No matter the occasion, a fresh, shiny, manicure never goes out of style. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by colour options, let alone nail polish types - we’re here to help. If a durable, long-lasting manicure that doesn’t break the bank is what you’re after, then look no further than Shellac nail polish.
We’re going to explore everything you need to know about Shellac nails, so you’ll be prepped and ready for your next manicure. So grab your friends, and call your nail tech, because you’re going to want to make an appointment after this.
“I don’t like plain nails. I get sad.” - Zooey Deschanel
What are Shellac Nails and Are They Safe?
Before we jump into all the glory that is Shellac nails, let’s start with the basics. In simple terms, Shellac is essentially a combination of regular and gel polishes that in tandem give a long-lasting, natural finish to the nail. These two types of polish bind together when cured under a UV light to create a stronger finish to the nail. While commonly referred to as a nail type itself, Shellac is actually a brand of polish that has mastered its branding.
Creative Nail Design launched Shellac in 2010 and effectively changed the manicure game for good. Since inception, several other brands have launched their versions of this formula, but the name “Shellac” has stuck to the product since. Your manicurist may ask if you want Shellac nails, even if they offer several types of brand names.
Prior to the life-changing invention that was Shellac, nail options were limited to acrylics or standard nail polish. Since acrylics took time, skill, and a lot of patience to maintain, standard nail polish was the popular choice for many. When Shellac entered the scene, boasting itself as a high-performance hybrid of the two, the masses stormed nail salons to try it out. The rest is history - Shellac nail polish still reigns as one of the most popular forms of manicures to this day. Even Mazz Hanna - nail artist to Julia Roberts, Selma Blair, Idina Menzel swears by the stuff!
The hype around Shellac Nails
While Shellac Nails seem to rise and fall in terms of popularity, they remain one of the most popular options to stand the test of time. When compared to other forms of manicures, they still come out on top every time.
Shellac Nails vs. Regular Polish
Comparing Shellac polish to regular nail polish is like comparing Dom Pérignon to your no-name bubbles - impossible. Where standard nail polish lacks durability and longevity, Shellac pulls through as a clear winner. While regular polish offers more colour selection and a slightly faster application process, it's prone to chipping and peeling making it less durable than Shellac.
Shellac Nails vs. Acrylics
It's difficult to compare Shellac nails to acrylics because they are essentially two different manicures altogether. While acrylic nails last much longer and have endless color options, their application requires a professional and a significant amount of time to complete. Removal can also make these nails undesirable as it requires tools, skills, and potential damage to your nails. If you’re looking for a durable manicure with no lengthy salon appointments, consider a Shellac manicure.
How are Shellac nails applied?
Shellac nail polish application is a relatively straightforward process. With a bit of preparation and a few quick coats of paint, you’ll be flashing your manicure around town in no time!
Step 1: Preparation
Before applying the polish, it’s important to prepare the nails for application. A manicurist will begin by cleansing the hands with warm soap and water and removing any existing polish with an acetone-based remover. They will then proceed with preparing the cuticles by pushing back any along the nail plate and trimming any loose skin or hangnails from the hands. After a second cleansing, the manicurist will remove any surface dust, lint, or debris and purify the nail plate for polish.
Step 2: Base Coat
After successfully preparing the nails, your manicurist can begin the application process with a base coat. This base coat can protect the surface of your nails and give the polish a strong base to adhere to. Using a high-quality base coat can increase the longevity and durability of your manicure. After applying a base coat, they will ask you to cure your polish under a UV light for ten seconds.
Step 3: Solid Colour
After your base coat has cured, you can really see your manicure come to life. Your manicurist will apply a thin layer of Shellac polish in the colour of your choice and allow you to cure it under a UV light for 60 seconds. They will then repeat this process a second time to allow the colour to develop on your nails.
Step 4: Top Coat
The last step of your manicure involves locking everything in with a top coat. The top coat acts as a barrier against any wear and tear to the nail and can help keep your manicure chip-free for longer. Your manicurist will complete your nails by applying a thin layer of top coat to each nail and allowing it to set for an additional 60 seconds before you’re ready to go!
The Benefits of Shellac Nails
Compared to traditional nail polish and acrylic nails, there are several benefits to Shellac nails including:
A shiny-smooth finish
If there’s one thing Shellac nails are known for - it’s their shiny-smooth finish. The gel based formula is combined with UV light to set it. This gives your nails a shiny gel-like appearance post manicure. This appearance will last until removal so enjoy it!
Longevity
Shellac nails win the game when it comes to longevity with simple application. If you’re not looking to spend hours in the salon getting an acrylic application, then Shellac is your next best option in longevity. Depending on your care regime, Shellac nails can last as long as 14 days.
Durability
Unlike traditional polishes, the gel-based formula adds elasticity and flexibility to the coat. This can prevent chipping and peeling of the polish as it undergoes wear and tear. Shellac nails are much more durable than traditional polish and last significantly longer.
Possible Drawbacks of Shellac Nails
With every brilliant invention comes drawbacks as well. Luckily for Shellac nails, the drawbacks are few but can include:
Application tools
Unlike traditional nail polish, Shellac nail polish requires a UV light to cure the coat. This is used to activate the bond between gel and standard polish and helps to lock in the manicure's longevity. While this can make at-home manicures more difficult, with a small upfront investment to purchase your own UV light, you can be a Shellac nail-pro in no time!
Removal
When compared to gel nail polish and acrylics, Shellac nail polish is easier to remove. That being said, it requires a few steps and some waiting time which can make it less desirable to some. Luckily for our readers, a quick trip to the salon can have you looking your best.
Wear on the nail
As with any type of polish applied to the nail, there is potential damage that can take place. As Shellac polish requires acetone to remove, this agent can dry out the nail bed and surrounding cuticles damaging future growth. There’s no need to stress - with proper before and after care, your cuticles and nails can recover from any drying agents.
“You're never fully dressed without a good manicure. - Essie Weingarten”
Is Gel the Same as Shellac Nails?
Let’s discuss the age-old question of how Shellac nail polish differs from gel polish. As gel polish comprises nearly half of the Shellac formula, the differences aren’t too noticeable. Salons apply gel manicures using a thin layer of gel polish and set the compound using a UV light, similar to how Shellac is applied. One major difference between the two is that there is much more variety when opting for a gel polish as opposed to Shellac nail colour.
While you may have more colour selection when picking a gel polish, the removal process really sets Shellac apart. Unlike gel polish, which has an extensive removal process, the standard polish in the Shellac formula can be broken down using acetone. This means that Shellac manicures can be removed in a shorter amount of time, with minimal scraping of your nails required.
Are Shellac Nails Safe?
If proper care is taken during application and removal of Shellac nails, then they are completely safe. Common injuries from manicures can include infection, nail breakage, surface damage, and cuticle injuries. To avoid such injuries, it’s important to take care when preparing your nails pre and post-manicure. Ensure you’re regularly moisturising and oiling your nails and cuticles to prevent damage and always sanitising your tools between uses.
When choosing Shellac nails for the first time, it’s best to consult a professional. Finding a reputable salon in your area can help you keep your nails in the best possible shape while avoiding infection and injury.
How Long Do Shellac Nails Last?
With proper care, Shellac nails can last anywhere from 12 to 14 days. That is significantly longer than regular nail polish and can result in you making far fewer trips to the salon. Gel manicures have been known to last a similar amount of time while acrylic nails can last up to eight weeks. With shorter appointment times, and easier removal, Shellac nail manicures are one of the easiest manicures to maintain.
Nail enthusiasts can take extra steps to extend the life of their manicure including special hand care and limiting wear and tear. Using a high-quality cuticle oil can help keep your nails healthy while using a regular moisturiser can keep the skin on your hands from drying out. Reducing the wear and tear on your actual nail can also help your manicure last. Consider wearing gloves when doing household chores and avoid using your nails to complete tasks such as opening containers or pressing buttons.
How to Remove Shellac Nails
The removal process for Shellac Nails is relatively simple, but if you’re looking to minimise damage to your nails, it’s best to visit a salon. As Shellac is a combination of two polishes, the regular polish in the formula can make removal easier than gel or acrylic sets. To remove Shellac nails, technicians use a high-strength acetone remover, or a product designed specially to remove Shellac nail polish.
To remove Shellac nails, your manicurist will begin by cleansing your nails and hands to remove any bacteria or debris. They will then take cotton and saturate it in the acetone solution. After placing each cotton piece on your nails, they’ll wrap each nail in foil to prevent air from diluting its strength. You’ll then be required to leave the foil on for up to twenty minutes depending on the type of polish applied. After removing the foil, your nails should be free of any polish and your nail technician will clean and oil your hands to combat the drying effects of the acetone.
Post Removal Nail Care
After your manicure has been removed, it’s important to follow up with a good care regime to ensure your nails stay strong and healthy. Keep both your nails and hands regularly moisturised and take time between appointments to let your nails recover. To keep your nails feeling their best, always visit a trusted salon for the application and removal of Shellac nails. At-home solutions can cause damage to nail beds and cuticles and increase your chances of infection or injury. To keep your nails in tip-top shape, use Fresha to find the best salons in your area.