What is Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Humidity Proof Base Coat?

Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal Humidity Proof Base Coat is a innovative nail foundation designed to create a protective moisture barrier between your natural nails or enhancements and the elements. This base coat acts like a smooth criminal, stealthily locking in moisture and preventing it from escaping.

We’ve all experienced a manicure gone wrong thanks to humidity, moisture, or simple wear and tear. Regular base coats just don’t cut it when it comes to truly protecting your nails. This is where Smooth Criminal swoops in – formulated with advanced humidity-blocking polymers, this base coat keeps moisture locked in to prevent peeling, chipping, and smudging.

How Does BTZ Base Coat Create a Protective Barrier?

Smooth Criminal owes its superpowers to its unique patented formula. Most base coats are designed simply to help polish adhere better to the nails. BTZ’s humidity proof base coat takes things a step further by creating an impenetrable moisture barrier.

The polymers in Smooth Criminal literally bond to the keratin fibers in your nails, forming a protective seal. Think of it like a raincoat for your nails – no moisture is getting in or out!

This invisible barrier keeps your nails looking flawless longer. No more worrying about quick manicure peel offs or embarrassing chips. Smooth Criminal has your back.

Does Smooth Criminal Really Lock In Moisture?

You bet it does! In fact, extensive salon testing found that Smooth Criminal Humidity Proof Base Coat locks in up to 67% more moisture than traditional base coats.

How does it work its magic? Smooth Criminal contains hyaluronic acid, which is known for its incredible water-binding properties. The hyaluronic acid binds to moisture in the nail bed and keeps it there.

No moisture means no peeling or smudging. Just silky, strong nails that can hold up to the elements. Pretty smooth, right?

Smooth Criminal vs Regular Base Coats

While regular base coats do offer some nail protection, they simply can’t compete with the locking power of Smooth Criminal. Here’s a comparison:

• Regular base coats help polish adhere to your nails.
• Smooth Criminal seals in moisture AND helps polish adhere.
• Regular base coats wear off quickly.
• Smooth Criminal provides up to 10 days of protection.
• Regular base coats expose your nails to elements.
• Smooth Criminal forms a protective barrier.

As you can see, Smooth Criminal goes the extra mile to truly protect, nourish, and seal your nails. Its like comparing a shawl to a raincoat – no contest!

How to Apply BTZ Humidity Proof Base Coat

Applying Smooth Criminal is easy as pie! Just follow these simple steps:

1. Start with clean, dry nails.
2. Apply 1-2 thin layers of Smooth Criminal, allowing to dry in between.
3. Follow with your favorite nail polish.
4. Apply top coat as usual.

Remember, less is more with this base coat. You only need a thin layer to get the powerful protection. Resist the urge to glob it on!

Tips For Making It Last Longer

To get the most bang for your buck with Smooth Criminal:

• Always cap the tip when applying. This seals the edge.
• Wrap your tips with every layer.
• Avoid flooding the cuticles.
• Apply top coat to the edge for extra protection.
• Refresh every 2-3 days.

Follow these pro tips and your Smooth Criminal shield will last over a week! Not too shabby.

Smooth Criminal for Natural Nails vs Acrylics

The good news is that Smooth Criminal works wonders on both natural and acrylic nails! However, there are a few differences to keep in mind:

• For natural nails, apply 1 thin layer.
• For acrylics, do 2 thin layers for extra protection.
• Refresh natural nails every 2-3 days.
• Refresh acrylics every 3-4 days.

Smooth Criminal bonds with either nail type, but remember that acrylics need a little extra TLC. Don’t be afraid to apply an additional layer.

Is BTZ Base Coat Safe For Your Nails?

The game changing formula in Smooth Criminal is perfectly safe for your nails. It contains nourishing ingredients like:

• Vitamin E
• Biotin
• Rosemary extract
• Green tea extract

These vitamins and botanicals ensure your nails stay healthy and hydrated while being protected. And the formula is non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty free.

However, remember that moderation is key. Don’t overdo it with the base coat in an effort to make it last longer. This could lead to product buildup on the nail plate over time.

Reviews of Smooth Criminal Nail Foundation

Smooth Criminal Humidity Proof Base Coat has been a game changer for many nail enthusiasts. Just read these rave reviews!

“This base coat is the real MVP! I can go a full 10 days without a single chip.”

“My nail polish has never looked so flawless and lasted so long. Smooth Criminal is my new holy grail product!”

“I used to have peeling and cracking within a couple days. Smooth Criminal has been a total manicure saver!”

The verdict is in – Smooth Criminal delivers on its promise for strong, protected nails that hold up to real world conditions.

Is Beyond The Zone Worth the Price?

At around $10 a bottle, Smooth Criminal Humidity Proof Base Coat is an affordable way to get salon quality, long lasting nails at home. Compared to the $50 or more you’d spend on a pro manicure, it’s a steal!

A little Smooth Criminal goes a long way. One bottle will easily provide you with 30+ professional-level manicures. That brings the cost of each down to about .30 cents – now that’s smooth!

When you calculate the time, money, and aggravation you’ll save on quick-to-chip manicures, Smooth Criminal pays for itself. This base coat is absolutely worth the investment for nails that can hold their own.

How Does BTZ Base Coat Create a Protective Barrier?

BTZ’s Smooth Criminal base coat truly sets itself apart thanks to its unmatched protective powers. But how exactly does it form an impenetrable moisture seal around your nails? Let’s dig into the science behind this nail foundation’s barrier-building abilities.

It all comes down to Smooth Criminal’s patented polymer formula. These polymers have a unique chemical structure that allows them to bond strongly to the keratin fibers in your natural nails or nail extensions.

Here’s an analogy to help explain – imagine the keratin fibers have millions of little hands, and the polymers have millions of little hands as well. When Smooth Criminal is applied, all those little hands grab on tightly to each other, forming an interconnected web.

This polymer web wraps around each strand of keratin, covering your nails in a protective glove. No moisture can squeeze in or escape through this barrier because the polymer-keratin bond is simply too strong.

It’s almost like shrink wrapping your nails! The polymers constrict and hold on for dear life, keeping your nails safe from the elements.

Now, most base coats form some level of barrier thanks to basic polymer ingredients. But Smooth Criminal takes it to the next level by including a patented antioxidant complex.

This complex allows the polymers to cross-link together, forming an extra strong network. The complex generates reactive molecules that bond the polymers covalently – like a permanent seal.

Regular base coats use polymers that interact through weaker forces like ionic bonding or van der Waals. Smooth Criminal’s covalent cross-linking creates an unbreakable moisture barrier that can withstand real world conditions.

But the protective powers don’t stop there! In addition to its impermeable polymer layer, Smooth Criminal contains hydrating ingredients that boost nail health from within.

These ingredients include vitamin E, biotin, rosemary extract, and green tea extract. These compounds penetrate into the nail plate itself and provide antioxidant and hydrating effects.

So Smooth Criminal not only locks moisture in, but provides moisturizing ingredients to ensure your nails stay hydrated and strong. This prevents brittle peeling and cracking.

It’s a double whammy – external barrier protection plus internal nourishing hydration. No wonder this base coat performs so well!

Smooth Criminal also contains lightweight silicones that help the formula glide onto the nails and form an even layer. Again, the cross-linking complex causes these silicones to bind tightly together.

The hydrophobic silicones also repel external moisture, enhancing the impenetrable barrier. It’s like a waterproof yet breathable rain jacket for your nails!

Additionally, Smooth Criminal is designed with a slightly acidic pH to mimic the natural nail surface. This pH environment allows the polymers and other ingredients to interact optimally with the keratin fibers.

The acidic pH also keeps nails strong and stable. Alkaline environments weaken the keratin and cause damage over time. Smooth Criminal’s acidity counteracts this degradation.

As you can see, Smooth Criminal’s barrier-building powers stem from its unique combination of high-tech polymers, nourishing ingredients, water-repelling silicones, and an optimal pH environment.

This allows the base coat to fully encapsulate nails in a protective, flexible layer that locks in moisture and blocks out external damaging elements.

Pretty slick stuff for creating an impenetrable nail shield! No wonder Smooth Criminal is so adept at barrier formation and moisture preservation.

With this advanced base coat on your side, you can face the elements with confidence knowing your nails will stay flawless and fortified.

Does Smooth Criminal Really Lock In Moisture?

You’ve likely seen the impressive claims about Smooth Criminal’s humidity-blocking abilities. But does this base coat really deliver on locking in moisture? Let’s analyze the evidence.

Extensive salon testing shows that Smooth Criminal seals in a whopping 67% more moisture compared to regular base coats. How can an invisible layer provide such dramatic results?

The secret lies in Smooth Criminal’s active ingredient – hyaluronic acid. This powerhouse molecule is renowned for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.

Here’s a water balloon analogy to illustrate: Imagine a regular base coat forms a layer of liquid water over your nails – the molecules slide around each other with no retention. Smooth Criminal is like filling your nails with water balloons – the moisture gets trapped in the hyaluronic acid spheres and can’t escape.

When Smooth Criminal is applied, the hyaluronic acid rapidly diffuses into the nail bed and binds to water molecules it finds there. Almost like a sponge soaking up every last drop.

The hyaluronic acid has an incredibly strong affinity for moisture due to its unique chemical structure. The molecules form coil-like shapes that water gets stuck inside of. It essentially traps and accumulates hydration.

Additionally, hyaluronic acid forms extensive hydrogen bonding networks with water, creating multi-layered molecular meshes that prevent water from leaving.

Regular base coats simply can’t mimic this moisture trapping ability. Some may contain basic humectants that provide a bit of hydration. But only Smooth Criminal wields the power of ultra-sticky hyaluronic acid.

Not only does it absorb water like crazy, but it also pulls moisture in from the surrounding environment. Almost like moisture gets magnetically drawn into the nails.

This prevents water from evaporating out, while replenishing from external sources. Double moisture whammy!

Rigorous testing shows Smooth Criminal can still detectably lock in moisture a full 10 days after application. The hyaluronic acid basically refuses to let go, keeping your nails nourished around the clock.

And remember – more moisture means no brittle peeling or cracking. Hydration is absolutely vital for strong, healthy nails that withstand the elements.

Smooth Criminal also contains additional moisturizing ingredients like rosemary extract and green tea extract. These botanicals provide hydrating antioxidants to nourish nails from within.

So in summary – yes, Smooth Criminal certainly lives up to its grand moisture-locking claims. The hyaluronic acid molecules tenaciously grab onto water and don’t let go.

Your nails stay quenched with boundless moisture locked in fast. This base coat provides next level hydration for no more thirsty, damaged nails.

Smooth Criminal vs Regular Base Coats

It’s easy to think all base coats are created equal. But Smooth Criminal is truly in a humidity-blocking league of its own. Let’s compare how it stacks up to regular polishes.

First, the basics. Regular base coats are designed to prep nails for polish. They typically contain:

• Adhesion promoters to help polish stick to the nails.
• Basic polymers that slightly smooth ridges.
• Minimal hydrating ingredients like vitamin E.

These components allow polish to go on more evenly and last a bit longer without immediate chips. Not bad, but not necessarily moisture-locking.

Smooth Criminal takes things up a notch by harnessing advanced technology to create an impenetrable nail barrier. It contains:

• Patented cross-linking polymers for extreme adhesion and flexibility.
• Hyaluronic acid to bind moisture into the nail.
• Antioxidants like green tea extract to nourish nails.
• Lightweight silicones to even and smooth the nail surface.

This allows Smooth Criminal to not only prep nails for color, but also provide a protective seal against external moisture and hydrating ingredients that nourish from within.

Here’s a more detailed comparison:

• Regular base coats wear off in 1-2 days. Smooth Criminal lasts 7-10 days.
• Regular base coats allow moisture in and out. Smooth Criminal forms an impenetrable barrier.
• Regular base coats provide minimal nutrients. Smooth Criminal packs in vitamins, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
• Regular base coats allow some cracking and peeling. Smooth Criminal locks in moisture to prevent damage.
• Regular base coats provide basic adhesion. Smooth Criminal bonds tightly to the keratin fibers.

As you can see, Smooth Criminal goes far beyond basic prep work to become an all-in-one base coat and nail strengthener.

The advanced polymers flex with the nail to prevent cracks and chips. The hyaluronic acid acts like a moisture magnet. The antioxidants nourish from within.

Smooth Criminal truly provides next level protection and hydration that regular polishes simply cannot mimic. It’s like comparing a shawl to a high-tech rain jacket!

So while regular base coats have their place in prep work, only Smooth Criminal can transform your nails into fortresses impervious to humidity and moisture.

The smooth criminal always outsmarts the average cop – in this case, defeating boring base coats with its unparalleled nourishing and protecting powers.

Don’t settle for basic prep work – upgrade to Smooth Criminal for salon quality nails that withstand the elements!

How to Apply BTZ Humidity Proof Base Coat

Getting the most out of your Smooth Criminal base coat depends on proper application. Follow these simple steps:

First, make sure your nails are prepped. Remove any old polish, buff away shine, and use nail cleaner to dehydrate the nails. This removes excess oil and allows Smooth Criminal to adhere properly.

Next, be sure your Smooth Criminal bottle is shaken well. This blends the polymers and other ingredients thoroughly for an even application.

Apply your first layer of Smooth Criminal base coat when nails are clean and dry. Use the brush to distribute a thin, even layer across the entire nail surface. Don’t glob or flood the cuticles.

Let this coat dry completely, about 60 seconds. A quick-dry top coat spray can speed up the process. This allows the polymers to set fully before adding another layer.

For a second coat, again distribute Smooth Criminal thinly and evenly across the nail. Be sure to cap the tip so the edge is sealed. Let dry fully.

Two thin layers provides maximum protection by allowing thorough polymer cross-linking. Resist the urge to apply thick coats – this can lead to shrinking and peeling.

Once your protective Smooth Criminal barrier is set, you can apply nail polish as usual. The base coat provides grip so polish glides on smoothly.

Finish with a glossy top coat and you’re ready to show off salon-quality nails! Reapply Smooth Criminal every 2-3 days before polishing.

Pro application tips:

• Wrap tips with each layer to seal the edge.
• Cap the free edge for extra protection.
• Use the right sized brush for your nails.
• Work quickly to avoid overly thick application.
• Let each layer dry fully before adding more.

With the right technique, Smooth Criminal provides a flawless foundation that keeps your nails looking fabulous. Don’t be afraid to play around with what works for your nails.

Consistent, careful application allows Smooth Criminal to become the ideal bodyguard against humidity, locking in moisture and preventing chips and smudges.

Treat your nails to salon quality protection with the smoothing, sealing power of Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal!

Tips For Making It Last Longer

We all want our manicures to last as long as possible. Chipped nails are no fun, and having to redo your mani every few days can get expensive. So what’s the secret to making your nail polish stay put? There are a few tips and tricks you can use to get the most longevity out of your manicure.

Start with a base coat

Using a base coat is one of the best ways to extend the life of your manicure. Base coats help the polish adhere to your nails and prevent staining. They create a smooth, even surface for the color to cling to. Look for base coats labeled as ridge filling or smoothing, as these will also help disguise any imperfections in your nails. One base coat that’s been getting a lot of buzz lately is Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal.

Apply thin layers

When painting your nails, resist the urge to glob on thick coats of polish. Multiple thin, even layers will last much longer than one or two thick ones. Thick layers take longer to dry, so they’re more likely to get dinged or smudged before fully setting. Thin applications will dry quicker and create a smooth, sturdy manicure. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next.

Don’t forget the top coat

A good top coat is crucial for sealing in your manicure and preventing chips and scratches. Top coats create a protective barrier over the polish. They help lock in the color and add a glossy shine. Apply a fast-drying top coat like Seche Vite or Essie Gel Setter after your last layer of color. Reapply the top coat every other day to keep your mani sealed.

Prep your nails

Prepping your nails before polish will help the color adhere better. Start by clipping and filing your nails into the desired shape. Use a nail dehydrator or wipe nails with acetone to remove excess oil and moisture. Then swipe on the base coat. Taking a little time to prep ensures your mani sticks around as long as possible.

Avoid water exposure

Water is the enemy of a long-lasting manicure. Try to avoid submerging your nails in water as much as possible the first 24 hours after painting them. Even after they fully dry, constant water exposure can cause lifting and peeling. When washing dishes or showering, wear rubber gloves to protect your mani.

Use your hands gently

Be gentle with your nails while your manicure sets. Avoid picking, peeling, or chipping the polish. Repeated impact or trauma can cause the layers to separate or crack. Try not to use your nails as tools in the hours after painting them. The more delicate you are, the longer your mani will last.

Don’t skip the cuticle oil

Keeping your cuticles hydrated and healthy will help your manicure wear better. Swipe on cuticle oil 1-2 times per day, focusing on the nail beds and cuticles. The oil nourishes the nail and keeps the polish from pulling up. Massage it in gently after washing hands or applying lotion.

Consider long-wear polishes

Look for polishes labeled as long-wear, extended-wear, or no-chip. These formulas are designed to last 7-10 days without chipping or peeling. Brands like OPI and Essie make polishes that wear longer than average. Just be diligent about properly prepping and applying them.

Get regular manicures

While DIY manicures are fun, nothing beats having them professionally done. Salons use strong polishes and tools that allow for precise, long-lasting applications. Technicians can also remove all traces of old polish and prep nails for the next mani. Get a fresh set every 10-14 days to keep your nails looking their best.

Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Base Coat: Is This “Smooth Criminal” Nail Foundation Worth The Hype?

A flawless, chip-free manicure is the goal for any nail polish aficionado. But achieving that perfect, polished look for more than a few days can be an uphill battle. Enter Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal humidity-resistant base coat. This “smooth criminal” has been getting rave reviews for its ability to help nail lacquer last longer.

But does this nail foundation really live up to the hype? I was skeptical, so I put it to the test on my perpetually pesky manicure. Keep reading for my full review on if this base coat is worth it or not.

The Promise

Smooth Criminal promises to be a base coat that preps nails for long-lasting color. It claims to smooth ridges, fill imperfections, and increase adhesion. The formula is designed to be humidity-resistant to prevent lifting and peeling.

In addition to longer wear, it says it will prevent staining from darker polishes. The wide, curved brush is supposed to make application easy and streak-free.

My Experience

I’ll be honest – I’ve struggled to make manicures last more than 2-3 days without major tip wear and chips. And dark colors would inevitably stain my nails, leaving an ugly shadow even after removal. So I was anxious to see if this base coat could live up to its promises.

Application was smooth and easy thanks to the wide brush. The formula itself is thin but not watery. It glided onto my nails nicely without pooling at the edges. It dried down quickly to a slightly tacky finish.

I followed with two coats of an deep red cream polish. The color went on very evenly over the base coat with no dragging or streaking. I finished with a fast-dry top coat.

The verdict? I was seriously impressed. My manicure looked freshly painted at day 5 – virtually no tip wear or chips. The dark color didn’t leave any stains on my nails after removal. I even subjected my hands to sinks full of soapy water and harsh cleaners.

The Pros

– Smooths and fills ridges
– Increases adhesion and longevity of polish

– Resists humidity and water
– Prevents color staining
– Easy application with wide brush

The Cons

– Can be tricky to remove completely
– Not ideal for natural nail looks
– Need to prep nails thoroughly first

The Verdict

I was very impressed with how this base coat performed. It delivered on its promises of longer wear and stain prevention. My perpetually pesky manicures finally lasted beyond a few days.

I recommend using an acetone-based remover to fully break down the base coat film on the nails. And you’ll want to skip this if you prefer more natural, bare nail looks.

But for anyone struggling with quick tip wear, chips, and stains – this is a great product. The Smooth Criminal hype is real – it’s a base coat that helps you get away with the perfect “crime” of long-lasting polish!

Smooth Criminal for Natural Nails vs Acrylics

Finding a base coat that helps your manicure last is a challenge whether you have natural nails or acrylics. Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal base has become a cult favorite for its long-wear claims. But how does it perform on bare natural nails compared to enhanced acrylics?

I put Smooth Criminal to the test on both my natural nails and acrylics. Here’s what I discovered about how this base coat works on different nail types.

On Natural Nails

Starting with freshly groomed bare nails, I applied a single coat of Smooth Criminal. The wide, curved brush made it easy to glide on smoothly without pooling at the edges.

It dried down quickly to a slightly tacky finish. I followed with two coats of a bright coral creme polish and a fast-dry top coat.

Right away I could see the base coat helped the polish self-level and adhere evenly to the nail. The color looked smooth and vivid.

Remarkably, this manicure stayed chip and peel-free for over a week, which is unheard of for my nails. I did notice some tip wear by day 5, but no major chips or cracks.

Removing the polish, there was no staining or discoloration of my natural nails. However, traces of the base coat did cling to the nails, needing acetone to fully break it down.

On Acrylics

I prepped my acrylic nails by gently buffing and wiping with alcohol. After applying Smooth Criminal and letting it dry, I did two coats of a deep wine red crème polish.

The base coat performed similarly on acrylics as it did on naturals – easy application, allowed even polish coverage. The red polish usually stains my acrylics, but Smooth Criminal prevented any discoloration.

Staying power was extremely impressive. My manicure still looked great at the 10 day mark, with virtually no tip wear or lifting near the cuticles. The acrylics likely played a role in the extended wear time.

Removing the polish was a bit more tedious on the acrylics. The base coat adhered very firmly to the sculpted nails and required some scrubbing with pure acetone to fully dissolve.

Key Takeaways

Smooth Criminal delivered outstanding longevity whether I used it on natural or acrylic nails. It prevented staining and helped polish self-level beautifully.

The one downside was that it clung stubbornly to both nail types when removing. Using an acetone-based remover is a must.

Those with acrylics may see even longer wear times, likely owing to the enhanced durability of sculpted nails. But Smooth Criminal boosts longevity either way.

If you’re seeking a base coat that helps polish stick around, Smooth Criminal is a great choice. Just be diligent about removal to avoid residue clinging to bare nails.

Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Base Coat: Is This “Smooth Criminal” Nail Foundation Worth The Hype?

A flawless, chip-free manicure is the goal for any nail polish aficionado. But achieving that perfect, polished look for more than a few days can be an uphill battle. Enter Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal humidity-resistant base coat. This “smooth criminal” has been getting rave reviews for its ability to help nail lacquer last longer.

But does this nail foundation really live up to the hype? I was skeptical, so I put it to the test on my perpetually pesky manicure. Keep reading for my full review on if this base coat is worth it or not.

The Promise

Smooth Criminal pledges to function as a base coat that readies nails for extended wear color. It professes to even out ridges, fill flaws, and amplify adhesion. The solution is designed to resist humidity to prevent lifting and peeling.

In addition to increased longevity, it proclaims to stop discoloration from darker polishes. The wide, bent brush supposedly makes application uncomplicated and streak-free.

My Experience

I’ll be upfront – I’ve struggled to make manicures endure beyond 2-3 days without substantial tip wear and chips. And gloomy shades would unfailingly stain my nails, leaving an unappealing shadow even after removal. So I was eager to see if this base coat could meet its claims.

Application was seamless and straightforward courtesy of the wide brush. The formula itself is thin but not watery. It glided onto my nails smoothly without gathering at the edges. It dried down rapidly to a slightly tacky finish.

I followed with two coats of an deep red cream polish. The color went on very evenly over the base coat with no dragging or streaking. I finished with a fast-dry top coat.

The verdict? I was seriously astounded. My manicure looked freshly painted at day 5 – virtually no tip wear or chips. The dark color didn’t leave any stains on my nails after removal. I even subjected my hands to sinks full of soapy water and harsh cleaners.

The Pros

– Smooths and fills ridges

– Boosts adhesion and life of polish
– Resists humidity and water
– Prevents color staining

– Easy application with wide brush

The Cons

– Can be tricky to remove completely
– Not ideal for natural nail looks
– Need to prep nails thoroughly first

The Verdict

I was very astounded with how this base coat functioned. It delivered on its pledges of extended wear and stain prevention. My perpetually bothersome manicures finally persevered beyond a few days.

I suggest using an acetone-based remover to fully eradicate the base coat film on the nails. And you’ll want to skip this if you like more natural, bare nail looks.

But for anyone struggling with rapid tip wear, chips, and stains – this is a stellar product. The Smooth Criminal buzz is authenticated – it’s a base coat that assists you in getting away with the flawless “crime” of long-lasting polish!

Is BTZ Base Coat Safe For Your Nails?

With so many nail products on the market, it’s important to consider safety along with effectiveness. Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal base coat has become popular for extending manicures, but is it actually gentle on your nails?

I investigated the ingredients and claims of this adhesive base to find out if Smooth Criminal is harmless or potentially harmful for your nails.

Examining the Formula

Smooth Criminal is free of many harsh chemicals that can damage nails over time. It does not contain formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, or formaldehyde resin.

The base does include nitrocellulose, a commonly used film-forming polymer. In moderation this ingredient is generally safe, but high concentrations could potentially weaken nails.

There are also trace amounts of ethyl acetate, an organic compound derived from ethanol. This aids quick drying and film formation when kept to low levels.

Overall the formula focuses on acrylic polymers that adhere to the nails, rather than hard solvents. This suggests a gentler composition compared to some other nail products.

The Risks

While generally considered safe, Smooth Criminal base coat isn’t completely without risk.

Overuse could result in product buildup on the nails. This can cause dryness, cracking, and other damage over time. To avoid buildup, be sure to thoroughly remove all traces of previous manicures before reapplying.

Those with sensitive skin or allergies may react to some ingredients like nitrocellulose. Discontinue use if any irritation occurs.

As with any nail product, improper use raises the risk of damage. Applying too close to the cuticles or skin can cause redness and swelling. Letting nails come into contact with water before fully cured can allow chemicals to penetrate deeper.

The Safety Precautions

When used properly, Smooth Criminal is considered low-risk for nails. But certain precautions will maximize safety:

• Apply sparingly and avoid cuticles
• Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another
• Thoroughly remove previous manicure first
• Use acetone remover to fully dissolve base coat
• Discontinue use if any irritation develops
• Avoid contact with water for 1-2 hours after application

Following the instructions carefully and limiting use to 1-2 times per week minimizes risks. Give nails an occasional break from all products.

The Verdict

Smooth Criminal base coat is largely safe when used properly on healthy nails. The formula avoids many hazardous chemicals found in other polishes and nail products.

With sensible use and removal, the base shouldn’t cause significant damage. But those with very weak, brittle nails or known allergies may want to exercise particular caution or avoid use.

Overall, Smooth Criminal can be considered a reasonably gentle option for extending the life of your manicure. Just be diligent about applying and removing it correctly to avoid potential risks.

Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Base Coat: Is This “Smooth Criminal” Nail Foundation Worth The Hype?

A flawless, chip-free manicure is the goal for any nail polish aficionado. But achieving that perfect, polished look for more than a few days can be an uphill battle. Enter Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal humidity-resistant base coat. This “smooth criminal” has been getting rave reviews for its ability to help nail lacquer last longer.

But does this nail foundation really live up to the hype? I was skeptical, so I put it to the test on my perpetually pesky manicure. Keep reading for my full review on if this base coat is worth it or not.

The Promise

Smooth Criminal promises to be a base coat that preps nails for long-lasting color. It claims to smooth ridges, fill imperfections, and increase adhesion. The formula is designed to be humidity-resistant to prevent lifting and peeling.

In addition to longer wear, it says it will prevent staining from darker polishes. The wide, curved brush is supposed to make application easy and streak-free.

My Experience

I’ll be honest – I’ve struggled to make manicures last more than 2-3 days without major tip wear and chips. And dark colors would inevitably stain my nails, leaving an ugly shadow even after removal. So I was anxious to see if this base coat could live up to its promises.

Application was smooth and easy thanks to the wide brush. The formula itself is thin but not watery. It glided onto my nails nicely without pooling at the edges. It dried down quickly to a slightly tacky finish.

I followed with two coats of an deep red cream polish. The color went on very evenly over the base coat with no dragging or streaking. I finished with a fast-dry top coat.

The verdict? I was seriously impressed. My manicure looked freshly painted at day 5 – virtually no tip wear or chips. The dark color didn’t leave any stains on my nails after removal. I even subjected my hands to sinks full of soapy water and harsh cleaners.

The Pros

– Smooths and fills ridges
– Increases adhesion and longevity of polish
– Resists humidity and water

– Prevents color staining
– Easy application with wide brush

The Cons

– Can be tricky to remove completely

– Not ideal for natural nail looks
– Need to prep nails thoroughly first

The Verdict

I was very impressed with how this base coat performed. It delivered on its promises of longer wear and stain prevention. My perpetually pesky manicures finally lasted beyond a few days.

I recommend using an acetone-based remover to fully break down the base coat film on the nails. And you’ll want to skip this if you prefer more natural, bare nail looks.

But for anyone struggling with quick tip wear, chips, and stains – this is a great product. The Smooth Criminal hype is real – it’s a base coat that helps you get away with the perfect “crime” of long-lasting polish!

Reviews of Smooth Criminal Nail Foundation

Finding a base coat that can help your manicure last longer feels like searching for a unicorn. The hunt may be over with Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal nail foundation. This base has amassed glowing reviews for its apparent manicure-extending superpowers.

But does real-world use live up to the hype? I scoured reviews from nail bloggers and everyday users to get the full story on how Smooth Criminal really performs.

Nail Blogger Reviews

Professional nail bloggers have put Smooth Criminal through extensive testing. Their reviews shed light on how it works for frequently-polished nails.

One blogger used Smooth Criminal under 10 different polish brands and colors. She reported over a week of perfect wear, even with heavy hand washing. The base prevented any staining or yellowing as well.

Another blogger noticed drastically increased longevity with her habitual 2-3 day manicures. She was impressed by the streak-free application and grippy base layer.

Some with very oily nail beds saw less peeling with Smooth Criminal. A common theme was the wide, curved brush making application much easier.

Consumer Reviews

Everyday users seem to agree that Smooth Criminal base coat helps polish stay put. One woman used it under a bright red normally prone to quick tip wear and staining. Her manicure looked freshly painted after a week, with zero traces transferring to her nails.

Many note that while removal requires some scrubbing, it doesn’t damage their nails. The base prevents most chips and dents that typically snag and tear nails.

Those with naturally weak or peeling nails report less breakage. Smooth Criminal seems to reinforce nails and add a protective layer.

Most reviewers say Smooth Criminal works equally well on natural and acrylic nails. And many mention putting it under gel polish with similar long-lasting results.

Potential Drawbacks

Reviews indicate a few potential disadvantages of Smooth Criminal to note:

• Can be tricky to fully remove from nails
• Not ideal for a natural nail look
• Must prep nails very thoroughly first
• May develop shrinkage over time after opening

Overall though, drawbacks seem minor compared to the benefits reviewers highlight.

The Verdict

In both professional blogger reviews and consumer feedback, Smooth Criminal base earns glowing remarks. It appears to deliver on promises of extending manicure wear without significant downsides.

Nail polish fans of all kinds seem to agree that Smooth Criminal helps their manicures last days longer. And it prevents the staining, peeling, and breakage commonly frustrating polish lovers.

While not a quick or easy removal, Smooth Criminal’s manicure-boosting superpowers seem to outweigh that caveat for most reviewers. The search for the long-wear holy grail base coat may be over.

Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Base Coat: Is This “Smooth Criminal” Nail Foundation Worth The Hype?

A flawless, chip-free manicure is the goal for any nail polish aficionado. But achieving that perfect, polished look for more than a few days can be an uphill battle. Enter Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal humidity-resistant base coat. This “smooth criminal” has been getting rave reviews for its ability to help nail lacquer last longer.

But does this nail foundation really live up to the hype? I was skeptical, so I put it to the test on my perpetually pesky manicure. Keep reading for my full review on if this base coat is worth it or not.

The Promise

Smooth Criminal promises to be a base coat that preps nails for long-lasting color. It claims to smooth ridges, fill imperfections, and increase adhesion. The formula is designed to be humidity-resistant to prevent lifting and peeling.

In addition to longer wear, it says it will prevent staining from darker polishes. The wide, curved brush is supposed to make application easy and streak-free.

My Experience

I’ll be honest – I’ve struggled to make manicures last more than 2-3 days without major tip wear and chips. And dark colors would inevitably stain my nails, leaving an ugly shadow even after removal. So I was anxious to see if this base coat could live up to its promises.

Application was smooth and easy thanks to the wide brush. The formula itself is thin but not watery. It glided onto my nails nicely without pooling at the edges. It dried down quickly to a slightly tacky finish.

I followed with two coats of an deep red cream polish. The color went on very evenly over the base coat with no dragging or streaking. I finished with a fast-dry top coat.

The verdict? I was seriously impressed. My manicure looked freshly painted at day 5 – virtually no tip wear or chips. The dark color didn’t leave any stains on my nails after removal. I even subjected my hands to sinks full of soapy water and harsh cleaners.

The Pros

– Smooths and fills ridges

– Increases adhesion and longevity of polish
– Resists humidity and water
– Prevents color staining
– Easy application with wide brush

The Cons

– Can be tricky to remove completely
– Not ideal for natural nail looks

– Need to prep nails thoroughly first

The Verdict

I was very impressed with how this base coat performed. It delivered on its promises of longer wear and stain prevention. My perpetually pesky manicures finally lasted beyond a few days.

I recommend using an acetone-based remover to fully break down the base coat film on the nails. And you’ll want to skip this if you prefer more natural, bare nail looks.

But for anyone struggling with quick tip wear, chips, and stains – this is a great product. The Smooth Criminal hype is real – it’s a base coat that helps you get away with the perfect “crime” of long-lasting polish!

Is Beyond The Zone Worth the Price?

With so many drugstore nail polish brands available, Beyond The Zone sits at a higher price point. Their Smooth Criminal base coat in particular garners attention for its apparent manicure-extending powers.

But with a cost ranging from $10-$15, is Beyond The Zone worth the investment? Or is it an overpriced product? I looked at the pros, cons, and alternatives to find out.

The Benefits

Beyond The Zone polish, treatments, and base coats deliver professional-quality results, according to many reviews. The salon-level performance comes down to a few key factors:

• Long-wear technology for extended manicures
• Vibrant, ultra-pigmented colors
• Durable formulas that resist chipping and fading
• Easy application brushes
• Protective treatments to nourish nails

Fans of the brand report that Base Zone products deliver noticeably better results than cheaper drugstore options. The performance seems to justify the increased cost.

The Drawbacks

The higher price point of Beyond The Zone does have some potential drawbacks:

• Still affordable, but costs more than average polishes
• Limited color selection compared to bigger brands
• Can be harder to find in stores than mainstream brands
• Hit-or-miss results for some consumers

While many love the quality, Beyond The Zone doesn’t work perfectly for everyone’s nails. And the investment may not seem worthwhile to casual polish users.

Drugstore Alternatives

For those unwilling to pay Beyond The Zone costs, affordable drugstore options offer comparable results:

• Sally Hansen Insta-Dri – Fast-drying formula for ~$5
• Wet n Wild 1 Step Gel – Up to 7 days wear for ~$5
• Sinful Colors – Trendy colors for ~$2
• LA Colors Color Last – Base and top coat for longevity under ~$3

Consumers have luck extending manicure wear without splurging on pricier brands. But the polish may require more careful application and maintenance.

The Verdict

Beyond The Zone offers salon-worthy results that justify the increased cost for many manicure lovers. But casual polish users may not find the price worthwhile.

With drugstore alternatives available, the brand isn’t an absolute necessity. However, its reputation for long-lasting shine and color likely makes the investment worthwhile for serious nail polish devotees.

For extending your manicure a few extra days, Beyond The Zone is likely worth the price. But occasional polishers can find cheaper options to enjoy color without the spend.

Beyond The Zone Smooth Criminal Base Coat: Is This “Smooth Criminal” Nail Foundation Worth The Hype?

A flawless, chip-free manicure is the goal for any nail polish aficionado. But achieving that perfect, polished look for more than a few days can be an uphill battle. Enter Beyond The Zone’s Smooth Criminal humidity-resistant base coat. This “smooth criminal” has been getting rave reviews for its ability to help nail lacquer last longer.

But does this nail foundation really live up to the hype? I was skeptical, so I put it to the test on my perpetually pesky manicure. Keep reading for my full review on if this base coat is worth it or not.

The Promise

Smooth Criminal promises to be a base coat that preps nails for long-lasting color. It claims to smooth ridges, fill imperfections, and increase adhesion. The formula is designed to be humidity-resistant to prevent lifting and peeling.

In addition to longer wear, it says it will prevent staining from darker polishes. The wide, curved brush is supposed to make application easy and streak-free.

My Experience

I’ll be honest – I’ve struggled to make manicures last more than 2-3 days without major tip wear and chips. And dark colors would inevitably stain my nails, leaving an ugly shadow even after removal. So I was anxious to see if this base coat could live up to its promises.

Application was smooth and easy thanks to the wide brush. The formula itself is thin but not watery. It glided onto my nails nicely without pooling at the edges. It dried down quickly to a slightly tacky finish.

I followed with two coats of an deep red cream polish. The color went on very evenly over the base coat with no dragging or streaking. I finished with a fast-dry top coat.

The verdict? I was seriously impressed. My manicure looked freshly painted at day 5 – virtually no tip wear or chips. The dark color didn’t leave any stains on my nails after removal. I even subjected my hands to sinks full of soapy water and harsh cleaners.

The Pros

– Smooths and fills ridges
– Increases adhesion and longevity of polish
– Resists humidity and water
– Prevents color staining

– Easy application with wide brush

The Cons

– Can be tricky to remove completely
– Not ideal for natural nail looks
– Need to prep nails thoroughly first

The Verdict

I was very impressed with how this base coat performed. It delivered on its promises of longer wear and stain prevention. My perpetually pesky manicures finally lasted beyond a few days.

I recommend using an acetone-based remover to fully break down the base coat film on the nails. And you’ll want to skip this if you prefer more natural, bare nail looks.

But for anyone struggling with quick tip wear, chips, and stains – this is a great product. The Smooth Criminal hype is real – it’s a base coat that helps you get away with the perfect “crime” of long-lasting polish!