Getting shellac nails can be worth it if you seek a long-lasting, high-shine manicure with a natural feel and easier removal process than traditional gel, and you already have healthy, strong natural nails. It serves as an excellent middle ground between regular polish and more durable enhancements like hard gel or acrylics.
So is Shellac Worth it? As you can see, shellac is a lot more rewarding than a gel or an acrylic treatment! We highly recommend getting shellac nails if you are looking to dress up your nails. The long-lasting look and know it's not damaging your nails will be worth it.
Brittle or cracking nails – Under the layers of shellac, the nail bed has weakened and becomes dry, and brittle. It will remain this way until new, healthy nail grows and repopulates. If additional layers of shellac continue to be applied with each pedicure, the new healthy nail, becomes dry and brittle also.
Shellac is generally considered gentler than traditional hard gel because it's a thinner hybrid formula that's easier and less damaging to remove, but both use UV light and acetone, and the biggest health risk comes from improper removal (filing/scraping) or overuse, not the polish itself; for weak nails, gel might offer more protection, while Shellac is better for those wanting a thinner, quicker removal.
Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.
While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.
Overall, Dip Powder Manicures are a great way to get a healthy manicure that will protect and strengthen your nails without causing any damage. Just like any nail treatment, you do have to make sure you properly remove it to keep your nails safe and healthy – Don't pick at your manicure!
Healthier Ingredients: Many dipping powder systems use fewer harmful chemicals than traditional acrylics and gels, making them a potentially healthier option. Less Likely to Lift: The bonding process makes dipping powder nails less likely to lift at the edges compared to other nail enhancements.
For instance, if you want a long-lasting manicure and don't mind spending a little more time on removal, gel nails might be the better option, while Shellac is for those who prefer a manicure that's easier to remove and kinder to your natural nails.
Hospitals often restrict gel nails (and other artificial nails) for healthcare workers because they can harbor and transfer bacteria, creating a significant infection risk for vulnerable patients, especially in high-touch areas like the NICU, as the surface and edges can trap germs even after handwashing, making them harder to clean effectively than natural nails, and they can interfere with vital sign monitoring like pulse oximetry during surgery.
Any remover with an acetone content of 60 per cent or more will work, but it's best to find one designed to remove shellac or gel polish, as it will be less harsh on your skin and nail beds. Pure acetone is also very effective, but it can be drying to your skin and nail beds.
High-Use Projects: Due to its lower durability and susceptibility to damage, shellac is not recommended for high-use projects like floors or kitchen cabinets. Urethane, with its robust protection and longevity, is better suited for these applications. Heat Damage: As mentioned, shellac can be damaged by heat.
'People who say that having gel polish or Shellac regularly ruins their nails have more likely experienced over-buffing of the natural nail prior to application (which can thin the nails over time) or aggressive removal which can leave micro-traumas on the nail plate or damage to the natural nails from gel polish or ...
One of the key reasons people opt for a BIAB manicure is that it prioritises the health of your natural nails. The breathable formula allows air to reach your nail beds, which prevents issues like moisture trapping or nail dehydration.
Shellac prices vary significantly, ranging from $25-$60 for a manicure/pedicure (salon service) to $20-$100+ for raw flakes or liquid finishes (DIY wood finishing), depending on the type (flakes, liquid, powder), quantity, and supplier. Salon services focus on nail enhancements, while woodworking shellac is sold as a natural resin for finishes, with prices reflecting volume and processing (e.g., dewaxed).
The healthiest nail polish is typically plant-based, water-permeable ("breathable"), and free from harsh chemicals (like "10-Free" formulas), with top brands including Sally Hansen Good.Kind.Pure., Zoya, Sundays, and Sienna that use natural ingredients (like sugarcane, corn, bamboo) and allow oxygen to reach the nail bed for hydration, preventing brittleness. Look for "breathable" formulas and those infused with nourishing ingredients for stronger, healthier nails.
Remember, we're always here to assist if you need further guidance on troubleshooting or enhancing your techniques.
Nail lamps used for drying gel and shellac polishes emit a low amount of UV radiation called UVA. UVA can lead to skin aging and play a role in skin cancer risk.
A sensor is placed on the fingertip and this measures the level of oxygen in the blood and works by passing red light through tissue. Nail polish may reduce the effectiveness of this monitor. The nail bed is one of the best places to detect cyanosis caused by low oxygen levels.
Long or false nails may damage clinical gloves, so nails should be kept short and free of any enhancements such as acrylic, nail varnish and shellac.
Neither SNS nor Shellac is inherently "better"; they suit different needs: SNS (dip powder) is stronger, thicker, often healthier (vitamins), and lacks UV light, making it great for weak nails needing strength but can be harder to remove. Shellac (gel polish) is thinner, more flexible, gives a natural look, is easier for nail art like French tips, but requires UV light and is less durable than SNS. Choose SNS for strength/growth, Shellac for low-maintenance shine on healthy nails.
The healthiest nail options prioritize natural nail strength, using nourishing treatments like Bio Sculpture or Evo Gel for protection and vitamins, or opting for classic manicures with regular polish to let nails breathe. For enhancements, soak-off gels, polygel, and modern press-ons are safer than acrylics, provided proper application and gentle removal (soaking off, not filing off) are used to avoid damage, alongside breaks between treatments and good cuticle care.
When you're doing a fill on your nails, not only do the tools/process matter but the gel products that you use are super important too. You can't just do a fill with any gel product. For example, a thin hybrid gel like shellac or opi is not going to be good for doing fills.
Classic manicures are gentle and ideal for maintaining natural nail health. Gel and dip powder manicures can also be safe when done correctly, but make sure to give your nails a break in between to prevent damage. For extra hydration and care, a paraffin wax manicure is an excellent option for dry, brittle nails.
If you'd prefer only two weeks, because you enjoy changing the color frequently, then choose Shellac nails. If you want your nail color to last as long as possible, choose dip nail powder.
Gel polish is generally a thin, soft gel that can protect a natural nail and provide longer wear than a traditional polish. If Fiber Gel is added to the gel polish service, this can build more structure and flexibility, and is a great option for thin, delicate, or brittle nails.