Overview
Both CND-brand Shellac manicures and color gel manicures have revolutionized the world of nail polish. Gone is the need to fan your hand frantically, trying to get polish to dry. These polishes harden under UV light, so you have zero dry time. You can wave goodbye – with a perfectly polished hand – to scratches and smears as well. Though similar, there are some differences between CND Shellac and nail gel. Consider them when making your final manicure selection.
About Shellac
Shellac nail polish is an invention of Creative Nail Design. Though copycat products are on the market, only CND produces the manicure polish known as Shellac. Shellac polish is best known for its extreme durability. Your manicure can last 14 days without scratching, smudging or sustaining any other damage. A professional technician at a licensed salon must apply and remove Shellac nails. This nail product is sold only to salon professionals, so a DIY Shellac manicure isn’t an option. The manicure process involves a base coat, two coats of polish and a top coat. Nails must cure under a UV light after every coat.
Shellac Pros and Cons
The obvious benefit of a Shellac manicure is its durability. A Shellac manicure can cost more than twice what a regular manicure does, but it will also last much longer. If you’re able to commit to a nail color long-term, this nail polish will stay sleek and flawless the entire time. If you like to change it up often, however, doing so can get costly, and complicated, with Shellac. Unlike manicures that you can remove at home, you’re committed to going back to the salon to have Shellac polish removed using CND’s signature acetone nail wrap to break down the durable coating. Your manicurist may also need to scrape remaining polish away with an orangewood stick.
About Color Gel Manicures
Gel manicure is a generic term, unlike Shellac, and it applies to a variety of manicure products. In general, gel manicures are similar to Shellac in that they are applied one coat a time with UV-light curing between to harden each coat. Gels are applied with smaller brushes than typical nail polishes, and the gel substance appears thicker than typical polish. Gel manicures also involve extensive filing and buffing, especially of the bottom layer.
Color Gel Pros and Cons
Color gels, like Shellac, are long-lasting and can stay pristine for upwards of two weeks. Some salons offer the option of filing in gel manicures at the base when they grow out, rather then setting a whole new application. Gel colors can be blended for custom shades and one-of-a-kind manicure designs. Like Shellac, gel manicures should be removed by a professional for the best results. Since gel manicures are offered by a wider range of cosmetics companies, you can shop around more for a gel manicure, though they all tend to be more costly than a traditional manicure choice.
