Isla Bennett
Shellac and gel nails are both long-lasting and durable manicure options. Shellac is a patented brand of gel polish that is a mix of traditional nail polish and gel. It is thinner and softer than gel polish, but harder than regular varnish. It is also easier to remove than gel nails. You can apply shellac over gel nails, but it is important to note that you should not use a base coat and that the shellac will need to be buffed off instead of soaked off.
Can you put Shellac on Gel Nails?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shellac on gel nails | Possible |
| Shellac removal | Easier than gel nails |
| Shellac shine | Lasts longer than gel nails |
| Shellac colour options | Fewer than gel nails |
| Shellac application | Requires UV curing |
| Shellac durability | More prone to chipping than gel nails |
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What You'll Learn
Shellac application process on gel nails
Shellac can be applied over gel nails. The process is similar to a standard shellac manicure, but there are some key differences.
Firstly, you should prepare the nails by filing each nail into the desired shape and ensuring there are no rough edges. Any residual dust should be removed. Then, gently push back the cuticles, being careful not to push too hard and damage the cuticle.
Next, you can apply a thin layer of shellac base coat to each nail, starting at the cuticle and painting to the tip in even strokes. Make sure not to apply the base coat to the skin or cuticle. After this, you can apply two layers of shellac colour coat, curing between each layer by placing the nails under a UV or LED light.
Finally, apply the shellac top coat, again ensuring that it does not come into contact with the skin or cuticle. The top coat should cover the base and colour layers completely, creating a 'sandwich' effect that seals the colour inside. Place the nails under the UV or LED light one last time to cure the nails and let the top coat set properly.
To finish, wipe each nail gently with an alcohol wipe to remove any sticky residue.
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Shellac removal process from gel nails
Shellac can be applied over gel nails. It is a patented brand of gel polish that is a hybrid of nail polish and gel. While it is best to have a professional remove it, it is possible to do it at home. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove shellac from gel nails:
Firstly, gather your supplies: cotton pads, tin foil squares, acetone polish remover, a nail file, and orange sticks. Cover your work area with a towel to protect it from the acetone. Starting with your non-dominant hand, gently buff the surface of the gel topcoat with the nail file to help the remover penetrate the layers of the gel.
Next, saturate a piece of cotton wool that is slightly larger than your nail with the gel removal solution. Secure this to your nail by wrapping tin foil around it. Repeat this process for each nail. Allow the acetone solution to soak for around 15 minutes. Keep your nails warm by wrapping your hands in a towel to speed up the process.
After the allotted time, gently lift off any remaining polish with an orange stick, being careful not to scrape your nail. If the shellac is still stubborn, reapply the cotton with more acetone, cover with foil, and leave for another 5-10 minutes. Do not pick at the polish, as this can damage your nail. Finally, apply cuticle oil to nourish and hydrate the area.
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Pros and cons of shellac on gel nails
Shellac and gel nails have their own pros and cons. Shellac is a type of gel polish that is thinner and softer than gel, but harder than traditional varnish. It is a hybrid of nail polish and gel, typically applied with two colour coats and a top coat. Here are some of the pros and cons of shellac on gel nails:
Pros of Shellac on Gel Nails:
- Long-lasting shine: Shellac provides a long-lasting shine that can enhance the appearance of gel nails.
- Ease of removal: Shellac is easier to remove than gel nails. It can be soaked off with acetone without the need for buffing or filing, making it kinder to the nails.
- Low maintenance: Shellac nails require less maintenance than gel nails, as they can last for up to three weeks without chipping.
- Protection: Shellac can protect the nails and help them grow, as it makes them harder.
Cons of Shellac on Gel Nails:
- Limited colour options: Shellac offers a smaller range of colours compared to gel nails, so the choice of shades is more limited.
- Chipping: Since shellac is partially made with standard polish, it is softer and more vulnerable to chipping than gel nails.
- Cost: Shellac may be more expensive than other options, and some places may charge a premium for the brand.
- Time: Applying shellac over gel nails can be time-consuming and may not offer additional benefits compared to using coloured gel.
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Shellac vs gel nail polish
Shellac and gel nail polishes are similar, but there are some differences to consider when deciding which to use. Both types of manicure involve curing the polish under a UV light, and both are long-lasting compared to traditional nail polish. However, shellac is a patented brand of gel polish, which is a hybrid of nail polish and gel, while gel manicures are made with pure gel.
Shellac nails are thinner and therefore tend to start to break down around two weeks, whereas gel manicures can last up to three weeks. Gel nails are also more durable than shellac, but their worst enemy is hot water, which helps to remove them. Shellac nails are easier to remove than gel nails, which require filing and soaking, and sometimes cause damage to the surface of the nails.
Both types of manicure can be completed at home or in a salon, but the official CND Shellac treatment is in-salon only. Shellac is also a specific brand by CND, so some places will charge more for it. Gel nails can be used to lengthen nails, either using tips (fake plastic nail tips) or forms, and they can take longer to apply.
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Cost comparison of shellac and gel nails
Shellac and gel manicures are comparable in cost, typically ranging from $25 to $45. However, the cost varies depending on the salon and location. While gel nails offer a wider range of colours, shellac nails are generally thinner and softer, providing a longer-lasting manicure of up to three weeks.
Shellac nails, a patented brand of gel polish, are a hybrid of regular nail polish and gel. They offer a semi-permanent solution, combining the benefits of traditional polish, such as shine and ease of removal, with the durability and colour of gel. On the other hand, gel nails are pure gel, created by mixing oligomers and acrylic monomers that harden under UV light.
The removal process for gel nails is more complex and costly due to the need for filing and soaking. In contrast, shellac nails can be easily removed by simply soaking in acetone, making it a more cost-effective option in terms of removal.
When it comes to application, the costs of shellac and gel nails are usually similar. Both techniques involve curing the colour between coats and setting the polish under UV light. While gel nails may last longer, hot water is their Achilles' heel, making them more susceptible to removal during extended soaks.
While the cost of removal for gel nails tends to be higher, it's important to note that the overall cost comparison between shellac and gel nails may vary depending on factors such as salon pricing, location, and the number of coats applied.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put Shellac on gel nails. Shellac is a type of soft gel polish that can be applied on top of gel nails.
First, file your gel nails and remove the shine. Then, apply two coats of Shellac colour, curing each coat under a UV light. Finish with a top coat of Shellac.
Shellac is easier to remove than gel nails and can be taken off in minutes without harsh scraping. It also has a traditional shine and is available in a wide range of colours.
Yes, the main downside is that Shellac is more vulnerable to chipping than gel nails. Additionally, it is important not to layer the polishes too thickly, as this can look bulky and feel strange.
