As more people search for ways to prolong their manicures, shellac and gel polish have emerged as trend setters. These polishes offer long-lasting looks, a glossy finish, and are carefully designed to be chip-resistant. However, there seems to be some confusion regarding Shellac. Does It need UV light to cure?
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Does Shellac Need UV Light
Yes, like gel polish, Shellac requires UV light to cure. Shellac is similar to gel polish, but it’s a specific brand of gel polish. It requires the same process as other gel nail polishes: a base coat, color, and top coat. Each coat requires additional curing.
Shellac is a brand of gel polish designed by CND. It’s supposed to cure under the CND LED light for two minutes or the CND UV light for one minute for each coat. However, there’s nothing wrong with using a nail lamp you already have. Make sure you let your nails cure for the right amount of time for this type of gel polish.
Gel Polish Vs. Shellac
Gel polish and Shellac are the same thing. Shellac is a brand of gel polish from CND, just like Nike is a brand of shoes. However, a few key differences can help you decide whether Shellac is the brand for you.
Shellac Is A Nail Polish Hybrid
Shellac was carefully curated to give you the best of both worlds. It’s cured under a UV lamp to provide a long-lasting finish. However, Shellac tends to be softer than other gel polishes, leading to less scrubbing during removal. You also don’t need to soak your nails in acetone as long to remove Shellac, making it healthier for your nails.
Gel Polish Is More Durable
Gel polish doesn’t have as much lacquer as Shellac, making it more durable. Because it gets so hard, gel polish is known for lasting longer and being more chip-resistant.
Gel Polish Can Be Sculpted
Want to create 3D nails? Gel polish is a better choice than Shellac. Gel polish tends to be harder, making it easy to sculpt. On the other hand, Shellac is so soft that it’s almost impossible to sculpt.
Shellac Is Easier To Remove
Shellac is known for being easier to remove than gel polish. You can usually remove Shellac by soaking your nails in acetone for about ten minutes. Gel polish requires longer soaking times, which can damage nails or the nail beds. It may call for professional removal.
Gel Polish Has More Colors Available
Gel polish is a broad, umbrella term encompassing every brand, making it easy to find any color you’d like. Shellac only offers select colors created by CND. While they have a nice line of colors, you won’t find anything you can envision.
Is Gel Or Shellac More Expensive
Gel and Shellac manicures are usually about the same price at a salon, but prices vary depending on the salon or manicurist. Clients will pay more for nail art or sculpting techniques.
Long-term, shellac tends to be more expensive because it doesn’t last as long as gel polish. You’ll find that you’re heading back to the salon to get a new manicure more often. On the other hand, if you don’t remove gel polish at home, you’ll have to factor in the additional cost of gel removal from the salon.
Does Shellac Damage The Nails
Shellac doesn’t damage the nails, and this polish is more breathable than gel polish. However, it’s crucial to remember that you shouldn’t wear nail polish 24/7 to ensure your nails are healthy. Remove Shellac Polish one day and wait 1-2 days before getting a new Shellac manicure.
The removal process is gentler than removing gel polish because you don’t have to soak the nails in acetone for long. Acetone usually damages nails and nail beds. However, a little bit of acetone can still dry your nails. Use nourishing nail cleansers and products between Shellac manicures to keep your nails healthy.
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How Long Should A Shellac Manicure Last?
Most Shellac manicures can last 10-14 days with proper care. This isn’t as long as other gel polishes because Shellac is softer than gel nail polish. The softness leads to a manicure that doesn’t last as long and will chip sooner.
Does Shellac Need UV Light
Yes, Shellac needs UV or LED light to cure properly. It will not air dry like traditional nail lacquer. Shellac is a brand of gel polish. It’s best known for being lighter and thinner than gel polish, which makes it easier to remove. It’s a hybrid product that gives you the best of both worlds. Check out the rest of the site to learn more.
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