Shellac Nail Treatment
Well-groomed hands are associated with flawless manicures. However, women know how capricious and short-lived regular nail polish can be; it often loses its initial appearance the very next day after application. In 2010, a product emerged that caused a revolution in the nail industry: Shellac.
This innovative, long-lasting nail treatment combines the best of both gel and traditional nail polish. It was first developed by experts at the American brand CND, and the idea has since been adopted by manufacturers worldwide.
For a perfect Shellac manicure, visit PIED-DE-POULE beauty salon. Our master nail technicians are skilled in various manicure techniques and use professional products from top brands.
How Shellac Nail Treatment is Applied
It's important to note that the term "Shellac" was initially used by the creators of this product, Creative Nail Design (CND). Later, when similar products appeared from other manufacturers, the term "Shellac" became a generic term used to describe all gel nail polishes. However, different products vary in price, properties, and even application techniques. Original CND gel polishes can maintain their durability for up to a month, while counterfeit products may not offer the same longevity.
The standard process for applying gel polish involves several sequential steps:
- Preparation of the nail plate: This includes removing old polish, shaping the nails, adjusting their length, and removing cuticles (preferably using a remover).
- Nail surface preparation: Disinfection, filing, and degreasing using specialized products.
- Application of the base coat with sealing the free edges: The base coat is cured for 1-2 minutes under a lamp (the curing time varies depending on whether a UV or LED lamp is used).
- Application of the color coat: To achieve the desired shade, 2 to 4 thin coats of gel polish are applied, with each coat being cured under the lamp (curing time depends on the type of lamp, typically 2-3 minutes under UV or 30 seconds under LED).
- Application of the final topcoat: The topcoat is applied, ensuring it covers the free edge and sidewalls of the nail. The topcoat protects the decorative layer, increases the durability of the manicure, and gives the nails a glossy shine.
- Removal of the sticky layer from the nail surface, followed by additional cuticle care using moisturizing oil.
With the use of quality products and proper application techniques, Shellac can last anywhere from 14 days to 4 weeks.
Advantages of Shellac Manicure
It's no surprise that gel polishes quickly gained popularity. Experts and consumers love them for several reasons:
- Versatility: Suitable for nails of any length and thickness.
- Safety: Safe for use, even during pregnancy, and doesn't emit unpleasant odors.
- Durability and Longevity: Gel polish lasts a long time and is highly resistant to chipping.
- Wide Range of Colors: Offers a wide selection of shades.
- Glossy Finish: Provides a bright, glossy shine.
- Nail Art Possibilities: Allows for various nail art techniques like French tips, gradients, glitter, patterns, and more.
Removing Shellac Nail Polish
To maintain nail health, it's important to properly remove gel polish. Since this is a very durable coating, its removal requires special products and time. To avoid damaging the nails, most women trust the removal of old polish to a professional nail technician who has the skills and necessary equipment.
The procedure typically follows these steps:
- Cotton pads soaked in a special gel polish remover are placed on the nails. Each nail is then wrapped in foil or covered with special caps.
- Nails remain in this state for 10-15 minutes (the exact time depends on the type of remover and the specifics of the manicure).
- Afterward, the nails are freed from the foil or caps, and the loosened gel polish is carefully removed using an orange stick.
- The nail surface is then buffed.
- Finally, nails and cuticles are treated with moisturizing oil.
Mechanical removal (using an abrasive file) is not recommended, as it can damage the nail plate.
Is Shellac Harmful to Nails?
Many salon clients wonder if using gel polish is safe. According to practice and the experience of regular clients, even long-term use of this treatment doesn't have a pronounced negative effect on the nails. However, this applies only to high-quality, non-toxic products. Counterfeit or low-quality gel polishes may contain harmful substances like formaldehyde, butyl acetate, and others. Such questionable compositions can lead to allergic reactions, damage, and yellowing of the nails. To ensure the highest level of safety for our clients, PIED-DE-POULE uses top-quality products, lamps, and disposable or sterilized tools.
IMPORTANT: To prolong the life of your Shellac manicure, follow some simple care rules. Despite its increased durability, this type of manicure still requires care and attention, especially if you've chosen intricate nail art. Try to limit contact with aggressive household chemicals and acidic cosmetics. It's advisable to wear gloves for household chores to avoid mechanical damage.
For those who regularly get gel-based manicures or pedicures, remember to take breaks; otherwise, your nails may become dehydrated. Experts recommend taking breaks after 3-4 Shellac procedures.
Customer reviews
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