Gel Verses Acrylic Nails: Which is Better?

While both gel and acrylic nails can give you an elegant and sophisticated look, each have their pros and cons. Fake nails allow a person to have longer and sleek nails without having the high maintenance of their natural nails. Since not everyone is able to grow out their nails and avoid breaking and peeling, gel and acrylic, among others, come into play.

Gel Verses Acrylic Nails – The Basics

The Basics: Gel Nails

Gel nails are very similar in appearance to acrylic nails but they do have some underlying differences. There are two basic types of gel nails; light cured and no-light cured nails. Light cured nails are applied under ultra-violet lights and are the most common type of gel nails. No-light cured nails are applied with a brush or special spray that activates the gel to stick to the nail. This type of nail has the added benefit of drying faster and not having to need a light.

The Basics: Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are very popular and are commonly offered at salons and spas. They have been around for years and can be used in a variety of ways for unique looks. Acrylic nails can come in pieces that cover the entire fingernail or you can simply purchase the tips to extend the nail or to get a French tip look. Acrylic nails are applied by using a mixture made from monomer (liquid acrylic) and polymer (acrylic powder). This combination is applied to the nail and dries rather quickly.

Gel Verses Acrylic Nails – Pros and Cons

Gel and acrylic nails will give similar results but not all is as it seems. Fake nails are able to shorten, lengthen and give you decorate fingernails. For a well done manicure, talk to a nail technician and allow the professional to create a look that fits your needs. After weighing the pros and cons of both gel and acrylic nails, you will have a better understanding of which type of fake nails fits your needs.

Gel Nails: The Pros

Gel nails are able to dry faster and can usually be finished in a matter of minutes.
Gel nails give an odorless smell to both the nail and the mixture.
Gel nails give a more natural appearance and a glossy finish.
Gel nails involve less filling.

Gel Nails: The Cons

Gel nails do not last as long and are not as durable.
Gel nails tend to be more expensive.
Gel nails are difficult to fix because they usually shatter rather than give a clean break.
Gel nails need to be filed off, as they are unable to be soaked.
Gel nails and fingernail polish do not adhere well.

Acrylic Nails: The Pros

Acrylic nails can usually be fixed easily at home.
Acrylic nails are easier to take off and can be soaked, rather than filed.
Acrylic nails are very durable and last a long time.
Acrylic nails work well with nail polish and other nail accessories.

Acrylic Nails: The Cons

Acrylic nails have the risk of damaging your natural nail when removed.
Acrylic nails do not look as natural and can look terrible if done incorrectly.
Acrylic nails can fall off easily if not glued correctly to the nail.

Gel Verses Acrylic Nails: Conclusion

Both gel and acrylic nails have their pros and cons. If done correctly, fake nails can give you any appearance you want and can look great for important events. Always talk to a professional nail technician before attempting to put on fake nails as the process can be tricky. Choosing the right technician and right type of nails can make a huge difference in the way your fingers turn out.