A summer vacation means out with the boots and in with the flip-flops. All of a sudden our feet are exposed for the world to see, so it’s essential they look groomed and cared-for. While manicures and pedicures leave our hands and feet looking instantly prettier, unfortunately the nail polish doesn’t always survive the wear and tear of a vacation.
On vacation you are far more active than you would be at home, and the sun, sea and sand will quickly leave them looking dull and faded. The last thing you want to worry about is having to re-do your chipped nails. Not only is it annoying having to pack nail polish remover, a nail kit, cotton wool and your favourite colour, it’s also frustrating having to spend time fixing them when you could be out having fun in the sun!
We were super excited when we discovered CND Shellac; a nail polish that promises high-gloss finish, ZERO dry time and 14+ days of superior color, allowing you to completely forget about your nails during your 2-week vacation.
What is Shellac?
Shellac nail polish is a patent pending UV technology created by Creative Nail Design, which is applied like nail polish but has the permanence of a gel. It comes in a wide range of colours and the colour is supposed to withstand chips and knocks, lasting over 2 weeks.
How is Shellac Nail Polish applied?
Shellac nails must be done at a nail salon- you can use the salon locator to find a salon local to you. Firstly your nails are shaped and cuticles pushed back, then a Base Coat is applied, followed by a Color Coat and Top Coat. The difference between Shellac and a normal manicure, however, is that between each coat, you put your hands under a UV light for between 30-60 seconds. When you remove your nails, they are completely DRY! So no blowing on them or risk of smudging!
The company says that Shellac removal will not damage the natural nail as long as you follow their correct protocol. There should be no filing of the natural nail for application of removal, and no soaking your nails in bowls of acetone. CND also recommends using SolarOil™ daily to keep your nails in good condition.
CND Shellac can last longer than 2 weeks, but you will start to notice a line as your nail grows out from the cuticle.
How is it Removed?
Shellac nail polish can be removed in just 10 minutes by a trained nail professional at the salon, but you shouldn’t remove it yourself at home. They will use CND Shellac remover wraps, which promote fast, gentle removal of the polish.
How to Spot a Phony
The important thing is to make sure you are not receiving an ‘imitation’ Shellac treatment when you go to the salon, so make sure you know how to spot a fake. Look for the CND Shellac certified salon logo, and use the salon locator to find a salon in your area. Ask them if they use real Shellac products, and watch to make sure they are using them.
Do you use Shellac, and if so, would you recommend it? Leave your comments below.
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