Shellac or gel? Simply explained: Which suits you better?
Here you will learn what the difference is and which method suits you better.
Do you want beautiful nails that last and look great? Then you've probably heard of Shellac and gel nails .
But which is actually better? And what's the difference?
In this article, I'll explain everything step by step so you can make the right decision.
💅 What is Shellac?
Shellac is a hybrid of nail polish and gel. It is applied like regular polish but cured under a UV or LED lamp.
Shellac is thin, glossy, and lasts for about 2–3 weeks without chipping easily.
✅ Advantages of Shellac:
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Looks very natural
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It's quick – ideal if you're short on time
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Easy to remove (with remover)
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Perfect for everyday use or vacation
❌ Disadvantages of Shellac:
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Doesn't last as long as gel
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Less stable for brittle nails
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Not suitable for nail extensions
💅 What are gel nails?
Gel nails are more stable and robust. The gel is applied in multiple layers and cured under a lamp.
This allows you to extend nails and create creative designs.
✅ Advantages of gel nails:
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Very strong and stable
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Lasts up to 3-4 weeks
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Ideal for long or brittle nails
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Many possibilities for creative designs
❌ Disadvantages of gel nails:
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Takes longer to apply
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Must be filed down – removal is more complex
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A little more difficult for beginners
🔍 Shellac vs. Gel Nails – The Direct Comparison
| Theme | Shellac | Gel nails |
|---|---|---|
| durability | 2–3 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Application | Quick & easy | More complex |
| distance | With remover | Filing necessary |
| Nail extensions | No | And |
| Design options | Less choice | Many possibilities |
| For beginners | Very suitable | A little heavier |
💡 Who is Shellac more suitable for?
Shellac is right for you if you:
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have short to medium-length nails
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like it simple and quick
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want a natural look
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want to do your nails yourself at home
💡 Who are gel nails better suited for?
Gel nails are ideal if you:
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have long or brittle nails
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want special shapes or designs
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need extra strong nails
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want them to last a particularly long time
🔗 Combining Shellac and gel – is that possible?
Yes! Many people combine both:
For example, gel for length and stability, and shellac on top for color and shine.
This way, you get the best of both worlds.
🏠 At home or in the studio?
| Location | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| At home | Cheaper, flexible | Requires practice and good products |
| nail salon | Professional result, no work | More expensive, appointment necessary |
✅ Conclusion – Which is better?
Both methods have their advantages – it depends on what you want:
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Simple, fast, natural? ➝ Shellac
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Long, strong, creative nails? ➝ Gel nails
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Both? ➝ Combine gel & shellac
No matter what you choose: Take good care of your nails, use nail oil, and treat them with care every day – then they'll stay beautiful for a long time! ✨
