The main difference between gel and acrylic nails is that gel nails give a more glossy finish and natural look, unlike acrylic nails, which are best for adding sturdiness and durability to the nails.
Read this article to understand other differences between gel and acrylic nail art forms to pick the best for yourself.
Table of Contents
Gel vs. Acrylic
| Gel | vs | Acrylic |
| Appear glossy and freshly manicured | Appearance | Appear unnatural and don’t have a glossy look |
| Two weeks | Durability | More than two weeks |
| Flexible | Flexibility | Hard |
| Require more time | Drying Time | Require less time |
| Cured under UV rays | Curing Process | Cured in air |
| Filed off completely | Removal Process | Requires acetone treatment |
| 3-step process – brush, nail polish, and final coating with UV exposure on each layer | Application Process | Applied either on the natural nail bed or with extensions and sets under fan or air |
| Odorless, no odor during application | Smell | It gives off an odor during application |
| Damaging if not applied properly | Effects on Nail | Damaging along with reaction on skin if not applied properly |
| More expensive | Cost | Less expensive |
What are Gel Nails?
Gel nails are artificial nails (or fake nails) that look similar to your natural nails. They are a mix of a monomer liquid and polymer powder. Gel nails are standard acrylic nails, but they appear more lustrous.
Three-Step Process
- Step 1: Brushing a base coat
- Step 2: Nail polish
- Step 3: Top coat on natural nails
Every coat is then exposed to a UV lamp or LED light for 30 seconds to two minutes for drying. UV light prevents the smudging of nail polish.
How Long Do Gel Nails Last?
On average, gel nail polish can last for two weeks or more. The chances of getting them ruined are greater when you keep them for a long time. However, you can make them last longer by taking a few precautions.
Tips for Caring for Gel Nails
- Use cuticle oil
- Fill your nails regularly
- Wear a top coat
- Keep the nails dry
How to Remove Gel Nails?
You can visit your nail stylist after two weeks to get them removed gently. Or follow an online tutorial to remove your gel nails at home.
Hard vs. Soft Gel Nails
The difference between these two gel nail designs is that hard gel is stronger and harder, so it protects nails from bending and breaking and stays on longer than soft gel.
What are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are another popular artificial nail. Acrylic nails are made by combining liquid monomers and acrylic glass. This substance is made into tiny beads pressed on the nail with a brush.
The Acrylic Nail Process
After acrylic nail shaping, a regular base coat is applied, followed by a nail polish color and top coat. They are long-lasting, and the polish doesn’t chip off easily.
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
Acrylic nails are durable and last for about six to eight weeks, with a fill needed every two to three weeks. However, you can keep them longer by taking precautions.
Tips for Caring for Acrylic Nails
- Apply cuticle oil
- Use moisturizer
- Keep your hands dry
How to Remove Acrylic Nails
While it’s possible to remove your own acrylic nails, it’s not recommended. The safest way to remove acrylic nails is by consulting a professional manicurist.
Difference Between Gel and Acrylic Nails
Gel and acrylic nails are very different from each other.
Appearance
Gel nails appear more natural, glossy, and freshly manicured for up to two weeks. However, acrylic nails appear less natural, especially if misapplied.
How Long Does Each Last?
Gel nails last up to two weeks, while acrylic nails last up to six to eight weeks.
Drying Time
Every layer of gel nails must be exposed to sunlight for a cure. Thus, it requires more time. However, acrylic nails get dried faster.
Curing Process
Gel nails are cured using UV light, while acrylic nails are cured in the air under the fan.
Removal Process
Acrylic nails must be soaked in acetone and buffed off, while gel nails must ultimately be filed off.
Application Process
Gel nails require a three-step process that includes brushing a base coat, nail polish, and a top coat on natural nails. Every coat is exposed to UV light for 30 seconds to two minutes for drying.
Acrylic nails are applied either on the natural nail bed or with extensions. It sets naturally in minutes without the help of any equipment.
Smell
Gel nails are odorless and give off no smell during application. However, acrylic nails give off a strong smell during application.
Effects on Nails
Both acrylic nails and gel nails come with risk and damage.
However, gel nails are more damaging if not applied or removed properly. Acrylic nails may cause mild damage to nails when applied or removed incorrectly.
Also, there is the risk of allergic reaction when the primer comes in contact with the skin.
Cost
Gel nails are more expensive than acrylic nails because of their polished appearance.
Flexibility
Gel nails are more flexible, while acrylic nails are hard and robust.
Will You Choose Gel or Acrylic?
Gel and acrylic nails are two artificial nail styling techniques that allow you to express your style. The key difference is that gel nails appear more glossy and natural, while acrylic nails appear unnatural.
Now that the difference between the two nail arts is clear, you can make more informed decisions. Consider lifestyle, job, personal taste, and budget while choosing your favorite manicure.
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