Have you also wondered which is better for you, acrylic or gel nails?
The question of which nail is better between acrylic and gel has been asked severally over the years.
And many have answered by saying acrylic is stronger than gel.
But is that true?
Is acrylic truly stronger than gel? If it is, then which one is right for you.
Acrylic and gel nails are two very popular nail types.
Some people might even go as far as to call them the same at first, but they are different.
The applications, how long they last, their strengths, and their flexibility are different.
In this guide I’m going to explain the difference between acrylic and gel nails, which is stronger and which lasts longer.
Now, with all that said, let’s get to what we are here for: which nail is better in acrylic and gel, and which one is right for you.
Let’s get started below:
Acrylic Vs. Gel Nails: Which One Is Right for You?
Before we discuss which, one is better for you between acrylic and gel nails, you must first know what acrylic and gel nails are.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are the type that are made from powder polymers and monomers.
They are the type that are best done at the salon; however, you can get them done yourself, but I won’t recommend that for beginners.
When both ingredients are mixed a paste-like, creamy substance is formed, then a brush is used to build and shape it onto each nail or tip.
After the mixture has dried, it produces a strong surface on the nails, which means you wouldn’t be worried about breaking or chipping.
Acrylic nails are very strong and very durable.
However, you should note that they sometimes weaken or damage the natural nails if it isn’t applied or removed properly.
What Are Gel Nails?
Unlike acrylic nails, there are many types, however, the soft and hard gel nails are the most common kind.
Soft Gel Nails: This type of gel nails is brushed onto the nails like your regular nail polish; it is perfect for creating shorter and more natural-looking nails.
Also, soft gel nails are flexible, which means it is very hard to damage.
Hard Gel Nails: This type of gel nails is mostly used to create natural nails and a more structured manicure, and also to add a long set of unique styles.
Hard gel nails have several layers that are used to create them, which makes them more durable and offers a long-lasting, glossy, and chip-free finish.
What Are the Differences Between Acrylic & Gel Nails?
1. How They Appear
Acrylic nails are usually slightly thicker and bulkier than gel nails; the layers of monomers and powder polymers on top are what makes them thicker.
However, gel nails look more natural than acrylic nails; this is more visible when it has shorter in length.
Some gel nails do look a bit lumpy when it isn’t brushed on properly.
2. The Application Time Frame
Acrylic and gel nails take time to be properly applied; they can’t be rushed, or they won’t come out well.
Acrylic nails take 60 minutes to 3 hours to be properly ready; this time frame is also the same for hard gel nails (this depends on the design or length)
While soft gel nails take about 30 to 60 minutes to be ready.
3. Their Maintenance
Acrylic and gel nails alike need maintenance to remain clean and not be affected by the growth of the nails.
But there are different time frames for maintenance depending on the type of manicure.
Acrylic or hard gel nails can go up to 3 weeks before having to visit the salon for maintenance, while soft gel nails have to go in every 2 weeks.
4. How They Affect Nail Health
There are no known harmful effects to nail health from acrylic nails, but gel nails, on the other hand.
It can not only affect nail health, but it can affect the overall health of the wearer if they are not careful.
Gel nails need UV lights to cure, and long exposure to UV light can be harmful to the health as it is known to increase the chances of getting skin cancer.
So, if you are going to use UV light to cure, you need to wear gloves or put sunscreen on all fingers.
5. The Removal Process
To remove acrylic manicure properly, they have to be soaked in a bowl of pure acetone for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Then, an orange wood stick or metal pusher is used to gently remove the softened acrylic from the nail plate.
Filing and shaping of the nails are done afterward.
To properly remove a gel manicure, the seal on the nails is broken with a torpedo nail bit or a fine grit 5 1 drill; this removes the bulk and shine on the nails.
Then, each nail has a cotton bud soaked in pure acetone placed on it and then wrapped in aluminum foil.
Then, it sits for 15 to 20 minutes.
After the wraps are removed, any gel left is removed with an orange wood stick or metal pusher.
So, Which On Is Right for You?
Both nail manicures are great and look amazing.
What matters when choosing between acrylic and gel nails is the current health of your nails and your lifestyle.
Acrylic nails are better if you’re always busy with your hands throughout the day.
If strong nails with unique styles and a particular shape are what you want, then hard gel nails are your go-to.
But, if you want a low maintenance, quick option, then soft gel nails are just right for you.
Conclusion
So, in the end, between acrylic and gel nails, there isn’t one that is better than the other; preference is what matters in the end.
There’s only one way to create acrylic nails, while there are different ways to get the look you want with gel nails, like soft and hard gel manicures, which are the most common kind of gel manicures.
However, the biggest difference between the two manicures is the cost.
Different salons charge their price, of course, but acrylic nails are always less expensive than gel nails.
Also, gel nails are always quicker to dry, thanks to UV lamps.
With everything explained in this guide, all you have to do now is know your needs and preferences, and then you can choose which one suits you best between acrylic and gel nails.
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