Is the base coat and top coat for french manicure the same thing??

i was wondering if they are the same cause i saw a video on how to do french manicure and they're both colourless and they quite look the same. if they're not, wat is the difference and use cause i have to buy all the necessary things for french manicure. thanks for answering. :)Is the base coat and top coat for french manicure the same thing??
I don't think they are the same, the base coat has calcium something in it, it's not too shiny. The top coat, on another hand is very shiny and it's just a classy finish that make the polish look smooth and longer lasting. OPI has the best top coats, but not sure about the base coat...try Top Nails at any drug storeIs the base coat and top coat for french manicure the same thing??
base coat is for a nice foundation of applying the actual color and to prevent staining of the nails. top coat is to prevent chipping and provide shine. two totally different things.
No, a base coat is used as a protective layer to your fingernail and this gives the nail polish something to stick to a base coat is normally clear. A top coat is used to add shine and to seal in the nail polish, it also protects against chips, a top coat is also clear. They are almost the same thing but they have different purposes and have different ingredients. If you want your nail polish to last more than a day or two i suggest you get both :]
I think most top coats these days can also be used as base coats, but I guess if you're buying them seperately the top coat should be more shiny and act as a sealant, and the base coat should aid in creating a smooth surface for the color coat.