It is common for a client to ask specifically about acrylic nails. Often they then also indicate that they like acrylic better than gel. What's behind this and which of the two is better? Gel nails vs acrylic nails are both popular options for those who want to improve the look of natural nails. Although the two types of artificial nails look similar, there are important differences between the two.
Table of contents
The difference between gel nails vs acrylic nails is quite minimal.
The final product after curing (polymerization)= (the chemical process of hardening/changing into plastic) is almost the same. The chemical process by which both products polymerize is totally different. But after curing, they are both acrylic plastics.
Gel nails are known for their long-lasting, glossy finish, but they can also be more expensive than acrylic nails. They are applied in layers and cured under a UV or LED lamp. Gel nails are generally more flexible and natural than acrylic nails, but can be more challenging to apply for beginner nail technicians.
In the end, it should make no difference what is used!
- Problems with your artificial nails? -
A good gel nail technician or a good acrylic nail technician should both be able to build strong, well-fitting, and non-loosening nails.
Do gel and acrylic contain the same ingredients?
Gel nails and acrylic nails are made of the same materials, monomer liquid and polymer powder. The difference is that gel nails contain oligomers, which are short-chain monomers that make the artificial nails more flexible.
Which is better for my natural nails gel or acrylic?
Gel nails a "healthier" alternative for the nail than acrylic. They are less likely to cause damage to the natural nail or nail bed. Gel nails also feel more natural and less rigid than acrylic, so if you accidentally hit them against something, they are less likely to break.
Recently I had gel nails done and they fell off after a few days, how is this possible?
Then your nail technician has done a poor job. The most common cause of nail loss is lifting. Lifting can be prevented in several ways by your nail technician, read all about it here.
History of artificial nails
Acrylic nails came on the market much earlier than gel. Hence, they wanted to call gel acrylic gel earlier but because that name was too close to acrylic they opted for (hard gel).
The concept of artificial nails made of acrylic plastic was accidentally invented in 1954 by a dentist named Frederick Slack. One day he broke his nail and wanted to try using an artificial nail made of dental acrylic to repair his natural nail.
Since then, artificial nails have been worn as a fashion statement and beauty symbol.
It wasn't until 1982 that the first UV gel system came on the market. James Guiliana invented the UV lamp which at the time cost as much as $500
Did you know:
The biggest difference of gel nails vs acrylic nails is for the nail technician(s)
Acrylic nails - the application
Difference #1: The application method for Acrylic nails and the chemical process of curing
The main difference between the 2 products is the way it cures.
Acrylic nails have 2 components:
Both of these components combine to form a chemical reaction when mixed together.
This reaction begins immediately when they come in contact with each other.
- Acrylic monomer
- Acrylic powder
This gives the nail technician only a limited time to place the acrylic before it is completely cured.
The speed at which the acrylic cures depends on the type of monomer used.
@jerihelll How I apply my acrylic 🫶🏼 This one deserves a longer video for once😮💨✨Intention✨ from @secretnailaffair #acrylicapplication #nailart #acrylicnails #coveracrylics #processvideo #nailhacks2022 #lanailtech ♬ love nwantinti (ah ah ah ah) - CKay
Difference #2: The acrylic brush is a lot bigger and wider
An acrylic brush is also a lot bigger and wider than a gel brush.
Difference #3: Strong Chemical Odor of ACrylic Nails
Acrylic also has the characteristic of having a very strong chemical odor versus gel which has a fairly neutral odor.
Difference #4: Hardness after Curing of ACRYL nails
Acrylic is a bit harder than gel after curing, and therefore more suitable for extremely long nails.
With a normal length and an experienced gel stylist, the quality of a gel nail should not differ from that of an acrylic nail.
UV Gel (Hard)
Difference #1: Gel is always delivered ready to use
UV Hardgel is always supplied as a finished product in a jar or bottle (BIAB Builder in a Bottle), the viscosity of the gel varies greatly. Some gels are very firm, and other gel are very fluid.
Difference #2: The gel brush
Gel is applied by means of a gel brush, with this a small amount of gel is scooped up from the jar.
Difference #3: Applying gel
When applying the gel, there is a fluid motion where the gel follows the brush.
Difference #4: Gel Cure when you want and thus save filing work
One of the biggest advantages of gel is that it does not set until it is held under a UV/LED lamp. This means that the nail technician can lay down the gel properly before it hardens. This saves an enormous amount of filing.
Difference #5: Biggest disadvantage is of gel is its stickiness
One of the biggest disadvantages of gel is that it is very sticky and thus often ends up where it is not wanted.
Difference #6: Gel has a Glossy finish and transparency
Visually, gel gives a more glossy and transparent finish to the final look of the nails.
@nails.by.dena Reply to @eelviraa_12 hope this helps 🥰 #nailsbydena #gelnails #nailtutorial #buildergel #howtodonails ♬ Wildest Dreams - Majid Jordan
I myself have chosen to specialize entirely on the use of gel. It is therefore my favorite with which I build all my sets.
Conclusion: which is better
In short, both gel nails and acrylic nails have their advantages and disadvantages. By considering factors such as nail type, budget and lifestyle, you can choose the type of artificial nails that best suits your needs."
It is important to note that both types of artificial nails can damage natural nails if they are not properly applied or removed. To minimize damage, it is advisable to have them done by a professional and to avoid picking or biting your nails.
| Gel nails - Benefits | Gel nails - Disadvantages | Acrylic Nails -Advantages | Acrylic nails - Disadvantages |
| Long-lasting, glassy finish (transparent look) | More expensive than acrylic nails (purchase) | More durable/harder than gel nails | More damaging to natural nails |
| More flexible and natural than acrylic nails | More challenging to learn | Cheaper to buy | Strong chemical odor |
| No time restriction on application because it only cures in a UV lamp (less filing) | Hugely sticky on application | More suitable for extremely long nails | Limited time with application |
Source
https://www.raycochrane.co.uk/gel-nails-vs-acrylic-nails-which-one-should-you-go-for/
Also read my other blog posts
K-reative Nails Reinforces the Team of Roxenne Nails!
What an incredible moment as I write this blog article. Finally...
Barbie Movie Mani(a): A Nail Trend Inspired by the MovieBarbie Movie nails: Everywhere I look, this trend is invading my social media feeds and adorning nails with countless shades of pink inspired by the Barbie movie.
Sun, sand and beautiful summer nails: Inspiration for your nailsAre you anxiously counting down to your long-awaited vacation? Then...
