This summer, my manicure will not fall victim to the perils of sand and swimming (or bobbing in a holiday pool). Heading overseas for a week or so, requires a mani/pedi that stays put. Enter: shellac. The hard-wearing polish is kind on nails and comes in all sorts of summertime shades to perk up your fingertips for trips away, or embracing the sunshine at home. In case you need more persuading, here it is – everything you need to know about shellac (because there’s simply no room in my carry-on for a bottle of nail polish…).
By Rachel Spedding
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1 What is shellac?
Shellac is about as famous as that Big Mac you didn’t eat last night (ahem). The hardy polish has been prominent in the beauty industry for a long while, thanks to its ability to keep nails tip-top in both appearance and condition. The ‘hybrid’ formula of UV gel and traditional polish is applied in thinner layers, so dries quickly, is kinder on nails than a gel manicure and is easy to remove. Sold.
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2 How is it applied?
Easy – go to Treatwell, click ‘shellac’ and book at your favourite salon. I jest (sort of). Here’s how it’s done:
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The nail is buffed to remove excess oil, and filed to your desired shape
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Base coat is applied, then the nails are popped under a UV lamp for curing
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Up to two coats of the shellac polish is applied (your colour chosen, of course), with drying under the lamp between
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Finally, top coat, and another trip under the lamp
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Finished – now for hand cream, cuticle oil and lots of obsessive staring
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3 How long does it take?
Dreamy nails in under 45 minutes – lunch break plans, sorted. Fully dry, that polish is going nowhere fast, so you can dive right into your handbag to grab keys/cash/phone to take a sly picture, without fear of chipping. A whole one-two weeks of shiny, shellac goodness.
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4 How is it removed?
When the time comes for removal (sob), it’s best to head back to the salon, where the pros can remove the polish with minimal damage to your nails. Your fingertips will be soaked in acetone for around ten minutes, before a nail tool (usually a wooden stick) is used to push back the polish. A little buffing, more of that hand cream – and maybe a cheeky hand massage – and your naked nails are good to go. More shellac?
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Click here to discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What is shellac and how is it different from a gel manicure?
Shellac is a hybrid polish made from a mix of UV gel and traditional polish. It is applied in thinner layers, dries quickly, is kinder on nails than a standard gel manicure, and is easy to remove. Many people choose shellac for its durability and ease of application.
How long does a shellac manicure take and how long does it last?
A shellac manicure takes under 45 minutes to complete and typically lasts one to two weeks. Once applied and dried, the polish allows you to use your hands immediately without worrying about chipping, making it great for busy schedules or holidays.
How do you remove shellac safely?
The safest way to remove shellac is to return to the salon, where professionals soak your fingertips in acetone for around ten minutes before using a nail tool to push back the polish. This method causes minimal damage and usually includes light buffing and moisturising care afterward.
What does the application process for shellac look like?
During a shellac manicure, nails are buffed and filed, followed by a base coat, up to two coats of colour, and a top coat, each cured under a UV lamp. This multi-step process ensures a hard-wearing and glossy finish that’s ready for immediate use once completed.
Which shades of shellac can you choose from?
Shellac comes in many summertime shades to brighten your nails, whether you’re travelling or enjoying the sun at home. You can pick your preferred colour at the salon, tailoring your look to any occasion or mood.