Choices, choices, we are so lucky to have an incredible number of false nails to choose from, but at the same time, too many options can be confusing. Let’s take acrylic vs gel nails, for example. You know you’d like to get your hands on some false acrylic or gel nails, but what is the difference between them?
Knowing the main differences between acrylic and gel nails can help you decide which style of nail best fits your lifestyle and will look great when you show them off. We are passionate about beauty, so let us explain the subtle differences between acrylic and gel nails.
What are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are created by combining a powder form and liquid monomer to form a thick paste that hardens quickly once exposed to air. A brush is used to apply the acrylic onto your natural nails, and then it is moulded and shaped into the desired nail length before being filed and buffed.
Acrylic nails are a fantastic choice for those looking for long-lasting false nails that don’t require frequent filling. Read more about how long acrylic nails last.
What are Gel Nails?
Gel nails work similarly to acrylic nails but differ slightly as they use gel instead of acrylic powder with liquid monomer. Gel nails usually last longer than acrylics; they’re shinier and provide more protection to your natural nail bed.
Gel polish is also cured using a UV light, which helps the product to harden faster without needing air exposure.
Acrylic vs. Gel Nails
Which Style is Better for Strength?
Acrylic nails win this department as they are the more robust of the two due to the acrylic powder used to create them. The acrylic powder is more durable, making acrylic nails an excellent option for those looking for stronger false nails with fewer maintenance requirements than gel nails.
However, suppose you’re after super shiny, glossy and natural-looking false nails. In that case, you may better suit gel nails since they can provide all these attributes with just one application and have longer-lasting results.
Are Acrylic or Gel Nails Better for My Natural Nails?
If you’re looking for a nail style that won’t damage your natural nails, then acrylic nails are the best option, as they provide more protection to your natural nail bed than gel nails. As acrylics require filing and buffing to be applied, this helps to strengthen your natural nails and protect them from further damage.
Gel polish is also great for protecting your natural nails, but should only be applied by a professional nail technician to avoid any potential damage to the nail plate. But with care and the right equipment, you can use gel nails at home.
How to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home
Applying acrylic nails at home is an art, so ensure you have patience before giving it a go. Consider investing in some acrylic powder to use with liquid acrylic monomer. But if you’re feeling up to the task and want beautiful acrylic false nails, here are our top tips for applying acrylics at home:
- Cleanse your natural nails with nail polish remover (non-acetone based) and file them into the desired shape.
- Apply thin layers of acrylic onto each of your nails until they reach your preferred length.
- Use a cuticle pusher to push back the skin around the nail bed.
- To create a smooth acrylic nail shape, use a file or nail buffer to shape the acrylic and remove any sharp edges.
- If you need to add length, apply another thin layer of acrylic onto the nails.
- Finish by adding top coat and cuticle oil.
What Do I Need to Apply Acrylic Nails at Home?
When it comes to acrylic nails, you’ll need the right tools and products to create beautiful acrylic false nails. Our acrylic nail kit contains everything you need for perfect acrylic false nails.
- Acrylic powder
- Liquid monomer
- Nail tips
- Cuticle pusher
- Nail glue
- UV gel top coat
- Nail file/buffer
- Cuticle oil
How to Apply Gel Nails at Home
This one is a bit more complex because of the curing process, but you’ll be fine if you have the correct equipment. Here are our top tips for applying gel false nails:
- Cleanse your natural nails with nail polish remover (non-acetone based) and file them into the desired shape.
- Apply a thin layer of gel polish onto each of your nails until they reach your preferred length.
- Use a cuticle pusher to push back the skin around the nail bed.
- Cure your gel polish using a UV or LED light for 2 minutes, then repeat this step again.
- To create a smooth acrylic nail shape, use a nail buffer to shape the acrylic and remove any sharp edges.
- Finish by adding a top coat and cuticle oil.
What Do I Need to Apply Gel Nails at Home?
When it comes to gel nails, you’ll need the right equipment and products to create beautiful acrylic false nails. Our acrylic nail kit contains everything you need for perfect acrylic false nails.
- Gel polish
- Cuticle pusher
- UV/LED light machine
- Nail file/buffer
- Cuticle oil
Whether acrylic or gel is your preferred choice, you can now easily apply these styles at home. When using acrylic or gel nails, ensure all the product is applied correctly to avoid any potential damage to your natural nail plate.
Which Nail Shapes Suit Acrylic Nails Best?
Acrylic nails are great for creating different shapes, from natural-looking almond or oval to extravagant coffin and stiletto styles. If you’re a beginner acrylic nail artist, we suggest starting with the classic round acrylic nails, as they’re relatively simple to achieve.
Once you have the knack, you can choose whichever shape you fancy.
Which Nail Shapes Suit Gel Nails Best?
Gel nails also come in various shapes; however, due to their curing process, it may be tricky to try out more intricate designs. We suggest using gel polish to create natural-looking acrylic false nails such as almond, square or coffin shape nails, and finish with a glossy top coat for extra shine.
Now you know the difference between acrylic and gel nails, as well as the tips for applying acrylic and gel nails at home, let’s get to creating some beautiful acrylic false nails.
Our Favourite Acrylic Nails
Here are our favourite acrylic nails to try at home:
Elegant touch is a great place to start your acrylic nail journey. This French ombre stiletto manicure from Elegant Touch False Nails is called French No 1 as it exudes classic French style.
These nails will perfectly match your cuticle thanks to their salon-sculpted fit, giving you the entire salon look. The nail is strengthened at the tip thanks to dual injection technology, which also makes them feel particularly secure at all times. The beautiful Elegant Touch glass shine finish is on everything for extra zing.
The Complete salon acrylic set from Kiss is the next step in acrylic false nails.
This kit contains everything you need for acrylic nails, including acrylic powder, acrylic liquid, and brush-on nail glue. A set of tips is included to help you easily craft acrylic nails. The individual designs are pre-made and ready to be applied in no time, removing all of the hard work that comes with acrylics.
These nails look absolutely stunning when they’re on and last up to two weeks - perfect for any special occasion.
So there you have it - acrylic vs gel nails explained! Both acrylic and gel give a beautiful finish and can be easily applied at home with the right tools. Which one will you try next?
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