What is Shellac Manicure: Is Shellac the Same as Gel

Shellac manicure has become a popular choice for those seeking a durable, glossy manicure that lasts longer than traditional polish. But for newcomers to the world of nail enhancements, shellac nails can raise questions. What is a shellac manicure? Is shellac the same as gel manicure? What is the difference between shellac and gel? How is Shellac different from gel nails? Are they safe for your natural nails?

Just about everybody has mistaken shellac nails for regular gel polishes at one point or another, and you are not the only one. This blog post will answer all your burning questions about shellac nails, from application all the way to aftercare.

Contents

What Is Shellac Manicure

Several manicure trends have remained popular over the years, with shellac nails being one of them. Shellac isn’t just a fancy alternative term for gel polish. it’s a unique hybrid polish under the brand CND, that combines the best aspects of gel and traditional polish. It is thinner and softer than gel polish, but harder than traditional nail polish.

Durability: Shellac polish is similar to gel polish, shellac offers extended wear time compared to regular polish. With proper care, you can expect a flawless shellac manicure to last anywhere from 10 days to almost 2 weeks.
Gentleness on Natural Nails: The shellac formula contains a higher lacquer content than some gel polishes. Therefore, the product will be much more gentle on your natural nails, minimizing potential damage during removal.
Quick Drying: The best part is that Shellac cures under UV light, just like gel polish, ensuring that you won’t have to wait for your polish to dry. This can save you precious time and prevent smudging.
High Shine Finish: Shellac combines the high shine of classic polish with the extended wear time of a gel manicure.

Shellac vs Gel Nails: Difference Between Shellac and Gel

Both gel and shellac are highly popular choices for long-lasting manicures, but there are some key differences between shellac and gel:

Type of polish:

Gel is a common term for a type of polish cured with UV light. Gel polishes can be used to create thicker applications for nail extensions or sculpting.
Shellac is a brand name for a specific type of gel polish created by CND. It’s thinner and more flexible than traditional gel polish.

Durability:

Gel manicures generally last longer, up to 3 weeks with proper care.
Shellac manicure Typically lasts up to 10-14 days. (claimed by CND)

Removal:

Gel nails require soaking and filing off by a professional, as they bond strongly to the nail.
Shellac nails can often be removed by soaking in acetone at home, although a professional removal is still recommended.

Here’s a quick way to think about it:

Gel polish is the toughest manicure, lasting the longest and rarely chipping. Bonus: It comes in tons of colors!
Shellac is like a cousin to gel polish. It’s not quite as strong and durable and might chip a little sooner, but it’s easier to remove and doesn’t damage the nail as gel polish does.

Benefits of Shellac Nails

Beyond its unique properties, shellac nails offer several advantages that make it a compelling choice.

Shellac nail polish is super shiny and lasts for a long time, like, weeks! This means your nails won’t chip as easily and you won’t have to repaint them as often.

Shellac manicure comes in a wide variety of colors, from classic nudes to trendy brights, allowing you to express your unique style. Moreover, the application and removal process for shellac nails is generally faster than traditional gel polish.

Shellac manicure requires minimal maintenance, and unlike gel polish, there’s no need for buffing or filing after application. Additionally, Shellac polish offers an extra layer of protection for weak or brittle nails, helping them grow stronger and healthier than before.

Aftercare for Your Shellac Nails

To maximize the longevity and beauty of your shellac on toenails and fingernails, follow these aftercare tips:

Protect Your Nails: Wear gloves when handling hot water, harsh chemicals, or during activities that could damage your nails.
Strategic Moisturization: Apply lotion around your nails to prevent dryness, but avoid oil-based products that can cause the polish to lift.
Leave Shaping to the Professionals: Let a qualified skilled manicurist handle trimming and shaping your nails to prevent damage.
Avoid Picking: Resist the urge to peel or pick at your shellac nails, as it can lead to breakage of the nail bed.

Shellac vs. Acrylics: Choosing the Perfect Enhancement

While shellac offers a durable polish, acrylics provide options for nail enhancements:

Customization: Acrylics allow for sculpting and adding length to your nails, making them ideal for those who desire dramatic nail art or extra length.
Strength: Acrylics offer superior strength compared to shellac, making them a good choice for individuals with weak or damaged nails.
Maintenance: Acrylics require more frequent touch-ups due to natural nail growth.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a long-lasting, low-maintenance polish, shellac is a great option. But if you desire added length, strength, and extensive customization possibilities, acrylics might be a better fit.

Cost of Shellac Nails

Shellac nail applications typically range from $50 to $80, depending on the salon location and the chosen service (e.g., with or without nail art).

Additional Tips for Shellac Success

Choose a Reputable Salon: Opt for a licensed nail technician experienced in shellac application and removal. Research salons in your area and read reviews to find one with a good reputation.
Communicate Your Preferences: Discuss your desired color, length, and nail art with your technician beforehand. Don’t hesitate to bring reference photos if you have a specific design in mind.
Schedule Regular Touch-Ups: Plan to refresh your shellac nails every 2-3 weeks to maintain a polished look. As your natural nails grow, a gap will appear between the polish and your cuticle, which can seem unsightly.
Take Breaks Between Applications: While shellac is gentler than most gel polishes, it’s still recommended to give your natural nails a break occasionally. Apply a strengthener or hydrating treatment for a week or two between shellac applications to promote healthy nail growth.

Enjoying the Beauty of Shellac Nails

With proper care and these insights, you can experience the long lasting beauty and convenience of shellac nails. Shellac offers a perfect balance between durability, a beautiful finish, and ease of maintenance. So go ahead, flaunt your flawless manicure, and enjoy the confidence that comes along with it!

Conclusion

Shellac nails offer a durable, glossy manicure that lasts longer than traditional polish. They are gentler on natural nails than gel manicures and can be easily removed at home. If you are looking for a more durable, and low-maintenance polish, a shellac manicure is a great option. However, if you desire added length, strength, and extensive customization possibilities, acrylics might be a better fit. With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty and convenience of shellac nails for up to 2 weeks.

FAQs

Is shellac nail polish the same as regular polish?

Shellac is different! It’s a hybrid, a mix between regular polish and gel. While both look similar, shellac lasts much longer (up to 2 weeks), while regular polish chips easily and can last just a few days. Shellac also offers extended wear for busy lives, but removal might require a salon visit.

Which is healthier for your nails, gel or shellac?

It’s a close call! Both gel and shellac can weaken nails if not applied or removed properly. The key is gentle removal by a professional. Shellac might have a slight edge as it often soaks off easier, minimizing buffing that can result in thin and weaker nails. Healthy nails should always come first! Prioritize your nail health by giving your nails a breather between applications and using cuticle oil for overall nail health.

Does Shellac require UV light?

Shellac requires a UV or LED lamp to cure the polish. This curing process allows for a long-lasting manicure (around 2-3 weeks). Without a lamp, the polish won’t harden properly and may even chip easily.