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You finally bit the bullet and went for one last shellac manicure at your neighborhood salon. New shellac nails are a wonderful feeling for all beauty enthusiasts, but the euphoria is quickly ruined once you find a hidden chip or crack in your otherwise-perfect talons.
There are, however, a few simple steps you can take to ensure they last that extra bit longer. Please keep reading to find out our essential tips for keeping your shellac manicure in good nick for two to three weeks.
How to Make Shellac Nails Last Longer
If you take proper care of your shellac nails, they should stay shiny and unharmed for 14 to 21 days. Shellac won’t impact your usual activities, such as taking out your keys, using the internet, or (mild) cooking. However, remember these critical shellac care recommendations even when you are occupied with cleaning tasks.
1. Protect
Grab a pair of gloves before dishwashing, floor cleaning, or gardening to protect your nails and the sensitive skin around them. If harsh cleaners or chemicals like bleach can cause the shellac to peel or chip at the borders of your nails, wearing gloves is incredibly vital. If you’re anything like our staff at RY, after that has occurred, you’ll want to call it a day and pick them all off to start over. Protecting nails first will help you put such behavior in the past!
2. Moisturise
If you keep your skin hydrated, your shellac nails will last longer, and your hands will seem younger and healthier. Throughout the day, use hand cream as needed; before bed, use heavier cuticle oil. The oil will treat your fingertips overnight, avoiding nail flaking from a lack of moisture.
When it comes to hand creams, choose the most nutritious options possible—preferably those that aren’t greasy—to avoid feeling sticky while attempting to carry out daily duties. We adore Weleda’s Citrus Hand and Nail Cream since it is made with only organic ingredients, softens the skin, and strengthens weak nails. The AHAVA Mineral Hand Cream, which contains Dead Sea components to hydrate, smooth, and calm, is another favorite.
We pick Dr. Hauschka Neem Nail & Cuticle Oil for quality cuticle oil. This product uses rich apricot kernel oil to nourish and transform brittle nails. The Red Carpet Manicure Cuticle Elixir Serum is another hit product and works well to replenish dry skin around the nail bed, including hanging nails.
3. Maintain
Once every week, add a layer of clear top-coat polish to your manicure. This will keep a thick defense barrier between your shellac and the outside world. The polish will stay shiny and lustrous if you adhere to the previous two rules—protect and moisturize—by applying a clear top coat every seven days.
After 14 to 18 days (depending on how fast your nails grow), you’ll notice a bare area around your cuticles as your natural nails grow longer. At that point, consider removing the shellac using the proper tools.
How to remove shellac polish at home
Try not to pick at the shellac polish– we know it can be satisfying, but you’re also likely to peel and weaken your nails. Instead, apply one of the cuticle oils we mentioned earlier to protect your nails and skin from the drying effects of acetone.
Exposing your nails to acetone for long periods can dehydrate your skin and damage your nails. We suggest using gel nail remover wraps to keep the process as quick and straightforward as possible. We love this handy pack by Kocostar, which includes removal gloves that utilize body heat for fast removal.
After 15 or so minutes, remove the wraps from your nails. To help loosen the product, push an orange stick underneath the shellac from the base to the end of the nail. You may need to go in with a nail file to buff off any excess gently. Once you’ve removed all traces of shellac, wash your hands thoroughly, and finish with a nourishing hand cream!
Due to the effects of acetone, your nails might feel dry and weak for a few days. Using a strengthening polish regularly will help reverse any damage, transforming your nails back into top shape in no time. Ingestible beauty products are another way to help get your nails back to their prime. We can’t get enough of Vida Glow’s Marine Collagen Powder, a powder supplement that will also work to thicken hair, ease joint pains and reduce the appearance of fine lines and cellulite for more youthful skin!
Can you extend shellac nails?
Gel and nail polish are combined to create shellac. It cannot be used to lengthen your nail because it is similar to lacquer.
The Benefits Of Shellac Manicure
1. They Are Stronger
Manicures done using shellac are far more durable than regular polish. This means your manicure will last much longer, and your nails won’t chip as easily.
2. They Dry Faster
Your shellac nails will be dried before leaving the salon because your manicurist used a UV light to set them. On the other hand, regular nail paint remains tacky for several hours after application.
3. They Are Safer
Shellac nails are far less invasive to apply than artificial nails. Shellac nails can be used without an electric nail file, giving them a convenient alternative to acrylic nails.
4. They Are More Natural Looking
Acrylic nails appeal to some individuals, but natural nails are fashionable. Shellac nails offer a polished, professional appearance that nevertheless looks natural, combining the best of both worlds.
5. They Are Easier to Maintain
Shellac nails last much longer than regular manicures, and the application and removal procedures are less painful than artificial nail procedures.