Shop Talk: Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails

Day in and day out, the #1 question asked everyday in the salon is "What's the difference between Gel Nails and Acrylic Nails?"

If you're questioning whether to choose Gel nails or Acrylic nails, here is the 411 on both to compare and determine what best suits your needs.


Acrylic Nails 101

Acrylic Nails are currently more popular than gel nails, reason being they have been around longer, which probably accounts for their popularity. Acrylics can be whole or partial, used over the entire nail or simply as tips. A mixture of liquid acrylic (monomer) and polymer, which is an acrylic powder, is applied to the nail. It hardens on its own fairly quickly, usually within minutes.

Pros of Acrylic Nails: 

• The removal process is simple and straightforward if done by a professional. The nails can be soaked rather than filed off.
• Acrylics are very strong. When done correctly and with proper nail care they can last a long time. They're robust!

Cons of Acrylic Nails:

• They can damage your real nails in a harsher manner than gel nails can.
• Acrylics can look less natural than gel nails, especially if done incorrectly. 

Gel Nails 101

Gel Nails is typically a pre-mixed polymer and monomer gel that is first applied to the nails and then cured under ultra-violet lights.

Pros of Gel Nails:

• Gel nails often look more natural and glossy than other types of cosmetic nails.
• The curing time is faster than acrylics, sometimes clocking in at just two minutes when light-curing is done.
• Gel nail mixtures are odorless.
• There is less filing involved during the application process. 

 Cons of Gel Nails:

• They don't last as long and are less durable than acrylic, even though they tend to cost more.
• Nail polish may not stick to the gel finish as well as it does to an acrylic finish.
• Gel nails almost always need to be filed off. You can't just soak them away. 

Ready for a nail makeover? To book an appointment visit: http://shinenailbar.com/appointment or call us 604.284.5022