best nail polish base coat/top coat?

I want something that will help me get as close to a salon manicure as possible. No bubbles in the polish, no chipping for at least a week, and a smooth even finish. Nothing that takes years to dry because then I'll mess it up

I've read good things about OPI for Sephora basecoat, but not their topcoat. My nail salon uses Essie for both and that works well too. I've used Sally Hanson acrylic topcoat in the past and liked it, but am assuming the salon brands are better?

So... what's the best? (especially if you've tried more than one kind)

Edit: also, I've never used a base coat before, but my nail salon does. Is it worth it? what does a base coat actually do?

Message edited 2/12/2010 6:50:54 PM.

Re: best nail polish base coat/top coat?

The higher end nail salons that I've been to uses Seche Vite for base and top. However, I find that if I don't use a base coat the manicure stays on a lot longer.

Re: best nail polish base coat/top coat?

Stickey for base coat and Seche Vite top coat. Best combo I've found so far.