Rating TOP 10 best gel nail polishes: which one to choose and buy, reviews, price, characteristics, pros and cons

Updated: 09.21.2020 A neat manicure makes a significant contribution to elegance, well-groomed, and complete image. Moreover, in the modern world, when hands are always in sight, a large share of attention is focused on the hands. But the reality is that women who lead an active lifestyle are also no less active at home. Therefore, the usual nail polishes are not enough. Few people have the time and energy to renew their nails every few days, or even every day. With the advent of gel polishes, many breathed a sigh of relief!

They provide a very durable coating that lasts on the nails for about 2 weeks, without providing a thick layer of gel, as in the case of extensions. In principle, during this time the nail, on average, has already grown so much that it is time to renew the varnish. Thus, gel polishes these days are the most popular means of removing extended nails.

The most popular gel polishes are those from the Sheelak brand; they are pioneers in this direction, launching this type of product on the market in 2010. The company has retained its leadership to this day; their varnishes are considered the most durable, high-quality, but not budget-friendly.

Nowadays there are a huge number of brands on the gel polish market. Their formulas are often very similar and the differences will be largely in the content of additional components that care for the nail plate. There are differences in the base, so the durability and appearance are slightly different. So, not hybrids of gel and varnish have appeared on the market, but 100% gels, as in nail extensions, but at the same time they have the shape of varnishes in texture. And they are the ones who have particularly high durability.

According to the method of application, gel polishes are:

• Single-phase. It is assumed that only one color coating is applied.
• Three-phase. They require a base coat and top coat.

Considering that there are still not many differences, gel polish can be divided into the following categories:

• By basic content: gel polishes or 100% gels.
• By external effects: matte, glossy, pearlescent, glitter and others.
• According to the content of harmful components, or vice versa, substances that strengthen the nail plate.

Initially, coating nails with gel polishes was the prerogative of nail salons, since their drying involves the use of lamps with UV or LED radiation, as well as application features so that air does not enter under the film being created and, accordingly, does not provoke further peeling of the varnish. But now special lamps have become available, they are presented in various price segments, and some now use gel polish at home. This, of course, applies to those who expertly handle their own manicure or are content with a single-color coating.

For a beautiful coating design with a high-quality hygienic manicure, it is better to turn to professionals. But when choosing a master, you should pay attention not only to certificates of his training and sterilization of materials, but also to the varnishes with which he works. Since the condition of your nails depends on the composition and safety of gel polish.

We present the rating of gel nail polishes 2022. The best 16 products that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

Who invented shellac

In Russian-speaking countries, the concepts of shellac and gel polish are often substituted: they are identified with each other, considering the words to be equivalent synonyms. This mistake is similar to how we usually call all copying machines copiers, all diapers - diapers, while Xerox, Pampers is just the name of the companies that were the first to introduce their products to the market. In the absence of competitors in the above-mentioned industries for a long period, people began to use the brand name as a common noun, although this is incorrect.

The same situation happened with a product called Shellac. Despite the fact that this is only one of a wide range of products from the CND (Creative Nail Design) company, in the Russian-speaking territory many continue to call all gel-based varnishes shellac, although awareness among salon clients is gradually growing. Thus, the popular query “shellac manufacturers” is incorrect: this composition has only one manufacturer, who is also the creator - the American brand CND.

Today, when for many masters and clients the best varnish is Shellac, it is difficult to imagine that the person who invented it was far from manicure art. Stuart Nordstrom, an American dentist, once noticed during his daily practice that the smell of the dental mixture was similar to the aroma that his wife used in the nail polish.

This simple accidental discovery formed the basis of an invention that became fundamentally new in the art of manicure, making it possible to strengthen the nail plate, making its surface smooth, shiny, and impervious to mechanical and chemical influences.

The discovery took place back in 1979, and in 2010 the company, founded by a dentist, invented a fundamentally new product that made fundamental changes in the nail industry around the world - Shellac.

Beautix

The gel polish is of medium thickness and will last for 3 weeks. The brand belongs to premium varnishes, as it does not contain hazardous substances and provides high-quality coverage without bald spots or streaks. The brush is soft and of medium size, which makes it more convenient to paint wide and narrow plates. The gel polish formula is odorless, and the palette includes more than two hundred colors.

Pros:

1. Rich color palette;
2. Convenient application;
3. Optimal durability;
4. Has no smell.

Minuses:

1. High price.

What is shellac nail polish

Shellac is a cosmetic product used by nail artists to color the nail plate and give it strength. This composition, unlike regular varnish, lasts up to two to three weeks. The coating does not delaminate, does not break, does not wear off, and does not lose its shine.

Attention! Shellac for nails is a composition that combines the decorative properties of varnish and the modeling properties of gel.

The first of its kind was the product from CND; other modern gel polishes are an attempt to repeat the unique formula.

The product is so widespread that you can learn everything about shellac from any nail technician. Almost every one of them has at least once encountered a product from the Creative Nail Design brand in their work, and many continue to give preference to it among various gel products.

Shellac composition

Shellac's unique formula is kept secret because it is a trade secret. Company employees related to production sign a non-disclosure document regarding ingredients. Despite the fact that the exact composition is unknown, there is reliable information about the list of main components:

• film former A polymer compound that causes the appearance of a film under the influence of ultraviolet lamp rays - a hard, durable coating that provides the manicure with protection from color fading and elasticity;
• pigment. A substance that gives shellac its color. In this case, the pigment should not be confused with a simple dye - the first does not prevent the composition from absorbing the ultraviolet rays of the lamp;
• photoinitiator Without reacting with the pigment and components, it allows the ingredients to react as required, ensuring polymerization of the product;
• thinners. Allows you to create a consistency that is moderately viscous, not too liquid. Responsible for the adhesion of shellac to the nail plate;
• additional additives. Some of these components are kept secret because they are what give the coating its unique properties. The rest (shimmer, magnetic particles) provide additional visual effects.

Attention! The name Shellac has the same root as the word denoting natural resin in Ireland, which gives rise to speculation regarding the natural origin of the manicure composition.

In fact, there is no evidence of this fact; the company itself has not officially declared the naturalness of the product.

Shellac, a description of the main components of which can be found on the label, still remains a unique product and, from a technological point of view, not fully studied by competitors.

How is it different from gel polish?

It is unlikely that even an experienced nail technician will be able to distinguish shellac on nails from gel polish from another company, although there are differences when working with different products. They concern:

• consistency of the product;
• textures;
• shape, brush size;
• bottle volume;
• unique composition.

Comment! The main difference between shellac and similar products from other brands lies in the composition. It not only contains secret elements, but also meets the high quality requirements for cosmetic products in America.

What does shellac look like on nails?

On nails, classic shellac looks like an even glossy coating with highlights, uniform in color and texture. Additional effects achieved by using a special topcoat or varnish with additives: matte finish, shimmer (glitter), cat's eye, magnetic.

To the design made with shellac, nail art masters add various decorative elements:

• rhinestones, stones, sequins, beads, broths;
• “broken glass” foil;
• foil using casting technique;
• kamifubuki - small multi-colored circles;
• slider stickers;
• stamps, stamping stencils;
• deep design stencils;
• “powder” – small particles for creating a “sugar” design.

Comment! CND recommends using products manufactured by Creative Nail Design as decoration, since the brand is responsible for the compatibility of the coating with these components.

A single-color shellac coating or a design that includes additional decor is visually no different from a manicure made with another high-quality gel-based varnish.

How the nail industry has changed

Nowadays there are many cosmetic products on the market. Although gel polishes were initially presented as professional products, their analogues are now widely represented in the mass market.

They are single-phase products that you simply need to cover the nails with and dry this layer. At the same time, manufacturers promise durability comparable to professional analogues. However, experts say that these are all just advertising promises.

So, today the following types of gel polishes are on sale:

1. Three-phase - are classic compositions. Their application involves applying 3 consecutive layers - base, gel polish itself and top coat. Each layer must be polymerized in an ultraviolet or LED lamp. This technology ensures the creation of a durable manicure that retains its attractive appearance for at least 2 weeks. However, the process of performing a manicure takes a lot of time. Three-phase formulations are offered by almost all well-known brands - in particular, FOX, Beautix, Tertio, UNO.
2. Biphasic - less common than other varieties. The composition includes color coating and top. In rare cases, the product combines a base and a color coating. Applying two coats instead of three helps reduce the duration of the procedure and reduce its cost. Moreover, the durability of such a manicure does not exceed 10 days. An example of such a gel polish is the product of the Patrisa Nail brand, which is presented in the Dream Pink collection.
3. Single-phase - involves only one coating. Therefore, it is applied in one stage. This composition combines all the products - base, color coating and top. This option is considered the most time-efficient. The procedure is carried out quite quickly. However, in terms of durability, such products are certainly inferior to three-phase ones. These products are offered by many cosmetic companies - in particular, Masura, Irisk Professional, Patrisa Nail, TNL.

Pros and cons of Shellac nail coating

Like any cosmetic product, shellac has advantages and disadvantages. Main advantages:

• It is better suited than others for owners of thin, brittle nails, since the film-forming agent in the composition allows you to strengthen the nail plate;
• wide palette of bright saturated colors;
• wear resistance;
• ease of use (optimal consistency, good brushes);
• good adhesion to the nail surface;
• constant expansion of the line of shellacs.

The main disadvantages of shellac gel polish according to reviews from masters:

• higher cost compared to similar products from other brands;
• It is preferable to use related products from the same company.

The best professional gel polishes

Akzentz Luxio Pastels

• High quality nude shades
• Country: Canada
• Price: 1290 RUR
• Durability: high
• Consistency: thick
• Brush: small, round
• Rating (2021): 8.9

Professional brands are of high quality. The nude line of the Canadian brand is no exception. Pink and beige shades are popular, which can be used to create a thin layer of jacket, and as camouflage with a more intensive application. Despite its high density and pigmentation, the gel polish dries without problems in a powerful lamp, wears for a long time and creates volume on thin nails.

• Advantages
  Suitable for thin nails
• Levels the surface
• Lasts a long time

OPI GelColor

• The most persistent
• Country: USA
• Price: 1453 RUR
• Durability: very high
• Consistency: very thick
• Brush: wide enough, comfortable
• Rating (2021): 9.2

American gel polishes from OPI are very different from the usual gel polishes. If you use them ineptly, it is easy to be disappointed, but if you know the features, the durability will amaze you. The consistency of the product is very dense, it hides any imperfections of the base and nail well; there is no need to polish the surface before application. The coating adds volume, which will appeal to those with thin nails, but may not suit those with convex nails. It is best to dry this gel polish in your original lamp and remove it with a remover from the same company.

• Advantages
  Hides defects well
• Very high durability
• Ideal for thin nails

CND Shellac

• Fashionable and unique shades
• Country: USA
• Price: 1150 RUR
• Durability: very high
• Consistency: medium and thick
• Brush: medium thickness, without protruding hairs, well trimmed
• Rating (2021): 9.7

The legendary brand of gel polishes, which is considered a pioneer on the market, has earned its popularity due to the incredible ease of application and removal from nails. A huge palette of rich and pigmented shades, many of them have no analogues. The brand follows fashion trends and constantly releases new items. Not compatible with all tops and bases from other manufacturers. Excellent wear up to 4 weeks without chipping.

• Advantages
  Wide palette of rich colors
• Easy to apply
• High pigmentation

Which shellac is better to buy?

The best shellacs are those made for the domestic American market. Companies from Europe and the States, where product quality requirements are high, produce products for their market that meet the standards.

Products exported to the CIS, Asia, and other regions may be produced with lower requirements, since control is not so strict in these countries. This trick reduces the cost of the product, brings greater profits at the end, which means it is profitable and can be used by the company.

Regarding colors, textures, effects, it is advisable to buy those shellacs for which there is a high demand. The quality of the compositions does not depend on the decorative features of the coating.

note

You can buy SND shellac both in retail stores selling cosmetics and on any website offering cosmetic products.
Perhaps the cheapest way to buy shellac is on large online platforms such as Aliexpress or Ebay. The price of shellac varies from 800 to 1500 rubles. If shellac from SND is too expensive, or you are new to manicure tricks, do not be afraid to experiment with budget Chinese shellacs, such as Shellac Bluesky or Shellac CCO. They are cheaper than SND shellac, and the quality is not much worse.

Rules for using shellac

To make a shellac coating, you need:

• degreaser;
• lint-free wipes;
• base coat;
• shellac of the desired color;
• finishing top;
• ultraviolet or LED lamp.

Attention! The technology of using shellac involves working with a perfectly prepared nail surface.

Before applying the coating, you need to do a hygienic manicure: shape the length and contours of the nail, polish it, remove excess cuticle.

Nail coating involves the following steps:

1. Wipe the surface of the nail with a degreaser (primer) using a lint-free cloth.
2. Apply 1 layer of base coat, dry in a lamp.
3. Cover your nails with shellac and dry. If the desired color intensity is not achieved, apply 1 more layer of product.
4. Cover with finishing topcoat and dry in a lamp.

After completing decorative manipulations, it is recommended to treat the cuticle and skin around the perimeter of the nail with special oil.

Shellac reviews

Reviews from manicurists about shellac are mostly positive, however, there are some nuances to its use.

Marina, 34 years old, Moscow

Marina, 34 years old, Moscow

I've been using shellac for a couple of years now, doing manicures and pedicures. Among the advantages I can note:

• beautiful shiny finish;
• wide range of products;
• durability of the coating.

Disadvantages, from my point of view:

• the cost is higher than the average price of other gel polishes;
• Before applying shellac, you should not do a hot manicure - the coating may peel off and break;
• Not suitable for all nails.

Christina, 23 years old, Barnaul

For a long time I didn’t understand the hype around Shellac from CND, I thought that the composition was no better than varnishes from other companies. I tried thermal varnish, was very pleased, after which I purchased about three dozen different colors and textures for work, I don’t regret it. One of the advantages I can note is that the coating does not chip, does not harm the nails, and looks beautiful. Shellacs with shimmer are my special love. I did not find any shortcomings, except that the shades are slightly different from the declared ones.