"Hey, where do you get your nails done?"

That question always gives us a little thrill, especially when we've done our own nails. What's the secret to a home mani that can pass for an enviable salon job? Primer. Just like primer is key on walls, skin and cars, a primer - or base coat - should be the first step for getting a salon-perfect manicure. Here's why:

Nails aren't perfectly smooth. Primer fills in any natural ridges in your nail, making the final effect smoother and glossier.

A salon manicure always seems to last longer, even when your manicurist uses your own polish. That's because primer helps nail polish stick around. Think of it like a glue that paint can adhere to.

Love wearing eggplant, burgundy or gunpowder nails? You may have noticed that these dark colors love sticking around on your nails long after your love affair has ended. Primer protects the nail from staining by these deep, dark polishes.

A simple base coat to try is Essie First Base Base Coat, but if you are specifically worried about ridges, try Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat.

What's your favorite nail primer? Share in the comments below!