Shellac or Gel Polish: Are You Choosing the Right Product for Your Salon’s Success?

In the nail industry, Shellac and Nail Gel Polish are two competitive products that not only represent different trends but also open up exciting new revenue opportunities for salons. So, how can salon owners use these two products creatively to boost profits? Let’s dive into this new opportunity from the perspective of nail salons.

Think Shellac and Nail Gel Polish Are the Same? Think Again!

Many people often confuse Shellac with regular Nail Gel, assuming they’re the same. But there’s a big difference between them! Shellac is a unique formula made up of 50% polish and 50% UV gel. It’s not as thick as regular UV gel, and it doesn’t require frequent reapplication like regular polish. Shellac is low-irritation and doesn’t require nail filing, making it perfect for clients who care about nail health. Can you imagine using a polish that doesn’t damage your nails every time? It’s a game-changer for those focused on maintaining healthy nails.

On the other hand, UV Gel contains acrylic esters and requires nail filing. While removal is a bit more complicated, it’s the most durable option available and perfect for clients looking for long-lasting results. It also allows for creative mixing with products from different brands.

Shellac VS. UV Gel – Which One Is Right for Your Salon?

Choosing Shellac offers numerous benefits for nail salons. Using the CND Shellac not only boosts service efficiency but also elevates your brand value. With Shellac, your salon instantly feels more premium, which leads to higher spend per customer. But keep in mind, Shellac is limited to CND products, and the color range is not as extensive as regular UV Gel.

On the other hand, UV Gel offers more variety, making it ideal for clients who want a broader range of creative options, but it lacks the brand differentiation that could help you stand out from competitors.

Creating a Customized Strategy with Product, Customer, and Pricing Segmentation

To ensure every customer gets the best experience, we can create an effective marketing strategy by segmenting products, customers, and pricing. Here’s a tailored approach for different customer groups:

Shellac – Premium Care Line

  • Target Audience: This line is designed for health-conscious clients, such as white-collar women, expectant mothers, and those with sensitive nails. These customers tend to prioritize nail health over price and are less concerned about intricate designs or complicated styles
  • Selling Points: Shellac’s key advantages are its nail-friendly formula, quick damage-free removal, and the patented CND technology. It’s the perfect choice for customers who care about healthy nails without compromising on the longevity and finish.
  • Pricing Strategy: Since Shellac itself is a higher-cost product, and the service requires specialized application techniques, you can price it 30%-50% higher than regular gel polish. To add more value, you can bundle it with aftercare services and offer a damage-free removal package, boosting both customer satisfaction and revenue.

Regular UV Gel – Trendy & Creative Line

  • Target Audience: Ideal for younger, fashion-forward customers—like students or trend enthusiasts—who are always looking for fresh, unique designs. These clients care more about creativity and variety than nail health, and they tend to be more price-sensitive due to frequent style changes.
  • Selling Points: Regular UV Gel offers endless possibilities for design and durability. You can create custom looks for various occasions (Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, etc.), celebrity-inspired styles, concert fan support, or trendy colors. The key selling point is the ability to offer something fresh and new every time.
  • Pricing Strategy: Use basic designs as your entry-level price to draw customers in, then charge extra for more complex and detailed designs. This pricing model allows you to cater to a wider audience while increasing your per-customer spend.

Cross-Selling & Membership Programs

  • Cross-Selling Strategy: To keep customers coming back, offer rewards or loyalty points for purchases. For example, clients who choose regular gel can earn points for free color touch-ups, or even upgrade to a Shellac experience. This not only boosts customer retention but also encourages them to try different services.
  • Membership Program: For Shellac users, offer an annual membership that includes monthly nail care services and priority booking. This ensures a steady income and strengthens customer loyalty, as members will feel valued and special with exclusive perks.