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Hey beauties, welcome back to Beautyistic! I’ve got something that’s been making my at-home manicure routine feel seriously professional, and I can’t wait to walk you through it. Today we’re looking at the Olive & June Gel Polish Base Coat—a foundation for a long-lasting gel mani that promises up to 21 days of wear, a salon-quality shine, and damage-free removal. If you’ve ever wanted that glossy, chip-free look without stepping foot in a salon, this one’s caught a lot of attention for a reason.
So, let’s break it down. The Olive & June Base Coat is designed for use with a UV or LED lamp, forming the essential first step in their gel system. It’s HEMA-free and vegan, which is great if you’re conscious about nail health and cleaner formulations. Olive & June highlights that it’s free from 15 potentially harmful ingredients, including formaldehyde, DBP, and toluene, making it a gentler option for frequent polish changers. The base coat is supposed to create a plump, glossy foundation that holds gel color securely while allowing for smooth, shiny, and durable results.
When I first used it, I noticed how easy it was to apply. The consistency is lightweight but not runny, which makes precise application effortless. I cured it under my LED lamp for the recommended two minutes, and it created a smooth, tack-free surface ready for color. What impressed me immediately was how evenly the polish adhered afterward—no streaks, no bubbling, and the shine was instant. For everyday wear, I tested this over three weeks with typical hand activity—typing, dishes, minor gardening—and it maintained its gloss and resisted chipping far better than many other at-home gel systems I’ve tried. Removal was also surprisingly gentle; with their recommended process, there was minimal filing needed, and my nails didn’t feel weakened or peeled afterward.
Of course, no product is perfect. On the plus side, the base coat spreads evenly, cures quickly, and genuinely enhances gel longevity. The HEMA-free, non-toxic formulation is a big win for nail health, especially if you frequently switch colors. However, you do need an LED or UV lamp to use it, so it’s not a one-step polish you can skip the tools on. Also, while removal is safe, it does require patience compared to traditional polish, so if you’re looking for a super quick-change option, it might not be ideal.
Value-wise, Olive & June leans premium, but in my experience, it’s justified. The formulation, clean ingredients, and long wear mean fewer touch-ups and less nail damage over time. Compared to other high-street gel base coats, it’s on par with salon-quality products but safer and more user-friendly for at-home use. Cheaper alternatives exist, but many contain harsher chemicals or don’t deliver the same glossy, durable finish.
The packaging is sleek and functional, with a brush that distributes the polish evenly. As for longevity, if applied correctly and paired with their gel top coat, you really can expect up to three weeks of wear—though this will vary depending on lifestyle and nail condition. Customer support from Olive & June is known to be responsive, and they provide clear instructions and helpful tips for first-time gel users, which adds confidence for those new to at-home gel manicures.
If you’re someone who loves experimenting with nail colors but hates the damage or short lifespan of traditional polish, this base coat is an excellent foundation. It keeps nails healthy, supports long-lasting wear, and gives that coveted salon shine—all from the comfort of your home.
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Thanks so much for stopping by Beautyistic. If you’ve tried the Olive & June Gel Base Coat, drop a comment below and let me know your experience—I love hearing your thoughts. And if you’re ready to try it yourself, you’ll find the purchase link in the description box.
Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay beautiful inside and out!
Available to buy here:
