Back to blog

Grafen Hard Top - how to achieve a lasting mirror shine

Grafen Hard Top is a finishing top with maximum resistance to scratches and loss of shine. See how it differs from a no-wipe top and how to achieve a lasting mirror shine step by step.

In the daily work of a nail stylist, we often meet clients who expect not only a beautiful effect right after leaving the salon, but also a lasting shine throughout the whole wear period.

It was with them in mind that Grafen Hard Top by Excellent PRO was created - a finishing top designed to provide maximum resistance to scratches, abrasion and loss of shine.

How does Grafen Hard Top differ from a classic No Wipe top?

The biggest difference is the presence of an inhibition layer that must be removed after curing the product.

With no wipe tops, after taking your hand out of the lamp you can apply oil right away and finish the styling. Grafen Hard Top requires an additional finishing step, but it is exactly this process that allows you to achieve exceptional durability and resistance.

Thanks to its formula, the product:

  • keeps a high shine longer,
  • is more resistant to micro-scratches,
  • handles intensive wear better,
  • loses the freshly-done styling effect more slowly,
  • helps keep the nails looking neat throughout the whole wear period.

Why does the inhibition layer matter?

Products with an inhibition layer are by nature more stable and durable.

This solution is especially appreciated by clients who:

  • work a lot with their hands,
  • often use a keyboard,
  • wear protective gloves,
  • do household chores,
  • work in the garden,
  • frequently bring their nails into contact with various surfaces.

It is in such cases that the difference between a classic top and Grafen Hard Top becomes most visible.

How to use Grafen Hard Top correctly?

To achieve maximum durability and shine, it is worth following the recommended procedure.

Step 1 - application

Apply an even layer of Grafen Hard Top over the finished styling.

Step 2 - curing

The manufacturer recommends curing the product in Excellent PRO lamps, which meet the required wavelength and power parameters necessary for the correct photopolymerization of the product.

Curing time: 2 minutes in an Excellent PRO lamp.

Step 3 - wait a minute

After taking your hand out of the lamp, wait about 1 minute. This lets the product cool down and reach maximum gloss.

Step 4 - remove the inhibition layer

To remove the inhibition layer you can use:

Thoroughly remove the layer from the entire nail surface, paying special attention to the area around the nail folds.

Step 5 - buff the top

After removing the inhibition, buff the surface vigorously.

During correct buffing you can often hear a characteristic “squeak”, which proves that the inhibition layer has been thoroughly removed and maximum shine achieved.

Step 6 - finish the styling

After buffing, you can make any final corrections with a file and then apply oil.

Are these few extra minutes worth it?

Definitely yes.

An extra 2-3 minutes during the styling can translate into many more days of lasting shine and neat-looking nails.

This is especially important for clients who previously reported problems with the styling going matte or losing shine after a few weeks of wear.

In practice this means:

  • more satisfied clients,
  • better reviews of the styling you do,
  • building the image of a professional who cares about details,
  • a greater chance of repeat visits and client loyalty.

Who is Grafen Hard Top for?

Grafen Hard Top works for any styling, but the greatest benefits will be noticed by clients who demand maximum durability.

If it matters to you that the styling keeps the effect of freshly done nails, intense shine and high resistance to everyday use for as long as possible, Grafen Hard Top will be an excellent choice.