Also known as 'nail lacquer' and 'nail varnish', nail polish comes in a variety of colours, bottles, brands, and prices. Using a transparent base coat will protect your nails and help the nail polish adhere. Apply nail polish in several thin layers, not one thick layer: it will dry faster this way. It is best to apply a transparent top coat to prevent chipping; the better the topcoat, the longer your nail polish will last. The shelf life of nail polish can be extended through refrigeration. If your nail polish is too thick, it can be thinned by adding a few drops of nail polish thinner or nail polish remover. Don't chip nail polish off, this will ruin your nails: use nail polish remover.