Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the female lac bug, primarily found on trees in the forests of India and Thailand. It is composed mainly of natural acids and waxes. The resin is collected by scraping it off the tree branches where the bugs form a protective secretion. After collection, it's processed into dry flakes and dissolved in alcohol to create liquid shellac. Shellac has a wide range of uses. It is traditionally used as a wood finish, acting as a primer, sealant, stain blocker, and high-gloss varnish. It was historically used for phonograph records and electrical insulation due to its good insulating properties. Shellac also serves as a food glaze (confectioner's glaze), coating for pharmaceuticals and candy, and is used in cosmetics, nail polish, hair products, dental products, printing inks, art and craft, and bookbinding. Its film finish builds a thin protective layer, similar to lacquer or polyurethane. Shellac is considered a natural thermoplastic, meaning it softens with heat and hardens at room temperature, and it is classified as a natural form of plastic. It's known for its glossy finish and ability to be touched up easily by applying another coat. However, it scratches more easily than many synthetic finishes and requires more labor- intensive application. Ethically, since it is derived from insects, products containing shellac are not considered vegan or animal-free. In summary, shellac is a versatile, natural resin used primarily as a wood finish and a protective, glossy coating in various industries, derived from the secretions of the lac bug.
