Both Shellac and gel pedicures can last for over two weeks without chips, cracks or the need for extra costs. And the best part? A gel nails pedicure doesn't cost much more than your regular pedicure, but the outcome is ten times more effective. Treat yourself to a gel pedicure!
“We highly recommend using shellac polish versus your typical gel polish because they soak off easier and are less damaging to the nails during the soak-off process,” Dunne says.
As many of us know, Shellac nail polish is the way to go when looking for one of the more durable options of nail polish around. On average, they last up to 2 weeks, with some lucky few getting a good 3 weeks in!
Shellac nails are created with a special in-salon nail polish that was developed and patented by the nail polish brand Creative Nail Design (CND). Half-gel and half-regular polish, shellac combines the benefits of both, like no dry time, long-lasting results, shine, color, and easy removal.
In some ways shellac is less damaging than acrylics that needed to be filed off for removal, but as proven by a recent study shellacs can in fact cause significant weakness, thinning and brittleness of toe nails.
The difference between Shellac and SNS nails is more about method than it is about results. Shellac, or gel nail polish, is painted on. SNS, or powder dip nails, is not painted on. Rather, you dip your fingers one-by-one into a little container of fine, coloured powder that sticks to your nails.
Both Shellac and gel pedicures can last for over two weeks without chips, cracks or the need for extra costs. And the best part? A two week pedicure doesn't cost much more than your regular pedicure, but the outcome is ten times more effective.
Your tech may have not dehydrated your nail bed well enough. You don't always need to rough up the nail but the natural shine should be buffed down first (unless you are using Shellac brand gel polish they require no buffing). The polish might be older.
Though it is higher priced than the other pedicure types, your toenails will stand out when the process is completed. It cost around $40 but would last up to a month.
It is recommended to have a shellac manicure re done every two weeks but most of my clients gets three or more weeks out of shellac with no chips at all and even longer on toes.
Bright Red, Coral Pink, Hot Pink, Turquoise, Cobalt blue, Navy, Emerald Green, Fuchsia, Black, and White in the brightest of brightest hues on your toes will marry back best of all.
Most salons only charge a small amount for shellac removal and use high-quality products that leave your nails in tiptop condition. Most salons use acetone with a 60% concentration or more.
CND Shellac vs OPI GelColor Curing Speed
If you were using a LED lamp GelColor would have an edge over Shellac in speed and how well it cured the coating. But if it was in a UV lamp they both will cure at pretty much the same speed but Shellac would have an edge as it's formula will cure better then GelColor's formula.
Shellac polishes mix two types of nail coating: gel (for durability and nail protection) and traditional nail polish (for color and shine). Shellac is thinner and softer than gel polish, but harder than traditional varnish.
If you do want to do it at home, however, know that because shellac is a polish, it's easier to remove than gel and kinder to your nails as you don't have to buff your nail plate to 'break' the bond.
Your shellac nails should remain shiny and chip-free for 14 to 21 days if you take care of them responsibly. Don't worry about your day to day activities: taking out keys, working on the computer and (light) cooking are no match for shellac.
Unfortunately, leaving your CND™ Shellac™ manicure on for too long can result in service breakdown; lifting, chipping, discolouration etc.
If you feel pain after any nail treatment, it's a clue that your nails are damaged to the point that they're no longer functioning as an effective barrier. Cuticle oils help increase your nails' circulation, stimulate nail growth, and protect your nail and cuticle against trauma.”
Gel Pedicure
Every layer is accompanied by curing under an LED light. A gel-based polish is more durable and remains chip-free for longer. The results can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. However, don't overdo it.
You also need to be aware that if your shellac has lifted and it's not removed, moisture gets into the nail and this is this perfect environment for fungus to thrive.
Don't pick, bite, or cut
Others pick at it and even peel the coats off. All of this can damage your natural nails and will degrade the durability of your shellac manicure.
Shellac is much less damaging to nails than traditional gels (or acrylics), and if your goal isn't to make your nails longer, then they're a great choice. Shellac looks like a thick glossy gel polish, and the main benefit is that it reduces chipping.
Shellac vs gel: the low down on which is better
For longer lasting, with more colour options, choose gel. For shine and ease, choose shellac. Talk to your nail technician and they may also have individual recommendations for you.