Sophia Delgado
Shellac and gel manicures are two long-lasting nail treatments with a similar application process. However, they differ in several ways, including colour options, the ability for nail length extension, and the removal process. Shellac is a patented brand of nail polish created by Creative Nail Design (CND) that combines gel and traditional nail polish. It is thinner and more susceptible to chipping than gel, but it is also easier to remove, as it does not require buffing or filing. On the other hand, gel nails are made with liquid gel and can be sculpted and shaped to the nail. They last longer than shellac but are more difficult to remove, requiring soaking, scraping, and filing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Formula | Shellac: Combination of gel and traditional nail polish. |
| Gel: Made with liquid gel formula, a mix of acrylic monomers and oligomers. | |
| Durability | Shellac: More susceptible to chipping than gel. |
| Gel: Lasts longer than shellac. | |
| Removal | Shellac: Easier to remove than gel. |
| Gel: Removal takes longer and is more intense than shellac. | |
| Application | Shellac: Similar to regular manicures with a base coat, colour coats and a top coat. |
| Gel: Time-consuming three-step process. | |
| Shades | Shellac: Limited shades available. |
| Gel: A wide range of shades available. | |
| Cost | Shellac: Typically $25-$45. |
| Gel: Can be more expensive. | |
| Brands | Shellac: Available from CND and a few off-brands. |
| Gel: Available from multiple brands. |
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What You'll Learn
Removal process
The removal process for Shellac nails is much easier and gentler on the nails than gel nails. When removing Shellac, a manicurist can swiftly take it off using an acetone-based remover, which breaks down the coating of the polish without having to buff or file the top layers. In most cases, simply wrapping your nails in remover-soaked cotton balls and aluminium foil for ten minutes will lift the Shellac polish, and you can then lightly push it off with a cuticle stick.
On the other hand, gel nail removal takes a bit more work and can be time-consuming. Peeling off a gel manicure can damage the surface of your nails, so it is more common to have them removed at a salon via a long acetone soak and scrupulous filing. To remove gel nails, you first file the top layer off and then soak your nails in acetone.
It is important to note that improper removal of Shellac nails can also damage your nails. For example, if you pick at the Shellac manicure, it can cause water to seep into your nails, potentially leading to bacteria and fungus. Therefore, it is recommended to have a manicurist remove your Shellac nails properly through a soaking process with acetone.
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Durability
Shellac nails and gel nails are both long-lasting manicure options that can provide a high-shine finish. However, there are some differences in terms of durability that are worth noting.
Firstly, it's important to understand the composition of each type of nail treatment. Shellac nails are a hybrid of gel polish and traditional nail polish. This means that shellac nails combine the durability and nail protection of gel with the colour and shine of traditional nail polish. On the other hand, gel nails are made with liquid gel, which consists of a mix of acrylic monomers and oligomers that harden under UV light to create a hard, glossy coat.
One of the key differences in durability between the two treatments is their resistance to chipping. While both shellac and gel nails are long-lasting, shellac nails are partially made with standard polish, which makes them softer and more vulnerable to chipping than gel nails. Gel nails, due to their harder composition, are less likely to chip and can last longer than shellac nails.
Another factor to consider is the removal process. Shellac nails can be easily removed by soaking them in acetone, which breaks down the coating of the polish. This makes the removal process gentler on the nails and less time-consuming. In contrast, removing gel nails typically involves more intensive methods such as buffing, filing, and scraping, which can be rougher on the nails and take longer.
It's worth mentioning that improper application or removal of gel nails can lead to damage to the natural nails, causing thinning and weakening. Shellac nails, due to their composition, are generally considered to be gentler on the nails and less likely to cause damage.
Lastly, the durability of both shellac and gel nails can be affected by their application process. For gel nails, the application typically involves a three-step process, including a base coat, colour coats, and a topcoat. This process helps to create a thick, durable manicure. Shellac nails also involve a similar application process, but with the added benefit of no dry time since the formula dries quickly when exposed to air before final curing under LED light.
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Application process
The application process for shellac nails is similar to that of a regular manicure. It starts with cleaning the nails, followed by a base coat, two coats of colour, and a top coat. In between each layer of polish, the nails are cured under an LED or UV light. The formula used for shellac nails is a combination of gel polish and traditional polish. Shellac polishes mix two types of nail coating: gel (for durability and nail protection) and traditional nail polish (for colour and shine).
The application process for gel nails is a three-step process for clients who want a durable, long-lasting manicure. It differs from traditional nail lacquers in a few key ways. For one, it contains acrylic polymers, photoinitiators, and pigments that allow it to transform from a liquid to a hard substance when cured under LED or UV light. The gel formula is made with a mix of acrylic monomers and oligomers that harden under UV light to create a hard, glossy coat. The gel extension needs something substantial to cling to, unlike acrylics, which are simply glued on. The process for adding a gel nail tip is usually conducted with a nail form—a sticker that goes underneath the tip of the natural nail, and the hard gel is built upon it to create an extension.
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Colour options
Shellac nails and gel nails differ in terms of colour options. Shellac is a brand name patented by Creative Nail Design (CND) and is a hybrid of gel and traditional nail polish. It comes in a variety of colours, with over 100 shades available, including pinks and metallics. On the other hand, gel nails are not exclusive to one brand or distributor, and there are a lot more colour options available—upwards of 300 options or more.
Shellac nails are created with a special in-salon nail polish developed and patented by CND. It is a combination of gel polish and traditional nail polish, resulting in a thinner formula compared to gel nails. The traditional nail polish component of shellac provides colour and shine. While shellac nails are available in a wide range of colours, the choices are more limited compared to gel nails, as CND is the primary brand offering this technology.
Gel nails, on the other hand, are made with liquid gel and are not exclusive to a single distributor. As a result, there are numerous brands offering gel polishes, providing a vast array of colour options. Whether you opt for a salon service or DIY at home, gel nails offer a diverse selection of shades to choose from.
The colour options available for both shellac and gel nails can cater to different preferences and styles. Shellac nails, with their range of over 100 colours, are ideal for those seeking a natural-looking manicure without added length, strength, or extensions. They offer a durable and long-lasting manicure with a high-gloss finish.
In contrast, gel nails provide a broader spectrum of colours, making them suitable for those who desire more elaborate nail art and designs. Gel manicures can also be used to mimic the current length of the nail or add extensions for those seeking additional length. With their ability to sculpt and shape the nail, gel nails offer versatility in terms of both colour and nail length.
While the colour options differ between shellac and gel nails, both methods offer long-lasting manicures with their own unique advantages.
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Cost
The cost of shellac nails and gel nails varies depending on the salon, its location, and the region. Generally, shellac and gel manicures cost between $25 to $60, with some salons charging around $25 to $45. In London, the cost can be higher, ranging from £35 to £45.
Gel nails typically cost more to remove than shellac nails due to their more complex removal process. Removing gel nail varnish involves filing the top layer, soaking the nails in acetone, and then scraping off the polish. This process can be time-consuming and may require a visit to the salon, adding to the overall cost. On the other hand, shellac nails can be removed by simply soaking the nails in acetone, making the removal process relatively quicker and cheaper.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest that the cost of application for both shellac and gel nails is usually the same. However, salons may add an extra cost for the manicure service, and this can vary depending on the salon and its location.
Additionally, the cost of at-home gel and shellac nail kits can vary. For example, the Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine nail polish range costs less than £5 per pot, while other brands like Gelish, OPI, and Essie Gels offer gel polishes at different price points.
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Frequently asked questions
Shellac is a hybrid of gel and traditional nail polish, whereas gel nails are made with liquid gel.
Shellac nails are long-lasting and can last between 10 to 14 days.
Shellac nails are easier to remove compared to gel nails. They can be removed by soaking nails in acetone, without the need for buffing or filing.
Shellac nails are generally considered gentler and less damaging to natural nails than gel nails. Gel nails may be too harsh for weak, dry, or damaged nails.
