Hello, ladies!
In ancient times, nails were used to protect a person against any dangers that he/she might have to face in its primitive lifestyle. However, today, nails are decorated and grown for an elegant and classy appearance. In today’s society, unkempt hands and nails are looked down upon and give away the impression of lack of self-grooming and careless attitude. However, we at IMBB want you, girls, to always look at your best. Therefore, today, I am back with a post on, “Gel Nails Versus Acrylic Nails. Which is Better?” Read on and decide for yourself!
An Introduction to Acrylic Nails:
Talking about what came first, acrylic nails hit off the market way before gel nails did and it contributes to their large fan following as well. Acrylic nails are done using a liquid monomer and a powder polymer to create a hard layer which strengthens your nails or extensions, whichever you apply it over. Acrylic nails are not treated under the UV light and harden naturally in the air itself.
Pros of Acrylic Nails:
• They are cheaper than gel nails and take the comparatively lesser time to get done.
• They are long lasting as compared to gel nails.
• If done by an expert, by using correct quantities of primer, they are known to be safe for use and do not damage the actual nail bed.
• Acrylic nails are generally harder and sturdier as compared to gel nails.
• Since acrylic nail treatment came in the market way before gel nails did, most nail salons have technicians which are experienced in the treatment and can provide the best results.
• Acrylic nails are pretty much very versatile and the options to decorate and customize them are endless. From fancy shapes to monochrome shades, from cute stickers to quirky accessories, you name it and they have it.
Cons of Acrylic Nails:
• If you opt for acrylic nail treatment for a prolonged period of time without a break, it may damage your natural nail bed. Apart from this, nails grow slower with acrylic nails over them.
• Sometimes, if not done right acrylic nails might end up looking rather fake and give off a plastic look.
• If you have a rather sensitive skin, you may form allergies to some of the substances used during acrylic nail treatment, as it involves the use of some really strong chemicals and nail-hardening substances.
• You will need to go for routinely re-filling of your acrylic nails to fill in the gap made by new nail growth. This may be a bummer for some people who want to keep their salon visits and money spent at a minimum.
• The beautiful and hard acrylic nails can be quite addictive, however, do not forget that you need to take breaks every now and then so that your natural nail bed can breathe to prevent the possible side effects.
Now, let’s delve into gel nails.
An Introduction to Gel Nails:
Gel nails provide the sturdiness as offered by acrylic nails. However, they harden only under a UV light. Apart from which, they are much more natural-looking. Gel nail paints are similar to the regular ones in the sense that they also follow the procedure of a base coat, a color coat which is then followed by a top coat. The only difference being, that each of this gel layer is treated under UV light to bond to the natural nail.
Pros of Gel Nails:
• They are much more natural looking and glossier as compared to the acrylic nails.
• Since gel nails are treated under UV light, they don’t lead to weird fumes and are safer for sensitive skin types.
• Gel nails are easier to do, as compared to acrylic nails and leave a little to no room for mistakes.
• They are much more flexible than your acrylic nails but not as flexible as natural nails. So, people who detest acrylic nail due to its uneasiness on the cuticle can find some solace in their gel counterpart.
• In the long run, there are no side effects of gel nails. Gel nails leave no nasty impression on your nails even if done for a prolonged period of time.
Cons of Gel Nails:
• Gel polish looks pretty and natural but is hard to remove. Nails have to be soaked in acetone for quite some time to get rid of it, which may result in thinner and brittle nails.
• They are generally much more expensive when compared with acrylic nails.
• They are not as long lasting or strong as acrylic nails, and in case they break, you will need to make an immediate appointment with your technician.
How to Choose Between the Two?
While some may say that they have been doing acrylics for ages now and it suits their needs the best, there will still be others who will favor gel nails over them for their non-damaging properties.
If you are still not sure about what suits your needs and requirements the best: gel nails or acrylic ones, it is better to sit your technician down and try to know what they excel in. Apart from which, if you see someone sporting brilliant nails in your circle, ask them about their experiences and what they opt for between the two alternatives.
That’s all for today, girlies! Hope this helps.
Source: makeupandbeauty.com