Shellac Nails vs Gel Nails: Which One Should You Choose?
Regular nail polish is fun, until it starts chipping after doing the dishes, or you’re stuck waving your hands under a fan, waiting for it to dry. The shine fades quickly, smudges are almost unavoidable, and you end up reapplying far too often.
That’s when many of us start looking for something better. And the good news? There are two great options: gel nails and shellac nails.
Both are fantastic alternatives to regular polish, but the choice really depends on your lifestyle, your color preferences, and what you want most out of your manicure. In this guide, I’ll break down what makes each one unique and help you figure out which is right for you.
What Are Gel Nails?
Gel nails come in two main types: hard gel and soft gel. Both are applied with a brush, but hard gel is thicker and usually requires shaping, while soft gel is more flexible. They were introduced in the 1980s but gained popularity in the 1990s as an alternative to acrylic nails and regular polish. With innovation, they became more salon-friendly in the 2000s and are now a go-to option for anyone who wants a glossy, long-lasting finish.
What makes a gel nail manicure special is its durability and shine. Gel is made from liquid monomers that cure and harden under a UV or LED lamp, giving you a glossy, chip-resistant look that regular polish can’t compete with. Whether you prefer bold gel nail colors or subtle shades, there’s plenty of variety.
What Are Shellac Nails?
Shellac is basically the best of both worlds, a hybrid between gel polish and regular polish. It was invented and patented in 2010 by CND (Creative Nail Design), the same brand that created the iconic CND Shellac nail polish.
Because it blends polish and gel, shellac gel polish gives you the glossy, durable look of gel nails but with a thinner, more natural finish that feels closer to regular polish. Many people also call it shellac nail paint or shellac nail manicure because of its lightweight look and feel.
How Are Gel Nails Applied?
The process involves three main layers:
- Base coat – helps the gel bond to your nails and adds durability.
- Color coat – the actual shade, cured under UV or LED light.
- Top coat – locks everything in and gives that gorgeous, glossy shine.
Each layer is cured under the lamp, so there’s no waiting around for your nails to dry - they’re instantly set. This is true whether you’re applying gel nails on natural nails or enhancing acrylic nails with gel polish.
How Are Shellac Nails Applied?
Shellac application is almost the same as gel: base coat, color coat, and top coat, each cured under a UV or LED lamp.
The difference? Shellac is thinner and lighter, so the result looks more natural. Before either shellac and gel polish is applied, nails are prepped - cleaned, buffed, and cuticles pushed back.
Shellac vs Gel: The Face-Off
- Durability
Gel nails last 2–3 weeks with minimal maintenance, making them a strong choice for events or travel. Shellac usually lasts 10–14 days, still better than regular polish.
- Color Range
Gel polishes are available in a wide range of shades, from everyday tones to dramatic gel nail colors. Shellac, being a patented mix, has a smaller palette.
- Nail Health & Removal
Shellac is easier to remove, usually by soaking in acetone for 5–10 minutes, which is gentler on nails. Gel removal can be tougher, especially hard gel, and sometimes needs to be filed or buffed off.
- Look & Style
Want a natural look? Go with shellac nails. Prefer a bold, glossy style that makes a statement? A gel nail manicure is for you.
- Cost & Time
Shellac is thinner and quicker to apply, usually taking 30–45 minutes and costing $30–$45. Gel nails take 45–60 minutes and typically cost $45–$60, especially when applied on acrylic nails and gel polish designs.
Which One Is Best for You: Shellac or Gel?
The answer depends on your lifestyle and what you want from your manicure:
| Factor | Shellac | Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Lasts 10–14 days | Lasts 2–3 weeks |
| Color Choices | Limited range | Wide variety of shades |
| Removal & Nail Health | Easy soak-off, gentler on nails | More difficult, may cause damage if rushed |
| Lifestyle Fit | Great if you like frequent color changes | Best for longer wear and bold looks |
| Recommendation | Pick Shellac if you want a natural, light finish | Pick Gel if you want high shine and stronger durability |
If you’re moving away from regular polish but feel skeptical about the upkeep or tricky removal of gels, shellac and gel polish together can give you options. Shellac provides a taste of gel’s shine without the hassle, while gel gives maximum durability.
