We don’t understand why top coats don’t get the credit they deserve. Not only do they make every nail polish appear glossy and flawless, it looks pretty amazing on its own, always! A single swipe is all you need to turn your old lack luster nail polish into one that looks like it’s probably worth a million bucks. Plus, it acts as an invisible shield, protecting polish from chipping and dulling — no UV lamps required. Now that you’re sold (we hope) on how awesome nail toppers are, read on to know our favourites.

On days when you’re tired of sporting glossy nails, go matte! Here’s a top coat that not only converts any nail polish into a matte one, it keeps the nails from chipping for 7 days at least.

This top coat has the protection of a gel polish, with a thinner consistency. This top coat is thinner than most long-lasting polishes, which helps it better protect a fresh manicure because a thick top coat actually leads to faster chipping.

A retro budget-friendly option, Ardell's Seche Vite Dry Fast clear coat is an accessible pick with its $8 price point. It dries quickly and leaves nails super shiny.

A welcome drugstore pick, this affordable bottle by Sally Hansen is a must-have amongst nail pros. Not only does it dry really quickly, but it gives the nails a gorgeous glossy finish, too!

After swiping on a Smith & Cult polish — like the dusty-pink Powder Posse, or Tang Bang, a rusted orange — you want that color to stay shiny and pigmented for as long as possible. Prepping and topping your manicure with the brand's protective polishes can help you do just that. This top coat seals the polish perfectly, eliminating any pesky chipping or smudging.

If you're looking for a hard and glossy shield to make your DIY mani last as long as possible, consider investing in a translucent gel polish, like this one from Dior. It actually gives your nails the look of a salon gel manicure. It lends your nail laquer an insanely awesome shine that lasts far too long!

Another gel pick — this one from Chanel — creates a smooth, protective finish over your manicure. This top coat locks in shine, extending the lifespan of your manicure by a week. Basically, a coat of this almost guarantees a three-week manicure, without shelling out big bucks to stick your fingers under a UV lamp.

When you've already spent 45 minutes filing your nails into the perfect almond tips, and painting your polish slowly and carefully so as not to touch your cuticles, you want a polishing top coat that speeds up the process. One coat combines all of the benefits of a top coat — including shine and long-lasting results — with a quick-drying formula, making it perfect for when you're looking to be done with your nails