This is my first time self-applying CND base and top coat and it's held up pretty well! Way better than the store-bought base/top coat from Red Carpet Manicure. I was going to give it 4 stars but want to try it again and see if it was user error that caused a few VERY minor chips. I have a kid and do a lot of chores and forget to put on my gloves, so I want to make sure I'm giving this a fair shot. But overall, not to toot my own horn (TOOT), I do a better job than most local mid-tier salons around my area and also get to watch a show and eat snacks while I do my nails. It's a win/win. The picture is of my nails now, five days after application. Pretty dang good, I think.