What is the difference between gel and acrylics nails? | Top nail salon Lubbock, TX 79407
Dip requires a resin-based agent like super glue, whereas acrylics require a monomer to form the acrylic nails.” A monomer is a chemical liquid that holds the acrylic and the nail together. It poses a strong chemical smell — you know the one as soon as you walk into a salon.
Difference between gel and acrylics nails But first of all, let’s check out the definition of acrylics and gel nails. What are they?
Definition Acrylics, the most popular artificial nail, are a combination of a liquid and powder that creates a hard, protective layer over the natural nail. A nail tip is applied to the nail, then a ball is created by dipping a brush into liquid monomer and placing the wet brush in powder polymer. This ball is placed on the nail bed and patted into place using liquid monomer. The finished product is cured, normally by air drying. Gel nails are quickly becoming one of the most popular forms of artificial nail application. In order to achieve gel nails, a nail tip is first applied if the length of the nails needs to be extended. Then two to three layers of gel nail polish are applied with each layer being cured using a UV lamp. The nail is then filed and polished with the desired color or decorated with nail art.
Appearance Gel nails tend to have a more natural and glossy appearance as compared to acrylic. On the other hand, acrylic nails are very sturdy.
Advantages *Acrylic Acrylic nails are hard and very robust They last longer Easy removal When you break an acrylic nail, you can almost always fix it at home.
*Gel Natural, glossy, freshly-manicured look Lasts up to 14 days Curing time is faster More flexible than the acrylic nails Easier to remove Gel nail mixtures lack the fumes associated with acrylic nails Quick drying time No chips and smudges
Disadvantages *Acrylic They can damage your nail bed Acrylics may look less natural than gel nails, especially if applied incorrectly. The application process involves chemicals and fumes
*Gel More expensive than other artificial nails Self-fixing a break at home is complicated Removal can result in nails damage if gel is used too frequently Exposure to UV rays
Durability Acrylics Lasts longer than gel nails. Gel Nails lasts up to 14 days Costs Gel does generally cost more than do acrylics, usually around 15-20% more.