French shellac manicure is a type of semi-permanent nail polish that combines the properties of gel and nail polish. It is a hybrid nail polish and gel, which is half polish and half gel. The ingredients in shellac manicures are like pre-mixed acrylics, and they undergo a chemical reaction once they are cured with a UV lamp. Shellac nail polish is a mixture of methacrylate monomers and radical initiators (Benzoyl peroxide) . When these two mix under the UV light, they create a Radical polymerization process. The composition of the Shellac nail polish is very similar to gel nail polish but just a little different since it’s just a polish and not an actual nail.
Positive aspects of French shellac manicure:
- It is a long-lasting nail polish that can last up to two weeks without chipping.
- It dries quickly under a UV lamp.
- It is easy to remove with acetone nail varnish remover.
Negative aspects of French shellac manicure:
- The removal process can weaken the nails if not done correctly.
- It requires a UV lamp to cure the polish, which can be harmful to the skin if not used properly.
- Some salons may use MMA products from Asia instead of genuine Shellac, which is toxic.
Ingredients or materials:
- Shellac nail polish is a mixture of methacrylate monomers and radical initiators (Benzoyl peroxide) .
- Ethyl acetate (sugar cane extract) and butyl acetate (cassava extract) are used in Manucurist Green Flash LED Gel Nail Polish.
In summary, French shellac manicure is a semi-permanent nail polish that combines the properties of gel and nail polish. It is a long-lasting nail polish that dries quickly under a UV lamp. However, it requires a UV lamp to cure the polish, which can be harmful to the skin if not used properly. Genuine Shellac is safe, but some salons may use MMA products from Asia instead of genuine Shellac, which is toxic.