What Are Shellac Nails? 17 Things To Know

Here are your questions answered about shellac nails. In the ever-evolving world of beauty and fashion, one trend has captivated the hearts of nail enthusiasts and fashionistas alike: shellac nails.

Are you wondering what are shellac nails? This nail treatment offers a blend of elegance, durability, and convenience.

Gone are the days of worrying about chipped and lackluster manicures, as this type of nail product promise a flawless and long-lasting finish that stands the test of time.

Imagine having a manicure that not only complements your style but also remains impeccable for at least 14 days if applied correctly with a professional brand.

CND make this dream a reality, combining the best qualities of gel and traditional nail polish. The result is a chip-resistant, glossy, and vibrant manicure that continues to dazzle and enchant, even in the face of daily activities and wear.

In this article, we delve into the world of shellac nails, uncovering essential things you need to know about this nail treatment.

From the application process to the vast array of colors and proper aftercare, we will explore every aspect to help you make an informed decision about this nail product.

So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover why shellac nails have become the go-to choice for those seeking beauty, durability, and elegance in their manicure routine.

All about Shellac Nails

1. What is Shellac Nail Polish?

Shellac is a patented nail polish system introduced by Creative Nail Design (CND). It combines the best qualities of gel and traditional nail polish, delivering a durable, shiny, and chip-resistant manicure.

Unlike regular nail polish, which dries through evaporation, shellac cures under a UV or LED lamp.

2. Shellac Nails Are A Patented Product

Shellac nails are a patented and proprietary product introduced by Creative Nail Design (CND).

As a pioneering brand in the nail industry, CND developed the unique formula that blends the qualities of gel and traditional nail lacquer to create the revolutionary shellac nail polish.

This patented technology sets them apart from generic gel polishes, ensuring that only licensed nail salons and technicians certified by CND can offer this specific product to their clients.

The patent protection safeguards the integrity of the shellac nail system, assuring customers of consistent quality and a remarkable long-lasting manicure experience.

Gel polish, on the other hand, encompasses a wide range of gel-based polishes available from various brands and manufacturers.

3. Shellac Colors Are Available At CND

If you are a professional interested in purchasing shellac nail products online, ensure you are buying from the CND official store. Although their Amazon shop does not offer the full collection that is available to nail techs, you can still try a few colors.

Check customer reviews and ratings before making a purchase, and be cautious of counterfeit products or sellers that may not provide genuine shellac products.

Always read the product descriptions and specifications to ensure you are getting the right items, such as base coats, color coats, top coats, and any necessary curing lamps.

4. Application Process Of Shellac Nails

The application of shellac nails involves several steps. Firstly, you will prepare your nails by filing and shaping them.

Then, they’ll apply a base coat, followed by two layers of the shellac color of your choice. Each layer is cured under a UV or LED lamp for a specific time. Finally, a top coat is applied and cured to seal the color and add shine.

5. Quick And Efficient Shellac Application

One of the advantages of CND is the speed of the process. Since each layer dries instantly under the curing lamp, you won’t have to wait for your nails to dry as you would with regular nail polish.

6. Shellac Nails Are Chip Resistant

Shellac nails are known for their exceptional chip-resistant properties. With proper application and care, shellac manicures can last up to two weeks without significant chipping or peeling.

One of the significant advantages of creating nail art with shellac is its longevity. Traditional nail art with regular polish may chip and fade quickly, but with shellac, your intricate designs will remain intact for weeks.

This means you can enjoy your unique and expressive nail art for an extended period without worrying about frequent touch-ups.

7. Shellac Nails Need To Be Cured Under A Lamp

Both UV and LED lamps can cure shellac nails effectively. However, LED lamps generally cure the polish faster, typically within 30-60 seconds, while UV lamps may take 2-3 minutes.

8. Minimal Damage To Natural Nails

When applied and removed correctly, shellac does not damage the natural nails. Unlike some other nail treatments, it doesn’t require excessive buffing or filing, preserving the integrity of your natural nails.

9. Shellac Can Be Soaked Off

The removal process is relatively easy and doesn’t damage your nails if done correctly. Shellac nails can be soaked off using acetone-based nail polish removers by a professional, making the process hassle-free.

While shellac nails are gentle on your natural nails during removal, it’s crucial to have them removed by a professional. Peeling or picking at your nails can cause damage to the nails.

10. Extensive Color Ranges For Professionals

When it comes to the world of nail art, expressing your individuality and style through color is a significant aspect of the experience.

Shellac nails shine in this department, offering an extensive and diverse color range that is sure to delight even the most discerning of tastes.

11. Flexibility Of Shellac Nails

Shellac nails tend to have a slightly thinner and more flexible feel compared to some gel polishes, which can feel slightly thicker and stiffer on the nails.

12. Shellac Personalization Options

Shellac nail art allows you to customize and personalize your manicure like never before. You can collaborate with your nail technician to bring your vision to life or take inspiration from existing designs.

Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a bold and expressive masterpiece, shellac nails can cater to all preferences and styles.

13. Seasonal & Themed Designs

Shellac nails are perfect for embracing the spirit of different seasons and celebrations. From snowflakes and reindeer for winter to vibrant floral designs for spring and summer, shellac nails allow you to reflect the essence of each season on your fingertips.

Moreover, you can get creative with themed designs for holidays, festivals, or special events, making your nails a conversation starter wherever you go.

14. Shellac Is Not Ideal For Nail Biters

If you’re a habitual nail biter, shellac nails may not be the best option. Since they’re more challenging to remove without professional help, biting or picking at shellac can damage your natural nails.

15. Post Care Maintenance

To maximize the longevity of your shellac manicure, it’s essential to take care of your nails properly. Avoid using your nails as tools and wear gloves when doing household chores to prevent chipping and peeling.

16. Regular Touch Ups

Shellac nails grow out with your natural nails, so you might notice a gap between the cuticle and the polish after a few weeks. To maintain a seamless look, consider scheduling regular touch-up appointments with your nail technician.

17. Shellac vs Gel Polish

The main difference between shellac and gel polish lies in their composition. Shellac is a patented product developed by Creative Nail Design (CND), and it is a hybrid nail polish that combines the best attributes of gel and traditional nail lacquer.

While both shellac and gel polish offer long-lasting and chip-resistant results, the application process for shellac follows a specific system of base coat, color coat, and top coat, whereas gel polish may vary in its application depending on the brand.

Some gel polishes require the sticky layer to be removed with alcohol for example.

While both shellac nails and gel polish are excellent choices for long-lasting and chip-resistant manicures. The main difference lies in their composition, application process, removal, and brand availability.

Each option has its unique features and benefits. So it’s essential to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and nail care needs.

In Conclusion:

Shellac nails offers a long-lasting, chip-resistant, and vibrant manicure option. With its quick application process, extensive color range, and themes for natural nails, it’s no wonder why shellac nails have become a favorite choice for many.

However, remember that proper application and removal by a professional are essential to ensure the best results.

Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want a beautiful, long-lasting manicure, shellac nails are undoubtedly worth considering.

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