Gels or Acrylics?
Gel and acrylic nails have very similar results. They can make short nails longer, strengthen nails, and make your fingers look longer and slender. There sometime good and bad that come with each type of nail application. This list highlights the positive and negative of each type of application. Hopefully this list helps you figure out which application is best for you and your nails.
Acrylic Nails
The Positive
—>If an acrylic nail breaks you can pretty much always fix it by yourself at home.
—>The removal process is simple when performed by a professional. The nails can be soaked rather than filed off.
—>Acrylics are extremely strong. When done correctly (and with proper nail care performed by the client) they can last a long time.
—>Acrylic nail application usually costs less than gel nail application.
The Negative
—>They can cause damage to your nail bed, this damage creates a breeding ground for fungus and bacteria to grow and multiply on your nail which would take many treatments and at home care to get rid of.
—>Acrylics look less natural than gel nails, especially if they are applied incorrectly.
—>The application process involves very strong chemicals and fumes so if you are pregnant you SHOULD NOT use acrylic nails.
Gel Nails
The Positive
—>Gel nails look more natural and shiny than other types of cosmetic nails.
—>The curing time is faster than acrylics.
—>The gel nail application process does not have the fumes associated with acrylic nails - they are thought of as a safer, more eco-friendly option.
The Negative
—>They don’t last as long and are less durable than acrylic.
—>They cost more than acrylic ( usually).
—>Most gel nails are harder to do at home since they require a UV light for curing them.
—>If a gel nail breaks, it can sometimes be more of a shatter effect than a clean break, therefore self-fixing a break is not usually an option. You’ll need to make an appointment right away with your manicurist to fix the break.
—>Gel nails often need to be filed off, although there are some soak-off versions.
—>Both types of nails can be applied at home, but the application might be best left to a professional. Acrylic nail fumes may be too much to handle in your house, and without a UV light, you won’t be able to get gel nails to harden.
Finishing Touches
You can paint designs, you can do French tips, or create anything else on either type of nail. Some people think that airbrushing looks better on gel nails because they have a more glossy finish.
Some people think soak off gels are the way to go since there’s no damage to the nail and it doesn’t require any filing. There are many things to consider when it comes to choosing artificial nails, so you may want to discuss with a nail technician in your area to see which is best for you.
Hope this helps everyone!
****(these pictures and some of this information is not mine in any way).
