this top coat is designed to be used without a base coat, simplifying the application process.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 10 days agoAi generated
Q: Is this nail polish formula vegan?
submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 10 days ago
A: Yes, the formula is vegan and contains no animal-derived ingredients or animal testing.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 10 days agoAi generated
Q: How does this top coat enhance nail polish longevity?
submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 10 days ago
A: The top coat provides a gel-like finish that is chip and fade-resistant, ensuring long-lasting wear.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 10 days agoAi generated
Q: What is the application process for this nail polish?
submitted by AI Shopping Assistant - 10 days ago
A: Apply two coats of Gel Couture color followed by one coat of the Gel Couture top coat for best results.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 10 days agoAi generated
Q: Does it make your nails weak? Or is it a hard polish
submitted by Ninjabunny - 5 months ago
A: Hi there! Thank you for reaching out to us about the Gel Couture clear nail polish top coat. This top coat doesn't directly strengthen nails, its primary purpose is to create a durable, gel-like finish and protect the colored polish underneath, extending the life of your manicure. This protection, however, can indirectly contribute to nail health. By creating a chip-resistant shield, the top coat helps prevent the natural nail from breaking, peeling, or becoming brittle due to daily wear and tear. This allows nails to grow longer and appear healthier. We hope this information is helpful and you give it a try!
submitted byEssie Team - 5 months agoBrand expert
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Guests are saying
This top coat is a favorite among guests for its quick drying time and high shine finish, making it perfect for at-home manicures. Many appreciate its ability to enhance the longevity of nail polish while preventing chipping. The unique packaging and smooth application further elevate the experience. While some guests noted issues with staining and chipping, the overall consensus is that this product delivers a salon-quality look without the need for UV light.
Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
4.7 out of 5 stars with 2842 reviews
easy to apply: 4.65 out of 5
easy to remove: 4.65 out of 5
long lasting: 4.08 out of 5
quality: 4.2 out of 5
value: 4.05 out of 5
83% would recommend
116 recommendations
3 out of 5 stars
20 October, 2025Verified purchase
:)
Maybe I just use my hands a lot, but it unfortunately chips really easily even using quality polish for base coat + color. For price, kind of sad :/
1 reply from Essie Team team - 2 days ago
Hi Peyton. Thank you for reaching out to Essie regarding the Gel Couture Clear Nail Polish Top Coat. We are sorry your results were not what you were expecting. We’d like to help! Please call us at 866-313-7845, M-F, 9am-5:30pm, ET and provide us with your case #43285051. Please have the product with you when you call. Looking forward to hearing from you!
1 out of 5 stars
18 September, 2025
originally posted on essie.com
Chipping By Day Three
My nails looked great at first and for about a day or two, but by day three they were chipping badly. I put two coats of color and one coat of top polish on exactly as instructed. I have tried this with multiple colors of this polish. Unfortunately, it does not last as long as advertised.
1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 1 month ago
Hi Doigger! Thank you for sharing your experience with the Gel Couture Top Coat’. We wish you could see the results you were hoping for. These special effect colors should dry in minutes, we're not sure why your application isn't setting as it should. This Gel Couture Top Coat smooth silver chrome effect can be worn alone as a sheer effect or as a special effect topper over your favorite color.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
8 September, 2025Verified purchase
The best
Nothing beats their gel couture line. This lasts so long. The brush is perfect. It’s so easy to get an even coat across the entire nail in one swipe. 10/10 highly recommend.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
4 September, 2025Verified purchase
Super Fast Drying
This top coat is amazing! It dries really fast and has a lovely, glossy look. It really helps hold polish for several days for fingernails and weeks for toenails!
5 out of 5 stars
23 August, 2025
originally posted on influenster.com
Love the gloss and how it dries quickly
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Love using as a top coat. Gives a beautiful gloss to my polish and dries quickly. The packaging is unique from the standard nail polish bottle. It’s long lasting and in my opinion helps keep the polish stay on longer. Overall a nice top coat.
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
21 August, 2025Verified purchase
Wish I could give 0 stars
Goes on beautifully, that is the only plus. If you do one coat, it starts chipping in 1 day. 2 coats lasts about 1.5-2 days. It peels off in strips. The worst and this wasn't a cheap nail polish. The worst.
1 reply from Essie Team team - 2 months ago
We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback on the Gel Couture clear nail polish top coat. We're sorry to hear it didn't meet your expectations and you had some chipping. We will pass this information along to our product development team. We hope you'll give our other products a try and find something that works better for you.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
19 August, 2025Verified purchase
Makes all the difference!
I love this top coat. It dries quickly, has a nice finish and keeps the polish from chipping. I love the Essie polishes, but some of the colors would chip easily…not with this top coat though.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
19 August, 2025Verified purchase
Game changed
This is the best polish out there hands down. Lasts over 7 days, user friendly, no harmful UV light. Colors are gorgeous. Will be purchasing more for my collection. This has been a game changer for at home manicures.
1 out of 5 stars
15 August, 2025
originally posted on essie.com
new formula is TERRIBLE
I loved their old formula - it was fast, quick, and fabulous. I have used it for years. The new formula WILL NOT DRY. It is TERRIBLE and sticky and the WORST. I am returning mine and trying something else.
1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 2 months ago
Hi NicolePPPPP! Thanks for reaching out to us regarding Gel Couture Top Coat. We're sorry to hear that you were not satisfied with this product. Your comments will be share with our teams.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
8 August, 2025Verified purchase
Great top coat
I love this gel nail polish because it dries super fast, which is perfect when you’re in a hurry. The top coat gives it that shiny, Shelic look that makes your nails look straight out of the salon but way cheaper! Definitely recommend getting both the color and top coat bottles for the full effect. It’s been my go to for easy, long lasting manicures at home.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
13 July, 2025Verified purchase
Game changer
Ever since I started using this top coat, I don’t see the need to go to the nail salon because it truly makes my polish look like gel and it dries so fast as well, it lasts a good whole week without chipping, and if I didn’t pick at my nails, it’d last 2.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
11 July, 2025Verified purchase
Grean nail polish top coat
Essie top coat uv gel
1 out of 5 stars
7 June, 2025Verified purchase
Received a used bottle of nail polish
One of the bottles I received was clearly used. Banged up, dirty, and not full.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
25 May, 2025
Best top coat ever
Purchased Essie top coat cause OPI took more than three hours to dry and still manage to smudge somehow. I can't believe how fast it takes Essie to dry compare to all other brand I've used. After 30 mins I can start doing housework no problem! Sticking to Essie from now on.
3 out of 5 stars
21 May, 2025
originally posted on essie.com
stains nails
it's good but for some reason it allows for the polish on the nails to get dirty and I use essie gel couture polish and notice that when I use the light colored polishes with this topcoat then my nails get stained easily
1 reply from Consumer Care Center team - 5 months ago
Hello blueburrd! Thank you for sharing your feedback on the Essie Gel Couture Top Coat. We understand you're experiencing staining on your nails, especially with lighter polish shades, despite using the top coat. We appreciate you bringing this to our attention and will share your comments with the appropriate teams.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
16 May, 2025Verified purchase
Excellent Topcoat
Strong topcoat that keeps nail color from chipping.
4 out of 5 stars
5 May, 2025
originally posted on influenster.com
High quality product
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Essie has always been a solid brand and these gel polishes are no different. Long lasting and easy to apply. Doesn’t take long to dry and looks great.
5 out of 5 stars
18 April, 2025
originally posted on influenster.com
Great shine!
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Although this is not something I will ever wear on my fingernails…it certainly will be a staple on my toes! Has a really great high shine and I had no issues with chipping after wearing it for a good month or so.
5 out of 5 stars
15 April, 2025
originally posted on influenster.com
Good
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Thought this top coat was really good. I honestly don't really use top coat very often but think this a product I would use again the future. Made the polish last a long time and resisted the chipping.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
23 March, 2025
Worth it!
Works really well and gives a nice shine. Doing my nails at a salon isn’t worth it because my nails chip of peel with in a week regardless if it’s gel or regular. I can get a decent 5-6 days with this top coat and spend pennies in comparison.