It’s been awhile since I’ve done a nail review, so I thought this would be a good time to feature one on my blog. I was actually approached by a local salon here in St. Louis that specializes in Creative Nail Design (CND) Shellac Nail products. After doing some research about the product, I thought I would give it a try!
Shellac is the only product on the market that guarantees 2 weeks no chipping on natural nails. The salon, Marino’s, is the only salon here in St. Louis that has Shellac products and its nail technician, Maggie Reynolds, is a pro when it comes to application.
The Shellac mani is a hyrbid nail procedure and is similar to a gel nail application. This product works best on natural nails but can also be worn on artificial nails as well. Not only does it last for two weeks without chipping but there is no drying time. THAT is something that really interested me because I always find a way to mess up my nails when I leave the salon, even after I thought they were dry.
The Shellac Nail product would be perfect for the woman who is on the go who doesn’t have all day to spend getting her nails done. The application is fast and easy and before you know it, you are out the door.
The only drawback I found with CND’s Shellac was the colors were limited. As a person who loves to try “different” and “unique” colors , the Shellac colors were basic and conservative. The color I found most intriguing was Wildfire, a bright and bold red color.
Also, the finish is amazing! The shine is something I have yet to find in other products. This finish is to die for even two days after it has been applied.
Below are some pictures of my nails which Maggie did a wonderful job with. In fact, I plan on visiting her in the future to get more nail services done.
If you are in the St. Louis area, Maggie can be found at Marino’s Salon in Creve Coeur. Please call her at 314-302-2993. You can also visit the salon website HERE. To learn more about CND’s Shellac Nails, click HERE.
What do you think about Creative Nail Design’s Shellac Nail products?
Special thanks to Holly of Angel Fish PR
Disclaimer- I was not compensated for this post, however, free services were given to me in exchange for a review.
I tried the Shellac and loved it. The only thing I didn’t like was I had to take it off with acetone. I had it on my nails and toes. In the future I’ll do the nails but not my toes. I also noticed the lack of color choices so I got the black.
I saw these in a flier recently for my local salon pro only shop. I didn’t gather much information. You said they’re hybrid? As in they need a UV light?
I do have my own UV but I rarely use it.
I like UV gel “polishes” but in all lines I’ve seen the color selection lacks completely. I’ve tried OPI and while I do go longer without chips I’d say it’s more like 3 days (as opposed to 1-2 with polish).
Hi poshPigments!! My name is Maggie and I am the manicurist who applied the Shellac to The CubicleChick. Yes, the CND Shellac does cure under a UV lamp like traditional gels, however it goes on ultra thin over the natural nail like a polish. The thing that’s cool about Shellac is that there is no filing on the natural nail NONE!!! Most clients can wear the Shellac for close to 14 days and it’s just as shiny as the day they walked out of the salon!! When you are applying the OPI Axxium are you using the entire line, from the gel base to the sealer? How are you prepping the nail? That could be causing some of your lifting/peeling problems. There’s another gel line I use and it’s Light Elegance Gel, they have TONS of really nice colored gels to choose from. http://www.lightelegance.com. I use LE on my clients that tend to be a little harder on their nails. I hope this helps.
*Please note that CND can not guarantee the results of there product unless you uses there UV lamps.
I have been using shellac for about the past two-three months. I got them done last Thursday and started chipping on my right index finger and right middle finger about two days ago. And, a couple of times I have been able to peel off the polish — which I know is not good for my nailbed. I am considering not continuing with shellacs.
I have had 2 manicures with CND polish and really like it. But I do have a concern about the UV Light. I already have sun damage on the back of my hands and do not want more, also should we be protecting our eyes from the light?
Grammar Lesson: *Please note that CND can not guarantee the results of there product unless you uses there UV lamps.
THEIR… Not “there” (possessive)
I love the Shellac manicure! (: It’s quick, easy and inexpensive. The best part? THE SHINE! Even though it’s been almost 2 weeks since my last Shellac mani, my nails still look like they were done yesterday.
Side note:
Grammar lessons are not necessary during nail discussions…
Great review and video – I’m going to have to try this because my manicures only last a couple of days with regular polish 🙁
I’m working on my Shellac post now, it will be up shortly. I had a great experience with my application and left it on WAY longer than recommended #theShame. I’m actually rocking a competitor brand on my mani right now in a funky blue color. You’re right, my 3 biggest qualms with these products are 1. Limited colors 2. Having so soak to get it off (also a plus) and 3. the UV lamp freaks me out … I’m afraid my hands will get sun damaged so I won’t be doing this on a regular basis.
you never mentioned how much she charges in the review …do you know?
it’s on her website …i found it
Hi everyone. I am planning to purchase a UV lamp and try doing my own nails. I’ve had them done (shellac) several times with the CND system in the salon. I have found that lamp all over the place online for about $150. I also see another brand, Axxium, for around $65. Has anyone used the Axxium? Do professionals use it? I don’t want to skimp just to save some $$ but get something that sucks.
Also, as far as the limited CND colors, did you know you can make additional colors by using 2 different colors? Use one color for the first color coat and another color for the second color coat. My salon has examples and lists of the many, many additional colors they can create using 2 different CND colors. Thanks!! April