Do You Need Long Nails For Shellac (And Do They Add Length?)

In the world of nail art, everyone seeks long-lasting nails that don’t damage the natural nails underneath. While gels and acrylics are popular, shellac has emerged as a new favorite. Often believed to require long nails, we’ve investigated whether this is true.

Many nail salons are now exploring shellac and its benefits for nail enthusiasts. If you’re curious about shellac and whether you need long nails to use it, this guide will provide you with the answers.

What Is Shellac?

Shellac is a brand-new type of nail polish that blends traditional polish and gels. Unlike gels, Shellac is not artificial and cannot lengthen nails.

However, they still offer a natural, fresh look that lasts longer than traditional nails. Most people choose shellac because they want easy gel-like results on their nails.

While gel polish is available from a wide range of vendors, genuine shellac can only be obtained from one company: CND. It's a branded name, which can make it difficult to find outside of a professional setting. Even so, shellac colors are available on sites like Amazon.

Do Shellac Nails Add Length?

Unlike gel and acrylics, which are generally considered artificial due to their nail-lengthening abilities, shellac is regarded as an upgraded version of traditional nail polish.

While it does stay on for longer, it does not add nail length. If you want longer nails, grow them out or get gels.

That said, some claim that shellac can also enhance acrylic nails. So, if you want a strengthening treatment for your acrylic nails, that might be a good option.

Is Shellac Safe?

Shellac is safe for nails and designed to be less damaging than acrylic or gel. It's a good idea if you want a stronger polish but don't want worn-down nails.

How Do You Prepare Nails For Shellac?

Prepping your nails for shellac is a process, to say the least. To prepare your nails for shellac, start with the following procedure:

1. Remove any nail polish that currently resides on your nails.
2. Next, file your nails into the shape that you want them to be.
3. Cutaway cuticles, push back any additional skin you find, then wash your hands.
4. Then, file your nails lightly with a nail file or scrub fresh.
5. Apply a Shellac Base Coat layer, leaving a small gap between the polish and the nail edges.
6. Get a UV lamp and cure each hand for two minutes.
7. After the base coat has been cured, you can apply the shellac color and top coat of your choice.

Is It Worth Getting Shellac On Acrylic Nails?

Getting shellac on acrylic nails is often done as a way to reinforce their strength and as a way to lengthen the time you have between new sets of acrylics.

However, the jury is still out on whether it's worth applying it to your nails. No evidence suggests it will extend the life of your acrylic nails.

Most people who get shellac polishes do so because there's no dry time. Even so, it won't last any longer than typical acrylic nail polish will.

Shellac isn't worth the extra fee if you were hoping for a longer-lasting manicure. However, convenience-wise, it might be alright. It's up to you to decide.

Can You File Shellac Nails?

Filing nails with polish on is always doable, though you might not like the results you get. With shellac, it's possible to file your nails so that you can get the edge you want.

However, there's a small problem with filing nails that have shellac on them: it breaks open the seal protecting the coloration.

Without the protective seal, moisture can get trapped inside the shellac. This, in turn, can cause your manicure to lose much of its veneer. At times, it can even lead to chipping and premature breakage.

So, if you are going to leave your nails filed without any treatment, you might be disappointed. The best way to file shellac nails is to re-paint them after filing. At the very least, add a topcoat. It can help lock out any moisture.

Which Is Better, Gel Or Shellac?

Though acrylics are often compared to shellac, most people tend to see the biggest competition between shellac and gels.

Some folks even use the two terms interchangeably, but that's not always true. Which polish type is right for you all depends on what you want to accomplish with your nails.

You Should Choose Shellac If...

You are a natural nail wearer who wants a stronger manicure that's easy on the hands. Shellac is not a false nail type, nor is it as brittle as regular polish is. For people who need to keep their nails natural, shellac is a great pick.

However, it's worth noting that shellac has limited polish options. People who want extreme looks may not want this type of polish.

If you are worried about having to grow out nails or remediate the damage done through long-term gel use, then this is the best bet for you. If nothing else, shellac is excellent at giving your nails a break.

You Should Choose Gel If...

You want a nail that lasts longer than shellac, potentially has special effects, and adds length to your nail. Gel nail polish is not easy on the nails and can significantly weaken them over time.

However, the perks include a manicure that lasts up to 21 days (versus the 14 of shellac) and a wider range of special effects.

Many people prefer gel nails simply because of the striking array of special effects that polishes can have. If you want to participate in the color-changing nail polish trend, you'll have to have gel nails.

Understanding Shellac Nail Requirements

Contrary to popular belief, shellac doesn't require long nails nor can it extend them artificially. If you want long nails with shellac, they must be grown naturally.

Known for its durability, shellac is a blend of gel and traditional polish but doesn't thicken nails. Starting with healthy nails at your desired length and properly caring for them ensures your shellac manicure remains perfect for about two weeks.

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