CND Shellac Base & Top coat overview
|
ORIGINAL BASE COAT |
WEAR EXTENDER BASE COAT |
XPRESS5 TOP COAT |
ORIGINAL TOP COAT |
DURAFORCE TOP COAT |
NO-WIPE TOP COAT |
SPECIAL EFFECTS TOP COATS |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAIN BENEFIT | EXCELLENT ADHESION | SUPERIOR ADHESION | FAST REMOVAL | ULTRA SHINE | ULTIMATE PROTECTION | NO TOP FILM | ARTISTIC FINISHES |
| POSITIONING | Classic Base Coat provides adhesion layer |
Wear Extending Base Coat provides 3 week wear |
Thin, scratch-resistant Top Coat |
Classic Top Coat provides ultra shine |
Protective Top Coat for thin or damaged nails |
For Artistic Effects | Artistic Top Coats for special effects |
| FINISH | N/A | N/A | High-gloss Shine | High-gloss Shine | High-gloss Shine | High-gloss Shine | Matte Glitter Pearl |
| REMOVAL TIME | N/A | N/A | 5 minutes* | 8 minutes* | 15 minutes* | 8-15 minutes* | 8-10 minutes* |
| NAIL TYPE | Normal | Normal to weak** & uneven surface | Normal to weak** | Normal to weak** | Normal to weak & brittle nails** | Normal to weak** | Normal to weak** |
| STRENGTH & PROTECTION | N/A | N/A | • | •• | ••• | •• | • |
CND is a professional nail care brand from the United States, globally recognized for high-performance nail products used in salons and by nail professionals worldwide. CND is known for combining innovation, advanced technology, and strict quality standards to deliver reliable results for natural nails, enhancements, and long-wear manicures.
CND is the creator of Shellac, the original gel polish system that transformed professional manicures. CND Shellac gel polish provides up to 14+ days of wear, intense shine, and smooth application, while allowing gentle removal that helps protect the natural nail. This system is widely used in professional salons for its consistency, durability, and professional finish.
The CND product range covers a complete professional nail system. It includes Vinylux long-wear nail polish, Plexigel nail strengthening and enhancement solutions, Brisa Gel and Acrylic systems for sculpting and extensions, as well as Pro Spa hand and foot care products designed for salon treatments and retail use. CND also offers essential prep products, nail treatments, removers, tools, brushes, and professional LED lamps.
All CND nail products are developed in collaboration with scientists and nail professionals, meeting high safety and performance standards. The brand focuses on nail health, long-lasting results, and professional reliability, making CND a trusted choice for both salon services and home use.
Explore CND professional nail products and discover advanced solutions for gel polish, nail care, and salon-quality manicures.
1. Preparation and base coat

Clean and thoroughly dry the natural nails. Gently push back cuticles, shape the nails, and remove surface oils using a suitable nail cleanser.
Apply a thin layer of CND Shellac Base Coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Colour
Apply a thin, even layer of CND Shellac Color Coat and cure.
Repeat with a second thin layer if needed, curing each layer separately to achieve full, even colour coverage.
3. Top coat and finish
Apply CND Shellac Top Coat and cure to seal the colour. The top coat enhances shine, locks in colour for extended wear, and helps protect against fading or colour changes caused by UV exposure.
If required, remove the tacky layer and allow the nails to cool for a flawless, long-lasting result.
How to remove CND Shellac


Gently break the top coat seal using a fine nail file or buffer.
Soak cotton pads with CND Shellac Remover or acetone and place them on the nails.
Wrap each nail securely with foil or removal wraps and allow to soak for approximately 10–15 minutes.
Carefully remove the wraps and gently push off the softened product using an orangewood stick or pusher.
Lightly buff if needed and finish by applying cuticle oil to rehydrate the nails and surrounding skin.
Video instructions
For a step-by-step visual guide on how to apply and remove CND Shellac, watch the instructional video here: