Shellac Manicure vs Acrylic: What’s the Difference?

When choosing between a shellac manicure and acrylic nails, the decision comes down to durability, finish, cost, and upkeep.

Shellac blends gel and nail polish for a natural look that’s chip-resistant, while acrylics build structure and length using a liquid-and-powder overlay. 

This article breaks down the differences, pros and cons, and expert advice so you can pick the right option for your lifestyle.

What is a Shellac Manicure?

A shellac manicure is a hybrid polish developed by CND that combines gel technology with traditional nail lacquer. It is applied like polish but cured under a UV or LED lamp, creating a glossy, chip-resistant finish.

Shellac feels natural, requires no sculpting, and is perfect for clients who prefer a neat, professional look without heavy extensions.

What are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are created by blending liquid monomer with powder polymer to form a hard protective layer over the natural nail or an extension tip. They provide strength, durability, and the ability to add dramatic length or intricate nail art.

Acrylics are especially suited for people who want long-lasting enhancements or have naturally weaker nails.

Shellac vs Acrylic: Detailed Comparison

Here's the comparison table between shellac manicure vs acrylic nails:

Feature	Shellac Manicure	Acrylic Nails
Application Method	Applied like polish and cured under UV/LED light	Mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer sculpted on nail
Look & Finish	Glossy, natural, thin layer	Structured, durable, can be long or shaped
Durability	Lasts 10–14 days with minimal chipping	Lasts 2–3 weeks with infills
Strength	Medium strength, best for healthy natural nails	Very strong, ideal for extending weak nails
Customisation	Available in a wide range of colours	Highly customisable: length, shape, nail art
Removal	Soaked off with acetone in 5–10 minutes	Filed down or soaked, requires professional care
Cost	Lower price point, usually $40–$60	Higher cost, usually $60–$100+ depending on design
Best For	Professionals, minimal maintenance, natural look	Clients wanting durability, length, and bold styles

 

DIY vs Salon: Which Is Better?

Many people consider trying shellac or acrylic nails at home, but results vary greatly.

Here’s how DIY compares to visiting a professional salon like J.Aesthetic in Sydney.

Aspect	DIY at Home	At J.Aesthetic Salon
Application Quality	Inconsistent, risk of uneven finish	Flawless, salon-quality finish with expert technique
Product Safety	Unverified products, possible damage to nail bed	Premium, safe, CND-certified and professional-grade products
Durability	Shorter lasting, higher chance of chipping or lifting	Long-lasting, properly cured, less risk of breakage
Removal	Risk of over-filing or peeling layers off	Gentle, professional removal protecting natural nails
Cost	Cheaper upfront, higher risk of nail damage	Affordable with long-term value, reduced repair costs

 

At J.Aesthetic, the salon experience is calibrated for flawless results and nail health.

• For acrylic lovers, the Acrylic Nails Service in Sydney delivers tailored full sets and infills with premium products, balanced apex structure, and custom shapes (square, almond, coffin) for strength and symmetry.
• For a natural, polished look, the Manicure Service in Sydney features meticulous cuticle care, shaping, and Shellac colour options, finished with a relaxing hand massage and moisturiser for a camera-ready gloss.

FAQs: Shellac Manicure vs Acrylic

It’s natural to have questions when deciding between shellac manicures and acrylic nails.

To make the choice easier, here are clear answers to the most common queries clients often ask.

How long do shellac and acrylic manicures last?

Shellac typically wears for 10–14 days with proper prep and aftercare. Acrylic enhancements last 2–3+ weeks before an infill is due, and can go longer with gentle use and regular maintenance.

Acrylic vs shellac: which is better for nail health?

Shellac is a thin, flexible hybrid coating removed via quick soak-off, which limits mechanical filing and is often gentler on healthy natural nails. Acrylic is a rigid enhancement that reinforces weak nails and adds length, but requires regular filing and structured infills. With professional prep and removal, both are safe; damage usually stems from peeling or over-filing at home.

Cost comparison: shellac manicure vs acrylic nails

In Sydney, shellac manicures commonly range AUD $45–$80 depending on add‑ons (French, chrome, art). Acrylic full sets and infills typically range AUD $70–$130+ based on length, shape and design complexity.

How to apply shellac and acrylic nails at home?

DIY is possible but risky. Shellac requires UV/LED curing, thin even layers, and hygienic prep. Acrylic requires correct liquid-to-powder ratios, sculpting an apex, and safe e‑file techniques—skills usually learned professionally. Poor technique leads to lifting, heat spikes, or nail plate thinning. A salon application is recommended for longevity and nail safety.

Are shellac or acrylic nails damaging to natural nails?

Neither service is inherently damaging. Harm occurs when coatings are peeled off, nails are over‑filed, or sanitation is poor. Book professional removal, keep nails hydrated with cuticle oil, and schedule regular maintenance.

Shellac manicure removal: best practices and tips

Lightly break the top coat seal, wrap with acetone‑soaked cotton for 5–10 minutes, then gently slide the softened coating with an orange stick. Finish with a fine buffer, wash hands, and apply cuticle oil and hand cream. Never scrape aggressively.

Which is more durable, shellac or acrylic nails?

Acrylic wins on structural durability and impact resistance. Shellac offers excellent chip resistance for its thinness but is not designed to extend length or withstand heavy torque.

Acrylic nails vs shellac for weak nails

For structural support or added length, acrylic is the better choice. For healthy short nails needing a protective, glossy coat with easy removal, shellac fits well. A technician can also layer a strengthening base under shellac if needed.

Long‑term effects of acrylic and shellac manicures on nail health

With correct techniques and breaks between sets, long‑term effects are minimal. Risks include dehydration from removers and thinning from repeated aggressive filing. Mitigate with professional removal, daily oiling, and occasional rest weeks.

Best practices for maintaining shellac and acrylic manicures

• Apply cuticle oil twice daily and follow with hand cream.
• Wear gloves for cleaning, gardening and dishwashing.
• Avoid using nails as tools; type with finger pads.
• For shellac: refresh with a compatible top coat every 4–5 days.
• For acrylic: book infills every 2–3 weeks to maintain apex and balance.

Are shellac and acrylic nails suitable for short nails?

Yes. Shellac enhances short natural nails with a thin, glossy finish. Acrylic can extend short nail beds and create balanced shapes (almond, square, coffin) while protecting edges.

Shellac manicure vs acrylic: which is easier to remove?

Shellac—it typically dissolves in 5–10 minutes with acetone wraps and light pressure. Acrylic removal takes longer and often combines controlled filing with soaking.

Comparing the shine and gloss of shellac and acrylic nails

Both achieve a high‑gloss, glassy finish. Shellac’s shine comes from its thin gel‑hybrid topcoat; acrylic’s shine depends on surface refinement and a gel/seal topcoat. Proper curing and aftercare preserve gloss on both.

How to prevent lifting in shellac and acrylic manicures?

• Thorough dehydration and removal of cuticle tissue from the nail plate.
• Use of appropriate primer/bonder and capping the free edge.
• Correct apex placement and sidewall sealing for acrylic.
• Avoid prolonged water exposure in the first 12 hours; wear gloves for wet work.

Are there any allergies associated with shellac or acrylic nails?

Some clients may develop sensitivity to (meth)acrylates found in gels and acrylic systems. Symptoms include redness or itching around the nail folds. Choose professional application, avoid skin contact with uncured product, and consult a dermatologist if irritation occurs.

Price range for shellac and acrylic manicures in different locations

Pricing varies by city and salon reputation. In Australia, shellac generally runs AUD $45–$80; acrylic services range AUD $70–$130+, with art and length adding to cost.

DIY shellac manicure kit vs professional salon service

DIY can reduce upfront cost but often leads to uneven curing, premature lifting, and hygiene risks. A salon service provides sterilised tools, pro‑grade lamps, correct chemistry ratios, and finish quality that lasts longer—often better value over time.

Can shellac and acrylic nails be used together?

Yes. A common approach is applying shellac colour over acrylic enhancements to combine structural strength with a thin, glossy colour layer. Ensure compatibility and professional removal to protect the natural nail.