No, these aren’t gel nails – just my favourite nail polish
24/9/2026
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Pictures: Stefanie Lechthaler
I stopped painting my nails ten years ago. Too much trouble for them to look good for just a few days. It was so frustrating when all the nail polish starting chipping off. That was until I discovered my secret weapon a few months ago.
Three days – this is how long it took for my nail polish to become chipped. I’d keep picking at it until only a few stubborn flecks remained. I wanted a nail polish that provides full coverage, dries quickly and lasts a long time. Asking the impossible, right? That’s what I thought. Until I discovered the protective top coat from Londontown a few months ago.
Ever since then, everyone has been asking me if I’ve been to the nail salon. No, I haven’t, but I know why it seems like it. The smooth surface, the visual depth, the durability – everything looks professional. And all that without UV light.
Yeah, I can hardly believe it myself.
Not gel, but nail polish
My praise starts with the brush – it’s easy to control and doesn’t get caught anywhere. It’s also wide enough to apply the polish evenly.
As soon as I apply the clear top coat, it spreads evenly over the coloured polish that I applied first, then let dry. It smooths out major slip-ups and makes minor dents disappear. The result is an even finish, and the colour underneath shines even more brightly through the top coat. Shimmer effects also stand out more.
It dries faster and lasts longer
What’s always blown me away, ever since the first time, is how quickly the top coat dries. For me, smudges were just part of the process of painting my nails. I couldn’t keep my fingers still for even half an hour, and I ruined the polish before it ever had a chance to dry. It’s a different story with this top coat. Just a few seconds after applying it, I can use my fingers again. For example, to write this text. After just two minutes, the polish is dry enough that it won’t come off if I accidentally brush against something.
If the nail polish underneath it isn’t completely dry, the top coat might move if touched firmly. Not a problem. With a steady hand, I then push the varnish back into the right spot so it isn’t noticeable. In any case, it’s worth waiting until the layers of nail polish beneath are dry. This prevents unsightly bubbles from forming. A few hours later, the paint looks as if I’d cured it with UV light. For a whole week.
Additional nail care with plant-based oils and vitamins
According to the manufacturer, Londontown, the proprietary blend of plant-based active ingredients in the nail polish is designed to nourish, moisturise and improve the appearance of nails. Community member SimpleBootea45 seems to have noticed a difference and reports having healthier nails. I can’t say the same. My nails were already healthy before I applied the top coat for the first time – and they still are.
In a nutshell
I won’t be without this topcoat any more
My secret weapon has found a permanent spot in my toiletry bag. Londontown’s top coat saves me time, keeps me from getting frustrated and protects my nails, too. It’s easy to apply, dries in a flash and lasts up to a week. I don’t know if its plant-based active ingredients actually nourish my skin. But the shine alone is reason enough for me to never paint my nails without this top coat again.
Pro
- Dries quickly
- Lasts up to a week
- Gel nail look
Header image: Stefanie Lechthaler
Painting the walls just before handing over the flat? Making your own kimchi? Soldering a broken raclette oven? There's nothing you can't do yourself. Well, perhaps sometimes, but I'll definitely give it a try.
These articles might also interest you
Show all
These articles might also interest you
9 comments
later