I was skeptical because of reviews. My first attempt I got some of the ‘clumping’ with the topcoat. The next attempt, I made sure to clean off any excess actvator(2nd step) with alcohol, then wiped nails with clean paper towel. Next I dipped brush in topcoat, then wiped excess on rim of bottle. Before applying to nail, I blotted lightly on clean paper towel. This allowes me to put a very thin layer of topcoat on. I let it dry completely before applying 2nd coat which I kept very thin.
My manicure was still good at 2 weeks and did not need to be changed but I wanted a different color and nails were getting too long.
Best product I gave tried. No problems with brushes or opening bottles. I will definitely purchase again.