Okay, real talk—ever walked into a nail salon, ready to treat yourself, and then suddenly got hit with the “So, are we doing a regular manicure, shellac, or gel today?”
Cue the blank stare.
If you have no idea what the difference is (or have been pretending like you do), don’t worry—you are definitely not alone. The world of nails can get a little confusing, especially when there are so many options under the big umbrella of “manicures.”
So let’s break it all down in plain, easy, no-jargon terms. Whether you are new to nail care or just curious which one gives the best bang for your buck (and time), we are talking manicure vs. shellac vs. gel—the good, the glam, and what makes each one shine.
A classic manicure is like your nails’ best friend from high school. It is simple, reliable, and always comes through when you need it.
It usually includes:
Pros:
Cons:
If you are someone who loves switching up your nail color every few days, a regular manicure might be all you need. And hey, in terms of types of manicures Aurora salons offer, this one is always a staple.
Now, let’s level up. Shellac is kind of the “cool cousin” of the classic manicure. It is a blend of gel and regular nail polish, and it is applied like polish but cured under a UV lamp.
Think of it as a halfway point between polish and gel—less intense than gel, but more durable than regular polish.
Pros:
Cons:
If you want something low-maintenance but not too intense, shellac could be your sweet spot. And when it comes to gel vs shellac nails, shellac is usually gentler on the natural nail, making it a favorite for the commitment-shy crowd.
Okay, gel nails are the overachievers of the bunch. They are similar to shellac in that they are cured under a UV or LED lamp, but they are thicker, tougher, and longer lasting.
Gel is usually applied in multiple layers and gives that salon-finish shine that stays put forever (well, almost).
Pros:
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If you have got a vacation coming up, a big event, or just hate chipped polish, gel is your ride-or-die. Just make sure you go somewhere that knows what they are doing (ahem, like Yen Nails).
Here is the truth: there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Choosing between a classic manicure, shellac, or gel really depends on your lifestyle, your nail goals, and how often you like to switch things up.
Go for a classic manicure if…
You are all about fun colors, budget-friendly options, or love switching up your look often.
Pick shellac if…
You want longer-lasting polish with a natural feel but do not want the full gel experience.
Choose gel if…
You are all about durability, chip resistance, and that sleek, high-gloss finish that lasts for weeks.
Still not sure? Honestly, trying them all over time might be the best way to figure out your favorite.
At the end of the day, it is not about which manicure is best—it is about what feels best for you. Whether you are team polish, shellac, or full-on gel, all three can leave your hands looking fabulous when done right.
If you are ready to explore the best types of manicures Aurora has to offer, Yen Nails is your go-to beauty haven. We specialize in all the goodies—classic polish, shellac, gel, and everything in between. Not only do we make your nails look stunning, but we also use quality, nail-safe products and techniques that keep your natural nails happy and healthy.
Our team of experts can help you decide what works best for your lifestyle (and your vibe), so you never leave the salon with regrets—only gorgeous nails. Come relax, get pampered, and walk out feeling like a million bucks.
Book your next manicure at Yen Nails in Aurora—and let your hands do the talking
