What is the Difference Between Gel and Shellac

Gel and shellac are two different types of manicuring treatments. Both have a glossy, shiny finish that looks more polished than regular nail polish. But gel and shellac are not the same.

What is the difference between gel and shellac? Gel is made entirely of pure gel and can be used to add length and strength, whereas shellac is a mix of gel and regular polish and gives a more natural look.

Key Areas Covered

1. What are Gel Nails
     – Definition, Features 
2. What are Shellac Nails
     – Definition, Features 
3. Similarities Between Gel and Shellac
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Gel and Shellac
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Gel and Shellac
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Gel, Shellac, Nail Polish

What are Gel Nails

A gel manicure is a type of nail treatment that uses pure gel instead of regular nail polish. This helps it last longer, usually around two to three weeks. It’s a good option for people who want a manicure that doesn’t chip easily.

Gel can keep your natural nail length or add extra length with extensions. There are two main types of gel: hard gel and soft gel. Hard gel is thicker and stronger. It’s applied with a brush and used to build nail extensions. It can only be removed by carefully filing it off. Soft gel is applied like regular polish and can be soaked in acetone to remove it.

To add extensions, nail technicians use a sticker called a nail form under the natural nail tip. The hard gel is layered on top to create the extension. Once the gel is applied, it is cured (hardened) under an LED or UV lamp for about 30–60 seconds, so there’s little waiting time for drying.

Moreover, gel nails come in many colors and are quite durable, but they should be removed by a professional to avoid damaging the natural nail.

What are Shellac Nails

Shellac is a type of nail polish that combines gel and regular polish. It has the durability and hardness of gel. At the same time, it has the color and shine of traditional nail polish. Shellac is actually a patented brand name that Creative Nail Design (CND) owns, but many people use the word “shellac” to describe similar products from other brands.

Shellac is applied like regular nail polish, but instead of air-drying, it is cured under a UV or LED lamp for 30–60 seconds. This light activates the special formula, helping it stick properly to the nails. The process doesn’t require heavy filing, shaping, or buffing.

A shellac manicure can last up to 14 days before it begins to chip or flake, usually as the natural nail grows out. However, it does not add length or strength to the nails and isn’t suitable for very brittle or damaged nails. Shellac comes in over 100 shades, including soft pinks, bold reds, and shiny metallics.

Similarities Between Gel and Shellac

1. Both need curing under a UV or LED lamp for about 30–60 seconds to harden and set properly.
2. They give a glossy, shiny finish that looks more polished than regular nail polish.
3. Both last longer than traditional nail polish.
4. They require professional removal to avoid damaging the natural nails.

Difference Between Gel and Shellac

Definition

• Gel nails are made from pure gel, which gives them a thicker and stronger finish. Shellac is a mix of gel and regular polish and combines durability with the shine and color of traditional nail polish.

Application

• Gel nails require multiple steps and more preparation, including shaping the nails and building up several layers, whereas Shellac is applied like regular polish in a simpler, one-step process with minimal preparation.

Durability

• Gel manicures usually last longer, around two to four weeks, while shellac manicures typically last about two weeks before they start chipping or flaking.

Extensions

• Gel can be used to create nail extensions and add length to natural nails, whereas shellac cannot be used to add length or build nail enhancements.

Removal

• Hard gel must be carefully filed off, while soft gel can be soaked in acetone and then gently scraped off. Shellac can be removed more easily by soaking the nails in acetone.

Strength and Protection

• Gel provides a thicker and stronger layer, which can help protect the natural nails, while shellac is thinner and lighter, which gives a more natural look but offers less protection.

FAQ: Gel and Shellac

1. Does shellac last as long as gel?

No, shellac doesn’t last as long as gel. Shellac usually lasts about two weeks, while gel can last up to three or four weeks with proper care.

2. What is less damaging to nails, gel or shellac?

Shellac is usually less damaging to nails because it’s thinner and easier to remove, while gel is thicker and can be harder to take off safely.

3. Is shellac more natural than gel?

Yes, shellac looks more natural than gel because it’s thinner and lighter. It gives a softer, polished look similar to regular nail polish.

4. What type of gel is healthiest for nails?

Soft gel is the healthiest for nails because it’s lighter and can be safely soaked off with acetone, causing less damage than hard gel, which needs to be filed off.

Reference:

1. “What are Gel Nails?” O.P. I

2. “What are shellac nails? Things you need to know!” House of Nails.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Person’s Hand With Pink Manicure” (CC0) via Pexels

2. “Nail shellac in black + gold foil ❤️💅” By Nicole Lee (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) via Flickr