If you love having beautiful and well-manicured nails, you may have considered getting nail improvements, such as gel nails or acrylic nails. These artificial nails are applied over your natural nails to enhance their appearance, strength, and length.
Gel Nail OR Acrylic. Which one is better for you? The answer is it depends on either gel nails or acrylic nails in terms of their application, appearance, durability, cost, and potential for damage. You can also experiment with both types of nail enhancements and see which one works best for you. Remember, no matter which type of nail enhancement you choose, it is important to take good care of your natural nails and to follow the proper application and removal procedures.
Gel Nails OR Acrylic Nails
What Are Gel Nails?
Gel nails are made from a gel-like substance cured under a UV or LED lamp. The gel is applied in thin layers over your natural nails, and each layer is cured under the lamp for a few seconds and creates a sharp, bright, and natural-looking appearance that can last for up to three weeks. Gel nails are available in diverse colors and can be dressed up with different nail art designs.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are made from a combination of a liquid monomer and a powdered polymer. The liquid and powder are mixed to form a bead of acrylic that is then applied to your natural nail or a nail tip. The acrylic dries and hardens as it is exposed to air, creating a strong and durable extension.
Acrylic nails can be shaped and filed to create different nail shapes and lengths, lasting up to six weeks. Acrylic nails can also be colored and embellished with different nail art designs.
How Do Gel Nails and Acrylic Nails Differ?
Gel nails and acrylic nails differ in several situations, such as their function, look, persistence, cost, and potential for damage. Here are some of the main differences between gel and acrylic nails:
Application
Gel nails require multiple layers of gel to be applied and cured under a lamp between each layer. This process can take longer than acrylic nails, but it also results in a smoother and more even achieve. Acrylic nails, on the other hand, involve the mixing of liquid and powder to create a bead of acrylic that is then shaped and applied to the natural nail or a nail tip. This process can be faster than gel nails, but it also requires more skill and precision to avoid lumps and bubbles.
Appearance
Gel nails have a glossy and natural-looking appearance that closely resembles natural nails. They are thinner and more flexible than acrylic nails, and they can blend well with your natural nail bed. Acrylic nails have a thicker and less natural-looking appearance that may stand out as artificial enhancements. They are stiffer and more rigid than gel nails, and they may not match your natural nail bed as well.
Long-Lasting Properties
Gel nails are known for their long-lasting properties and resistance to chipping and damage. They can suffer daily wear and tear better than natural nails or traditional nail polish. However, gel nails are not as strong or long-lasting as acrylic nails, and they may peel or lift over time.
Acrylic nails are known for their strength and longevity. They can provide length and protection to weak or brittle nails, and they can last longer than gel nails. But acrylic nails can break easily and damage your natural nails if you don’t take care of them properly.
Cost
Gel nails tend to be more fancy than acrylic nails, both in terms of the initial form and routine maintenance. The cost of gel nails depends on the salon, the quality of the gel, and the complication of the design, but it can range from $25 to $60 per set.
The cost of acrylic nails also depends on the salon, the quality of the acrylic, and the complexity of the design, but it can range from $20 to $50 per set. In addition, gel nails require more constant visits to the salon for removal and reapplication, while acrylic nails require less frequent visits for fill
Potential damage
Both gel nails and acrylic nails can cause damage to your natural nails if they are not done or removed properly. The removal process of gel nails is done by soaking them in acetone, which can dry out and weaken your natural nails.
Following the correct removal procedure and moisturizing your nails after the removal is important. The removal process of acrylic nails involves filing them down or prying them off, which can damage your natural nail plate. It is highly recommended to have them removed by a professional and to avoid pulling or biting them off.
Conclusion
Gel nails and acrylic nails are both popular and effective ways to enhance your nails. However, they have different pros and cons that you should consider before choosing one. Gel nails are more suitable for those who prefer a natural and glossy appearance, a durable and chip-resistant finish, and a quick curing time. Acrylic nails are more suitable for those who prefer a strong and long-lasting extension, a customizable and versatile design, and a lower initial cost.
