Shellac: what is it and application secrets

Updated: 04/23/2021 11:35:07

Expert: Ekaterina Alekseevna Savitskaya

Nail care is one of the daily concerns of a modern woman. Conventional decorative coatings, such as simple varnishes, quickly lose their aesthetic appearance and must be washed off and reapplied frequently. But products like gel polish and shellac allow you to create a long-lasting manicure and forget about the need to care for your nails for a long time. Journalists from expertology.ru talked to nail art experts and learned all about shellac - what it is, how it differs from varnish and gel, how to apply it, what its advantages and disadvantages are.

Shellac – what is it, how does it differ from other decorative cosmetics

Shellac is a unique nail care product that was invented and patented by CND (Creative Nail Design) in 2010. This drug is a kind of hybrid or intermediate between classic polish and gel polish. At that time, Shellac made a splash in the world of the nail industry and immediately gained great popularity. The drug became an excellent alternative to classic varnishes, which stayed on the nails for two to three days.

There is an opinion that preparations labeled Shellac contain an organic polymer of the same name, used in the production of industrial varnishes, insulating materials, and in the furniture and footwear industries. However, this is not true; if you study the packaging of such a varnish and look at the composition, you will not be able to find any mention of shellac resin in it.

It is not appropriate to compare shellac and regular classic nail polish, since these are completely different cosmetics. The varnish hardens in the air, and a product called Shellac dries under the influence of UV rays.

But there are common features between shellac and gel polish, since nail art using these products will require a drying lamp. There are fundamental differences between these drugs:

Gel polish is more viscous than Shellac. Therefore, the first remedy can be used to correct the shape and length of nails (including extensions). And the second product is simply a very durable decorative coating.
Shellac can be removed using a special liquid. And gel polish can only be removed mechanically (by filing).
Shellac is not often, but it is still necessary to completely wash off and do nail art again. And the gel can be applied rarely and worn on the nails for any time, with periodic correction of the coating.
Today, the original shellac is a product of the already mentioned SND brand. However, this term has become a household word; it is also included in the names of products from other companies. For example, on sale you can find cosmetics for nail art Shellac Bluesky, AllShellac Premier.

Is it worth applying shellac – the advantages of the product as a decorative coating for nail art

Experts note that a product such as shellac has many advantages over other manicure preparations:

Full color saturation. If you apply the varnish, its shade fully corresponds to what is stated on the label.
A very large assortment of colors and shades of shellac, a varied palette of colors, which is worked on by high-class designers. If you plan to apply this product, you have over 250 options to choose from. Moreover, varnishes can be applied solo or mixed, obtaining unusual secondary and tertiary colors.
Soft and comfortable texture. Shellac is very easy to apply, it does not smear and lies smoothly on the surface. It does not weigh down the nail plates and is comfortable to “wear.” Due to the fact that shellac contains a large number of oligomers, it does not evaporate or dry out, even if the process of performing nail art is delayed. Shellac hardens only during polymerization with the participation of ultraviolet radiation, forming a hard and durable film on the surface.
Versatility of use. Shellac can be applied to create a one-color manicure. Or use this tool to create original drawings of any degree of complexity, to bring unique designs to life.
Increased durability of the coating. Shellac can be applied once every two or even three weeks, as it is resistant to chemical and mechanical influences. You can safely and without restrictions do housework, take baths, visit the beach and swim in reservoirs. The coating will not fade in the sun, peel, wear off or chip; it will remain the same as immediately after application. Manicure and pedicure always have a neat, well-groomed appearance, and a woman does not need frequent nail care. However, experts note that shellac can stay on nails for less time than expected. This may be due to the unsatisfactory condition of the nail plates, lame technique and insufficient skill in performing nail art, poor quality of the material that can be applied in salons with a dubious reputation, and frequent hand contact with chemicals.
If you apply shellac in a thin layer, as recommended by the manufacturer, then you can use the product quite economically. The volume of one standard bottle of varnish from the SND company is 7.3 milliliters. Nail art masters assure that this amount of product will be enough for 15 or even 20 procedures. That is, for 5-6 months, which will allow you to save money even with a fairly high cost of cosmetics.
There is no persistent unpleasant odor while you apply shellac, which makes the procedure comfortable.
The time during which you will have to apply the decorative coating is only 30-40 minutes. This makes it possible to make long-lasting nail art in a salon or nail bar, even during your lunch break at work. At the same time, immediately after the procedure, you have the opportunity to begin your daily activities without fear of touching and smearing the decorative coating that has not completely dried, as was the case with traditional varnishes.
If you apply shellac, it will not interfere with the natural growth of the nail plate. The drug has a safe composition, there are no formaldehydes, toluene, dibutyl phthalate and other harmful components. Thanks to this, the manufacturer was able to declare the shellac composition as “7 Free”. The drug does not cause allergic reactions or other complications. Some experts claim that shellac protects fabrics from the negative effects of external factors, which helps improve their condition and structure.
Shellac can be applied without any age or health restrictions. Even high school students use this product to give their nails a neat and well-groomed look. There are no restrictions on the use of shellac for expectant mothers and breastfeeding women. Shellac allows women of any profession and status to always look well-groomed, stylish, with a minimum of effort and spending a minimum of time.
You can apply shellac regularly. As soon as the outdated coating is removed, you can do a new manicure (but experts still recommend taking a short break of a few days or a week).
You can apply and wash off shellac not only in a beauty salon, but also at home. This allows you to save on hand care.

If you have previously used acrylic extensions or modeling gel, then you will note another advantage of shellac - the price of this decorative cosmetics product for nail art. Compared to the price of other permanent nail art preparations, applying shellac is cheaper.

What is shellac and how to make it?

Many people associate the newfangled word shellac with modern long-lasting manicure technology, which, having appeared about 10 years ago, has become very popular among girls of all ages. What is shellac? Let's figure it out.

Most women (and men) are sure that this name applies only to a special type of varnish that combines the qualities of a long-lasting gel and decorative nail polish. But did you know that, in fact, shellac is a natural resin, which is a waste product of the females of some species of insects called worms (homoptera), living in the tropical and subtropical forests of India and Southeast Asia. This substance contains many natural acids, shellac wax, water-soluble pigment and water. It is easily soluble in alkaline solutions and aliphatic alcohols, but practically insoluble in benzene, gasoline, fats and oils.

It is a misconception that shellac is used only in the nail industry. It is also used in the furniture industry, for the manufacture of insulating materials, vinyl records, icing for candies and tablets (food additive E-904), shellac is added as a fixative to the finish coating of wooden musical instruments, and in pyrotechnics it is used as a flammable substance for signal lights .

But let's not get distracted and focus on the use of shellac in manicure. Shellac, a product for decorative manicure and nail design, is considered an invention of the American company American Beauty International, which produces beauty products. Today, this coating, which is a hybrid of gel and varnish, is used in almost any salon. Let's look at what shellac is, how to do a manicure using it, and also look into modern shellac beauty trends. So, the most fashionable shellac trends, photos and descriptions:

Shellac black

Black nails look very beautiful and a little dramatic. Shellac in black tones is an excellent solution for both everyday manicure and for an evening out.

Elegant French

This is one of the most popular beauty trends, which has been at the peak of popularity for several seasons in a row. This year, you can abandon the classic white and pink tones and experiment - create a “smile” strip in nude, black or colored. This will make your manicure the admiration of others.

Shellac with rhinestones, sparkles, sequins, bouillons

Decorating nails has already become an integral part of manicure. And with shellac, such decor will last quite a long time - from 2 to 4 weeks.

Shellac: nail design

It’s a pleasure to create pictures on your nails with this polish. Floral, lunar designs, as well as all kinds of inscriptions and cartoon pictures on nails will be very fashionable this season. Experiment.

To apply shellac or not – the disadvantages of a permanent nail art product

Before you decide to buy shellac and use it for manicure, it would be a good idea to learn about the disadvantages of this drug. There are not many of them, but they still exist:

Shellac can only be applied with a special LED lamp. Without it, the product simply will not harden. Buying a lamp is an additional expense. Other accessories will also be required, which we will also discuss in this article.
Performing a manicure at home requires certain skills and dexterity. Therefore, before applying permanent shellac, you need to practice doing nail art using ordinary decorative varnishes.
The base that needs to be applied to the nails before applying the decorative coating is acidic. This product slightly lifts the scales of the nail plate, providing the desired level of adhesion. If your nails are prone to dryness, the polish may begin to crack.
To remove the decorative coating, you will need an acetone-containing product, which is not very good for the nail plates. Shellac itself is safe, but the drug used to remove it from nails is questionable.
During the process of applying manicure, the preparation, although slowly, thickens under the influence of light. Many women complain that they only managed to use half of the bottle of varnish, and the second half can no longer be applied, since it is not flexible enough.
The cost of shellacs is not as low as we would like. In a specialized store, the average price of one bottle of gel is more than 500-1000 rubles. If you carry out the procedure in a beauty salon or with a private manicurist, it will also cost a lot. You can find products on sale at a relatively low cost - about 200 rubles. But experts do not recommend applying shellac from unknown manufacturers, as you can get a poor-quality manicure and also cause harm to the nail plates.
Due to the high popularity and relatively high cost of branded shellac, it is often counterfeited. Such drugs produced in China and purchased through the Aliexpress service (or elsewhere) can cause chemical burns. If you buy cosmetics to perform a manicure at home yourself, you can order the products on the official website or from official representatives without fear of counterfeiting. There is nothing complicated here, it's just a matter of price. What if a manicure with shellac is done in a beauty salon? You cannot be sure that the establishment’s employees purchase truly high-quality original drugs that can be applied without fear.

As you can see, shellac has some disadvantages, although they are mostly minor. But the question arises, why do so many women around the world choose this particular product in order to get a long-lasting and beautiful manicure? Especially in a situation where there is a safer and more profitable alternative - gel polish or acrylic coating. There is no doubt that shellac is better than traditional nail polish. But otherwise, it is inferior in all respects to gel polish, and its widespread use is justified by several reasons. It is convenient and profitable for salons to use shellac. Performing a manicure takes little time, only half an hour instead of the two to two and a half hours that are spent on applying gel polish. Therefore, masters can accept more clients during the day. Shellac is also less durable than the alternative preparation; it adheres well only to perfectly smooth and healthy nails. In addition, the nails grow back, exposing the unvarnished surface at the base. Accordingly, many clients are forced to come back frequently for corrections, as well as manicure removal and a new one. All this brings good income to beauty salons, so they work mainly with shellac, recommending it to clients as the preferred option.

How to do

Service in salons is not cheap. But you can apply it yourself at home. To do this, you must purchase all the materials and tools described below.

What is shellac manicure - secrets of popularity

From the traditional professional product, shellac took rich shades, shine and ease of application. All this allows you to quickly decorate your fingers and do it efficiently. It gained popularity and universal love due to the fact that:

does not require significant preparation of the plate: you can do without a primer;
firmly attached to the nail, but does not harm it;
can be removed without cutting;
You can apply a new coating immediately after removing the old one.

When you should not apply shellac - contraindications

The results of numerous studies indicate that applying shellac is not harmful to health. There are no contraindications to its use. With the exception of cases of diseases of the nail plates. For example, you should not use varnish if you have untreated nail fungus.

It is also not recommended to use shellac as a decorative coating if you have thin, brittle, weakened, flat, springboard-shaped, broken, bumpy, or uneven nails. In this case, quick chipping of the surface cannot be avoided; the manicure will last 7-10 days. This is due to the fact that shellac has a too liquid base, which is not capable of perfectly leveling out all relief defects and creating a perfectly flat surface for applying decorative layers. To achieve a high-quality manicure, it is recommended to replace shellac with viscous gel polish.

Pros and cons of Shellac nail coating

Like any cosmetic product, shellac has advantages and disadvantages. Main advantages:

It is better suited than others for owners of thin, brittle nails, since the film-forming agent in the composition allows you to strengthen the nail plate;
wide palette of bright saturated colors;
wear resistance;
ease of use (optimal consistency, good brushes);
good adhesion to the nail surface;
constant expansion of the line of shellacs.

The main disadvantages of shellac gel polish according to reviews from masters:

higher cost compared to similar products from other brands;
It is preferable to use related products from the same company.

What you need to apply shellac at home

To be able to apply the products yourself, without visiting a beauty salon or a private specialist, you need to purchase the following kit:

Everything you need for hygienic or decorative manicure. These are scissors, files, accessories for removing cuticles, etc.
Varnishes labeled “Shellac” that you intend to apply. You can select the required colors in the catalog of any online store of manicure products. But it’s still better to “try on” the shades of varnishes in person. In regular stores there are special palettes that allow you to apply an artificial nail covered with a certain color of varnish to your fingers and see if this option suits you.
Special LED lamp (fluorescent, LED, CCFL ultraviolet lamp). No matter how much it costs, the purchase is necessary; without it, applying Shellac is useless. Cheaper items can be found on the websites of large online stores. It is advisable to buy a device that emits UV waves in a wide range - from 270 to 400 nm. This will allow you to work with any shellacs and gel polishes from different manufacturers.
A product for removing shellac from nails, as well as several nail files with varying degrees of abrasiveness, and a set of orange sticks.
Lint-free wipes and degreaser to treat the last layer.
A variety of additional tools for the designs you plan to create. These can be rhinestones, glitters, powders.
Since manicure needs to be applied in good lighting, you need to take care of purchasing not only an LED lamp, but also a tabletop fluorescent lighting fixture.

What is better to choose: gel polish or shellac?

Assortment of varnishes
Since there is no difference between the concepts under consideration, you need to choose taking into account the characteristics of the product of a particular brand and personal preferences.

When choosing this method of applying varnish, consider:

Failure to follow the basic rules for applying or removing the coating leads to damage to the nail. Therefore, choose a qualified specialist
Sudden temperature changes lead to delamination of the hardened gel polish. This is fraught with infection and nail disease.

To apply shellac, you need to choose the right lamp

To be sure that the drying lamp is suitable for performing manicure, you need to make sure that the wavelength is sufficient to start the polymerization process of the decorative coating. There should be special markings on the shellac packaging indicating what type of lamp should be used:

UV/LED - this label indicates that this is a universal varnish that can be applied with any drying lamp.
UV – a lamp with short or mid-range ultraviolet waves must be used. To apply Shellac, devices with wavelengths from 280 to 370 nm, fluorescent or CCFL type, are suitable.
LED – this mark indicates that you need to use an LED lamp with a wavelength of 380-400 nm. You can use other types of devices, but in this case, shellac polymerization will take much longer.

Trending shellac colors in 2022

Today, fashionistas have a huge selection of Shellac varnish colors to choose from, and their range is regularly updated. This year, special attention is paid to the following tones:

nude – cream, beige, natural flesh, dusty pinkish. They wonderfully emphasize the femininity and elegance of a lady and are suitable for all shapes and sizes of plates;

red for temperamental people who know their worth. The Wildfire and Hollywood tones from ; as well as Tango, Formidable, Distraction from Luxio; Royal Red, Jessica brand Roadster;

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Posted by Unreel (@extremeofficial)

deep, mysterious black color is a classic nail design. Looks equally stylish in glossy or matte finishes and is perfect for short and long plates. This is an excellent background for exclusive experiments with vignettes, drawings, and inlays. You can combine any shades, transparent coatings and all known techniques with black.

Sequence of nail art - how to apply shellac

The procedure for performing a manicure does not pose any particular difficulties; over time, you will learn how to apply shellac quickly and efficiently:

The first stage is preparatory
. Nails are cleaned, their shape and length are adjusted, and the cuticle is removed. It is important to pay attention to the thorough removal of the cuticle, since if persistent varnish gets on it, the coating will most likely peel off and crack very quickly. To prevent this, you can use Cuticle Eraser from CND or another similar product. A more economical way to remove cuticles is to use a trim manicure. To polish the nail plate, which is performed several times a month, a buff is used. Then the nails need to be cleaned of dust and treated with an antiseptic. To degrease the surface, special compounds are also used; dehydrate can be used to remove excess moisture.
Nails are coated with a special manicure primer
. Using a primer helps protect nails, improve adhesion (adhesion) of the coating to the surface, and increase the durability of the manicure.
Applying the base
, preferably on a rubber base. Nail art specialists who believe that in a manicure you need to use products from the same company that are ideally combined with each other, recommend using Base Coat from CND. But you can replace this drug with another similar product, for example, the base from Color Couture Entity One, which has healing properties, strengthens tissue, and additionally protects nails from the negative effects of pigments. The layer of the drug should be as thin as possible. Drying under a lamp and fixing under a lamp at this stage is mandatory.
Now you need to apply the first layer of decorative coating
. This layer must be dried, it should also be as thin as possible. Polymerization (hardening) of shellac begins using a drying lamp. Many women are interested in how long to keep their hands under the lamp. The drying time of the product depends on several factors - the type of lamp, the length of the emitted waves, the chemical composition of the varnish, and the thickness of the coating layer. The rate of polymerization may even depend on the distance between the light source and the nails. Also, its color plays an important role in the drying process of the drug. For example, Shellac with a high degree of pigmentation takes longer to harden than those that have less intense color. This means that black or red shellac will take longer to harden than, for example, white or beige. The average drying time for the coating is 30-60 seconds under an LED lamp and 2-8 minutes under a CCFL lamp.
It is necessary to consistently apply the required number of layers of shellac
, each of which is dried under a lamp. Depending on the type of product, density and intensity of pigmentation, it may be necessary to perform from two to five layers. After the last layer is done, a special preparation must be applied to the nails. This product has degreasing properties; it removes the sticky dispersion layer that forms on the surface of the film. Experts recommend using a clinser for this purpose. But, as a last resort, 99% isopropyl alcohol will do.
Need to apply sealer
, which is a top coat for shellac. In this case, this is a layer that may be thicker than the main ones. To create a finish, you can use a product from the line of cosmetics from the CND brand - Top Coat.
Experts advise in the first few days after a manicure using shellac avoid prolonged water procedures
. This recommendation is justified by the fact that the final hardening of shellac continues for another two days after the nail art procedure.
After use, the shellac bottle must be tightly closed.
and store exclusively in a dark place. The fact is that sunlight also contains ultraviolet waves. Of course, polymerization of the product under the influence of ordinary light takes a very long time, but it can curl and change its texture and properties.

Differences

What is gel nail polish

Professional gel polished lamp

An ultraviolet lamp is needed for the varnish to polymerize and harden.

Before applying gel polish, treat the nail with a cosmetic primer that ensures interaction between the plate and the gel.

Gel polish allows your manicure to stay intact for up to 4-5 weeks. During this time, the structure of the substance is preserved.

In this case, the coating does not need updates or corrections during this time.

What is shellac

Shellac

But in this case, the native nail is not subjected to the application of a primer; it is replaced with a dehydrator or degreaser. The plate is not polished or damaged.

A manicure can remain intact for up to one month if proper attention is paid to the degreaser. Special mixtures for removing the coating are not required; nail polish remover with a limited amount of acetone will do.

The top layer is not removed. It is necessary to dip a cotton pad in nail polish remover, apply it to the nail and hold for several minutes.

The positive aspects of shellac

Virtually no mechanical damage. Regular manicure products will not remove polish.
The original nail is safe. Does not cause an allergic reaction and does not deplete the plate.
No correction is required for about a month.
The product does not have a strong aroma.
Can be used by pregnant women. The substance does not contain harmful components. Due to hormonal changes in the body, the effect of the varnish may be limited and it will disintegrate within 2 weeks.
The nail plate is strengthened and the desired nail size is achieved.
There are a wide variety of shades - from black to red.

In detail: what is shellac for nails, reviews in this article.

Cons of shellac

Like any cosmetic product, shellac has its downsides:

Application time is about half an hour, compared to regular varnish, this is expensive.
The cost of shellac is almost the same as gel polish, but correction must be done more often, which is not economical. Shellac costs from 400-1000 rubles, and a nail coating service costs from 500-800 rubles.
Temperature changes can damage the structure of the varnish. Under the influence of chemicals, the nail can crack and allow fungus to appear.
If the nail is damaged, then after being under the varnish the situation can only get worse.

Video about the difference between shellac and gel polish

Read reviews from cosmetologists about Clean Line micellar water.

Positive aspects of gel polish for manicure

Extensive color range. Colors and shades are combined, mixed, and new styles are created.
Manicure looks more natural, unobtrusive.
A manicure kit for beginners is the ideal solution.
Resistant to damage. Does not peel off and withstands impacts.
Because the nail is safe under the covering, it can develop and grow quickly.
If there are flaws in the plate, it is not sufficiently developed compared to others, then layers of gel polish correct the small flaw.
During nail treatment, the product does not emit aromas.
The substance does not contain allergens, the nail is not damaged, and the fungus does not go away.
The nail plate breathes, as the gel polish allows air to pass through. The plate is strengthened and not so brittle.

why do you need body lotion?

Negative sides of gel polish

Applying gel polish to your nails yourself is difficult, as there is a possibility of damaging the nail structure. It is recommended to consult a doctor who will do a quality manicure.
In the first few days, you need to be careful about temperature changes to prevent the coating from cracking.
Once a year, the nails need to be given a rest so that the nails do not become depleted under the constant influence of gel polish.
Counterfeit gel polishes may cause allergic reactions or may not take root on the nails.
The cost of gel polish and the services of a specialist is high. In the salon, the service costs from 1000 rubles. The cost of the gel is from 500-1500 rubles.

In the video, what is the difference between gel polish and shellac?

Learn more about how to use cold paraffin for your hands.

How to apply shellac - popular methods of manicure

Using this product for nail decoration, you can embody any ideas and use different manicure techniques:

Nail art in French style. Light “smiles” on the tips of the nails can be done with white, milky, soft pink or cream varnish. CND brand products, for example, Cream Puff or Stidio White, are ideal for this technique. You can use artistic painting, bouillons, and rhinestones as additional decorative elements.
Stamping or stamping. In this case, an elegant design can be applied under the top layer using a special varnish. For stamping, you will need not only shellac, but also metal plates that transfer the pattern to the surface of the nails.
Lunar nail art. A type of French, in the technique of which the crescent is located not at the tip of the nail, but closer to the cuticle. And in most cases, it is not light varnish that is used, but cosmetics with increased pigmentation, that is, colored ones.
Ombre technique or gradient application of shellac. In this case, varnish of one color is applied at the base of the nail, varnish of the second color is applied at the tip of the plate. In the middle you can use a third shade. And then the shades are mixed with a very thin brush, creating the effect of a smooth flow of one color into another. You can do several layers to enhance the ombre effect.
Water manicure technique combined with shellac. To create such fashionable water patterns, you need to apply the first layer of shellac, dry it, and then dip the nail in an aqueous solution of paints of the selected colors. Fingers must be pre-treated with cream or the skin isolated with tape. As a result, colorful abstract patterns will appear on the surface of the marigolds. After this, you can apply a finishing layer of transparent product.

These are not all the techniques that can be implemented using or based on shellac. Having mastered the basics of using this product, you can begin to experiment with your own nail decoration options.

Shellac kit with lamp: the best options

A ready-made set for shellac with a lamp should be selected based on your own capabilities:

the starter one is suitable for those who want to do their own manicure, but have no experience with shellac;
the basic one is suitable for those who have already tried to do a long-wearing manicure and are ready to do more than just a simple coating;
Professional is needed by specialists, since it contains several flower beds that need to be used up before the expiration date.

BlueSky Shellac Standart set with lamp
Chinese sets are popular in this category:

YSQZXHMY MANICURE TOOLS,
COSCELIA NAIL POLISH KIT,
JEWHITENY MJ006,
ROSALIND RB-7KIT10TOOLS-01,
BURANO PURPLE SET,
MODELONES NEW NAIL TOOLS SET (B),
MODELONES Z10 NAIL ART TOOLS SET,
COSCELIA NAIL ART KIT.

In terms of content, they are more similar to professional ones, but they cost the same as basic ones. There are kits for beginners with a lamp from well-known companies - TNL, Kodi, Grattol, Bluesky. In terms of the number of items, they are more modest, but these compounds are of higher quality, and when using them there is less chance of allergies.

Watch the video about the gel polish starter kit from AliExpress:

Starting

The starting list of items necessary for a “long-lasting” manicure looks like this:

low power drying lamp,
base,
finish,
varnish of one color.

This is enough to apply the coating to your own prepared nails, especially since you can choose the shade of the varnish. Manicure and accessories are purchased separately, at the same time paying attention to the sharpness and quality of the former.

Starter set of Kodi gel polishes with UV LED lamp SUN 6 48 W.

Sometimes the flower bed may not be included in the starter kit, but then it contains a primer, cleanser, degreaser, cuticle remover, orange sticks, oil and buff. In this case, the varnish is purchased separately.

Base

The basic kit is more complete; it contains:

ultraviolet lamp;
1-3 polymerizing varnishes;
base;
finishing agent;
stencils for French nails for different shapes of nails;
buff;
several orange sticks;
lint-free wipes.

Basic set
With it you can do manicures not only for yourself, but also for your friends. True, you will have to buy a remover and degreaser, but every woman has manicure tools.

For professionals

The finished professional kit includes:

a sufficiently powerful ultraviolet or LED lamp;
10-12 varnish colors;
top and base;
stencils;
degreaser;
remover;
primer;
buff;
foil for removing the coating;
lint-free wipes;
set of orange sticks.

Professional manicure set
With this list of items, you can provide nail art services if you have the appropriate skills. Moreover, the shelf life of the varnishes from the set is usually longer than in the standard and basic ones. But, of course, you will also need disposable files and a sterilizer, and the latter does not come in kits.

How to remove shellac from the surface of nail plates

Shellac is removed from nails using a special acetone-based solution. The company employees who developed the formula of the drug did not want to scare away clients and manicurists, so the fact that Shellac remover contains acetone, which is relatively harmful to nails, is not advertised.

The procedure for removing stubborn varnish is simple:

Wash your hands thoroughly.
Prepare ten adhesive-based sponges, which are designed specifically for gentle removal of shellac. Instead of sponges, you can use cotton pads (cotton wool) and foil. Or cotton pads and special nail pads for additional fixation.
Soak the discs with a special solvent. It is optimal to use products from the CND company, which are called Product Remover or other products with similar properties.
Wrap the sponges around the nails and fingertips so that the part soaked in the solvent comes into contact only with the nail plate and is fixed with a sticky surface. Leave the sponges on your nails for 10 minutes.
After removing the solvent-soaked bandages, you need to clean your nails of large polish residues using an orange stick, which is not so hard as to harm the tissues of your hands.
If there are slight shellac residues on your nails, remove them by wiping the contaminated surfaces with a cotton pad soaked in solvent.
Wash your hands, treat cuticles and nails with caring oil. After some time, you need to apply a moisturizing or restoring cream to your hands.
What to do if you don’t have a special solution at hand to remove durable decorative coating? Experts advise going to a beauty salon where you can have your manicure corrected or completely wash off your shellac. Another option is to use standard acetone-containing solvents. You just need to take into account that it will take a lot of time to dissolve the dense film of the polymer coating.
Is it possible to remove shellac using hardware? Manicurists say that this is possible, but it is not advisable to carry out such a procedure. Due to the peculiarities of the composition, the cutter gets stuck in the material, and the effectiveness of the procedure is low. In addition, using mechanical methods to remove the coating is dangerous for nails. There is a high probability of sawing through the nail plate, since the coating layer is not thick enough and it itself is fragile. Hardware manicure removal is more suitable if a thicker gel polish was used. However, you can use manual mechanical action and files with an abrasive coating. At least in order to remove the bulk of the polymer material from the nails.

Manicurists strongly advise against using this method of manicure removal, such as an acetone bath. If you use this particular method, you can damage not only your nails, but also the skin of your fingers.

What is the difference between gel and gel polish, as well as other products

In addition to shellac and gel polish, today nail art masters use other means to create a beautiful manicure.
Here, too, you need to understand that there is always a difference between gel and gel polish, biogel, gel paint and other products. Just which one? Gel polish differs from the recently introduced biogel, since the technology for applying biogel is much more complicated, but it is just as easily removed using special means without damaging the nail plate.

Biogel is more expensive, since it is made on the basis of natural ingredients that, during a manicure, treat and restore nails.

In addition to biogel, nails are also extended with UV gel. The difference between UV gel and gel polish is that the first product is used exclusively for nail extensions, and the second is used to create a long-lasting color manicure.

Therefore, these are two different products that have different application methods, terms of wear on the nails and the final result, since the extended nail still needs to be decorated with UV gel, and this is where you can use gel polish or gel paint, which are very similar between yourself.

Despite the different composition, both coatings on the nail look the same. Gel paint is available in small jars and is intended for creating patterns and ornaments, but some manicurists often use it to cover the entire nail, although gel polish is more suitable for these purposes.

Well, the last remedy that everyone uses is regular varnish. Its difference with gel polish is immediately clear. The polish lasts very little on the nails, just a couple of days and you need to do a new manicure. A large selection of shades, cost, ease of removal and application make it popular among women.

Now it’s clear what the difference is between gel and gel polish, shellac and biogel. All tools have their purpose and advantages. Each woman must determine for herself what suits her best to create a beautiful manicure.

How to extend the shelf life of a shellac manicure

When asking such a question as extending the period of wearing shellac on nails, you need to remember the growth rate of the nail plates. The average person's fingernails grow at a rate of 1-2 millimeters per week. Toenails grow more slowly, growing approximately 0.25-1 millimeter in seven days. It is clear that within a week after the last treatment of the nails and application of the decorative coating, a new area near the cuticle, not painted over with varnish, will appear. It will not look aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, there is no particular need for shellac to last longer than a few weeks at a time. However, there will be little joy in the fact that the coating cracks or peels before the natural need comes and the time to change it comes. Therefore, you can take preventive measures to prevent damage to the integrity of the dense decorative film on the nails:

Avoid contact of nails with any type of harsh solvents.
Avoid changes in external temperatures (thermal effects of the hot-cold type).
Do not test nails and decorative coating for strength. That is, do not scratch or remove hard substances from surfaces unless absolutely necessary.
Wash dishes, floors, do laundry and perform all other house cleaning activities using rubber gloves, periodically cleaning and airing your hands. The same applies to gardening or other household work.

In principle, no special care is required for a manicure made using shellac. Just protect your nails and hand skin using standard methods, that will be enough.

What is shellac?

Creative Nail Design, CND or as everyone is more familiar with “shellac” is a type of decorative nail coating that combines the properties of regular colored varnish and gel. Thanks to this combination, the result is a beautiful and, most importantly, durable manicure that lasts about 2 weeks on the nails. Shellac also has other advantages.

Shellac

The ability to adjust the design without fear of rapid drying, since shellac hardens exclusively in a special UV or LED lamp.
Significantly strengthens nails, smoothes them, and also gives them a glossy shine.
Shellac is a fairly light coating that does not weigh down the nail plates and thus does not cause discomfort.
It takes no more than 40 minutes to create a manicure.
It does not streak or flow under the cuticle, which makes it possible for even an inexperienced person to use this coating.
Suitable for creating not only manicures, but also pedicures.

Interesting: Marble manicure: beautiful options

Delicate design made with shellac

Important! The top of the latest nail trends was occupied by the design of manicure and pedicure, made in the same style and the same color palette.

Single-color coating will be in demand again in 2022

It is a non-toxic coating that can be used by allergy sufferers and pregnant women.
A very wide palette, which makes it possible to create a wide variety of designs.
It looks impressive not only on long nails, but also on short ones.

Shellac on short nails

Important! The only significant drawback of CND coating is its considerable cost in relation to other decorative means.

Both shellac and gel polish are used by pedicurists

Shellac should be applied to a previously prepared and degreased plate using a brush, and then polymerized in a lamp for 30-60 seconds. At the end, everything is fixed with a finish.

Primer for shellac

Interesting! Nail art masters in their numerous reviews recommend that before applying a decorative coating in the form of shellac or gel polish, the plate must first be coated with a special primer or primer. These products increase the tenacity between the nail and the decorative product, thereby extending the “life” of the manicure for another 1-2 weeks.

Shellac on long nails

Analogues of the original shellac from CND

The standard of quality and efficiency is the products of CND, which was the first to appear on the market, almost 10 years ago. But since 2010, many other large brands have also begun development in this direction, thanks to which products similar to the original shellac are produced by other manufacturers. For example, our consultants recommend products from the following companies:

In'Garden
– shellac of this brand has all the advantages of CND products. Nail art experts note that the products from this manufacturer thicken more slowly than usual.
Entity One
– shellac from this company has been developed over many years. Thanks to this, the product is of high quality and can compete with the original. The advantage of shellac from this company is that the material has the property of being smoothly distributed over the surface of the nail and leveling out on its own, like a self-leveling floor, hiding and leveling out all the unevenness of the nail plate. An additional advantage of the product is the optimal shape of the brush, which turns the process of applying varnish into a complete pleasure. One of the disadvantages is the short shelf life of the open drug. Even with increased care in handling, shellac from this company is rarely stored for more than a few months. But it lasts well on nails - three weeks of durability is not uncommon. There are not as many color options as CND - just over a hundred options.

Products from these companies can be easily found among the assortment of large specialized stores. They are more affordable than CND brand products, have the required level of quality, and allow you to perform durable and highly aesthetic nail art that does not harm your nails.

Why are shellac and gel polish the same thing?

To notice the commonality between these products, just look at the list of similar features.

Both products are modern nail coatings, unique hybrids of gel and varnish, combining their best qualities - density, durability, plasticity, brightness. Today, almost all manicurists work with these coatings, because they are chosen by the majority of clients. Application involves several stages and lasts from half an hour to an hour.

Compliance by the master with the technological features of the process is important not only for obtaining a high-quality manicure, but also for the health of the client

How to understand that using shellac is harmful to your nails

Shellac, like any other manicure product, can harm your nails. Especially if it is used regularly and without long breaks. Or in the case when the body as a whole is weakened, and this is reflected in the condition of the nail plates.

There are several signs that clearly indicate that the use of shellac should be suspended for some time, devoting time to restoring the health of the nails:

The surface of the nails has become dull and the normal shade of the tissue has changed. They may acquire a yellowish or grayish color.
Visible defects appeared on the nails - roughness, tubercles, stripes, spots, chips.
The nails began to exfoliate, their structure was disrupted.
Negative changes in the skin began around the nail plates. The cuticle thickens, hangnails appear, the skin becomes rough and unpleasant to the touch.
There was pain in the fingertips.
Fungal diseases have arisen, which especially often affect the toenails.

Such negative changes can occur for several reasons. For example, if shellac is of poor quality (fake, containing toxic substances, expired product), if the manicurist does not follow the rules for disinfecting accessories and accessories for nail art. If you notice these changes after using shellac, wash the product off your nails and consult a specialist, preferably a mycologist or podologist or therapist.

What is the difference between regular polish and gel polish?

Conventional decorative coating differs from gel in its easier use and affordable pricing. The composition of the gel is a chemical compound, half similar to the varnish and material used for extensions. In this regard, the duration of wearing increases, and application and removal have some peculiarities.

The coating procedure involves mandatory preparation of the nail plates, including processing the cuticles, removing the top film and degreasing the surface.

The drying process is accompanied by the use of a UV lamp. Removal is carried out using foil, a special liquid and a tool. A special feature of gel removal is the soaking procedure. With regular varnish, there is no need to dry it under an ultraviolet lamp, wait until the coating gets wet, and use special expensive products.

In addition, other differences between conventional products and gels can be noted:

the palette is more diverse;
wear resistance is lower (regular product - up to 5 days, gel - up to 2 weeks);
when used, they emit a pungent odor;
the cost is more affordable;
the application/removal procedure is faster;

A simple coating differs from shellac in the following factors:

Shellac has a more durable structure.
The cost of an innovative product is much higher.
The use of shellac requires mandatory treatment of nails with a primer.
Unlike a conventional product, the analogue strengthens the nail plates, which makes it possible to use it on fragile plates.
The color tones and shine of the usual product are inferior to the new manicure products.
Coating application/removal procedures vary in time and technique.

It is necessary to note the similarities of both products. They consist in the effect of the compositions on the nail structure - delamination and drying of the plates.

The main difference between a conventional product and a bio-gel is completely different compositions. Bio-gel is developed on the basis of natural ingredients that do not harm the nails and have a strengthening effect on the structure.

In addition, a type of gel product, sculptural varnish, levels the surface by filling small microcracks with the composition, which limits access to harmful bacteria. After applying the bio-based product, the layer becomes elastic. And the application procedure lasts about 40-50 minutes.

All of the listed properties do not coincide with the characteristics of conventional varnish.

One of the few similarities is the absence of the need for correction in the process of wearing a manicure.

Gel paints are a type of gel decorative coatings. Like a regular product, the paint has a liquid structure, but the color saturation allows you to achieve the desired result after applying one layer.

More often, the gel product is used for nail decoration. Unlike the usual product, the paint lasts on the nails for up to 2-3 weeks. And for removal, a special liquid is used, not acetone based.

It should be noted that the entire gel range undergoes polymerization under a UV lamp, which is not required to use the conventional composition.