Regular polish and Shellac gel start with the same nail care: shaping, cuticle work and a short massage. The difference is the finish and how long it lasts.
Regular polish
A Classic Manicure costs $25 at LUX Nails & Lashes. Regular polish air dries, needs no UV lamp and comes off at home with any remover. It is the right pick if you like to change colors every week or two.
The trade-off is wear. Regular polish usually chips within three to seven days, sooner if you type a lot or wash dishes without gloves.
Shellac gel
A Shellac Manicure costs $40. The gel cures under a lamp, so you leave with fully dry nails and no smudges. Shellac usually stays chip free for two to three weeks and keeps its shine the whole time.
Shellac needs to be soaked off, either at the salon or carefully at home. Peeling it off removes layers of your natural nail, so please do not pick at it.
Quick way to decide
- You change colors often: regular polish.
- You want two weeks without touch-ups: Shellac.
- You have an event in three days: Shellac, so there is no risk of a chip in photos.
- Your nails are thin or peeling: talk to your technician first. Dip powder may give more strength.
Already have Shellac on and only want a new color? A Shellac Polish Change costs $30 and keeps your base in place.