The main difference between acrylic and gel nails is that acrylic nails look hard and do not have a glossy look, while gel nails look more natural and they have a glossy look.
Acrylic and gel nails are two popular nail extensions. Although both look good and we can use them with natural nails, there are several differences between acrylic and gel nails.
Key Areas Covered
1. What are Acrylic Nails
– Definition, Features
2. What are Gel Nails
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Acrylic and Gel Nails
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Acrylic and Gel Nails
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Acrylic Nails, Gel Nails
What are Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are a type of artificial nail extension used in place of natural nails. Acrylic nails are strong and durable. This manicure technique involves applying glue or primer on the nail first. After that, the artificial nail is set on top of the existing nail. At the same time, users must be careful to avoid skin contact in order to reduce allergy reactions.
Acrylic nails require professional assistance for removal. Soaking nails is the most used method of removal of acrylic nails. It does not cost much to apply acrylic nails. Acrylic nails are hard and thick. Therefore, there is a slight uneasiness about wearing them. Acrylic nails also give a very strong smell during the duration of application. There is a possibility of causing severe or mild damage to the nails after the application. However, after applying the acrylic nails, they dry fast.
What are Gel Nails
Gel nails are artificial nail extensions with a glossy and natural look. Gel nails are applied using a bonder and a base coat; after that, gel nail polish is applied to the nail. These nails involve a lot of filling. Generally, gel nails last for fourteen days.
The price for applying gel nails is higher than acrylic nails. The most important fact about gel nails is that you can set the gel nails on natural nails with or without using a primer. Gel nails require a few minutes to dry, and they can be dried under UV light. Gel nails have a natural finish, and they are light on the natural nails. At the same time, if the nail breaks, there is a low possibility of damaging the natural nail. However, the overuse and improper application of primer may cause harm to the nails. When removing gel nails, the filed-off method has to be used since these nails do not dissolve in acetone. Applying gel nails is a bit expensive, and gel nails are completely odorless.
Similarities Between Acrylic and Gel Nails
- Both acrylic nails and gel nails are nail extensions to natural nails.
- Both nail extensions require time for drying.
- There is a possibility of damaging the nail after using both acrylic and gel nails.
Difference Between Acrylic and Gel Nails
Definition
Acrylic nails have a hard and durable appearance, whereas gel nails have a glossy and natural look.
Durability
Furthermore, acrylic nails are more durable than gel nails. Gel nails will last only for fourteen days.
Appearance
Acrylic nails have a hard appearance, whereas gel nails have a smooth and natural appearance.
Cost
Moreover, acrylic nails are cheaper than gel nails.
Application
When applying acrylic nails, first a glue or a primer is applied on the nail, and the artificial nail is set on top of the existing nail, whereas gel nails are applied using a bonder and a base coat.
Smell
Although acrylic nails have a strong smell, gel nails are completely odorless.
Removal
Although acrylic nails are removed by soaking the nails, gel nails are removed by filing them off.
Drying Time
Acrylic nails dry fast while applying, whereas gel nails take a few times to dry up.
Conclusion
The main difference between acrylic and gel nails is that acrylic nails look hard and do not have a glossy look, while gel nails look more natural and they have a glossy look. Moreover, acrylic nails are cheaper than gel nails.
Reference:
1. Norris, Rebecca. “How to Do Your Own Acrylic Nails at Home.” BYRDIE.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Red and White Manicure With Love Print” (CC0) via Pexels
2. “Matte black and white polkadot nails (16476158115)” By starsandspirals – Matte black and white polkadot nails (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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