Have you ever wondered what the difference is between Shellac and Gel? Both are considered “gel” polishes, but they have some distinct differences. In this post, we’ll take a look at those differences and help you decide which one is best for you.
What is Shellac?
Shellac is a nail polish that is made from a resin secreted by the female lac bug. When this resin is heated, it becomes a liquid that can be applied to the nails. Once it dries, it forms a hard, shiny coating. Shellac nail polish is much more durable than traditional nail polishes, and it can last for weeks without chipping or fading. In addition, shellac nail polish is available in a wide range of colors, making it a popular choice for both professional manicurists and at-home nail enthusiasts.
What is Gel?
Gel nails are a type of nail extension that uses gel to create a long-lasting, durable nail. Gel nails are thinner and stronger than acrylic nails and can be easily removed without damaging the nail bed. Gel nails can last up to two weeks without chipping or peeling and are available in a variety of colors and designs. Gel nail polish is applied like regular nail polish and cured under a UV or LED light. Gel nail polish is available in a variety of colors, including clear, French tips, glitter, and metallic. Gel nails require little maintenance and can be removed by soaking the nails in acetone for 10-15 minutes.
Difference between Shellac and Gel
- Shellac and gel nail polish are similar in many ways. They are both applied in thin coats, cured under UV or LED light, and provide a long-lasting, high-gloss finish. However, there are also some key differences between the two types of nail polish.
- Shellac is a type of nail polish that is created by combining lacquer and denatured alcohol. Gel nail polish, on the other hand, is made from a polymer that is cured under UV or LED light. Shellac nail polish is thinner and less durable than gel nail polish, making it more susceptible to chipping and peeling.
- However, shellac nail polish is easier to remove than gel nail polish, and it does not require the use of a nail drill to file it off. Overall, both shellac and gel nail polish have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the type that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between Shellac and Gel? The main difference is that Shellac is a UV-cured polish while Gel uses LED light. This means that with Shellac, you don’t have to worry about your nails being exposed to harsh chemicals- it cures in minutes under a UV lamp.
With Gel, on the other hand, you do have to be careful not to chip them as they need time (usually around 30 minutes) to cure properly. If you’re looking for a long-lasting manicure that doesn’t require much maintenance, then either of these two polishes would be a good choice.
