What is gel nail polish
Gel-varnish coating combines the properties of these two substances - a gel, which gives depth to the composition, and a varnish, which provides color and shine to the nail covering. Therefore, together these two substances give a simply amazing effect.
The gel polish coating can last for quite a long period, which is usually at least two weeks . On average, such a coating, when used sparingly, can last from two to four weeks; it is highly resistant to mechanical and chemical influences.
Manicure with gel polish
The process of applying gel polish coating to the nail plate is completed with mandatory ultraviolet treatment in a lamp specially designed for this purpose. The gel polish coating treated in this way acquires durability, hardness, incredible shine and depth of color.
For at least two weeks, your nails will look as if you just visited the salon. This effect of a freshly done manicure can last up to four weeks.
This is an excellent solution for those who dream of having beautiful, well-groomed and shiny nails, but do not want to waste time on frequently repainting them.
The gel polish coating strengthens the nails, making them stronger during the period of its use . Remove this coating using foil and a special remover.
Useful article about: Gel polish and shellac: what is the difference?
What lasts better and lasts longer: gel polish or shellac
So, we found out that shellac is gel polish , but in a specific way. Therefore, it is incorrect to compare a specific manufacturer with all other gel polishes. It’s better to highlight the most popular gel polish companies today.
So, the masters highlight :
- CND shellac is considered to be a quality product at a very affordable price. It is these gel polishes that beginners most often choose. And their palette is very rich. All top shades are available.
- Canni colors and TNL Celebrity are inexpensive gel polishes that are suitable for home use. They are rarely found in salons.
- Kodi Professional, Luxio, Macks professional are premium gel polishes, which are usually found in expensive salons. Such products last as long as possible, do not fade or peel.
There are several rules for wearing gel polish:
- do not cut your nails “to the root” or thin them by filing;
- Do not pick the coating yourself or remove it from your nails with sharp objects;
- use a liquid that does not contain acetone;
- After the procedure, it is necessary to refrain from increased contact with water for proper fixation.
Characteristics of Shellak from CND
The American cosmetology company CND, having slightly improved the composition of gel polish, has released a proprietary product for covering nail plates, called Shellak. Essentially, these two substances have a common basis and common uses.
Therefore, the question of what is the difference between gel polish and shellac becomes more relevant. After all, many people consider gel polish and shellac to be the same product. Let's look at their similarities and differences.
The difference between these products is the unique composition of Shellak , thanks to which this collection in 2021 took a leading position among other gel polishes. Therefore, shellac has no analogues throughout the world.
Gel polish Shellakc CND
The CND company produces a complete set for applying and removing shellac.
The standard set includes:
- professional lamp,
- liquids for degreasing nails and removing varnish,
- colored varnish - several bottles of different colors,
- tools for cutting cuticles,
- orange sticks,
- napkins,
- top coating,
- base coat,
- files,
- buffs,
- polisher.
Note! Unfortunately, on the Russian market you can often find counterfeits of real Shellak CND. Both the packaging and the bottles themselves with this product are copied. Typically, genuine bottles from the company have ribbed protrusions on the bottom and a batch number located there .
Shellac and gel polish: what is the difference between nail industry products
We have already explained to you what shellac and gel polish are. What is the difference between these products will be discussed below, because these are not two identical things, and the differences appear both in the composition and in the principle of application.
The concentration of varnish in Shellac is higher than in gel polish, so it is as easy to cover your nails with it as with regular nail polish.
But the presence of gel in the composition makes it possible to enjoy manicure for a long period.
Shellac is created to strengthen the nail plate and there is no need to file off the top layer of the nail. When working with shellac, a primer is not used so that the varnish adheres better to the nail plate.
The principle of removing shellac from a nail is also different from removing pure gel polish. Removing gel polish takes time and significant effort, but shellac can be removed quickly and without special knowledge.
The procedure is as follows: a regular cotton pad should be moistened with a special shellac remover, then apply the moistened pad to the nail and wrap it with foil. There will be no difficulties during removal, because the shellac will immediately become soft. And to remove gel polish, preliminary work with files is required.
Another good difference is that you can cover your nails with shellac at home yourself and not be afraid of making any mistakes that can be expected when working with gels.
While gel polish has a specific odor, shellac is odorless and cannot cause an allergic reaction. The variety of shades of shellac is always greater than that of gel polish. Thanks to the variable colors, you can choose any color, and your nails will look richer and more contrasting.
The production of any gel polish has the same purpose and application, but each company wants to stand out with some feature. If we take the CND product as an example, it has a decent price. While its analogues are sold at more favorable prices.
Differences can be everywhere: in the composition of the gel, in the volume of one jar, in quality, in the period of wearing. The most important thing is quality. A high-quality product will never harm your nails, and will also “last” for quite a long time.
Similarities between gel polish and shellac
Over time, the name shellac has become a household word. Other companies (Gelish, Bluesky, Kodi) also produce similar products with the same name and composition. Gel polish and shellac have both similarities and differences.
What these funds have in common is:
- Both of these products give your nails a beautiful, well-groomed look due to their shine and shine.
- During their use, both coatings make nails stronger, which prevents them from breaking.
- Both products are applied in layers using a brush.
- Both products contain two substances - gel and varnish, but in slightly different proportions.
- In both cases, hardening occurs under the influence of a special ultraviolet lamp.
- The duration of wear in each case is approximately the same.
You might be interested in learning about: How to make shellac at home for beginners step by step
What is the difference between gel polish and shellac?
The products that fashionistas use to decorate their nails are perfect for home use. To make a coating with them, you do not need to have professional skills. Each of them lasts more than two weeks, but otherwise the difference is quite significant:
- shellac has a strengthening effect, so it is more suitable for brittle plates;
- in case of using a gel, it is necessary to apply a layer of primer before it and remove the top film;
- Shellac can be removed with a special liquid, gel can only be removed mechanically, which worsens the condition of the nails;
- the gel does not dry out the plates, but shellac not only contributes to a lack of moisture, but also delaminates them;
- if you want to get shiny nails, it is better to choose shellac, as it has these properties.
The most important difference is that shellac contains more varnish, while gel does the opposite. Due to the different proportions of the components, the consistency of the products also differs - the second coating is thicker.
Differences
The difference between these products is really noticeable in many respects, which is why gel polish and shellac are perceived by many as different materials.
The differences between gel polish and shellac are as follows:
- composition - different proportions of basic substances, shellac contains more varnish than gel, and gel contains varnish on the contrary;
- consistency – gel polish is thicker;
- structure, due to which shellac is applied without a primer;
- application rules;
Manicure with Shellakc gel polish
- color spectrum;
- polymerization time;
- duration of the withdrawal process;
- price – real shellac is a very expensive brand product.
Differences in composition
The concentration of varnish in shellac is another element that distinguishes gel polish from shellac. Shellac contains more varnish , making its application reminiscent of regular varnish. It is also sometimes called varnish-gel, putting the word “varnish” first.
The inclusion of gel in its composition allows this coating to remain on the nails for up to three to four weeks. And gel polish contains more gel , which prolongs the duration of its polymerization.
A more detailed composition of the funds is usually a company secret and is not disclosed. Thanks to this, Shellak CND is a coating that is unique in its composition.
Difference in application method
When analyzing how gel polish differs from shellac, you should definitely note the method of application. After all, shellac is the only gel polish that does not require prior application of a primer. A primer is a special liquid chemical that is applied immediately after processing and filing the nails and ensures their better adhesion to the gel polish.
Primer application
In addition, applying shellac does not require preliminary grinding of the nail plate to ensure better adhesion to the coating. All this allows you to avoid thinning or injuring the nail. Thanks to this, the coating application procedure is significantly simplified and time-saving.
The procedure for applying gel polish to nails should be carried out by an experienced manicurist.
After all, there is a risk of damage during grinding.
The first layer of gel polish gives a transparent effect to the nail plate. Applying subsequent layers strengthens the coating and creates a color composition.
Differences in polymerization time
Shellac, due to its greater similarity to regular varnish, polymerizes faster under the influence of UV light.
The exact polymerization time depends on many factors: layers of application of the composition, light saturation of the coating and decoration agent, as well as the use of a lamp for polymerization. In an ultraviolet lamp, the polymerization time of the layer is 2 minutes, and in an LED device it is 1 minute.
Difference in the duration of saving the result
Shellac lasts a little less than gel polish. But, despite its durability, gel polish is more susceptible to aggressive environments. Shellak CND also has a fairly durable coating. Shellac from other companies lasts for at least two weeks.
Over time, a stripe appears on the nail, and the manicure stops looking fresh.
But you need to take into account that as the nail grows over time, a thin strip forms near the cuticle . And a longer period of using the coating on the nail plate can give the nail an unaesthetic and untidy appearance. Therefore, it is advisable to change any of these manicures at least once every three weeks.
Other differences
When applying shellac, there is no need to file off the top layer of nails, which makes it more gentle. Another difference between shellac and gel polish is its quick removal.
Since shellac is more similar in composition to regular varnish, it dissolves faster under the influence of means that ensure its removal, especially those containing acetone.
Removal procedure
These coatings also differ in the procedure for removing them from the nail plate.
Shellac removes much faster without pre-sanding
And the gel polish must be ground down or filed off a little before removal. To remove shellac, the Shellakc CND kit includes special cotton nail wraps that allow you to remove it carefully. The set includes special orange sticks that allow you to easily remove any remaining coating.
Color spectrum
These materials also differ in their color range. The color palette of gel polishes is wider and the choice of colors is much richer . But shellacs have more saturated tones. Thermo shellac can change color depending on temperature.
The color scheme of the manicure determines the image
Price
There are also differences in price. Shellac is a little more expensive than gel polish. The most expensive is the branded Shellak CND, since this set includes all the auxiliary products. Currently, it is not the branded Shellak CND that is found, but similar products from other companies, which can be purchased much cheaper.
Adjustment
With gel polish coating, you can make corrections, extending the duration of use. Typically, the length of the nails is given by a gel product, and shellac serves primarily as a coating. Its adjustment is not done, and the shellac needs to be completely replaced.
Consistency
Gel varnishes have a thicker, denser consistency, as they are produced primarily on a gel basis. Shellac has a more liquid consistency, although it also contains gel, but in smaller quantities.
Read an interesting article: Methods for removing shellac. How manicurists remove shellac
Shellac and gel polish: the difference between the products and the distinctive features of gel polish
Gel polish is a special product in the form of a plastic gel.
Gel polish has the ability to dissolve easily, be easily applied to the nail plate, and adhere to it for a long time after drying with a UV lamp. Gel polish is a real salvation for owners of fragile and flaky nails that are highly susceptible to brittleness.
Applying gel polish in one layer provides protection from external influences, but using such varnish for a long time can turn a brittle nail plate into a strong one, and flaking nails into hard ones.
Like any varnish, gel polishes also have a number of advantages and disadvantages.
Among the significant advantages are several properties:
- During use, it makes nails stronger, longer and more elastic.
- It cannot cause adverse reactions, since the gel contains only tested substances that do not cause any irritation.
- Convenience and ease of use.
- No heaviness in the nails after application.
- Due to the UV lamp, it quickly attaches to the nail plate without having time to smear.
- Gives a glossy shine, unlike regular nail polish.
- Has a variety of shades.
- A manicure created with gel polish lasts a long time.
The correct approach to the procedure of applying gel polish on nails will take on average from an hour to two hours of your time. If individual nail design is required: working with drawings, patterns, rhinestones, as well as various shades of gel polishes, then, of course, the procedure time increases.
But this is only when the girl does the manicure herself at home. And experienced professionals in salons will certainly cope with this procedure in a few minutes. They easily apply both shellac and gel polish; the difference in these procedures is only in durability. Shellac can be worn for 2 weeks, and gel polish for 3-4 weeks.
Despite the lifestyle of the owner of the manicure, high-quality gel polish will never lose its original shine and neatness during the operation of the manicure.
There are two approaches to applying gel manicure:
- single-phase;
- three-phase.
The three-phase approach involves the use of three types of funds. Each product has a different composition and varying consistency.
These include:
- a base coat that helps to successfully secure the nail plate with a layer of gel polish;
- a substance containing pigment to create decor;
- top coat, which is the final stage of manicure and provides sufficient stability to future nails.
A single-phase approach means that the process uses one tool that combines all of the above. The number of layers of gel depends on the intensity and contrast of the shade on the nails the girl wants to see.
Any girl can create a certain nail design if she has a UV lamp and several gels. With special efforts, you can achieve a real work of art on your nails.
But be sure to follow the rules for applying gel polish:
- Thoroughly degrease your nails using a lint-free cloth. Pay attention to the tips of your nails.
- Peel off the top layer of each nail to improve adhesion.
- Coat each nail plate with base product and dry for a minute in a lamp.
- We apply colored gel polish in several layers at once so that the shade is saturated. In this case, we apply one layer and dry it in a lamp, the same procedure is carried out for the 2nd layer. Be careful! Do not allow the gel to get on the cuticle!
- The top coat is applied in one layer. Dries in no more than 2 minutes.
- Final degreasing of the nail plate.
- Care with cuticle oil.
The most popular brand is Bluesky. Gel polish has a dense consistency and is used to effectively strengthen nails. There is a wide range of different shades.
The advantage of Kodi's products is the glossy shine, color fastness and longevity of gel polish. There are more than 200 options among color shades.
The LDB company produces gel polishes, which are very dense in consistency, as they are made on the basis of 100% gel.
Is it possible to distinguish two coatings visually?
It can be very difficult to visually determine the difference between gel polish and shellac. Considering that shellac is now produced not only by CND, its chemical composition, color and effect of the coating may differ significantly. Branded shellac has a more pronounced shine compared to regular gel polish .
Shine and depth of color - the advantages of shellac
Taking into account the more saturated colors of gel polishes, visually on the nails they can look more extravagant.
What is shellac?
Many people believe that Shellac is a type of coating and give it a common name. But the name “Shellac” itself is the name of a product that is produced by CND. There are no types of Shellac; this is the only brand produced by just one company.
Shellac looks very beautiful on nails, has a glossy shine and a perfectly even finish. The color palette is constantly updated.
Before applying the gel polish, no special preparation is needed ; the nail does not need to be polished for better adhesion. This, of course, is a huge plus for the health of your own nails, since the top layer is not injured or thinned.
But to prepare, you need to degrease the natural nail so that the Shellac lays down in an even layer and lasts longer. When removing, you also do not need to cut off the top layer of the coating; just a special product and a napkin are enough.
Shellac also does not take long to dry under an ultraviolet lamp, and the entire procedure lasts no more than 30 minutes.
Varnish gel eliminates the occurrence of allergic reactions ; it does not contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde and is odorless.
It can be used even by pregnant and lactating women - it will not cause harm.
If your Shellac coating only lasted a few days, there were definitely mistakes made during the application process. Properly applied Shellac will last at least 2 weeks.
General principles of applying and removing varnish
Despite several distinctive features of these coatings, the principles of their application and removal have the same algorithm, which makes them similar to each other. When applying both gel polish and shellac, you should clean the nail plate from fatty residues (degrease).
Both procedures are carried out using layer-by-layer application of the material with brushes and its subsequent hardening under lamp light.
The procedure for withdrawing these funds consists of the same steps:
- Soak a cotton pad in a special solution.
- Apply to the nail plate.
- Wraps the top in foil.
- Stand for ten minutes.
- It is removed when already softened.
Are there any benefits to gel polish and shellac?
The benefit of these products is to firmly strengthen the nail plate for the period of use of the coating, as well as to create an aesthetic image of the nails.
When applying such strengthening coatings, the nail plate is not afraid of minor mechanical damage.
The gel base of both products is harmless to the nail, due to the absence of phenol in it.
Primer - auxiliary coating for nails
Using a separate primer, which is an addition to gel polishes, is more delicate.
Shellac contains components that give strength to nails.
For fragile, peeling nails, it is not recommended to apply gel polish and shellac.
It is necessary to carry out preliminary treatment of the nail plates, otherwise they may be seriously damaged.
Cons and harm of products
In the case of using gel polish and shellac, a persistent chemical composition is applied to the nails for a fairly long period. At this time, there will be no access to air or sunlight to the nail plates, which should negatively affect their condition.
The negative aspects of using shellac include the following:
- when using shellac, the nail plate dries out more and flakes;
- limitation in the choice of colors.
The disadvantages of using gel polish include additional grinding of the area of the nail plate when using it, which thins the nail .
It is periodically necessary to give your nails a rest from any coatings.
So, despite the fact that gel polish and shellac are materials very similar in composition, application methods and many other parameters, the difference between them is still significant. It lies in the application, removal, durability and beauty of the coating. This allows shellac to occupy a leading position among other gel polishes.
Everything you need to know about gel polish. Watch the video review:
Find out what Shellac is and how it differs from other varnishes from this useful video:
What is the difference between gel polish and shellac? Watch the video:
