Let’s face it, one of life’s true joys is taking an hour out of your day to sit in a fancy salon and have your hands preened and nails polished. Throw a cup of tea into the mix and it quickly shifts to my second favourite life activity (trips to Nandos at number one, obviously). But, there are rumours about – shellac manicures are damaging our nails. We did a little digging (because being nosy is #3 most fun activity), to find out the truth. Shellac, we love you, but should we leave you?
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Your natural nails matter
You’ve heard that saying – a poor workman blames his tools. For a shellac mani that lasts (and doesn’t damage the nail beds beneath), we’ve got to make sure our natural nails are in great nick (not just for an easier application of polish). Using a strengthening nail oil before your manicure and regularly topping up with cuticle oil between appointments is the best way to do so. They usually smell pretty good too. Dreams.
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2 We were on a break
But you don’t need to be. It’s more important to provide your nail beds with heaps of hydration in between appointments, and ensure your polish is removed properly. There’s no reason to break between manis (remember, they can’t breathe). As tempting as it may be, peeling polish is a terrible move. Don’t do it. Ever. Keep your nails nourished and your shellac will last longer too.
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3 The removal process is kinder
Shellac is a hybrid UV gel polish, that means there are solvents in the formula just like regular polish. What does that mean for us non-technical folk? It’s much thinner in texture, which makes it quick to remove. Same high-gloss finish, but less filing required to get rid once your three weeks is up.
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4 What’s the verdict?
So long as you’re providing your natural nails with tender love and care, they’ll be more than ready to take on shellac. In fact, if you’re a nail biter, heading for a long-term mani (like shellac) is actually a very good idea. Biting and peeling will damage the natural nail bed – they’ll go weak and brittle in no time – two coats of shellac with a little UV curing, and they’ll be protected from your biting ways. Save your fingertips, book shellac.
See, you can go shellac without the worry. With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
Can shellac manicures damage your natural nails?
Shellac manicures do not damage your natural nails if you care for them properly. Keeping your nail beds hydrated and ensuring polish is removed correctly helps prevent any problems. Peeling shellac polish or neglecting hydration can lead to weak or brittle nails.
Do you need to take breaks between shellac manicures?
You do not need to take breaks between shellac manicures. Nails cannot “breathe”, so it is more important to keep them hydrated and avoid improper removal. Continuous care with cuticle oil and gentle removal ensures your nails stay healthy.
How should you care for your nails between shellac appointments?
Keep your nail beds hydrated by using strengthening nail oil and regularly applying cuticle oil. This routine supports healthy nails and makes shellac application easier. Well-cared-for nails also help your shellac manicure last longer.
Is the removal process for shellac gentler than standard gel polish?
Yes, the removal process for shellac is kinder because the polish is much thinner in texture. Less filing is required, and the process is quicker, while you still enjoy the same high-gloss finish as traditional gel polish.
Can shellac manicures help if you bite your nails?
Shellac manicures can help protect your nails if you bite them. Two coats of shellac with UV curing create a barrier, reducing damage caused by biting and peeling. This protection can help save your fingertips and improve nail strength over time.