Thinking of Splashing Out on Shellac Nails in Chichester?

Then here’s what you need to know… 

If you read magazines, have passed a nail salon in Chichester or have women friends (which is just about everyone), then you will have heard the term ‘Shellac nails’, but you may not know exactly what they are and what’s involved. Here, we outline the details for you, and give a bit of insight into why they’re different to other types of manicures, like gel nails or acrylic nails.

What Is Shellac?

Shellac is a specialist type of nail polish that’s a kind of hybrid between traditional nail polish and gel. When combined, the two types of polish work together to create a shiny effect that’s less liable to chipping and flaking than traditional polishes. So though it may cost more in the short term, shellac nails will last longer than traditional polish alone, and it’s the gel in the polish that makes it more resilient to knocks, scrapes and bumps. Shellac polish was created by Jan Arnold, the leading light at CND (Creative Nail Design, one of the biggest names in the industry), and we at Charlotte’s Nails are a verified supplier. There are over 100 shades to choose from, so there’s something to suit every taste and look.

How Does It Work?

In a bit more detail, the polish is applied in three separate layers – two coats of polish and then a final top coat. In between each coat, the nails are exposed to LED light which causes the reaction between the two substances, the gel and the polish, and causes it to set firm and fast.

How Long Do Shellac Nails Last, and How Do I Remove Them?

Where Shellac nails differ from gel nails is in the inclusion of the traditional polish – it’s this that gives Shellac that extra ‘pop’ of colour. What it does mean, though, is that Shellac nails are not quite as tough as gels.

However, with your normal manicure, traditional polish only, you may go about 24 hours before the varnish starts deteriorating. Shellac nails are much, much tougher. On average, they’ll last around 10 days to a fortnight, depending on how careful you are with them. You can leave them on longer if they still look good, but your own nails will have grown by then, so you may want to get them removed or redone.

It’s always best to go to a salon specialising in nails in Chichester (or elsewhere) to get Shellac removed, because it really is tough stuff. Don’t worry, it won’t take long: your manicurist will have a special remover that breaks the polish up into small fragments, making it quick and easy to remove. If you try at home, you’ll end up peeling the polish off and that can remove the top layer of your own nails, making them brittle and weak.

For expert manicures and pedicures in Chichester, Sussex, including Shellac, acrylic and gel nails, try our team at Charlotte’s Nails. We also carry out massage; eyebrows waxing and shaping; and facials, as well as running very successful children’s parties in Chichester, where your little ones can be treated to a pamper party all of their very own!