When it comes to getting a manicure, two of the most popular options are dip powder nails and shellac nails. Both provide a shiny, long-lasting manicure, but there are some key differences between the two. So which one is better – dip or shellac?
What is Dip Powder?
Dip powder nails, also known as SNS or acrylic dip powder nails, are a process where powdered acrylic is applied to the nail and sealed with an activator. The process goes as follows:
- The nails are prepared and shaped.
- The nails are primed to help the powder adhere.
- Dip powder is dipped into a colored powder.
- An activator seals in the powder.
- The process is repeated until the desired nail thickness is achieved, typically 2-3 dips.
- The nails are shaped and buffed.
- A top coat is applied over the nails to seal them.
The powder used in the dipping process is an acrylic polymer powder. It hardens when the activator is applied, creating a durable, long-lasting nail coat.
What is Shellac?
Shellac nails are a type of gel manicure that uses the brand CND Shellac. The application process is:
- Nails are prepared and shaped.
- A base coat is applied.
- Colored gel polish is applied.
- The gel is cured under a UV or LED lamp.
- A top coat is applied and cured.
Shellac contains all the same ingredients as a typical gel manicure – the colored polish and base/top coats. The main difference is it is a thicker, more pigmented formula that claims to be chip resistant and long lasting.
Dip vs. Shellac – The Differences
While both dip and Shellac provide durable, long lasting manicures, there are some differences between the two:
| Difference | Dip Powder | Shellac |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Layered application using powder and liquid activator | UV gel base coat, color and top coat |
| Time | 45 min to 1 hour | 30-45 minutes |
| Feel on Nails | Slightly thicker | Thin, flexible |
| Dry Time | Immediate | Needs UV/LED light |
| Removal Process | Filing/drilling off | Soak off with acetone |
| Damage Risk | Higher risk of damage during removal | Lower risk, easy soak off |
| Cost | $$ | $$$ |
The Pros of Dip Powder Nails
There are several advantages to choosing dip powder nails:
- Quick dry time – No need to sit under a UV or LED lamp. The activator dries the nails in minutes.
- Durable – Dip powder is thick and strong. It resists chips, cracks and smudges.
- Long lasting – A dip manicure can last 3-4 weeks with proper care.
- Thick nails – Great for people who want an extra thick manicure.
- Glossy finish – Dip powders provide a super shiny, glass-like finish.
- Natural look – With simple nude colors, dip can look very natural.
- Hides imperfections – The thick coats conceal imperfect nails well.
- Less costly – Dip powder is less expensive than gel or acrylic.
Cons of Dip Nails
Some downsides to consider with dip powder include:
- Thick nails – While some love the thickness, it can feel heavy and unnatural.
- Brittle nails – Frequent dip use can weaken natural nails over time.
- Difficult removal – Removing dip often requires drilling/filing which risks nail damage.
- Rough texture – Dip powder has a grittier feel compared to gel or acrylic.
- Prone to lifting – Poor application can cause lifting at the tip.
- Salon services only – It’s nearly impossible to do quality dip at home.
The Pros of Shellac Nails
Here are the benefits of choosing Shellac gel polish:
- Thin and flexible – Shellac has a thin, flexible feel compared to thick dip powder.
- Chip resistant – Shellac is formulated to be extremely chip and scratch resistant.
- No UV light required – Shellac can air dry, though it may take longer than curing.
- Soak-off removal – No drilling required! Shellac easily soaks off with acetone.
- Less damaging – The removal process is less likely to damage the natural nails.
- Bold colors – Shellac comes in very vivid, pigmented shades.
- Mirrored glass finish – Shellac has an extremely glossy, glass-like finish.
- Do-it-yourself option – At-home Shellac kits are available for DIY manicures.
Cons of Shellac
Some downsides of Shellac gel polish include:
- UV light required – Most Shellac applications require curing under a UV or LED lamp.
- Less durable – Shellac is not as thick or long lasting as acrylics or dip powder.
- Longer process – Base coat, color layers and top coat with drying time extends the process.
- Can’t be thinned – If you want a thin nail look, Shellac isn’t for you.
- Higher cost – Shellac costs $5-$15 more per service than dip or traditional polish.
- Harsh chemicals – The acetone remover can be drying to the nails and skin.
- Higher skill needed for DIY – It’s easy to mess up at-home Shellac.
Nail Health Considerations
Both dip and Shellac require removal that can potentially weaken natural nails over time. To maintain nail health:
- Take breaks between manicures to give nails a rest.
- Use cuticle oil daily to keep nails hydrated.
- Use a glass file to gently shape nails.
- Alternate dip and Shellac manicures.
- Get proper removal – don’t pick or peel off polish.
- Keep free edges short to avoid lifting and cracking.
Conclusion
In the battle of dip vs. Shellac, there’s no clear cut winner. The right option comes down to personal preference.
Dip powder nails are ideal for people who want an ultra-thick, durable manicure. The quick application and long wear of dip makes it a great choice.
Shellac gel polish is best for those wanting a thin, flexible nail look. The glossy finish and easy removal also make Shellac a top choice. Shellac offers a wider variety of color options as well.
To decide between dip and Shellac:
- Consider the thickness – do you want thin and flexible, or thick and durable nails?
- Factor in salon costs if you’ll be getting professional manicures.
- Choose dip for a long wear, damage-resistant manicure.
- Pick Shellac for glossy, photo-ready nails.
Both dip powder and Shellac give beautiful, long lasting results. Evaluate your individual needs and preferences to decide which one is right for your next manicure!