Shellac is a hybrid between classic nail polish and gel. It is applied thinly like normal polish but cures completely under a lamp within seconds. The result is a thin, flexible and highly durable layer that neither builds up nor extends the natural nail – unlike a nail enhancement. A typical process includes pushing back the cuticles, lightly buffing the nail surface, base coat, two colour coats and a top coat, each layer cured individually.
A treatment takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on prep. Afterwards the nails are immediately dry and smudge-free – a big advantage over conventional polish, which stays vulnerable for hours. The colour barely fades and shines until removal. Regrowth of the natural nail becomes visible at the cuticle after two to three weeks, at which point a new appointment is due.
Shellac suits anyone wanting long-lasting, low-maintenance colour without a thick build-up – for holidays, weddings or simply everyday life without daily touch-ups. Correct removal matters: the polish is soaked with acetone remover in foil or clips and gently pushed off, never scraped or peeled, as this takes off the top nail layer and leaves nails thin and brittle.
In Switzerland a Shellac treatment on the hands typically costs CHF 45 to 70, or CHF 60 to 90 combined with a manicure (no guarantee). Removing an old layer is often charged separately at CHF 10 to 20 if no new Shellac is applied.