Acrylic nails are made by mixing a liquid (monomer) and powder (polymer) to create a paste, which is then applied to the natural nails. The mixture hardens and forms a durable layer over the natural nails. Acrylic nails are known for their durability and strength, and they can be shaped and filed to create various looks. However, they can also be harsh on natural nails and may cause damage if not applied or maintained correctly.
On the other hand, gel nails are applied using a gel-based polish cured under a UV lamp. The resulting nails are shiny and look natural, and the gel polish is typically more flexible than acrylic. Gel nails are also known for being easy to remove and less likely to cause damage to natural nails. However, they are typically more expensive than acrylic nails and require a UV lamp for curing.
Comparison of Acrylic and Gel Nails
Appearance and durability
Acrylic nails and gel nails both have different appearances and levels of durability.
Appearance
Acrylic nails have a more artificial look than gel nails and are often thicker and more opaque. On the other hand, gel nails have a more natural appearance; they are shiny and have a glossy finish. They look more like natural nails than acrylic nails.
Durability
Acrylic nails are known for their durability and strength. They are resistant to chipping and breaking, making them a popular choice for people who have a busy lifestyle or who engage in activities that put their nails at risk of damage. Gel nails, while durable, aren't as strong as acrylic nails. They are more flexible than acrylic nails and less resistant to chipping or breaking.
In general, acrylic nails are more durable than gel nails, but gel nails have a more natural look. The choice between the two will depend on the individual's needs, preferences and lifestyle.
It's worth mentioning that both types of nails can be prone to cracking or chipping if not appropriately maintained, and both need regular fill-ins to preserve their appearance.
Application process
The application process for acrylic nails and gel nails is different.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are applied by mixing a liquid (monomer) and powder (polymer) to create a paste, which is then applied to the natural nails. The mixture is then sculpted and shaped over a form or on the natural nails. The nails are then filed and shaped to the desired length and shape. The process can take up to an hour or more, depending on the skill of the nail technician and the desired look.
Gel Nails
Gel nails are applied by painting a gel-based polish over the natural nails. The nails are then cured under a UV lamp. The process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Still, it can vary depending on the skill of the nail technician and the desired look.
It's worth mentioning that both types of nails require proper nail preparation, which includes cleaning, buffing and dehydrating the natural nails before application.
In summary, the application process of acrylic nails is more involved and time-consuming than gel nails. Acrylic nails require mixing a liquid and powder, sculpting and shaping, while gel nails require painting and curing under a UV lamp. Both types of nails require proper nail preparation before application.
Maintenance and removal
Acrylic nails and gel nails both require regular maintenance and have different removal processes.
Maintenance
Acrylic nails must be filled in every two to three weeks to maintain their appearance. During a fill-in, the technician will remove the grown-out portion of the natural nails and add a new layer of acrylic to the nails. They are also prone to yellowing or discolouration over time, so regular buffing and cleaning are required to maintain their appearance.
Gel nails must also be filled in every two to three weeks to maintain their appearance. During a fill-in, the technician will remove the grown-out portion of the natural nails and add a new layer of gel to the nails. Gel nails are less prone to yellowing or discolouration than acrylic nails. However, regular cleaning is still required to maintain their appearance.
Removal
Acrylic nails are removed by soaking them in acetone for 15-20 minutes, then filing and buffing off the remaining acrylic. This process can be harsh on the natural nails and may cause damage if not done correctly.
Gel nails are also removed using acetone that is applied to the nails, wrapped in foil, and left on for 10-15 minutes. The gel polish can then be gently buffed off. This process is less harsh on the natural nails than the removal of acrylic nails.
In summary, the maintenance and removal process of acrylic nails is more time-consuming and harsher on natural nails than gel nails. Gel nails are less prone to yellowing or discolouration and less harsh on the natural nails during the removal process than acrylic nails.
Cost
Acrylic and gel nails can vary in cost depending on the location, nail salon and technician. Still, acrylic nails generally tend to be less expensive than gel nails.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are typically less expensive than gel nails. A complete set of acrylic nails can range from £30 to £60, and a fill-in can range from £20 to £40. The cost may vary based on the nails' design, length and shape and the technician's skill.
Gel Nails
Gel nails are typically more expensive than acrylic nails. A complete set of gel nails can range from £40 to £80, and a fill-in can range from £30 to £50. The cost may vary based on the nails' design, length and shape and the technician's skill.
It's worth mentioning that both types of nails require regular maintenance, and the costs of maintaining them can add up over time. The price of a UV lamp (needed for gel nails) should also be considered.
In summary, acrylic nails tend to be less expensive than gel nails. Still, the cost can vary depending on location, salon, technician, nail art, length and shape of the nails, and the technician's skill. Both types of nails require regular maintenance, and the costs can add up over time.
Pros and Cons of Acrylic Nails
Advantages of Acrylic Nails
They're Durable
One of the biggest benefits of acrylic nails is that they are very durable. They can last up to six weeks without chipping or peeling, which is much longer than natural nails. Additionally, acrylic nails are less likely to break than natural nails, so they can be a good option for people who have weak or brittle nails.
They're Affordable
Another benefit of acrylic nails is that they are relatively affordable. While the initial cost of getting them done may be higher than other types of manicures, they will last much longer, so you won't have to get them done as often. Additionally, there are many different styles and colours of acrylic nails available, so you can find a look that suits your taste and budget.
They're Relatively Low Maintenance
Acrylic nails are also low maintenance. Unlike natural nails, they don't require regular polishing or touch-ups. Additionally, acrylic nails don't require any special care or cleaning products, so they're easy to take care of.
They Look Great
Acrylic nails also look great. They can give your hands a polished and sophisticated look, and there are many different styles and colours to choose from. Whether you want a natural look or something more flashy, you can find an acrylic nail style that suits you.
They're Customisable
Another benefit of acrylic nails is that they are highly customisable. You can choose the shape, size, colour, and style of your nails to create a unique look that reflects your personality.
Disadvantages of Acrylic Nails
They Can Damage Your Nails
One of the biggest disadvantages of acrylic nails is that they can damage your natural nails. Acrylic nails are applied with a strong adhesive, which can cause your natural nails to become weak and brittle. Additionally, the acrylic itself can be harsh on your nails, causing them to become dry and damaged. If you wear acrylic nails regularly, you may notice that your natural nails become yellow and discoloured.
They’re Not Very Natural-Looking
While there are many different types of fake nails on the market, acrylics tend to look the least natural. Acrylics are made from a plastic material, which can give them a bright, artificial appearance. If you’re looking for fake nails that look more natural, you may want to consider options such as gel or silk nails.
Pros and Cons of Gel Nails
Advantages of Gel Nails
Natural Look
Gel nails have a glossy, natural-looking finish that is similar to natural nails. This makes them a great choice for people who want to enhance their nails without a harsh or artificial look.
Easy Removal
Gel nails are easy to remove, they are typically removed using a special gel nail polish remover that is applied to the nails, wrapped in foil, and left on for 10-15 minutes. The gel polish can then be gently buffed off. This process is less harsh on the natural nails than the removal of acrylic nails.
Long-lasting
Gel nails can last up to two to three weeks with proper maintenance. This makes them a great choice for people who want to maintain a polished look for an extended period of time.
No Damage to Natural Nails
Gel nails are less likely to cause damage to natural nails than acrylic nails. They are less harsh on the natural nails during the application and removal process, which can be beneficial for people with weaker nails.
Variety of Colors
Gel nails come in a wide variety of colours and shades. This allows for more creative options in terms of nail design and matching nails with different outfits or occasions.
Disadvantages of a Gel Manicure
UV Lamp Required
Gel nails require a UV lamp for curing, which means an additional cost for equipment and the need for regular UV light exposure.
More Expensive
Gel nails are typically more expensive than acrylic nails. A full set of gel nails can range from £40 to £80, and a fill-in can range from £30 to £50. The cost may vary based on the design, length and shape of the nails, and the skill of the technician.
Not as Strong
While gel nails are durable, they are not as strong as acrylic nails. They are more flexible than acrylic nails and can be less resistant to chipping or breaking.
Sensitivity to UV Light
Some people may be sensitive to UV light and could experience discomfort during the curing process or have an allergic reaction to the UV light.
Need for Regular Maintenance
Like any type of artificial nails, gel nails require regular maintenance, and the costs of maintaining them can add up over time. They also need regular fill-ins to maintain their appearance.
Which is right for you?
When choosing between acrylic and gel nails, there are several considerations to keep in mind.
Lifestyle
Consider your daily activities and how they may affect your nails. If you have a busy lifestyle or engage in activities that put your nails at risk of damage, acrylic nails may be a better choice for you because of their strength and durability.
Natural Nail Health
Think about the health of your natural nails and how they may be affected by the application and removal of artificial nails. Gel nails are less harsh on the natural nails during the application and removal process, which can be beneficial for people with weaker nails.
Budget
Consider your budget when choosing between acrylic and gel nails. Acrylic nails tend to be less expensive than gel nails, but the cost can vary depending on location, salon, technician, design, length and shape of the nails, and the skill of the technician.
Look
Think about the look you want to achieve with your nails. Acrylic nails can be shaped and filed to create a variety of different looks, from natural to more extravagant designs. Gel nails, on the other hand, have a more natural look and come in a wide variety of colours and shades.
Maintenance
Think about the level of maintenance you are willing to do to keep your nails looking good. Both types of nails require regular maintenance, but gel nails are less prone to yellowing or discolouration than acrylic nails and less harsh on the natural nails during the removal process.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between gel and acrylic nails, it's important to consider your lifestyle, natural nail health, budget, desired look and level of maintenance. Both types of nails have their pros and cons and the best option depends on the individual's needs, preferences, and budget.
Have you ever had a fresh manicure smudge the minute you dug into your wallet for a credit card or gotten a chip on red nails zipping up your jeans? Those days are history, thanks to manicures that go bone-dry in minutes and last weeks. If you’re wondering what color polish will rock your paws, whether to opt for a gel or dip powder and which nail shape truly flatters mature hands best, read on! I asked celebrity nail guru Deborah Lippmann, who has her own eponymous line, for tips to go along with my own beauty editor advice. Here’s how to nail your next manicure if you’re:
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Thinking about switching from regular polish to a gel? Lots of women are doing exactly that since gel polish extends a manicure’s wear and shine to two stress-free weeks. Applied just like regular polish over a base coat and “cured” (that is, hardened) with a UV lamp between coats and after a topcoat, gel polish has the extra-strong adherence that sticks to the nail bed (thanks to polymers in the formulas). And yes, it’s more expensive. While a regular salon mani is about $20, a gel manicure is $25 to $50 and polish removal about $10 to $20 — prices vary depending on the salon and location.
The big issue with gels is improper removal that results in damage, so resist any impulse to peel off the polish on your own and head back to the salon.
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The menu of salon nail options for extended color and shine can be confusing. For example, “shellac” (often referred to as a gel) is actually a trademarked hybrid of regular polish and gel, while gels are pure gel. Gels typically last longer, but shellac soaks off more easily. Dip powder manicures are a next-level option and cost more — $30 to $70 — but there’s a major difference. “Dip powder manicures offer an even longer life span — often four weeks — and no use of UV rays,” Lippman says. In a dip manicure, the nail tech dunks each nail in pigmented powder which is then sealed with an activator and air-dried; it is removed with acetone-soaked cotton balls, similar to gel. To recap: Gel, shellac and dip powder manicures offer flawless, chip-free long-wear color; dip powder does not require UV or LED light to set, while gel and shellac manicures do. Lippman advises that hot water is the enemy of all three. That means any dishwashing or household chores minus gloves and any soaking in a hot tub or even a steamy shower or bath can wreck your mani in a flash. Pampering your hands daily is a must.