Disclosed are compositions and methods for forming a more durable, longer lasting and chip-resistant coating of nail polish upon a fingernail or toenail. The composition comprises a combination of artificial nail builders and photoinitiators, as well as other ingredients, which form a base coat composition. In use, the base coat composition is first applied directly upon the fingernail or toenail and thereafter cured by either UV or LED lighting. Once the base coat is cured upon the fingernail or toenail, conventional nail polish may be applied as desired. The result in cost is exceptionally more robust and chip-resistant than nail polish applied alone.
