Matte vs Gloss: PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY Finish FAQ

What matte vs gloss actually means for this polish

PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY is a violet purple crème with a matte finish. That matte surface is the main difference from a gloss shade: it scatters light instead of reflecting it, so the color looks softer and more velvety. The polish is 10-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and nontoxic, and it comes with a removable handmade decorative bronze cap atop a standard black matte cap.

Because the finish is built into the polish, you do not need a special matte top coat to get the look. However, the brand suggests using a base coat and 2–3 coats of polish followed by a top coat. That top coat is the step that can change the finish, so the questions below focus on how to keep the matte look while still protecting your manicure.

Your matte finish questions, answered

Do I have to use a top coat with PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY?

The brand suggests a top coat as part of the application routine. A top coat adds a protective layer that can help extend wear, but a standard glossy top coat will make the finish shiny. If you want to keep the matte look, look for a matte top coat, or test a thin layer of your regular top coat on one nail first to see how much shine it adds.

How can I keep matte polish from shining?

The shine usually comes from the top coat, not the polish itself. To preserve the matte finish, use a matte top coat instead of a glossy one. Also avoid rubbing the nails with oily products or buffing them, as these can add unwanted sheen. If you must use a glossy top coat for durability, apply it only to the tips or accept a satin look.

What is the wear time for this matte polish?

The supplied information does not state a specific wear time. Matte finishes can show tip wear and surface scuffs more readily than gloss, but actual wear depends on your nail prep, base coat, top coat, and daily activities. Using a base coat and top coat as suggested can help protect the color, but no exact duration is confirmed.

Can I use a regular glossy top coat and then matte it down?

The supplied information does not mention a matte top coat or a matte-ing product. The polish itself is already matte, so adding a glossy top coat will change the finish. If you want extra protection without full shine, a thin layer of matte top coat is the most straightforward option, but check that the product you choose is compatible with your base and color coats.

How should I care for a matte finish manicure?

The brand’s suggested routine—base coat, 2–3 coats of polish, then top coat—is the core care guidance supplied. For matte finishes in general, avoid touching the surface with oily hands and reapply top coat if the finish starts to look uneven. The catalog does not provide additional care instructions for this specific polish, so follow the routine above and use gentle nail care practices.

Does the decorative bronze cap affect application?

The bronze cap is removable and sits atop the standard black matte nail polish cap. You can remove it for easier handling during application, then replace it for storage. If you prefer to skip the bronze caps, the product page includes a link to order without them.

Product facts behind these answers

• PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY (matte): Violet purple crème with a matte finish. This is the base color and finish you are comparing to gloss shades.

  

• PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY (matte): We suggest using a base coat and 2-3 coats of polish followed by a top coat. This is the brand’s recommended application, which affects how the matte finish wears and whether it stays matte.
• PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY (matte): 10-free. Vegan. Cruelty-free. Nontoxic. These formulation claims may matter if you are choosing between this polish and a conventional gloss.
• PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY (matte): This polish comes with a removable handmade decorative bronze cap atop our standard black matte nail polish cap. The cap is part of the product experience and can be removed for application or storage.

Matte vs gloss: trade-offs to weigh

• Matte (PRETTY IN A HANDSOME WAY): Velvety, low-shine look; no special top coat needed for the finish, but a glossy top coat will change it. May show scuffs more readily; wear time not specified.
• Gloss: Reflective, shiny finish; typically easier to keep clean-looking with a glossy top coat. The catalog does not include a direct gloss comparison shade, so base your choice on the look you prefer.