It’s a question that’s been asked time and time again: do shellac nails need UV light? While the answer may seem obvious at first glance, there’s actually a bit more to it than you might think.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at shellac nails and UV light. We’ll answer the question: do shellac nails need UV light? And we’ll also provide some tips on how to properly care for your shellac nails.
Read on to learn more about shellac nails and UV light.
What Are Shellac Nails?
Shellac is a type of gel polish that was created by CND (Creative Nail Design). It’s become increasingly popular over the last few years because it offers the durability of a gel manicure without the need to soak off the polish.
Shellac nails are applied like regular nail polish, but they require curing under a UV or LED light. This process helps to set the polish and increase its longevity.
The Pros and Cons of Shellac Nails
There are a few advantages and disadvantages to shellac nails. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Shellac nails are very durable. They can last up to two weeks without chipping or peeling.
- Shellac nails have a high-gloss finish that looks great.
- Shellac nails are easy to remove. The polish can simply be peeled off when you’re ready to take it off.
Cons
- Shellac nails require a UV or LED light for curing. This means that you’ll need to go to a salon to get them done.
- Shellac nails can be more expensive than regular nail polish.
- Shellac nails can be damaging to nails if they’re not removed properly.
So, Do Shellac Nails Need UV Light?
The answer is yes and no. Shellac nails can technically be cured without UV light, but the curing process will take much longer (up to twice as long). Additionally, not curing under UV light can result in a weaker bond between the polish and the nail, which means your manicure won’t last as long.
If you’re looking to get a shellac manicure, we recommend finding a salon that uses UV light for curing. This will help ensure that your nails are properly cured and that your manicure lasts for the full two weeks.
How UV Light Affects Shellac Nails
UV light is used in shellac nails to help cure the polish. This process helps to set the polish and increase its longevity.
However, too much exposure to UV light can cause the yellowing of the nails. If you notice that your shellac nails are starting to yellow, we recommend reducing the amount of time you spend under the UV light.
Additionally, UV light can also cause the nails to become brittle and dry. To help combat this, we recommend using a nourishing nail oil or cuticle cream on your nails after they’ve been exposed to UV light.
Are There Any Side Effects of UV Light?
While UV light is generally safe, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of. These include yellowing of the nails, brittle and dry nails, and possible skin cancer.
If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of UV light, we recommend using sunscreen on your hands and nails before you expose them to UV light. We also recommend wearing gloves while you’re under UV light to help protect your skin.
What if I Don’t Have UV Light?
If you don’t have access to UV light, you can still cure your shellac nails. The process will just take longer (up to twice as long). Additionally, not curing under UV light can result in a weaker bond between the polish and the nail, which means your manicure won’t last as long.
If you’re looking to get a shellac manicure, we recommend finding a salon that uses UV light for curing. This will help ensure that your nails are properly cured and that your manicure lasts for the full two weeks.
Caring for Your Shellac Nails
Proper care is essential for keeping your shellac nails looking their best. We recommend the following tips:
- Avoid exposing your nails to water for at least the first 24 hours after they’ve been shellacked. This will help the polish to properly set and adhere to your nails.
- After 24 hours, you can gently wash your hands with soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing your nails too vigorously.
- Be careful with your hands. Dishwashing, cleaning, and other activities can put stress on your nails and cause them to chip or break. If you’re doing activities that could damage your nails, we recommend wearing gloves.
- Be sure to moisturize your hands and nails daily. This will help to keep your nails healthy and prevent the polish from drying out.
- Avoid picking at or peeling off your shellac nails. This can damage your nails and cause the polish to lift prematurely.
- Avoid using your nails as tools. Opening cans, picking at things, and typing on your keyboard can all shorten the lifespan of your manicure.
- Avoid exposure to UV light. Too much exposure to UV light can cause the yellowing of the nails. If you notice that your nails are starting to yellow, reduce the amount of time you spend under the UV light.
- If you need to remove your shellac nails, we recommend going to a professional salon. Trying to remove the polish at home can damage your nails.
Taking care of your shellac nails is essential for keeping them looking their best. By following the tips above, you can help ensure that your nails stay healthy and that your manicure lasts for the full two weeks.
Conclusion
As a hairstylist, we recommend using a UV light for curing shellac nails. This will help ensure that your nails are properly cured and that your manicure lasts for the full two weeks.
Additionally, be sure to follow the tips above for proper care of your shellac nails.
Do you have any questions about shellac nails or UV light? Let us know in the comments below!
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