Shellac nails or UV gel? What professionals really recommend.
Are you facing the decision between Shellac and UV gel for your nails?
This question concerns many who want a long-lasting and professional manicure. Shellac impresses with its natural look and a durability of up to 3 weeks, while UV gel scores with its special resistance.
The decisive difference lies in the composition:
Shellac is a clever hybrid of nail polish and gel that forms a thin, flexible layer. UV gel, on the other hand, convinces as a pure gel system with a durability of up to 5 weeks. Especially brittle nails benefit from the additional strength that the thicker gel provides.
As experts, we have thoroughly analyzed both variants and can give you a clear assessment. In this guide, you will learn not only the most important differences in durability and application but also which option best suits your nail type and lifestyle.
We also show you which products professionals actually recommend and how to make the right decision for your individual needs.
The most important decision criteria for your perfect choice
The right decision between shellac and gel depends on clear criteria. Here are the decisive factors that determine your choice:
Durability comparison: Shellac typically lasts 10-14 days, while gel manicures remain shiny for up to three weeks or longer. This difference makes gel the better option for longer periods without touch-ups.
Comfort and appearance: Shellac forms a thinner layer that feels more natural and remains flexible. Gel, on the other hand, creates a thicker, glass-like surface with more intense shine. For sensitive or weaker nails, Shellac is often the gentler alternative.
Removal and care: A significant difference appears in removal: Shellac can be removed relatively easily with acetone after 10-15 minutes. Gel requires longer soaking times of 15-30 minutes and sometimes additional filing.
Price-performance ratio: Both options cost between 25-45€ for professional application, with gel manicures tending to be somewhat more expensive.
For home use, we recommend the "Duplex" nail polish products with high-quality organic ingredients. If you want professional results with maximum durability, the "21days" product line is the ideal choice. Both product lines were developed by Silvia Troska, the founder of the well-known brand "alessandro".
Your decision: Do you prefer frequent color changes and gentle removal? Then Shellac is your best option. Are you looking for maximum durability and resistance? Then go for gel.
Shellac vs. UV gel in everyday life: The practical comparison
In everyday life, it quickly becomes clear which variant really suits you. Do you use your hands intensively? Then you will clearly feel the difference: Shellac lasts about 14 days under normal stress without chipping. Gel manicures, on the other hand, remain flawless longer, especially with frequent hand washing this difference becomes noticeable.
The biggest enemy of both variants: frequent water contact. Intensive washing makes nails softer and more prone to breakage. Here a simple trick helps: Regular application of nail and cuticle oil protects against too much moisture and forms an effective barrier.
Both options are suitable for your active lifestyle, but with clear differences:
Shellac scores with: its more flexible, thinner layer and the more natural appearance. Perfect for everyone who likes to change their nail color more often.
UV gel convinces with: its robust structure that easily withstands even household tasks. Ideal for frequent travelers and professionals, as it requires less care when worn longer.
For the perfect home application, we recommend our "DUPLEX" bio nail polish products with high-quality organic ingredients. Are you looking for professional results? Then our "21DAYS" product line is the right choice – both developed by Silvia Troska, the founder of the well-known brand "alessandro".
Which products do professionals really recommend?
Professional nail designers know: The quality of the products determines the final result. High-quality formulations are not only safer for your nails but also deliver the durability and shine you desire.
For the perfect home application, we recommend the "Duplex" nail polish line from our Nailtime shop. This innovative formulation impresses with its organic ingredients and allows you a professional manicure in less than 15 minutes. The Duplex Starter Set Deluxe contains everything you need – including a professional 5-finger UV/LED lamp for perfect curing. The polish dries under LED light in just 90 seconds and lasts 2-3 times longer than conventional nail polishes.
Are you looking for maximum durability with professional results? Then the "21days" product line is your first choice. This special UV formulation lasts up to three weeks without chipping. The Starter Set 21 Days includes all essentials for a flawless UV manicure that remains chip- and scratch-resistant for up to 21 days.
Both product lines deserve special recognition through their developer: Nail expert Silvia Troska, founder of the renowned brand "alessandro". As a pioneer in the nail industry, she has created formulations consisting of 85% plant-based raw materials.
The key to long-lasting results also lies in proper care: A high-quality base coat protects against discoloration, while a first-class top coat provides brilliant shine and significantly extends the durability of your manicure.
The right decision for your nails
The choice between Shellac and gel nails depends on your individual needs. Shellac is perfect for you if you want to change colors frequently and prefer a natural look. The easy removal makes it the ideal option for those who like to experiment.
UV gel, on the other hand, is your best choice for maximum durability and if you are looking for a long-term solution. The superior stability makes it especially suitable for an active lifestyle.
The quality of your products is decisive for the result. With the "Duplex" nail polish line, you achieve professional results at home – thanks to organic ingredients and fast curing time. For maximum durability and professional quality, the "21days" product line is the perfect choice.
Don't forget: Regular care with nail and cuticle oil is the key to healthy nails and extended durability of your manicure.
With the right choice and high-quality products, you create a flawless base for weeks of durability. The products developed by Silvia Troska – the founder of the well-known brand "alessandro" – give you the confidence that you are choosing the best for your nails. No matter which variant you choose: You will enjoy your perfect manicure for a long time.
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between Shellac and UV gel nails? Shellac is a hybrid formula of nail polish and gel that forms a thinner, more flexible layer and lasts about 10-14 days. UV gel consists of pure gel, forms a thicker layer, and can last up to 3 weeks or longer.
Q2. Which method is gentler on the nails? Shellac is considered gentler because it is applied thinner and better preserves the flexibility of the natural nail. Also, the nail plate does not need to be roughened before application, which is often the case with gel nails.
Q3. How do Shellac and gel differ in application and removal? Shellac can be applied faster and removed relatively easily with acetone after 10-15 minutes. Gel requires a longer curing time and removal requires longer soaking (15-30 minutes) and sometimes additional filing.
Q4. Which option is better suited for an active lifestyle? Both options are suitable for an active lifestyle but with differences. Shellac offers a more natural appearance, while gel, due to its more robust structure, is better suited for intensive use and requires less care when worn longer.
Q5. Which products do professionals recommend for high-quality results? Professionals recommend high-quality products like the "Duplex" nail polish line for home use and the "21days" product line for professional results. Both were developed by nail expert Silvia Troska and are characterized by their quality and durability.
