Published 23rd November 2015
There are so many different things you can have done to your nails these days; it’s hard to keep up. One of the most asked questions however is what the difference is between gel nails and acrylic nails. Luckily for you, we are going to tell you about each one as well as the pros and cons of each so you can better decide which is right for you.
About Gel Nails
One of the biggest differences is that gel nails will only harden when under UV light. You might have seen these UV light machines in the nail salon already or have even had a gel nail polish done which you had to put your hand under the UV light to dry.
Gel Nails Pros
Gel nails have been known to look a lot more natural than any other type of false nail which is what makes them so popular. Another positive is the drying time is a whole lot faster than acrylic nails… it’s almost like magic! They are a lot more eco-friendly as the fumes and chemicals are not as strong or as bad as acrylic nails. We’re sure all nail technicians are grateful for this last point.
Gel Nails Cons
They are not as durable as acrylic nails and may not last as long as a result. More often than not, they cost more than acrylic nails which can add up since they don’t last as long. Breaking a gel nail can mean trouble and cannot be fixed at home; you would need to book an appointment with your nail technician to get it fixed.
About Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails have been around for years and still remain a very popular choice. The main difference is that instead of drying by UV light, acrylic nails only harden when exposed to air. They are made by using a liquid monomer and a powder polymer over your natural nails.
Acrylic Nails Pros
If you break an acrylic nail, you will be able to fix it at home of you have the necessary tools. Acrylic nails can easily be soaked off saving a lot of time at the salon. When done by a professional, acrylic nails can last you a long time. Acrylic nails tend to cost less than gel nails, saving you money.
Acrylic Nails Cons
One of the biggest cons is that acrylic nails are known to cause more damage to your natural nails than gel nails. Acrylic nails don’t look as natural as gel nails do, especially if not done by a trained professional. There are more strong chemicals and fumes used with acrylic nails.
Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails: Our Verdict
Gel nails are the way forward we believe; especially if they are soak-off gels as filing the nail bed can cause damage. Saying that however, it is best to consult with your nail technician for the best option for your nails and lifestyle.
