Stages of applying shellac. How to paint your nails with gel polish at home. Decor can be done with

The benefits of shellac have been appreciated by many women. The resistant coating lasts for two to three weeks without chips and scratches, so you can wear the chosen type of manicure without tedious “repairs” and repainting. It is ideal for young mothers, working girls, as well as for a long trip, for example, to the sea.

Required Tools

First of all, you will need a set of coatings with at least one color. Some components can be replaced with more budget options from inexpensive manufacturers, or purchase everything from one.

You will need:

Sequencing

Home technology for making shellac is no different from a salon one, since practically not a single component can be replaced. As an exception, instead of a liquid to remove the sticky layer, you can use ordinary alcohol, but professionals insist that this harms the quality of the manicure.

The whole procedure takes about an hour, but as you gain the skill of working with a thick texture of gel polish, this time is reduced to 40 minutes.

  • If you are going to design, choose at least two shades of base coat. You can purchase a design kit based on the principle “color + sparkles”, “color + mica”, or two or three contrasting shades to choose from.
  • Combine cold tones with cold, warm tones with warm or neutral. It is not necessary to supplement translucent shellac with dense or glossy mother-of-pearl.
  • The sticky layers formed after the curing of the base coat and the first layer are not removed, and this improves the adhesion between them. You can apply only one layer of the main tone, but then it will turn out translucent. If this is exactly the effect you expect, then repainting is not required.
  • In order for the top coat to look beautiful after hardening, it must lie in an even, dense layer. Paint over the cuticles, the sides of the nail with it, and be sure to seal the free edge of the nail with a well-wrung brush. This technique will ensure maximum wearing time of the manicure.

How to remove shellac

The main quality of gel polishes is durability, so their removal requires more time and effort. But there is no need to file off shellac like extended nails.

Professionals recommend taking a break between wearing gel polish. After two times, you need to give your nails a rest to restore the water-fat balance - at least a week. At this time, take care of your hands with cream and nourishing oils.

Making French

A beautiful and neat look of manicure can also be made with shellac materials. He will delight you all three weeks, or even longer. The transparent coating does not lose its appearance, even when the nails grow back.

The sequence of actions and drying time are indicated in the table:

French shellac has its own challenges.

Do not use stencils to draw a smile line. Sticky traces on the main tone that remain after removal cannot be removed without damage to the quality of the work. In addition, on top of such traces, the top coat does not adhere well to the base - chips are possible after a few days, and to the full depth of the coating. Therefore, you have to make a smile manually.

How to draw the perfect white edge:

  • with an almost dry brush, draw a smile in two strokes - from the edges to the middle,
  • draw a smooth leveling line. You now have a path drawn that you no longer touch.
  • With a pressed brush, paint over the entire free edge with dotted strokes almost perpendicular to the nail.

Ready!

  1. If you are not used to drawing a jacket without a stencil, practice a few times on regular varnish.
  2. Before a responsible procedure, do not strain your arm muscles, do not carry heavy bags - your hands will tremble, and you will not be able to draw a straight line.
  3. To make it convenient to scoop up white gel polish, pour a large drop of it onto a stable coating - a plastic lid from a jar or a piece of foam, and dip the brush there.
  4. Squeeze the brush well on the neck of the bottle.
  5. With each layer, paint over the end of the nail, turning the brush a little under the nail - seal it.

What color combinations to choose?

Beige and caramel shades of jackets are on the decline right now, so follow the advice and choose cool pink tones.

Most popular options:

  • white + pink gloss;
  • white + lilac with a brilliant tint;
  • white + pink pearl.

Wanting to get a strict white edge and an absolutely transparent tone, it is better to choose the latter with a slight shade of pink, which is almost indistinguishable and at the same time tones well.

Unlike it, a varnish transparent as water will unnecessarily emphasize the imperfections of a natural nail.

For a festive or wedding jacket, choose a silver or golden shade and micro sequins. The fashion for a combination of silver and gold has passed, so decide in favor of one of the shades.

A sequined or flak jacket requires a clean white edge and stock covered in holographic flake. Mica can have a neon effect that gives very nice highlights in the dark.

To make a jacket for the office, choose pink mother-of-pearl for the bed and ivory for the free edge of the nail.

Color jacket refers to everyday casual manicure. Draw a smile line with any color. The most fashionable this season are lemon yellow, turquoise, royal blue, scarlet, cherry, burgundy, tangerine, anthracite, blue-black. Do not use brown and gray shades for a colored jacket.

Many women have long appreciated the durability, excellent decorative properties, wear duration and other important characteristics of shellac, in which ordinary nail polish is noticeably inferior. But only correct application layers of shellac on the nails followed by drying the coating in a UV lamp can provide an incredible "survivability" of a luxurious manicure for several weeks. The technique of applying shellac on nails is so simple that you can easily master it at home with the help of video tutorials for beginners and step by step master class with a photo of each stage of the procedure.

The tandem of lacquer and gel in one bottle successfully replaces traditional nail extensions, as durable layers of shellac protect long, brittle nails from damage. Solid gel-varnish coating securely fixes the given shape of the natural plate and helps prevent its delamination.

The obvious advantages of using shellac include the ability to perform fashion manicure"salon" level at home, high polymerization rate (drying of each layer of the coating), resistance to external influences (including household chemicals), preservation of gloss and intensity of manicure shades during wear, removal of gel polish that is safe for a natural plate without sawing. And during a long vacation, shellac is simply irreplaceable, since a manicure made with it does not require correction and you can safely enjoy your vacation.

♦ COMMON MISTAKE

The use of low-quality gel polish for manicure or a violation of the technique of applying shellac to nails can lead to a rapid loss of glossy sheen, peeling of the coating, cracks and chips. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the typical mistakes that women make during the procedure, and carefully study the video tutorials for beginners on how to do a manicure using gel polish at home.

Incorrect storage.
Do not leave shellac bottles in an open place in direct sunlight, which changes the properties of the decorative material. Room lighting also shortens the shelf life of gel polish. Keep all bottles in a dark place and close them immediately after using gel polish;

The tips of the nails are uneven and rough.

When preparing the nail plates for applying shellac, very carefully grind the free edge with a suitable manicure file. If the tips of the nails are not smooth and even, then during the sealing of the end, lumps will begin to collect on them, which can lead to chipping of the hardened coating;

Cuticle treatment with emollient oil before the procedure.

Process the cuticle with protective and emollient agents after completing all stages of manicure. The oil creates a greasy layer, weakening the adhesion (adhesion) between the surface of the nail and the base layer;

Polishing of nails before the procedure.
Treatment of the surface of the nail plates with a polishing buff impairs adhesion. To improve adhesion between the plate and the coating, treat the surface of each nail with a suitable nail file with fine abrasive to get a roughness;

Using an acid primer.
If you use shellac to perform a manicure, then it is generally not necessary to treat your nails with any primer to improve adhesion. In any case, use only an acid-free primer and apply the base coat on the nails immediately, without waiting for the primer to dry completely;

Improper degreasing of nails.
Before applying the base layer, you must very carefully remove moisture and all fat from the nail plates. Treat the fingers with disinfectant foam, carefully wipe each nail with a lint-free cloth (you can moisten it with Nail Prep), and then apply a degreaser (fresher or instant drying dehydrator) to the nails and periungual ridges;

Shaking a bottle of gel polish.

Vigorous shaking of the bottle leads to the appearance of small bubbles, which complicate the procedure for applying shellac to the nails in an even layer. It is quite enough to slightly rotate the bottle in different directions to evenly distribute the pigment that has settled to the bottom;

Spreading of the base layer.
If you apply the base in a thick layer, then it will begin to spread, falling under the side rollers and on the cuticle during drying in a lamp. Try to apply the base in a thin layer and very carefully so as not to go with the brush on the cuticle and on the side rollers;

Thick base coat.
Colored shellac should be applied to the base in a very thin layer. Carefully squeeze the brush against the edge of the bottle before the procedure and move from the cuticle to the tip of the nail. During the polymerization process, a thick layer of gel polish hardens unevenly and waves and swelling may appear in some areas of the coating;

The end of the nail is not sealed in time.
Bring the brush over the edge of the nail when applying the base, top, and the first base coat of shellac. Please note that the entire end of the nail is completely sealed. Moisture will enter the layers of the coating through a poorly sealed tip of the nail and the shellac will begin to peel off;

Incorrect removal of the dispersion layer.
A sticky dispersion layer remains on the nails after polymerization of each coating layer in a UV lamp. But sticky layer perfectly binds all layers of the coating and it needs to be removed only from the top layer (and not from each) with a clinser. By the way, it is best to apply the top (finish coat) with a separate brush and then dry this layer thoroughly in a UV lamp (1.5-2 minutes, depending on the lamp power) to achieve a spectacular glossy sheen;

Poor polymerization of the coating.
If at least one layer of the coating is uneven or not sufficiently dried in the lamp, then the decorative manicure will not adhere well to the nails. Place your fingers in the center of the device, do not press them against each other. Try to accurately observe the polymerization time. If the applied coating layers do not harden enough in the allotted period of time, then it's time to change the UV bulbs in the device.

♦ CORRECT APPLICATION OF SHELLAC ON THE NAILS AT HOME

Tools and materials:


UV lamp (36 watts; if LED, 18 watts is enough);

· A set for hygienic manicure (nippers or scissors with narrow cuticle blades, a pusher with a rounded spatula, nail files, orange sticks);

· Lint-free wipes;

· Brush for removal of dirt;

Base (to protect the nail from the active components of shellac);

Colored shellac (base coat);

Top (finish coat);

Degreaser (dehydrator, fresher);

· Klinser (for removal of a sticky layer from a finishing covering);

Emollient cuticle oil.


Step by step application of shellac on nails:

❶ Make a warm bath for nails and hold your fingers in it for 10 minutes. Wipe your hands dry and do a hygienic manicure (push back the cuticle and remove the keratinized skin with a remover or manicure trimmer, trim the nails and give the free edge of each nail the desired shape);

❷ We grind the surface of the nail plates with a nail file with a fine abrasive to remove the shine and make the nails more matte. This procedure improves the adhesion of the base coat to the surface of the nail;

❸ Carefully wipe the nails with a lint-free cloth moistened with a degreaser. After degreasing, try not to touch the surface of the nail plates with your fingertips;

❹ Now we apply a base coat with a thin layer on each nail of one hand, carefully squeezing the brush against the edge of the bottle before the procedure. The end of the free edge is completely sealed. If the base gets on the skin around the nails, then carefully remove it with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover;

❺ Place your fingers in the UV lamp, being careful not to touch the base coat on the body of the device. The polymerization time of the base layer depends on the power of the lamp (from 30 to 120 seconds);

❻ After polymerization, try not to touch the hardened coating, as a sticky dispersion layer remains on it (it is not necessary to remove it). Gently apply a thin layer of colored gel polish. During the procedure, you can seal the end, but not necessarily;

Women's hands attract the attention of men no less than other parts of the body, so it is important to take care not only of the skin, but also of the nails. Here, a neat and stylish shellac manicure will help women, which can be done in the salon or at home, guided by step-by-step instructions for beginners.

Shellac characteristic

Shellac - natural product found in nature. This is a resin produced by subtropical and tropical insects, used in the creation of various varnishes, in photography. The product is environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic, it does not contain formaldehyde and toluene.

Shellac is a popular manicure today

CND was the first to use this component in the production of products for natural nails, which developed a unique product that performs the functions of a gel and varnish.

The product quickly gained popularity among women on maternity leave, business women, travelers, all those who have no time to repaint their nails every two to three days.

Shellac features

So loved by the female sex manicure is characterized by such features:

  • The ability of this coating to stay on the nail plate from 2 to 3 weeks. This figure depends on the condition of the nails themselves: the harder and stronger they are, the longer the shellac lasts.
  • The technique of applying the product is drying all its layers in a special lamp that emits UV rays. Usually such a manicure is done by a professional, but you can use shellac at home, for beginners - a step-by-step guide that will help you choose the right tools and tools.

The indisputable advantage of shellac is its durability.

Advantages and disadvantages of gel polish

This product has its positive and negative features that must be considered before applying it. Among shellac benefits worth noting the following:

  • Creates a long lasting, durable manicure that can only be erased with a professional tool, therefore, it is not afraid of various chemicals used in everyday life.
  • It is harmless to nails, as it is made from a resin of natural origin, does not contain harmful substances that destroy the nail plate (formaldehyde and toluene). Therefore, this coating is suitable for pregnant women or women suffering from allergies.
  • Protects the nails from delamination, the appearance of cracks, allows you to make the nail plate stronger, grow it.
  • A diverse color palette (more than 100 shades) allows you to create a manicure for any occasion, combine various colors, to make beautiful, unusual drawings. Such a manicure will always be unique, it can be limited only by the imagination of a woman.
  • Shellac is easily removed at home with a special tool or film. For beginners there step-by-step instruction, allowing you to remove the coating without harm to the nails.

One of the disadvantages of shellac is its high price.

Despite the presence a large number merit, gel polish has its drawbacks, among which are the following:

  • Shellac creates a suitable environment for the development of bacteria that lead to nail diseases. This is due to the fact that due to changes in temperature, the nail plate undergoes various deformations, leading to a violation of the integrity of the coating. Water and dirt can penetrate through the formed cracks, creating good conditions for the development of microbes.
  • Covering nails with shellac in the salon is a rather expensive procedure, and the correction of an overgrown nail will be expensive. Applying gel polish at home reduces the cost of the process, but requires skill in covering nails with one hand, in addition, there is a need to purchase special equipment.
  • Shellac is not a remedy, therefore, it cannot completely solve the problem of weakened and thin nails, in addition, it does not adhere well to such a nail plate, it can begin to peel off after a few days.

Do not use the product for women suffering from nail fungus, fingers

What resources and tools are needed

To create shellac at home, it is recommended to purchase all the same tools and materials used in the salon. None of the components can be replaced, this will allow beginners to create a beautiful manicure step by step. The list includes the following means and materials:


Shellac kit at home
  • hard nail file (220–240 grit), nail clippers, spatula, orange stick, buff;
  • cuticle remover;
  • brush for dusting nails;
  • degreaser;
  • lamp with UV rays (36 watts);
  • shellac - base, tone, top;
  • wipes that do not leave lint;
  • adhesive remover.

Choosing materials and tools it is recommended to give preference to the most well-known and trusted companies so that the result only pleases, does not become a disappointment.

Preparing nails for shellac

In order for the coating to fit well on the nails, you must first prepare them. note that gel polish manicure consists of the usual and specific procedures:


If the cuticle has not grown very well, you can simply push it back with an orange stick
  • Cuticle treatment: carried out in various ways, depending on how much it has grown. Before removing it, you need to make a bath that softens the cuticle and makes it easy to remove. If it has not grown much, then it is enough to push it away with an orange stick. For overgrown cuticles, it is better to use special oil or nail clippers.
  • Nail treatment: it is necessary to give an even shape to the nails, treat them with a buff for better adhesion to the coating. Clean your hands of dust with a brush.

Processing the nail plate with a degreaser is a very important step in preparing for a manicure.

It is especially good to treat the sides of the nails with a degreaser.

After applying this product, the nails should not be touched, otherwise the gel polish will not adhere well to the base. The degreaser can be replaced with alcohol wipes, but it is believed that they can affect the quality of the coating not for the better.

Shellac at home: step by step instructions for beginners

A beautiful manicure can be done not only in the salon. Easy to apply shellac at home. For beginners, a step-by-step guide will help you learn how to apply one color of gel polish, when this skill is mastered, you can try other designs.

The following instructions will help you master the technique of applying shellac:

  • Apply a base coat that protects the nail plate. To make the layer not too thick, you need to know the rules for applying the base (this rule also applies to applying other coatings): first, the edges of the nail are painted over, then only the middle, the last touch is sealing the tip of the nail, so the layers will hold better. Drying nails in a UV or LED lamp, the time in the first should be one minute, in the second 12 seconds.

After processing the cuticle, a base coat is applied to the nails.
  • The main coat is applied according to the same rule as the base coat, but the tips do not need to be painted over. The shellac layer should be as thin as possible. Pro tip: before applying the product, it is recommended to roll the bottle several times in the palm of your hand to better distribute the pigment.
  • Drying the color layer in the lamp, drying time 1-2 minutes. If during drying the gel polish swells, then the whole process must be started all over again, with degreasing.
  • Applying a second layer of the base, which will create a brighter and more saturated color, if a translucent effect is needed, then this item can be skipped. The second layer of coating should be slightly thicker than the first.
  • Drying the new layer with UV rays for 2 minutes.
  • The finishing or top coat is applied in the thickest layer. The last layer is dried in the same way as the previous one - 2 minutes.
  • The resulting sticky layer is removed with a lint-free cloth and a professional tool, alcohol can also be used, but it can deprive the shellac of its gloss and shine.

It is important to understand that such a step-by-step instruction for applying shellac at home is quite simple, but for beginners it can be quite complicated. Don’t worry if it doesn’t work out right away, the skill will definitely come with time.


Manicure "Cat's eye" - a popular trend in nail design today

How to make fashionable shellac "Cat's eye"

A popular manicure this season is the “Cat's Eye”, which got its name from the similarity with the stone of the same name. Such nails look very beautiful and noble. You can create a Cat's Eye manicure at home, because the whole secret is in a special magnet.

For this design, you will need the same tools as with conventional gel polish, the difference will be in the shellac itself - you need to buy a special magnetic tool, which comes with a magnet.

The process of creating a fashionable manicure consists of the following steps:

  • Preparation of the nail plate and cuticle.
  • Treatment of nails with a degreaser.
  • Applying a base leveling coat, drying it in a lamp.
  • Covering one nail with a colored layer of shellac, drying it in a lamp.
  • Applying a second color layer on the same nail plate.
  • Creating a design with a magnet, for this it is brought to the painted surface so as not to touch it (about 3 mm from the nail). It is recommended to hold the magnet for 5-10 seconds, during this period the necessary pattern is created. Drying the nail in the lamp.
  • Applying a finish coat, drying.
  • Removal of the resulting sticky layer.

All other nails are processed using this technology. To make the manicure sparkle even more, it can be additionally decorated with rhinestones.


In order for the glitter shellac to be uniform, pre-mix the glitter gel polish

Secrets of using shellac at home

Making nails beautiful is not so easy if you use shellac at home. For beginners, step-by-step instructions may not be enough, for the reason that they do not know some of the secrets that are available to professionals. To get the desired result, experts recommend the following:

  • For a uniform and even distribution of sparkles on the nails, you need to mix them with a small amount of gel polish, mix everything well and only then apply the second layer of sparkles to the nail plate.
  • For the best result, it is recommended to apply shellac in a thin layer, and you do not need to paint over the cuticle, otherwise the look of the manicure will be sloppy.
  • For creating french manicure, you should not use a stencil, because after drying it can no longer be removed, and if removed from a wet coating, the border will spread.
  • When using shellac as a build-up, there is no need to completely cut off the nail plate, just sand it a little.

Rules for removing gel polish from nails

The use of shellac at home involves not only its correct application, but also requires knowledge of how to remove gel polish. The usual nail polish remover will not help here, you must use professional tools, Besides, it is important to know the procedure itself, which consists of certain step by step recommendations for beginners.

To remove gel polish, you need to prepare five discs of cotton, cut into two pieces, ten squares of foil, the size of which should be able to wrap a finger, a special tool, orange sticks and a buff.


To remove shellac at home, you need foil

The procedure for removing shellac includes the following steps:

  • The discs must be wetted with a gel polish remover and applied to the nail plates.
  • Wrap each nail with a disc in foil, leave for 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove everything from your fingers, remove the remnants of the product with an orange stick.
  • If shellac is difficult to remove, it is recommended to hold the soaked cotton wool a little more or rub it lightly.
  • Treat the nails with a buff for the final removal of gel polish.
  • Make a relaxing bath, rub any care product for hands and nails.

solvents and their analogues should not be used to remove shellac

Thus, you can make shellac yourself at home. For beginners, a step-by-step guide will help you comprehend the intricacies of this process, learn the secrets of professionals, and create a beautiful and original manicure on your nails.

Beauty to you and your nails.

Step by step video on how to make shellac at home:

Useful video on how to remove shellac at home:

Video, which reveals the reasons for the instability of shellac:

Manicure is a service that women consider indispensable. The main development of recent years has been such material as shellac, which has many advantages. However, it is easy to learn how to apply it correctly without visiting salons.

Shellac, or gel polish, is a type of nail polish that cures when exposed to ultraviolet light. The very concept of shellac comes from the name of the first gel polish, which was produced by CND.

Shellac (it's easy to learn how to apply correctly) combines the features of varnish and gel. From the latter, such qualities as durability, strength, plasticity are taken. There are similarities with ordinary varnish: shellac is sold in jars with a brush. However, in the technique of applying shellac, several different means are used at once.

Advantages and disadvantages

pros Minuses
Durability. If the manicure is done with high quality, the coating can last up to a month.A multi-stage, complex procedure for applying gel polish, which takes about 1.5-2 hours.
Protecting the nail from peeling, cracking and breaking.Careless removal of shellac can damage the structure of the nail.
Wide color palette. Complex design with shellac is easier to perform than with ordinary varnish because it dries faster.Instability to temperature extremes. Cracks appear on the varnish from moisture and heat.
The absence of toxic substances, such as formaldehyde and toluene, in the composition.High price. In salons, a manicure with gel polish costs 1000-1200 rubles, and with ordinary varnish - 700 rubles.

Is shellac harmful to nails?

How to follow the correct technology for applying and removing shellac, the master should know. Then the coating will not spoil the nails. Even the opposite effect takes place: thanks to shellac, thin nails are strengthened and protected from external influences.

Since the composition of high-quality gel polish is non-toxic, even pregnant women can do a manicure with it. It’s not even the coating itself that can cause anxiety, but the process of applying it.

Some people express their concerns about the dangers of gel polish when they feel a burning sensation in the nail area during the drying process. It's not that the varnish somehow penetrates the nail plate and destroys it.

This is a natural process: under the influence of ultraviolet rays, certain components of shellac, called photoinitiators, enter into a polymerization reaction, as a result of which the coating hardens. Most often, tingling occurs if too much material is applied to the nails (for example, if the plate alignment procedure is also done).

Thus, burning does not harm the nails. If it is felt, you just need to pull your hands out of the lamp for a few seconds, until discomfort is no longer felt, and place them back.

If impatient girls begin to remove the shellac coating on their own, without using a special liquid, tearing it off in pieces, then the top layer of the nail plate also leaves along with the varnish, which can damage the nails.

In this case, already thin nails can become thinner even more. Because of this, the nails can break and exfoliate. Too strong and long grinding of the nail plate before application is also detrimental.

Shellac varieties

Shellac (how to apply it yourself, described below) can be done in many different ways, so the whole scope of imagination is given:

  • Plain plain color. In this case, you can make all the nails of the same color or highlight 1-2 fingers on each hand with a different shade or even design.
  • Gradient. In this case, a smooth transition between 2-3 colors occurs on the nails.
  • French. You can make a classic gentle version of a French manicure, or you can experiment: for example, make a strip of bright color.
  • Lunar manicure It's kind of like a reverse french. The hole at the bottom of the nail can be filled with color or left transparent.
  • Marble manicure. In this case, a texture is created on the nail, reminiscent of this material.
  • Shellac with drawings: you can draw monograms, geometric patterns and more complex compositions
  • Shellac with additional materials: rubbing, foil, rhinestones.

Materials for shellac

Shellac how (it needs to be applied correctly after training) a multi-stage procedure requires various products that can be purchased in specialized stores.


UV or LED lamp to choose?

The UV lamp emits ultraviolet light. When conducting research, it was found that a 36 W UV lamp (optimum power) polymerizes the coating for about 2-3 minutes, and lamps of lower power take even longer. At the same time, it is highly likely that when shellac is dried in a 9-18 W UV lamp, the coating polymerizes unevenly, of poor quality, and matte areas may appear. In addition, you need to periodically change the light bulbs.

The LED lamp is powered by LEDs. The emission spectrum of such a lamp is higher than that of a UV analogue, therefore, it takes only 20-30 seconds to dry one layer of varnish. This saves a lot of time and makes the shellac procedure shorter.

According to many manufacturers, LED lamps can work up to 50 thousand hours, that is, almost 5 years. You don't have to replace the LEDs as they don't burn out. At the same time, LED lamps are not capable of drying all varnishes.

Recently, many scientists have expressed their concerns about the safety of ultraviolet radiation, since its excess can lead to the development of various diseases. Of course, the ultraviolet emitted by the lamp is not enough for it to adversely affect human health.

However, in this regard, it is still much safer to use LED lamps. You can also protect your hands from ultraviolet radiation: for example, use special gloves in which only the nails remain open, or sunscreen.

Preparation of nails for the procedure

First you need to do classic manicure: file the nails to the desired length, shape them, trim and push back the cuticle. Then you need to buff the nail plate with a buff until it stops shining and becomes matte.

Next, you need to wipe the nails with a degreaser using small lint-free wipes. This substance removes dust and excess fat from the surface of the nail.

The use of the following two means is not always necessary. However, if they are not used, the durability of the coating is called into question. Both of these products are in jars, like varnishes, and are applied with a brush. A primer is needed to dehydrate nails. Bonder is a "primer".

Firstly, the primer and bonder create a layer between the nail and the next varnish coatings, that is, they protect it, as it were. Secondly, thanks to these materials, the varnish adheres more closely to the nail and adheres to it. This means that the likelihood of further chipping and peeling of the varnish is reduced.

It is important to use an acid-free primer. It's more efficient. In addition, it treats weak, brittle nails more delicately and does not cause skin irritation.

The primer is applied only to the end of the nail, and the bonder is applied to the entire nail plate.

Step-by-step instructions for applying the base for shellac

Base coats come in different densities. It is better to use a medium density base, such as rubber. Most often, the base is applied in 1 layer. If you plan to do the alignment of the nail plate, you will need 2 layers.

  1. First you need to pick up the tool on the brush and squeeze it a little.
  2. The application of the coating should begin at a short distance from the base of the nail. It is necessary to draw the brush a little forward, to the cuticle, then paint over the entire nail and “seal” the edge. It is important not to fill the cuticle and side rollers, otherwise the coating will harden. When finished applying, you need to put your hand in the lamp and polymerize the layer.
  3. The alignment procedure is done when the nail is thin, weak, flat, there are bumps. You need to pick up enough material with the brush and put a drop on the nail, placing it close to the base.
  4. Without touching the nail plate, it is necessary to easily distribute the resulting drop over the entire nail. It is important to pay attention to keeping perfect shape nail, that is, in its middle there should be some bulge.
  5. If the coating is too spread, you need to turn your hand with your fingernail down until you get the desired shape.
  6. Next, you need to put your hand back into the lamp.

Instructions for applying a colored layer

Shellac (how to properly apply a color coating, described below) should be done in several layers. It is difficult to say their exact number, as it depends on the shade. Usually a minimum of 2 coats is required. In this case, the color will be saturated and pleasing to the eye.

First you need to cover the entire nail with shellac. The layer should be very thin and almost transparent.


How to apply shellac step by step instructions

It is important to get close to the cuticle, but not to flood it, otherwise the manicure will look sloppy. Then the coating polymerizes. The 2nd and subsequent layers are applied in the same way.

Applying the top coat step by step

The final coating is applied at the very end of the manicure, when both the coating and the design are ready. Only 1 dense layer is required without bumps and bubbles.

First you need to draw a little money on the brush and remove the excess from it on the neck of the package. Further, the coating is evenly distributed throughout the nail. At the very end, it is necessary to seal the edge, as it happened when applying the base. To do this, you need to brush along the edge of the nail. If you skip this step, the durability of the manicure is no longer guaranteed, as the varnish may begin to peel off.

After polymerization, the so-called sticky layer must be removed. To do this, you need to type a degreaser on a lint-free cloth and blot your nails with it until they become smooth to the touch.

Common mistakes when applying shellac

For beginners, the typical mistakes that are made when creating a shellac manicure seem insignificant. However, these little things affect the quality and how long the coating will last without chipping.

  1. Insufficient nail preparation. For example, a degreaser was not used, the nail plate was poorly polished with a buff, before the manicure, the hands were treated with cuticle oil or nourishing cream.
  2. Using an acid primer that damages nails.
  3. Shellac is applied in a thick layer, not a thin layer. In this case, it can polymerize unevenly, swell.
  4. The base and subsequent funds have flowed over the side rollers and onto the cuticle. It is important to bear in mind that when drying, varnishes can expand and spread over the nail.
  5. The packaging of shellac or other products was shaken before use. This can create unwanted bubbles. Before use, the bottle of varnish should be gently rotated between the palms, and not shaken.
  6. The packaging of shellac or other products was left open after use or was in the light, the sun's rays fell on it. In this case, the gel polish may lose its properties and deteriorate.
  7. The end of the nail was not sealed when applying the base and top. This threatens to peel off the coating.

How to make a French design with shellac?

The beginning of the procedure is standard: nails are being prepared. Next, you need to apply the base, and on top of it - a nude shade of shellac, camouflage. Suitable light pink tones or colors under the skin. All layers are polymerized.

The most difficult thing in French design is drawing a strip called a smile. There are special brushes for her drawing, but not every craftswoman finds them convenient. You can also use stencils, but it is not always possible to predict how the varnish will behave: it can flow under the paper or blur when it is torn off. That is why it is better to draw a smile by hand.

To make a smile, you should draw it, starting from each edge. You can rely on the natural smile of the nail. You can also first outline the outline, and only then fill it with color. At the end of the drawing, the hands are placed in the lamp, then the top is applied.

How to apply a pattern to shellac?

Drawings and patterns are applied with a separate thin brush or a special tool called dots. Depending on the desired result drawing can be done on top of the base or color layer.

The drawing itself depends on the imagination of the author. You can just dot dots, you can draw swirls, flowers or even more complex compositions. In any case, you need to carefully consider all the elements so that in the process of work it is already clear what to do.

You can draw not only with shellac, but also acrylic paints. In this case, the nails after applying the base or color layer must be treated with a degreaser.

If drawing by hand seems too complicated for you, you can use a stamping kit or special stencils. However, care must be taken so that the varnish does not spread.

Rubbing design

Rubbing is a sparkling pigment that, as the name implies, is rubbed into the nails before applying the top coat. Bright tones are best applied on a dark substrate, but gentle shades give a light manicure a pearly glow.

After polymerization of the colored layer, the sticky layer is not erased. After typing a certain amount of rubbing on the pusher or on a special fan brush, you need to pour the material directly onto the nails. Next, use your fingers or an applicator (as for eye shadow) to rub the pigment into your nails. The main thing is that there are no bulges and bumps, otherwise they will be visible with rubbing.

Finally, you need to apply a top coat. Excess rubbing that remains on the skin around the nail can subsequently be washed off with water.

Kamifubuki design

Kamifubuki are large, rounded sequins. They come in various colors, and in some sets 2-3 shades that match each other are selected at once.

After polymerization of colored shellac, a top coat is applied, but hands do not fit into the lamp. While the top is still wet, place kamifubuki on your nails.

4They can be moved with a toothpick, needle or dots on the nail plate to create a harmonious composition. After applying sequins, dry the layer. Then another layer of top coat is applied on top of it to secure the design.

Monochrome design

A monophonic manicure is a classic and the simplest type of design. This is the most advantageous option if you want shellac to look strict and restrained, and not pretentious.

Monochrome design can be diluted with rhinestones and sparkles, decorating one finger on each hand with them. You can also dilute the colors by using an additional shade, for example, on the ring fingers.

In essence, a monochrome design is just a layer of color without any additional gimmicks. That is why this manicure is ideal for beginners.

What other simple designs for beginners are there?

Rhinestones and broths

From rhinestones, you can make both a minimalistic design and a voluminous, luxurious composition - a matter of taste. The technology for creating decor with rhinestones or broths is very similar to the design with kamifubuki.

A top is applied over the colored layer, in which rhinestones are placed. Only after that the manicure is dried. Then the top coat is again applied on top, which, however, does not "drown" the stones in itself. It is necessary to bypass the rhinestones with a brush. After that, the layer polymerizes.

Foil

Foil for manicure is sold in special rolls or "booklets". It can be applied both to the entire nail, and to its individual fragments.

After applying the top coat, it is not necessary to remove the sticky layer. It is necessary to cut off a small piece of foil and attach it to the nail, press it with your fingers. Then the material comes off, and the pattern should have been transferred to the nail plate. At the end of the procedure, a finishing layer is applied.

Matte finish

Finishes are not only glossy, but also matte. The matte design will look beautiful both on a monochrome coating and on top of rubbing and foil.

How to distinguish fake shellac?

The original shellac from a fake can be distinguished by the external characteristics of the package. Print quality on counterfeit material is usually worse: the label is too glossy, the font is washed out.

In addition, the composition is not indicated. Fakes often have a very unpleasant odor. You should be wary already if the gel polish of a famous brand is sold at a very low price, which does not match the cost in other stores.

How to remove shellac at home?

To remove gel polish, you will need the following materials:

  • buff or file;
  • 10 lint-free wipes;
  • 10 pieces of food foil;
  • orange stick;
  • shellac remover.

First you need to walk on the nails with a buff or file until the gloss disappears. Then lint-free wipes soaked with gel polish remover are placed on the nails. All fingers are tightly wrapped in foil. When 10-15 minutes have elapsed, the foil should be removed.

By this point, the varnish should have softened and started peeling off. Following the growth of the nails, remove the varnish with an orange stick. Finally, you can sand your nails again with a buff to remove any remaining shellac.

Causes of nail damage after shellac removal

During the removal of gel polish, it is very easy to damage your nails if a pusher or any other metal tool was used instead of an orange stick. Such things injure the nail plate.

If, when removing shellac, you move against the growth of nails or press too hard on the tool, the nails may begin to exfoliate.

Care for restoring nails after shellac

There are several ways to restore nails after wearing gel polish:


If you follow the above tips for applying shellac correctly, you can achieve an excellent manicure. However, we should not forget how important practice and the use of quality materials and tools are in this matter.

Article formatting: Vladimir the Great

Video about shellac extensions

Where to start making shellac:

In the process of learning to apply gel polish, certain mistakes are inevitably made that upset novice masters. Let's take a closer look at them so that your home experiments and creativity bring only positive results and impressions!

Preparing nails for a manicure with gel polish: what you need to pay attention to. Top 10 Newbie Mistakes.

Careful and high-quality preparation of nails will help the master quickly and correctly apply a color coating, as well as ensure good adhesion of the nail with subsequent layers of applied materials. Unfortunately, mistakes happen at this stage in the work of both experienced craftsmen and first-time buyers. What are the consequences of the shortcomings made in the processing of marigolds and the application of materials for degreasing, cleansing, dehydration and improving adhesion?
  • Mistake #1: the base for gel polish lay down with sagging.
Cause: you have not completely removed the old coating. It is necessary to carefully cut off or all the layers of the previous design, so that the layer of the new one fits perfectly on the nail and evens out all the grooves and cavities.

  • Mistake #2: microbubbles and mini-voids are visible in the layer of the polymerized base.
Cause: in progress unedged manicure you have not completely removed the cuticle, pterygium and eponychium. During the baking process, microgaps formed between the layer of the nail and the particles of the skin remaining on the nail. When wearing this design, detachments at the cuticle and cracks may form due to water getting under the base layer.
  • Mistake #3: the color coating peeled off the nail, starting from the base layer.
Cause: this is due to the fact that the master could skip the step of removing the upper keratin layer. Buffy nail, it is important not to damage it. Do not exert significant force when pressing the tool on the nails and observe the correct direction of movement. Correctly buff from the cuticle to the free edge, with light movements.
The same picture is observed if instead of a buff, . He will make the nail instead of rough - smooth, and the coating on the nail simply will not hold.

  • Mistake #4: under a layer of gel polish, cracks formed in the nail plate, which led to the breaking of the nail.
Cause: the result of cracks and chips of the nail was the thinning of the natural nail due to too intensive grinding. Another extreme - insufficiently good treatment of the nail with a buff - can be peeling of the coating due to peeling keratin scales not completely removed by the master.
  • Mistake #5: gel polish peels off with a whole plate.
Cause: particles of pterygium remained unnoticed on the nail, and delaminations were not removed on the free edge. With the subsequent regrowth and exfoliation of the pterygium, the gel coating also departs from the keratin of the natural nail. The ongoing delamination of the natural nail in depth (under the gel polish) leads to detachment of the manicure from the side of the butt.

  • Mistake #6: shellac and gel polish chip off a lot a few days after coating.
Cause: this phenomenon can have three reasons at once - the periungual ridges and the surface of the nail are bad; the application step was skipped; you touched the nail after degreasing and before removing stickiness from . How to solve this problem?
  • Degrease the nail in stages: disinfect your nails and hands with a spray or foam. Next - remove the fat from the nails, and at the end, treat the nails and side rollers;
  • Do not skip the application of an acid-free primer. It is advisable to use the product of the same manufacturer as the base for gel polish. Thus, you guarantee maximum adhesion of the base and the natural nail;
  • Try not to let your fingers touch the treated nails. If such an incident occurs, re-treat the surface with a lint-free puff.
  • Mistake #7: the coating cracks and breaks off in small pieces.
Cause: you could not sufficiently clean the nail from dust (sawdust), dirt and sebum (poorly treated the surface with a degreaser or used a substitute containing oil instead).

  • Mistake #8: in natural nails, even without blows, cracks formed up to the flesh.
Cause: nails suffered from overdrying. You or the master may have used improper preparations (alcohol, acetone, thinner) for cleaning and degreasing. Their regular use without subsequent treatment of nails or leads to weakening, deep dehydration and thinning of natural nails.
  • Mistake #9: when using the base immediately on the dried primer (the quality of both preparations is good and the expiration date has not expired), after a few days your coating is still chipped and peeled off.
Cause: if you have gone through all the other options and excluded, remember: do you remove the remnants of the degreaser from the nail with ordinary cotton pads. You can't do this. The disks leave villi invisible to the eye, which worsen the application of coatings and lead to loss of aesthetics of the manicure. Residual traces of oil or cream that have not been removed are also contraindicated in gel polish (they also need to be thoroughly “washed off” from the nails with a gentle degreaser). Also check the quality of degreasing. If you applied the base, dried it and see bald spots, repeat the application of the base and be sure to seal the end of the nail.

  • Mistake #10: your client has long, but thin nails, the length of which you mutually decided not to remove.
Cause: gel polish certainly shields nails from external negative influences, but cannot 100% eliminate the risk of cracks and chips. The coating retains elasticity on the nail. And if the nail plate bends and breaks, the same will happen with the nail. Hence the deep cracks of the nail and the shellac itself. The way to fix the problem is to pre-strengthen the nails or correct the length.

The process of creating a design with shellac and gel polish. TOP 10 common mistakes and how to fix them.

If you managed to carry out the process of preparing nails for shellac, avoiding all the pitfalls, do not lose vigilance! Creating an image and decorating it with a design also has its own subtleties and interesting life hacks.

  • Mistake #1: you carefully painted your nails with a thin layer, but after drying in the lamp, you found cured streaks.
Cause: when you or the client put your hand into the lamp, you could keep your fingers tilted all the time drying. Capricious or very liquid gel polishes in this case could flow into the side rollers and onto the cuticle. You can solve this problem with gel polish remover, a lint-free wipe, and a bevelled edge. When you paint a nail, paint over the surface, avoiding lateral ridges and cuticles, but do not allow gaps.
  • Mistake #2: The new gel polish is chipping and cracking, although the design is covered with a heavy top.
Cause: this phenomenon may be due to the use of an expired top, a conflict of coatings (color and top), the use of a finish of poor quality.

  • Mistake #3: colored shellac deformed after drying, bubbles and voids are visible in the coating. The shelf life of the gel polish is in order, purchased from a reliable seller with a quality guarantee.
Cause: the coating was applied too thickly or did not dry long enough in or . Remember: the main rule of manicure with resistant polymer coatings is the imposition of thin layers, squeezing the brush with excess on the neck of the bottle, following the recommendations of manufacturers on the timing of polymerization of materials.
Another common reason is that you vigorously shook the bottle of gel polish before application, which led to the formation of air bubbles in the thickness of the material. the right way lifting the color pigment from the bottom is rolling the bubble from the gel polishes between the palms.
  • Mistake #4: your manicure is chipped and cracked, although you know for sure that the gel polish is of high quality and is stored in compliance with all rules and sanitary requirements.
Cause: if the culprit is not shellac, look into your UV or LED lamp. If your machine is brand new, there may be a manufacturing defect. For a device that has been used for a long time, it makes sense to check and replace them if the useful life is exceeded.

  • Mistake #5: when applying layers, you do not smear the free edge of the nail with a brush.
Cause: The secret of longevity of shellac manicure is the tightness of all layers. If you neglect to seal, any of the layers of the applied base, color, top can peel off under the influence of water, housework or careless handling of the manicure.
  • Mistake #6: you love to create manicures by mixing colors and creating unique shades. However, despite all the tricks, the coating lasts less than 14 days.
Cause: Mixing colors from different brands, or using a base, top, color, primer and dehydrator from different manufacturers may differ in poor wear. It is not in vain that brands recommend a “family” approach to buying materials for gel polish manicure. The fact is that the formulas of all products for manicure with shellac are designed in such a way that their components complement each other and ensure maximum durability of the design.

  • Mistake #7: your manicure shows record wearing times, but decor elements quickly chip off, become cloudy or peel off.
Cause: the secret of high-quality fixing of the decor is fixing the second layer of the top, which is often not done by beginners. For, especially large ones, it will be good to smear the gaps between the crystals with the top. And for or it is extremely important to observe the terms of drying in the lamp. A thick layered design should not dry for less than 3 minutes on the final layer of the top. An excellent solution for the master will be such well-proven top coatings as well as. Their thick rich texture is specially designed for extra-strong fixation of decor and reliable protection of manicure.
  • Mistake #8: you use both brand new finishes and expired and near-expiring materials in the same design.
Cause: it is undesirable to use old gel polishes in manicure. From the time the bottle is opened, the texture of the product changes, shellac can be applied in thick layers. When they dry, air pockets form, leading to inevitable detachments.

  • Mistake #9: you apply gel polish and shellac on nails with a length of "under zero", and clients soon complain about chips and cracks.
Cause: practicing masters advise not to apply gel polish on nails that are too short. Either increase the minimum length by , or advise the client to come for a manicure as soon as at least a small free edge grows. The fact is that the contact of the edge of the nail with the pillows of the fingers is fraught with the transfer of subcutaneous fat, traces of household chemicals and sweat from them. If the nails themselves do not wear shellac well, such contact with sweat-fat secretions will inevitably lead to detachments.
  • Mistake #10: your client has little time to design and you are in a hurry to create a ready-made image quickly, without respecting the required number of layers, their drying time and the density of the applied materials.
Cause: an image created in a hurry will not please you with longevity. Nails need to be painted slowly and carefully, lightly coat the ends on each layer. If you are working with a UV lamp, dry the layers for at least two minutes each. For greater durability (especially with problematic nails), the base and color should be applied in two layers each, and with a voluminous and textured decor, re-cover the manicure and top.

How to properly handle gel polish nails immediately after creating a manicure: do's and don'ts.


Like a lacquer design, a manicure with shellac and gel polish requires care, care and attention. A high-quality, creative, complex design can cost a client a considerable amount, depending on the skill level of the nail-master and the place of his work. So how can you enjoy the image in pristine beauty and not end up prematurely with broken nails, a cloudy coating or an image with cracks and peeling?

It is possible and necessary after creating a gel polish image to do:

  • Regular cuticle massage with liquid or cream or lotion. This is especially true when manicure "under the cuticle." Neat and well-groomed periungual skin will help your hands look beautiful, neat and well-groomed. The slow growth rate of the cuticle and pterygium will also have a good effect on the durability of the design. Contrary to popular belief, care products will not adversely affect the wear of the coating after being completely dried in the lamp.
  • Do housework in, including cooking with foods that have a strong color pigment (beets, carrots, etc.). If you wear light shades of shellac, covered, then one day you may encounter cloudiness or the fact that the shade is dirty. The situation will be saved by a lint-free cloth and alcohol. Wipe your nails gently and enjoy renewed beauty.

  • Have you taken off your manicure and are faced with the fact that your square-shaped nails began to curl at the tips? If the problem is permanent and reappears after treatment, you will need to change the shape of the nails. However, never do this while wearing the design. Cutting or filing nails with shellac, you risk damaging your nails and restoring them for a long time.
  • Even the owners of strong and rapidly growing nails, many practicing masters advise after 3-4 designs to allow the nail plate to recover. Practice for a few weeks, or. Strengthened, moisturized and nourished nails will delight you again with high-quality wearing of shellac design, without peeling and breaking nails.

Along with positive aspects resistant manicure with gel polish, there are several significant prohibitions regarding this coating.

What absolutely can not be done if you decide to dress your hands in gel polish for 2-3 weeks?

  • Try to limit skin and nail contact without gloves with aggressive household chemicals, facials with acids in the composition, as well as with hair dyes and products containing acetone. The components of these products can adversely affect the wear time of a manicure, as well as cause clouding of the gloss or significantly change the color of the coating.
  • Treat the cover with the utmost care. Do not use gel polish nails as an opener or screwdriver, toothpick or scraper. Remember, nails under shellac retain their elasticity and increased mechanical stress is harmful to them.
  • Don't sunbathe for too long. The more intense the sun's rays, the greater the risk of fading bright shades of gel polish.
  • Do not try to adjust the regrown design yourself. This type of coverage, unlike , does not imply point correction. After 2 weeks, it is better to completely update the manicure than to tint and polish the regrown nail space.

How to properly apply gel polish on natural and artificial nails: technology, master classes and video training.

The step-by-step gel polish manicure procedure at home is not too complicated and requires only regular practice. We invite you to get acquainted with our library of training articles and master classes that reveal all the intricacies and details of design with gel polishes: We answer and share secrets.

What is the difference between performing a manicure with shellac on extended nails (on acrylic, gel, tips).

In practice, the processes of creating an image on natural and artificial nails are quite similar. The main thing you DO NOT do with extended nails is:
  • Do not use primer. High-quality degreasing and cleaning already guarantee strong adhesion of the base and acrylic or gel. Don't forget to buff the nail just a little.
  • Apply gel polish on artificial nails only once, as it will not be possible to remove the design from them to the base. And you will inevitably have to make a correction.

  • Create artificial nails as thin as possible so that the subsequently applied gel polish does not create the appearance of excessively thick and unaesthetic nails.
  • Choose designs in colors that are close to the natural color of natural nails. So visually you can briefly, but delay the day of changing the image.
  • Apply the coating in thin layers, pressing the brush against the nail. Unlike natural nails, the correction of flaws on artificial nails is fraught with violations of their adhesion to the surface of the native nail. If your experience with extended nails is not enough, it is better to entrust such a manicure to the hands of a professional.

We hope that now the bright, beautiful and alluring world of gel polishes and shellacs has become clearer and closer to you. Stylish and durable manicures for you!