Nail primers help maintain a long-lasting manicure. Nail artist Rachel Joseph says it’s used to prep the nails and remove residue to “help aid in longer wear.”

Mani trend expert Olivia Van Iderstine says nail primer “gives your mani a 20% increase in durability,” so it can save you time since you won’t have to re-do your nails as often.

Nail primer can also make polish application easier. If you want to try nail primer, the Young Nails Protein Bond sells for under $15 and has 4.6 out of five stars on Amazon.

You can also try the Modelones Nail Primer for under $10 on Amazon, which also has a 4.6 rating. Or, you can go for the vegan Olive and June Nail Primer for $10 at Olive and June.