Acrylic vs. gel nails

Do you like false nails but don’t know which technique to choose? Have you heard so many urban legends about them that you don’t know what to think about them? Don’t worry, today we will try to clear all your doubts about the two constructions par excellence.

What is the main difference?

The materials that compose these products are of acrylic nature in both cases, what differentiates both systems is the polymerization of the same.
– In the case of acrylic nails, polymerization takes place when a monomer (liquid) and the polymer (powder) come into contact, thus building up the nail.
– In the case of the gel, both compounds (polymer and monomer) are mixed in the same product, so polymerization only takes place under UV light.

Advantages and Disadvantages

1. Hardness
   The acrylic construction is usually harder than the gel construction. In case of a breakage (by a strong blow) the damage is more likely to reach the natural nail with the acrylic construction than with the gel. This is precisely due to the hardness and strength of the acrylic construction.
2. Naturalness
   Until relatively recently, gel was more natural than acrylic. Today this market has evolved to such an extent that whether a nail looks more or less natural depends more on the experience and precision of the nail technique than on the material used. It should also be noted that gel has more shine and acrylic has a more matte finish.
3. Porosity
   Both gel and acrylic completely seal the natural nail. The difference is that acrylic is more porous than gel, so removal is easier.
4. Construction
   Both gel and acrylic manicures can be built on mold or on tip, depending on the shape, length and needs of the nail.
   Gel is easier to build. Both constructions require subsequent maintenance, since the natural nail grows and it is necessary to fill the gap it leaves.
5. Decoration
   The acrylic manicure is the chosen par excellence for decoration: encapsulated, 3D, spearhead, etc; although today there are denser gels that allow you to create 3D, you just have to know how to work it.
6. Price
   Usually gel manicure is more affordable than acrylic manicure.
7. Removal
   Acrylic nails are easier to remove than gel nails. Acrylic nails are removed with a special liquid and gel nails must be filed, in both cases it is advisable not to remove the product completely: a thin layer must be left to protect the natural nail.

If after reading this post you still have any doubts, the best thing to do is to contact your beauty center and they will advise you on the option that suits you best.