What is the difference between shellac gel polish. How to apply Shellac - how it differs from a gel. Which lasts better and longer: gel polish or shellac

Gel polish and shellac have become fashion trends for girls. Many women mistakenly think they are the same thing. In fact, these are completely different coatings, slightly similar in application technique. The most important difference between gel polish and shellac is that Shellac is a gel polish, not a gel polish. Hence, the different properties of both coatings follow.

About gel polish

Gel polish appeared only a few years ago. Its "ancestor" was a transparent thick mixture that was applied to nails to strengthen and lengthen. The nail was covered with a special acrylic or gel solution. It was dried under a lamp, like all gels. After drying the gel, the nail was stained and decorated, for example, as shown in the photo.

With the gel, the marigolds were harder, rarely broke or exfoliated. It was extremely difficult to remove such a coating. The downside was that over time the nail grew back, and the manicure had to be periodically updated. Otherwise, the gel looked ugly, and it had to be removed completely, which is very harmful to the nail plate.

After the gel, the nails became thin and brittle. Therefore, an alternative was invented - a colored gel, which became known as gel polish. After it, the nails also needed restoration, but still it is sparing (compared to the gel for building). Gel polish is dried under an ultraviolet lamp. The coating is easier to remove, is cheaper, and faster to apply than gel; remains on nails for a long time (from two weeks).

Now you know how gel polish differs from gel, then we will look at the differences from simple varnish and find out how gel polish differs from shellac and regular varnish.

The difference between gel polish and regular polish

For comparison, you need to know the characteristics of gel polish and simple varnish. We talked about gel polish above, now we will find out what an ordinary varnish is.

Varnish is also a coating for nails, it can be of different colors, textures, has a shine or gives the nail a matte finish. A huge disadvantage is that the varnish is short-lived - it quickly exfoliates from the nail (especially in an aquatic environment, so never do a manicure with regular varnish before bathing), breaks off piece by piece.

Some varnishes have useful, healing properties - they can strengthen nail plate, to give strength, to protect from adverse environmental influences.
But gel polish compared to polish:

  • more durable;
  • takes longer to apply;
  • more difficult to remove from the nail;
  • has a limited color palette;
  • does not fade;
  • practically does not smell (which pleases those who are nearby).

It is worth noting that before applying, it is necessary to do such procedures as polishing the nail plate, degreasing it.

Benefits of gel polish

  • Solidifies into short time therefore the risk of lubrication is almost impossible (but it is better not to contact with water for the first 48 hours).
  • The nails do not get heavier as the coating is thin.
  • The nail plate acquires strength and elasticity.
  • Does not cause allergies, does not smell.
  • Easy to apply (using a brush like regular varnish).
  • The coating is glossy.
  • Keeps on nails for a long time.

Proper storage rules

  • Do not put gel polish next to drying lamps.
  • Swirl the preparations well immediately after application.
  • Remove excess from the neck of the bottle with a regular napkin (the cap will not stick).
  • Remove the gel cleaner in a dark place and never store it in direct sunlight (the varnishes will dry out).

Features of Shellac gel polish. How is it different from other gels?

  • The gel polish is applied very quickly and easily.
  • Nails bend (they harden under the action of regular gel polish).
  • It can be easily removed because no need to file away the layer.
  • There is no need to do any preliminary procedures before applying.
  • More expensive than other gels.
  • The difference between shellac and simple varnish is that it lasts a long time.
  • Does not fade in the sun.
  • Shellac application technology is much simpler.

Not only shellac, gel polish and regular gel are popular. Biogel is also sometimes used.

The difference between biogel and shellac is that:

  1. Shellac is a natural gel polish.
  2. Biogel does not prevent nails from growing.
  3. Shellac is more resistant to "home" chemicals.
  4. Biogel gives strength, shine, but with its help you can build up nails, which cannot be done with shellac.

The differences between gels and varnishes are now covered. What coating do you use the most?

Every girl strives to look perfect, no matter what she does. The varnish applied to the nails makes them attractive. However, the usual varnish quickly disappears, and you are not in the beauty salon every week. What to do in such a situation? Firms for the production of cosmetics have found a way out. Today, nails can be coated with a special tool that has durability, which can hold out in its original form for a long time.

Specialists of beauty salons offer their visitors to apply a modern gel polish on their nails - shellac. However, they themselves cannot always answer the question of what is the difference between gel polish and shellac? Both last for a long time, give shine to the nails. Gel polishes and shellacs are gaining more and more popularity among female representatives. They show the inner world of their mistress, her perception of the surrounding reality.

Shellac features

Shellac

Modern shellac is a mixture of varnish and gel in one bottle ... In terms of its quality, it has bypassed the procedure of nail extension far ahead, not to mention the usual varnish coatings.

The use of shellac is carried out without the use of a primer, than it differs from applying gel polish. It is enough to have a simple degreaser. The nail surface is not injured, it does not need to be sanded.

Features of gel polish

First of all, it is gel, but with the addition of color ... It is required for final coverage.

Today, many manufacturers are engaged in the production of gel polish. Using it female half population is high. Gel varnishes of different manufacturers differ among themselves by polymerization, color shades, density.

Dry gel polish ultraviolet rays ... The time allotted for drying depends on the thickness of the varnish and the power of the lamp. It can be applied once. It will look slightly transparent. Reapplication will add richness.

Fundamental differences between gel polish and shellac

  • Talking about how it is different gel polish from shellac, it should be noted long hold it on the nails.
  • Another feature is considered strengthening nail surface occurring naturally.
  • Shellac looks tighter , which differs from gel polish.
  • Shellac is made in salons , it is quite difficult to perform the procedure at home. Gel polish without difficulty possible to apply at home .
  • To apply shellac correctly , you need to go special training, have a set of tools, an ultraviolet lamp.
  • Shellac applied for thin nails .
  • Before coating shellac enough degrease the surface... When working with gel polish a primer is used, the top film is removed.
  • Shellac is removed quickly. For this procedure, it is enough to have the liquid intended for this. Gel polish requires the application of a "compress". Another way of removing is sawing.
  • The gel does not dry out the nails unnecessarily; shellac is able to dry them out.
  • Shellac is considered a new trend, how it differs from the gel polish that came into the world of fashion earlier, therefore, costs he expensive .

Advantages of gel polish in comparison with conventional brethren


Gel polish
  • If applied correctly, it able to last up to 20 days.
  • Colour will not change its shine. No cracks or spalling will appear. No additional correction needed.
  • Nails look natural.
  • The fragility of the nail disappears, they become noticeably stronger.
  • There are no irritants in its composition, therefore, it is considered hypoallergenic.

Talking about cons, you can note the complexity of withdrawal and high cost.

Some rules for wearing gel polish

In order for the gel polish coating to last as long as possible, follow these recommendations:

  • Free edge necessary cut, file.
  • Rough surfaces items not should scratch with your nails.
  • Do not cut the cover with a sharp object.
  • Try to use an acetone-free remover.
  • First time after visiting the salon avoid contact with any liquid .

Observing these simple rules, you will see that the gel polish will last longer.

Shellac advantages


One of the significant advantages of both shellac and gel polish is a wide range of colors.
  • Does not inhibit nail growth. Apply it to nails of any length. He copes with several problems at the same time: strengthens the structure of the nail; prevents delamination; allows you to grow to any length.
  • Held for a long period. It is not washed off without the use of special preparations. Household chemicals are not dangerous for him. You can go with him for about three weeks.
  • Gives the nails a bright gloss. The shine does not fade over time.
  • Large palette of colors.
  • Absolutely harmless. There is no formaldehyde in its composition. Consequently, even pregnant women can afford shellac. It does no damage to health. It is based on gentle elements.
  • Remove cover you can do it yourself . For this, a film, liquid is purchased. According to the instructions, everything can be done quickly.

Disadvantages of shellac

High cost value. It is explained by the need for correction accompanying the coating. If your nails grow back very quickly, you will have to use the correction often. It is impossible to do it yourself. You will have to constantly contact the salon.

Tools and materials

To apply gel polish, shellac you will need: manicure set;oil remover;cotton swabs, sticks;alcohol;fixer;the varnish itself. It is also necessary to have ultraviolet lamp.

Shellac application method

This procedure seems simple, but it is carried out in stages and takes a lot of time. The external beauty of the nail lies in its beautiful design. When the varnish is applied evenly, neatly, the nails shimmer, captivating with their neatness. Difficulties in application are in the cuticle area. It is this place, when it is unsuccessfully painted, that can ruin everything.

What are the subtleties of application?

  1. First of all goes preparation of nails ... From above they are polished, all irregularities are removed, the cuticle is processed. Then carried out grinding ... There are villi on the surface of the nail. During sanding, they rise, allowing the shellac to fit snugly on the nail. Disinfection is carried out to degrease the nail plate, to allow the shellac to spread evenly over the surface.
  2. Further applied base gel ... This is done in one layer with the observance of a special technology. Thus, the foundation is made. Anchored she ultraviolet lamp .
  3. Then happens single layer color application ... Again drying .
  4. The third layer of shellac is final. Is happening edge sealing nail. Takes place again drying .
  5. When around nails there is stains , they removed .
  6. Oil is applied to the cuticles : under the lamp skin covering dries up, the purpose of the oil is to soften it.

As you can see from the above, the manipulation is quite complicated. Therefore, at home without proper preparation, it is better not to take on its execution.

How to apply gel polish


To apply gel polish, you will need a number of tools and products.

To do everything right, you will need: base, fixing means; color shade for the last application; UV lamp; alcohol solution.

Application is as follows:

  1. The thumbs are processed first. The base is applied in the thinnest layer. Try to do not touch the cuticle so as not to distort the result. Then dry under a lamp for about 2 minutes ... And so with all the other fingers.
  2. Further color applied ... If you want to create a more saturated shade, make the coating in two layers. Each dry ... If gel polish gets on the skin, remove it before drying. This can be done with a cotton swab.
  3. The next step is the process anchoring ... It is carried out with a special fixer, which also needs drying .
  4. The final touch is removing stickiness ... Wet a cotton pad with alcohol and wipe the nail surface.

If you adhere to all the rules described above, the varnish will last more than 2 weeks.

Removal of gel polish is carried out with a special liquid. Moisten a tampon with it, apply it to the nail for 15 minutes. To make it more comfortable, wrap everything with adhesive. The made compress is removed with a spatula. If the varnish is not completely removed, the procedure can be repeated.

Shellac and gel polish have their own advantages and disadvantages. But, using these funds, it is necessary to remember about the health of the nails and carry out restorative manipulations with them from time to time.

Consequences of applying and removing shellac


There is a special liquid without acetone for removing gel polish.

Having become acquainted with all the advantages of this coating, we can conclude that it persistent, pleasant to the eye .

However, there is one point that can lead to serious illness. It is his exposure to temperature... When cleaning the apartment with rubber gloves, taking a bath, washing dishes, the nail receives a large amount of moist heat and expands under its influence. When these procedures are over, the heat leaves and the nail narrows. It takes on its natural form.

The deformation occurring with the nail can produce a small crack in the coating.

She will be invisible to the eye, but she can do a lot of mischief. Dirt, liquid gets through it. Excellent conditions are created for the emergence of bacteria. They can live and reproduce unnoticed by anyone, because shellac is able to hold on for a long time. The health of the nail is undermined. The simplest disease that can arise is called a fungus.

The benefits and harms of gel polish

The advantages of a gel coating are:

  • The ability of the nail to grow back.
  • At proper care it doesn't break.
  • The negative impact from the outside takes over the coverage.

Cons not so many, however, they are:

  • If applied or removed incorrectly, the nail may be damaged. It all depends on the skill of the specialist.
  • Gel polish is afraid of high temperature conditions and high humidity. It tends to expand under their influence. Cracks are formed, leading to various diseases.

Which surface to choose


Manicure with gel polish can only be done in the salon

Considering how gel polish differs from shellac, one cannot fail to note their similarities. Both create long-lasting, bright manicure ... Both have great color range ... In terms of its qualities, gel polish is close to gel, shellac to varnish.

Coating and removing gel polish is done only in the salon, grinding is required. This procedure takes a long time, and the result will last for about a few weeks.

In search of an answer, which is better to choose, please note applying shellac takes less time, you can remove it yourself at home... The coating in this way is ideal for girls with thin nails. Shellac does not require removing the top layer, which is significantly different from its counterpart gel polish.

Lyubov Ivanova

Reading time: 5 minutes

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Cosmetologists have created several innovative decorative coatings that are easy to apply and stay on the nail plates for up to three weeks. These include shellac, gel polish and biolac. In the article we will talk about these purchased products, compare the characteristics, determine the level of harm, consider how gel polish differs from shellac.

Every girl dreams of a shiny, even and beautiful manicure. Regular nail polish does not do the job well. Under the influence of water and other external factors, the decorative coating cracks and quickly loses its original appearance. Even if the manicure is done by a master, after 3 days it has to be updated.

Differences between gel polish and shellac


Decorative cosmetics for hands, the characteristics of which are comparable in this part of the article, is ideal for self-bringing the marigolds into the appropriate state. Thanks to cosmetics, nails remain beautiful for a half month. What is the difference between gel polish and shellac?

  • Shellac is more suitable for fragile and brittle nail plates, as it provides a firming effect.
  • Before applying the gel, the nails must be treated with a primer and the top film is removed. In the case of shellac, a degreasing agent is sufficient.
  • To remove shellac, a special liquid is provided, which greatly simplifies the procedure. The gel is removed exclusively mechanically when filing is combined with the use of a liquid containing acetone.
  • Gel, unlike shellac, does not dry out the nail plates. This is due to the fact that a primer is used before coating, which improves adhesion and moisturizes the natural nail tissue. Shellac contributes not only to drying out, but also to delamination.
  • The cost of shellac is higher, but it helps in creating a more durable manicure.
  • Shellac is ahead of the competition in gloss and color saturation.

Each of these coatings has advantages and disadvantages. By comparing strengths and weaknesses, you will find the best way taking into account the condition of the nails.

Differences between gel polish and biogel

Gel polish and biogel are synthetic materials that are used for nail care and strengthening. Cosmetical tools characterized by elasticity, removed by means of a special liquid.

  1. Biogel is suitable for nail extension. Additional length is easily created with the help of the material.
  2. Gel polish is faster and easier to apply. An ordinary brush is used for this purpose. The application of biogel is more like a modeling process.
  3. The gel is used exclusively to give the nail plates a neat look. The opponent is able to heal. Therefore, it is often used after removing extended nails.
  4. Biogel is not suitable for nails that curl.

I note that these synthetic materials are identical in terms of the level of harm to the nail plates. The presence of the syllable "bio" in the name does not mean that the product is made from natural materials... It's just that biogel provides nails with a more natural look.

How to apply correctly


Gel polish, shellac and biogel are popular synthetic materials used for application to nails. In this part of the article, we will consider the technology for applying decorative coatings.

The listed decorative materials are considered the best achievement of the nail industry. This is evidenced by their high popularity among consumers, which is due to the convenience and ease of application, fast polymerization, stable color, intense gloss, safety of use.

If the application procedure is carried out in accordance with the technology, the decorative coating stays on the nails for about 3 weeks, retaining the structure, shine and attractiveness without additional correction. But sometimes even advanced technologies fail. It's all the fault of the wrong actions.

Gel polish

Gel polish is considered a relatively new invention. Despite its novelty, it is popular among women who immediately appreciated the diversity. trendy colors, ease of application and durability of the coating. Consider a step-by-step application algorithm.

  • Before applying the first layer, the surface of the nail plate is degreased with acetone, especially if before that there was a manicure from an oily product.
  • Using an abrasive, the top layer is removed from the nail to increase adhesion. Weak nails are primed. In the case of healthy nails the base coat is applied immediately, followed by drying.
  • After drying, the first colored layer is applied, making longitudinal movements from the edge of the plate. It is important that the layer is thin, otherwise the decorative coating will dry for a long time and be subject to deformation. Next, the legs are dried.
  • Last but not least, a protective coating is applied, which sets the polish and gives the nails a shine. After thoroughly drying, the nails are wiped with alcohol using a cotton pad to remove residues of the product and remove the sticky layer.

Video training

As you can see, the gel polish is applied without any particular difficulties. Constant training will help you make an excellent manicure at home without outside help.

Shellac

Shellac is a hybrid of gel and nail polish developed by the efforts of the Americans. The product is applied simply, lasts a long time and can be easily removed with a special liquid. You don't need to cut anything.

Another advantage - shellac dries only under the influence ultraviolet rays... This means that there will be enough time to give the nails perfect shape and eliminate even the slightest flaws.

  1. Thorough sanding of the surface is not required before using shellac. This is good because the procedure will make your nails thinner. First, apply the base in a thin layer and dry thoroughly.
  2. A layer of colored varnish is applied over the base. The main thing is that the decorative coating does not fall on the side rollers and cuticles, otherwise chips cannot be avoided. The colored layer is dried according to the instructions. To make a bright manicure, two colored layers are applied, but no more, otherwise the quality will suffer.
  3. After drying the colored layer, a fixing agent is applied. This transparent compound protects the nail and adds shine. The finishing varnish is dried under ultraviolet light, after which the nails are wiped with a cotton pad.

Video instruction

Design issues are decided before shellac is applied. Decorative items, be it sand, rhinestones or glitter, are attached to a colored layer before applying the finishing varnish. As for the painting, it is done on the last coating, after which the finishing layer will be repeated.

Biogel

Having at our disposal an ultraviolet lamp and biogel, nails can be corrected or extended at home. There is nothing complicated in this procedure.

  • Before the procedure, hands are wiped with an antiseptic. Using a wooden stick, they correct the shape of the cuticle. Then the nail plate is polished.
  • Next, a primer is used to degrease the surface of the nail and increase adhesion. Keep nails under ultraviolet light according to the instructions.
  • After that, biogel is applied, moving from the edge to the cuticle. A few millimeters do not reach it, the free edge is sealed. If necessary, apply an additional layer after drying.
  • If the surface is uneven, remove the sticky layer with a degreasing agent and then polish.
  • The final coat is applied last and the sticky layer is removed. The cuticle is treated with oil.

This simple technique will help you apply biogel at home without outside help. It's also a good way to make money. Just before accepting clients is it worth practicing and getting a hand.

Care features


Improper nutrition, exacerbated by the lack of proper care and contact with household chemicals, leads to the destruction of nails. The nail plates delaminate, become weak and brittle.

Fortunately, cosmetology offers a number of tools to help improve the condition of nails. Applying a decorative coating improves the appearance of marigolds, makes them beautiful and shiny. And so that the result cosmetic procedure lasts longer, it is recommended to provide nails with proper care.

Features of gel polish care

In order for the coating to last for a long time, it is recommended to adhere to several rules for caring for marigolds. Clients often complain to manicure masters about the poor quality of work, but in most cases, the wrong actions of the woman herself lead to the appearance of chips and other defects. Deviations from the technological process during the procedure lead to the same result.

  • Before applying the gel, do not use hand creams, oils to strengthen and nourish nails. From these funds, a greasy film remains on the surface, which prevents the reliable fixing of the decorative coating.
  • Thin and long nails considered a poor base for gel polish. Therefore, it is recommended to trim the nail plates before the procedure.
  • It is forbidden to file nails after applying the gel. This is due to a technological feature. During the procedure, the master "seals" the tips of the marigolds. Using a nail file is fraught with chips and cracks.
  • Gel polish does not make friends with sudden changes in temperature. Therefore, after the procedure, it is not recommended to visit saunas and baths, take a hot bath. Wait a few days for resistance to such factors to increase.
  • Gel is considered to be a durable coating, but cleaning and detergents are dangerous. Therefore, wear rubber gloves when doing household chores.
  • Use cooking utensils with care, including graters and knives. Careless movement often results in unpleasant mechanical damage.
  • A special liquid is provided to remove the gel. Removing by mechanical means is not recommended, as the likelihood of damage to natural nails is too high.

Features of shellac care

During the first days after applying shellac, do not let your nails come into contact with hot water. It is also recommended to postpone a visit to the solarium, bath or sauna for a while.

To keep the shellac longer, avoid contact with acetone-containing preparations, do the work with gloves. Rub your nails for shine soft cloth or a piece of cotton wool.

Features of biogel care

As for the decorative coating made with biogel, he does not like acetone and aggressive household chemicals. After the procedure, avoid contact with hot water, do not go to the sauna or solarium.

As in the case of shellac, a special composition is used to remove the biogel, which is applied to the nails and removed along with the coating after 10 minutes of waiting.

Which lasts longer


Every woman who uses gel polish, shellac or biogel to create a beautiful manicure is interested in what lasts longer. And it is not surprising, because putting nails in order requires a lot of money, especially if the procedure is carried out by a master.

According to experts, shellac lasts 2-4 weeks. For a decade and a half, the nail grows back, resulting in a small gap. Elimination of this aesthetic problem comes down to correction. But some girls do not pay attention to this and repeat the treatment after a month.

According to the instructions, the service life of the gel polish, subject to application technology and proper care, is 2 weeks. It is not recommended to keep it longer. Even if the nails still look good, the nail technician advises you to change the finish. Otherwise, the adhesion of the gel and the nail plate will increase, and it will not be possible to remove it without the help of aggressive substances. And this is fraught with damage to the surface of the marigolds.

Biogel decorates marigolds for up to three weeks. But as the nails grow, the actual duration of the manicure is limited to two weeks.

What is more harmful for nails - gel polish or shellac

Manufacturers of decorative coatings for nails assure that their products are harmless and do not contain toxic substances. But do not forget about mechanical harm. Even if the technology is followed during the application procedure, it is impossible to minimize harm.

The decorative coating blocks the access of oxygen to the nails. Additionally, cosmetics inhibit the development of a natural protective layer that nails generate in their natural state. Under gel or varnish, this process is suspended.

All this leads to discoloration, deformation, delamination, thinning or dullness of the nails. After a single application, the negative consequences do not appear, but if you regularly use such funds, negative consequences are guaranteed in the future.

Great interest today appears to the question of the differences between shellac and gel polish. It occurs both among novice nail art masters, and among ordinary visitors to beauty salons, anxious appearance your nails and fashion trends in this domain. You can find out the answer to this question and determine whether shellac and gel polish are different by reading this article. In addition, you can also learn about the differences between other main products created for modeling and decorating nails, including: biogel, UV gel, gel paint, nail polish.

What is the difference between shellac and gel polish?

Identifying these products can help you understand if there is a difference between the coatings. What is gel polish? This is a product created on the basis of nail polish and gel coatings. Shellac is a product created by CND as a hybrid of varnish and gel. Having disassembled these two concepts, you can understand that shellac is a gel polish of a certain brand, which, having released this product on the market first, defined such a name for it.

It is worth noting that products such as gel polish and shellac produced by other companies differ from each other. The main competitors of the product from the manufacturer CND are its counterparts from Gelish, Bluesky, Kodi, Gelerations, Perfect Match, etc. Shellac has its own similarities and differences with all these products. What are they?

Differences between CND gel polish and products from other manufacturers

Any products aimed at performing the same functions, but released by different companies, have a number of significant differences. This is due to trade secrets and patent law. As a result, it turns out that at first glance, the same products have a number of significant differences. The difference between gel polish and shellac is determined by the same rule. And it consists in the following differences:

  • Price. Each manufacturer sets its own price. The cost of a product can decrease and increase several times, depending on the company. So, for example, shellac from the CND company has the highest price among such products. Its counterpart from Gelish offers a bottle twice the volume for the same price. And such firms as Bluesky, Kodi offer their products 3 or 4 times cheaper than the discoverer of CND.
  • The volume of the bottle. It varies from 7 ml to 15 ml of the product in one bottle, depending on the manufacturer.
  • Basic set. The composition of the products that come with the varnish at the first purchase differs for all companies.
  • The term of wearing the gel polish. Basically lasts two weeks for CND and Kodi. For Bluesky and Gelish it is 3 weeks. According to this characteristic, shellac and gel polish have differences, especially noticeable for ordinary lovers of manicure. Since it is the possibility of long-term wearing of this coating that attracts women.
  • Method of application and removal. Each firm offers its own characteristics of these two processes.
  • The color palette differs for each manufacturer's product. So, shellac is presented in 61 shades, and its counterpart from Gelish has a palette of 90 shades. Gelerations can only provide 60 shades. Other manufacturers only have a palette of 20 or 30 colors.

You can define another series different characteristics for this product, but for novice masters in this area and for ordinary users, they will not have any value, since they are technical. It should only be noted that the composition of high-quality coatings does not have harmful components for the nail plate.

The harm and benefits of gel polish

Along with the question of whether gel polish and shellac are different, users are no less interested in the harm and benefits of these funds. This product is called neutral for the nail plate, but several points regarding harm and benefit can be highlighted. So, the pluses of the gel coating include:

  • During growth, the nail does not break or exfoliate. It is possible to grow long natural nails with proper care.
  • The coating takes over all the negative impact of the environment.

This coating of the nail plate can be considered harmful in two cases:

  • If applied or removed incorrectly, the nail will be damaged. It should be noted that it is fair to attribute this defect to the skill level of the specialist offering this service.
  • With sudden changes in temperature, gel polish has the ability to expand and contract, which can lead to cracks in the coating. The consequence of this may be the ingress of bacteria that lead to diseases of the nail plate. This happens very rarely.

Having answered the basic questions concerning only the gel varnish coating, it is worth making out its differences from other types of coatings. What are they?

What is the difference between gel polish and nail polish?

The gel polish and shellac presented by different manufacturers differ from the usual varnish coating. Their main hallmark is the duration of wearing on nails. This is the main advantage of shellac over conventional varnish. The color palette, ease of removal and application, the option of consulting a specialist, the price per bottle - this is what makes ordinary varnish in demand among consumers.

You can emphasize the fact that shellac is a hybrid of varnish and gel, therefore it has only half of the characteristics of a varnish.

What is the difference between gel polish and biogel?

Shellac and gel polish also differ with a similar product - biogel. The similarity of these two coatings lies in the same removal. Both products can be removed from the nail plate without filing it. Biogel is applied using a more complex technology. The price of the service in the salons is much more expensive. The main advantage of such a coating is its natural composition, treatment and restoration of the nail plate. In addition to biogel, a UV gel is also used for nail extension. What are its differences from gel polish?

Differences between gel polish and UV gel

Despite the fact that shellac is based on a gel, it bears little resemblance to a UV gel. The difference between gel and shellac lies in the different uses of these two products. If biogel is still used for normal application to the nail plate for therapeutic purposes, then it is logical to use the UV gel only in the case of nail extension. Shellac is not suitable for such a purpose.

Therefore, almost everything can be considered excellent for them: the method of application, the method of removal, the period of wearing, the time of application, the final result. But for decorating an extended nail, it is already possible to use shellac. But the technology in such cases suggests the use of gel paint. What is the difference between them?

The main difference between gel polish and gel paint

The difference between gel nail polishes and gel paints is quite difficult to find. Perhaps these two products are more similar than all other nail coatings. Their composition may differ, but visually on the nail they are very similar.

Gel paint is offered in small jars without a brush, and is recommended by manufacturers for painting miniature details. But the manicurist himself is able to decide what exactly to decorate the nail with in accordance with what is more profitable or more convenient for him to use. It should be noted that paint is rarely applied as a regular coating to the entire natural nail... For this, it is customary to use gel polish. Although no harm arises from replacing these two coatings, according to experts.

Drawing a conclusion, it is worth noting that gel, shellac varnish and gel polish differ for each individual person. Each nail plate has its own characteristics, therefore, the result after applying all these coatings may differ from what the manufacturers promise.

Long-lasting coatings for nails allow you not to think about a manicure for several weeks. Hands look well-groomed, interesting, emphasize the overall style. Industry nail service develops at a tremendous speed, new items appear almost every year. It is difficult for a simple layman to trace all this, it is very easy to get confused in all the variety of materials. But most often the question is, how does nail gel differ from gel polish. In fact, these are completely different coatings.

Content:

Nail gels

Gel is a polymer hard coating that is used for nail modeling, lengthening, and reshaping. It is he who is used for nail extension. Both gel polish and gel require the use of a UV or LED lamp. It is in it that the liquid coating hardens, becomes durable, allows you to apply any designs and does not require correction for the next 2-3 weeks.

Types of gels:

  1. Hard gel. This is a durable polymer that, after hardening, turns into an artificial nail.
  2. Biogel. A softer coating that, even after drying in a lamp, retains its elastic structure.

Biogels differ in composition. They contain rubber and proteins, which give elasticity, but at the same time the coating is durable. This product can be used to flatten and protect the natural nail plate without lengthening. It is easily removed by dissolving, since gels simply require cutting. A very part of the product contains various organic compounds that promise to restore damaged nails, but this statement is rather dubious. But the product really helps to grow or hide defects.

Gels, like gel polishes, are colored, transparent, camouflage. They provide certain opportunities for creativity and have one great advantage - the duration of operation. However, during wearing and in contact with household chemicals, it may fade.

Important! If your nails are thin and weak, you should not choose polymer gels, increase the length. A weakened plate simply won't take it. With such problems, it is better to give preference to gel polishes or biogels.

Video: About gel and biogel coating

Gel nail polish

Gel polish combines the properties of gel and regular nail polish. The coating is durable but flexible. It is not so thick, you can apply a very thin layer, do a natural manicure. It cannot lengthen the plate. It is not used to give different shapes to the nail or to mask large defects.

Main characteristics:

  1. Glossy finish and beautiful shine. It is lacquered, shimmers, does not fade from time to time. But there are also matte finishes that allow for a variety of designs.
  2. Suitable for all nails. Can be applied to thin, embossed plates, the coating will even out and give smoothness.
  3. Immediately after drying, you can do any business, but for the first day it is advisable not to keep your hands in the water for a long time.
  4. It does not have a toxic odor and harmful compounds if the product is of high quality.
  5. Easy to apply. If you wish, you can master the technology and do a manicure at home. Everything you need is easy to buy in stationary stores or order via the Internet.
  6. Durability depends on base and top. If you can save money on the varnishes themselves, then you don't need to do this on the basics.

Both gel polishes and gels can trigger allergies. But if it manifested itself on the product of one firm, there may not be a reaction to other coatings.

Video: Gel polish coating

Coating Comparison Chart

Gel polishes and gels have different properties, composition, hardness. They cannot replace or complement each other. The design possibilities differ, although attractive marigolds can be created with any materials. As for the durability, it is about the same. The coating should last for at least two weeks, usually the correction is done after 21 days, but it all depends on the speed of nail growth, the correct application.

Gel

Gel polish

Available in jars with a screw cap.

Available in bottles like regular nail polishes. The packaging material is opaque, light is harmful to the product.

Thick consistency, pick up with a spatula.

Liquid, flowing, pick up with a brush that comes with the bottle.

It lengthens and thickens the nail plate up to 5 mm.

Only decorates and slightly thickens the nail without lengthening.

Different colors.

Richest color palette with a huge number of shades, textures, blotches.

You can make designs in different colors, apply drawings.

In addition to designs and patterns, you can glue rhinestones, polymer compositions, ribbons, broths, glitters, sliders.

For correction, cutting off a thick layer with a cutter is required.

Correction is possible by tinting the overgrown hole.

It is removed by cutting.

Can be removed by sawing, but soaking is more commonly used.

What is shellac

Shellac is a hybrid of varnish and gel. That is, this is a gel polish, but it was developed by the first one of the leading companies in the nail industry, CND, New Product patented and named Shellaak. Popularity grew at an incredible rate, competitors quickly adopted the idea and began to release their coatings. But the original shellac still has unique composition and its structure. The coating is also characterized by high durability, adheres well to the natural nail plate.

What else is shellac different:

  1. It is not necessary to grind the plate, as when using coatings, it is enough to simply degrease the surface with a bonder.
  2. The primer is not used.
  3. The concentration of pigments is higher than that of many analogues. Shellac covers the nail well, even in one layer.
  4. Easier to remove. Unlike gels, you do not need to file the top, you can immediately apply a disc moistened with a remover.
  5. Dries the nail. One of the disadvantages of shellac, which is justified by the lack of a primer.
  6. Cures only with an ultraviolet lamp.

Shellac has another big drawback - cost. In Russia, you can pay from 1000 rubles for one bottle. Gel polishes and gels from other well-known manufacturers (Bluesky, Kodi) cost several times less. Chinese resistant coatings have actively entered the market, the cost of which is not more expensive than ordinary varnish in a store and rarely exceeds 200 rubles.