Shellac nails have become an enduring favorite in nail trends, but many people have a misconceived idea that it’s just a catch-all term for gel polishes. In reality, Shellac has a distinct identity, being a specialized polish developed and patented by Creative Nail Design (CND). This product stands out due to its rich gloss content and its availability in over 100 shades, making it an essential choice in recognized salons. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant color or a classic manicure, Shellac offers popular methods that appeal to all styles.
As a manicurist, I’m regularly asked What are Shellac Nails, and clients often praise them for their durability and shine. Many come in with questions about whether it’s different from the traditional gel, and specialist Julie Kandalec once broke it down best if you want a long-lasting, chip-resistant polish, Shellac is what you need to know.
For years, many people have mistakenly used the umbrella name gel polishes to describe Shellac, but that’s not the correct way to define it. In case you didn’t know, Shellac is a special type of manicure developed and patented by Creative Nail Design (CND). Unlike regular nails, this brand offers a formula that is half-gel, and half-regular, giving you the benefits of both.
As Kandalec explains, the formulas work by allowing teeny molecules like monomers to bond with larger polymers when exposed to LED light, creating a long-lasting effect with intense shine and color. Another big reason Shellac is so popular is its easy removal compared to other polishes, making it a favorite for those who love quick, stylish trends
What are the benefits of shellac Nails?
Shellac nails offer several benefits, making them a top choice for those who love stylish and durable nails. First, they are more long-lasting than traditional nail polish, which can quickly wear off or crack just a few days after application. On average, Shellac polish nails can last for two to three weeks without peeling or chipping if applied correctly, offering a perfect balance between durability and shine.
Their versatility is another significant benefit, as they come in various shades and finishes, including matte, glossy, and glitter. This means almost everyone can find a look that matches their style and personality
Long-Lasting and Chip-Resistant
Unlike traditional nail polish, which can crack a few days after application, Shellac polish nails last an average of two to three weeks. They are resistant to scratching and marking, making them a perfect choice for busy individuals.
Quick-Drying Formula
One major advantage is that Shellac nails dry immediately when exposed to ultraviolet light. This allows you to return to daily activities quickly, making them an excellent choice for people who do not have the luxury of time.
Easy to Maintain
In terms of maintenance, Shellac nails are easy to maintain. You do not need to file or buff them regularly, and their resistance to scratching and marking keeps them looking fresh.
Gentle on Natural Nails
Unlike other nail treatments, Shellac does not damage natural nails. The application and removal process does not require hard chemicals, which could affect nail health, making it a safer option for long-term wear.
Also Explore: Gel Overlays on Natural Nails: The Secret to Perfect Nails?
What is the Difference between shellac and gel nails?
Many people get confused between Shellac nails and gel nails, often using the terms interchangeably. However, it’s important to know the difference because each has its benefits. Shellac is a brand name developed by CND, which is an exclusive single distributor of this special nail product. On the other hand, gel polishes are a broader category used by many brands. The main difference lies in their formulations, durability, and removal process. Understanding these distinctions is key when choosing between the two. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Feature | Shellac Nails | Gel Nails |
Formula | A mix of traditional polish and gel, giving color, shine, and durability | Made from monomers and oligomers, which create a hard coating when exposed to ultraviolet light |
Durability | Still glossy, resists cuts and marks, lasts up to two weeks | Higher durability treats harder, and lasts longer than Shellac |
Application | A thinner, lighter feel, does not create a thick, heavy feel | Forms a harder coating upon exposure, giving a thicker, heavier look |
Removal Process | Shellac nails can be removed easily, requiring only scraping, unlike gel, which requires acetone soaking | May be difficult to remove, requiring longer soaking with acetone |
Damage to Natural Nails | Little to no damage due to its high lacquer content | Can cause more damage due to continued exposure to UV light |
Drying Time | Dries quickly under ultraviolet light, allowing for a fast manicure | The higher curing time, which takes longer compared to Shellac |
Product for Removal | Designed for easy removal with Unusually Fast, an effective remover that works within five to fifteen minutes | Requires stronger acetone soaking, making the nail removal process more difficult |
Trade-off | Easier to remove, lighter feel, but slightly more prone to chips | More durable and long-lasting but harder to remove |
Both Shellac and gel nails are fantastic choices, but the trade-off comes down to longevity vs ease of removal. If you want a glossy finish with zero damage and a quick drying time, Shellac is excellent. However, if you need something longer-lasting, gel nails may be the better option, though they can be harder to remove
Application Method of Shellac Manicure
The application process for Shellac nails is a multi-step method that ensures a long-lasting, glossier finish compared to regular nail polishes. While it’s typically done in salons, many beauty lovers are now trying Shellac nails at home with professional kits available in the market. It starts with a base coat, followed by several layers of color polish, and ends with top coats. Each layer is treated and fixed under UV light, which hardens the polish, making it adhere better to the natural nail and preventing cracking.
This method is different from acrylic nails and gel manicures, as it does not require excessive buffing or filling. According to Kandalec, this process helps the formula molecules and photoinitiators inside the polish activate when hit by ultraviolet wavelengths, ensuring a smooth and even application.
Getting Shellac nails done by a professional can take anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the speed and skill of the manicurist. However, the best part is that there’s no need to sit around for hours waiting to dry, as the special LED lamp is made exclusively to cure the polish within seconds. This fast-drying process allows clients to return to their daily activities immediately after their manicures, making Shellac a convenient and time-saving option.
Removal Method Of Shellac Nails
Removing Shellac nails is not like taking off normal nail polish, as it requires a proper removal method to ensure the nails stay free from damage. The best way is to visit a salon where a pro can safely remove it using high-quality products. CND has a fantastic removal product called Unusually Fast, which is designed to break down the polish without drying the skin or nails, said Kandalec.
Unlike some brands, there’s no need to buff the topcoat aggressively. Instead, the polish can be lifted by saturating a bit of cotton with acetone-free remover, wrapping it in foil, and letting it sit. Depending on the product used, the Shellac should come cleanly off within five to 15 minutes, leaving the nails healthy and ready for a fresh manicure.
Conclusion
A manicure where your nails retain their gloss for multiple weeks while feeling weightless and requiring the same level of ease during both application and removal exists with Shellac nails. The elegance of Shellac’s nails becomes clear to everyone. These nails differ from acrylics and traditional polish because they create extended durable crack-proof effects without heavy burdens. The precise application process uses UV light to instantly set layers together so users must wait nothing during the drying phase.
When you decide to change your nails the removal technique is as delicate since it involves simple soaks and peel-off procedures alongside the appropriate product CND Unusually Fast. Modern beauty seekers should choose Shellac because it contains all their requirements including gorgeous finishes and vibrant colors alongside time-saving convenience.
FAQ's
Shellac is often considered one of the safest options among gels, but it still has some downfalls. While the product is healed under UV light for durability, the removal process can sometimes cause damage to the nails if not done correctly. As Lippmann explains, improper removal, like peeling or scraping, may weaken the natural nail. However, when removed properly using a gentle soak, it minimizes any potential harm, making Shellac a great choice for long-lasting beauty with the right care.
Shellac is a mix of gel and polish, offering a smooth and glossy finish, while dip nails use a powder system that creates a harder, more durable coating. When comparing Shellac vs dip, the key difference is longevity dip nails usually last longer and don’t peel as easily. However, Shellac provides a lighter feel and a more natural look, making it a great choice for those who prefer a flexible yet long-lasting manicure.
On average, Shellac nails last at least two weeks if applied correctly. As noted by experts like Kandalec, you can extend your life by wearing gloves while doing household chores. The finish is generally durable and rarely cracks or peels during this time. However, many people rebuild their nails after seeing a gap near the nail skin where the polish naturally starts lifting.
If you prefer a natural look with a beautiful finish, Shellac is a top option. It works best on strong, round nails and has a kind and easy removal process compared to acrylics. While acrylics last longer over an extended period, Shellac is great for a holiday or a short-term go-to choice. It also provides the benefits of gel without making nails weak over time
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