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To remove shellac nail polish at home safely without damage, gently file the top coat, soak cotton balls in acetone, place them on your nails, wrap with foil for 10–15 minutes, and gently push the polish off. Avoid scraping or peeling to keep your nails healthy.
Removing shellac nail polish at home without damaging your natural nails is simple when done correctly. Start by lightly filing the top coat, then use acetone-soaked cotton and foil wraps to gently lift the polish without scraping or peeling.
If done wrong, shellac removal can lead to brittle, thin, or even cracked nails. At Bela Beauty College, we believe beauty begins with safe, informed practices—and that includes proper polish removal at home. Below is your expert-backed, step-by-step guide to do it safely and effectively.
What Is Shellac Nails? Pros, Cons, and How It Differs from Gel is a common question among those exploring long-lasting manicures. Shellac is a hybrid nail coating made by CND, combining the ease of polish with the durability of gel. Unlike standard nail polish, it’s cured under a UV light to lock it in place.
Shellac vs Gel Polish: While both require UV curing, gel is thicker and harder to remove. Shellac is thinner, offering a more natural look — perfect for those who want lasting color without the weight.
CND Shellac: Developed by Creative Nail Design, it was the first polish of its kind and quickly became a salon staple.
Long-Lasting Nail Polish Types: Shellac lasts up to 14 days without chipping, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
UV-Cured Polish: This curing step makes removal trickier but gives Shellac its signature durability and shine.
Hybrid Nail Coatings: These blends of gel and polish make Shellac a go-to for those seeking strength and beauty without the bulk or commitment of traditional gels.
Removing shellac improperly can damage the nail bed and cuticles, leaving your nails weak and prone to peeling.
Before starting, gather everything you need for a safe and effective at-home removal.
Avoid metal tools—they can scratch the nail plate and lead to long-term damage.
Follow this method to protect your nails while removing shellac polish at home.
Avoid peeling, scraping, or rushing.
Sensitive skin? There are gentler ways to remove shellac polish.
These alternatives work best if you don’t mind a longer process.
Mistakes can cost your nail health—here’s what not to do:
Be patient—your nails will thank you.
Your nails need TLC after removal.
A few trusted options to make removal safer and healing faster:
Look for acetone formulas with added conditioners like aloe or vitamin E.
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