What is the purpose of a base coat in nail services?

The primary purpose of a base coat in nail services is to prevent discoloration of the natural nail. The base coat acts as a barrier between the colored nail polish and the nail plate, which helps to protect the nails from staining, particularly when using dark or pigmented shades. This protective layer prevents the polish from leaching color into the nails, thus maintaining their natural hue and health.

In addition to preventing discoloration, a base coat can also improve the adhesion of the nail polish to the nail surface, which can contribute to longer-lasting wear. However, its main role is explicitly to protect the nails from potential damage and staining caused by the polish applied over it. While it may aid in enhancing shine or texture indirectly, those are not considered its primary purposes.