Liam Carter
Shellac nails are a hybrid of regular nail polish and gel polish. They offer benefits such as long-lasting results, super-glossy finish, and no dry time. The application process involves filing the nails, applying a base coat, curing the base coat under a UV or LED lamp, applying two colour coats, curing each coat, and finally applying a top coat. Removal of shellac nails can be done by filing off the top coat and then soaking the nails in acetone. It is important to note that caution should be exercised when using UV lamps, and it is recommended to apply sunscreen beforehand.
Applying Shellac Gel Nail Polish:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Nail Polish | Half regular nail polish, half gel |
| Application | Applied with two colour coats and a topcoat |
| Curing | Nails are cured under a UV or LED light |
| Removal | Soak nails in acetone or use acetone remover wraps |
| Results | Long-lasting, super-glossy, and dry instantly |
| Caution | Apply sunscreen before curing under UV light |
| Application at Home | Use CND Shellac LED Lamp |
| Nail Strengthening | Use Brisa Gel as a foundation for weak or splitting nails |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare your nails
Preparing your nails is an important step in achieving the best results when applying shellac gel nail polish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your nails for a shellac manicure:
Step 1: Shape Your Nails
Start by shaping your nails with a nail file. Gently file the edges of your nails to achieve your desired shape. Avoid filing the nail bed as it can be damaging to your nails. This step helps create a smooth base for the shellac application.
Step 2: Strengthen Your Nails (Optional)
If you have weak or splitting nails, it is recommended to use a gel foundation, such as Brisa Gel, before applying shellac. This step will add strength and provide a sturdy base for the shellac polish.
Step 3: Apply Cuticle Oil
To prevent your nails from drying out, apply a generous amount of cuticle oil to each nail and massage it into the cuticles and the surrounding skin. This step will help nourish and moisturize your nails, ensuring they stay healthy throughout the shellac process.
Step 4: Buff Your Nails
Lightly buff the surface of your nails to create a slightly rough texture. This step helps the shellac polish adhere better to your nails, ensuring a longer-lasting manicure. Make sure not to over-buff, as it can thin your nails and cause damage.
Step 5: Clean Your Nails
Wipe each nail with an alcohol wipe or a gentle nail polish remover to remove any dust, oil, or residue. This step ensures that your nails are clean and ready for the application of the base coat.
Remember, proper nail preparation is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring the longevity of your shellac manicure. By following these steps, you can create a smooth base, promote healthy nails, and enhance the adhesion of the shellac gel nail polish.
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Apply the base coat
Applying the base coat is the first step in achieving a long-lasting and beautiful manicure. The base coat acts as a foundation for your shellac gel nail polish, providing an extra layer of protection and strength to your nails. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying the base coat:
- Prepare your nails: Before applying any product, ensure your nails are clean and dry. If needed, gently shape your nails using a nail file. Avoid over-filing, especially on the nail bed, as this can cause damage.
- Choose the right base coat: Select a high-quality base coat designed specifically for shellac gel nail polish, such as the CND Shellac Base Coat.
- Shake the bottle: Vigorously shake the base coat bottle to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. This step is crucial for achieving the best results. If you plan to use shellac nail polish frequently, consider investing in a nail polish shaker.
- Apply a thin coat: Start by applying a thin layer of the base coat to each nail. Remember, the key to a good result is to keep every layer thin and evenly applied.
- Cure the base coat: Using a CND LED Lamp or a similar UV/LED light, cure the base coat. Place your hand under the light and follow the recommended curing time, which is typically around 10 seconds for the base coat.
- Avoid the top film: After removing your hand from the lamp, you may notice a top film layer on your nails. Do not remove or disturb this film, as it is essential for the shellac process.
By following these steps, you will create a smooth and durable base for your shellac gel nail polish. Remember to work with clean, steady strokes and always allow adequate curing time to ensure the best results for your manicure.
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Use a nail lamp to cure the base coat
To apply shellac gel nail polish, you will need a nail lamp to cure the base coat. The CND Shellac system recommends using their LED lamp, which has preset buttons for curing the base coat and nail polish. If you are using the 2019 CND LED Lamp, place your hands under the lamp and cure each hand for 10 seconds using preset button 1.
It is important to note that you should not remove the top film layer after removing your hands from the lamp. The purpose of curing the base coat is to ensure that the shellac gel nail polish adheres properly to your nails and lasts longer. By curing the base coat, you are creating a strong foundation for the rest of the shellac nail polish application.
If you are using a different nail lamp, such as a UV lamp, you may need to adjust the curing time accordingly. Most nail lamps have timer settings that you can use to control the curing time for each layer. Refer to your nail lamp's instructions to determine the recommended curing time for a base coat.
Additionally, it is recommended to apply sunscreen with SPF30+ at least 20 minutes before using a nail lamp, as the UV exposure can be harmful to your skin. This precaution will help protect your hands from any potential negative effects of the UV light.
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Apply the nail polish
Applying Shellac nail polish is a simple process that can be done at home. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying Shellac gel nail polish:
First, prepare your nails by filing them with a 240-grit nail file to shape them. It is important to note that you should not file your nail bed when using CND Shellac, as this can cause damage. If your nails are weak or splitting, consider using Brisa Gel as a foundation before applying Shellac to strengthen your nails.
Next, shake the CND Shellac Base Coat vigorously to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. Then, apply a thin coat of the base coat to five nails, curing each hand for 10 seconds in a CND LED Lamp. Do not remove the top film layer after removing your nails from the lamp.
Now, apply a thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish to the nail plate and edge. If applied correctly, it should appear slightly semi-sheer. Again, apply the polish to five nails and cure each hand for one minute in the CND LED Lamp. Do not remove the top film after removing your nails from the lamp. Use a wooden cuticle stick to clean any messy polish application on the cuticle or skin.
Apply a second layer of shellac nail polish in the same way, almost to the tip of the nail but inside the basecoat boundary. Cure your nails under a UV or LED light to set the polish.
Finally, apply a top coat, such as the Scorch Shellac Nails Top Coat, to each nail. Go to the edge of the basecoat, covering the basecoat and colour layers completely while avoiding the skin and cuticle. Cure your nails under a UV or LED light one last time to let the top coat set properly. Wipe each nail gently with an alcohol wipe to remove any sticky residue.
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Seal the nail polish with a top coat
Sealing your nail polish with a top coat is an important step in ensuring your manicure lasts without chipping or peeling. The first step is to ensure your nail polish is completely dry before applying a top coat. You can tell it's dry when the nail art becomes dull.
When you are ready to apply the top coat, dip your brush into the clear polish and brush off one side of the brush. Then, place the brush gently onto your nail, with the side holding the clear polish dollop touching your nail. You can use a cotton ball to dab the top coat onto all your nails, holding it on each nail for 20 seconds, and then rub the excess off.
If you are using Shellac nail polish, you can use a gel top coat, such as Lechat Protech, which is a UV top coat gel. Alternatively, you can use CND Super Shiney or INM Out the Door Holographic glitter. If you are using a gel top coat, you will need to cure your nails under a lamp.
If you are using regular nail polish, you can use a quick-drying top coat, such as IBD Acrylic Bright Top Coat, which will give an excellent shine. You can also use almond cuticle oil around your nails and cuticles to moisturize your hands.
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Frequently asked questions
Shellac nail polish is a combination of gel polish and traditional polish. The process involves applying a base coat, curing it under an LED or UV light, applying two colour coats, curing each coat under the light, and finally applying a top coat and curing it under the light.
To remove shellac gel nail polish, you can soak your nails in acetone. Alternatively, you can cover your nails with cotton pads soaked in acetone and wrap them in aluminium foil. Wait 10-15 minutes, then gently push off the foil and pads using a cuticle stick.
Shellac nail polish offers benefits such as no dry time, long-lasting results, shine, colour, and easy removal. It is also thinner and less heavy than gel nail polish.
You can apply shellac gel nail polish at home or visit a nail salon that specialises in shellac nail services.
