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Gel vs Acrylic Nails: The Ultimate Guide

March 2, 2023

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your beauty routine, getting your nails done is a great place to start. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to begin. Two of the most popular types of nail treatments are gel and acrylic nails. At Cosmetic Avenue, we specialise in semi-permanent makeup and aesthetics, we also offer a range of beauty treatments including gel nails in Leicester. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the difference between gel and acrylic nails, and explore the pros and cons of each.

What are Gel Nails?

Gel nails are a popular type of nail enhancement that have been around since the 1980s. They involve applying a gel substance to the natural nail, which is then cured with a UV or LED light to create a hard and durable surface. Gel nails come in a range of colours and finishes, from classic French manicures to glittery ombre designs. They can be used to add length, strengthen natural nails, or simply enhance their appearance.

What our customers ask about Gel Nails

How long do gel nails last?

When applied correctly by a professional, gel nails can last up to three weeks without chipping or peeling. This makes them a popular choice for people who want long-lasting, low-maintenance nails.

However, the lifespan of gel nails can vary depending on factors such as the brand of gel used, your natural nail growth rate, and how well you take care of your nails between appointments.

Is Shellac the same as gel?

No, Shellac is not exactly the same as traditional gel nails. It is a brand of gel polish that is known for its durability and high-shine finish.

Shellac is a patented hybrid product that combines gel and traditional nail polish to create a longer-lasting, chip-resistant manicure. While technically not the same as traditional gel nails, the term “shellac” is often used interchangeably with “gel polish.”

What is BIAB? (Builder gel)

BIAB, or “Builder In A Bottle,” is a type of builder gel that is used to create a strong, durable base for gel nail extensions. It can also be used to strengthen natural nails and create a smooth surface for gel polish. BIAB is a newer product that has gained popularity in recent years due to its ease of use and versatility.

Can you remove gel nails at home?

While it is possible to remove gel nails at home using acetone and other tools, we highly recommend having them professionally removed. Improper removal can damage your natural nails and leave them weak and brittle. A professional nail technician can safely and effectively remove your gel nails without causing any harm to your natural nails.

What are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are a popular type of nail enhancement that can add length and strength to your natural nails. This process involves mixing a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to create a paste, which is then applied to your natural nail or extension. The paste hardens as it dries, creating a strong and durable surface. Acrylic nails can be shaped and sculpted into a variety of shapes and designs.

What our customers ask about Acrylic Nails

How long do acrylic nails last?

With proper maintenance and care, acrylic nails can last up to three weeks. It’s important to keep them clean and dry, avoid using your nails as tools, and have them filled regularly to maintain their strength and shape.

Can you remove acrylic nails at home?

While it is possible to remove acrylic nails at home using acetone and other tools, we highly recommend having them professionally removed. Improper removal can damage your natural nails and leave them weak and brittle. Professional removal ensures that your acrylic nails are safely removed without damaging your natural nails.

What’s more expensive, gel or acrylic?

The cost of getting your nails done can vary depending on factors such as location, salon reputation, and the level of expertise of the nail technician. However, in general, gel nails tend to be more expensive than acrylic nails. The reason for this is that gel nails require more time and expertise to apply and require specialised equipment such as UV or LED lamps to cure the gel. Additionally, the cost of the gel material is usually higher than that of acrylic material, which can contribute to the overall cost of the treatment.

Which is less damaging, acrylic or gel nails?

Both gel and acrylic nails can be safe and low-damage options when applied and removed properly. However, improper application or removal of either gel or acrylic nails can cause damage to the natural nail, leading to weakness, peeling, and breakage. In general, acrylic nails tend to be thicker and less flexible than gel nails, which can make them more prone to causing damage to the natural nail. On the other hand, gel nails are thinner and more flexible, which makes them less likely to cause damage. However, both types of nails can be safe and low-damage options when applied and removed by a trained professional .

Do acrylic or gel nails look more natural?

Both gel and acrylic nails can be customised to look natural and blend seamlessly with your natural nails. However, gel nails are often considered more natural looking due to their thinner and more flexible consistency.

Gel nails have a more lightweight and natural-looking finish, which makes them ideal for those who want a subtle, natural-looking nail enhancement. Acrylic nails tend to have a thicker and more noticeable appearance, which can make them more suitable for those who want a bolder, more dramatic look.

Do acrylic nails ruin your nails?

When applied and removed properly, gel nails should not ruin your natural nails. In fact, gel nails can actually help to strengthen and protect your natural nails by providing an extra layer of protection. However, improper application or removal of gel nails can cause damage to the natural nail, leading to weakness, peeling, and breakage.

It’s important to work with a trained professional to ensure that your gel nails are applied and removed properly, and to take breaks between treatments to allow your natural nails to breathe and recover.

What are the pros and cons of gel nails vs acrylic?

When it comes to choosing between gel and acrylic nails, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Pros of Gel Nails:

  • Long-lasting: Gel nails can last up to three weeks without chipping or peeling.
  • Flexible and natural-looking: Gel nails are more flexible and look more natural than acrylic nails.
  • Low-maintenance: Gel nails require less maintenance than acrylic nails and can be easily removed.
  • Allows nails to grow naturally: Gel nails are less damaging to natural nails and can actually help to strengthen them.

Cons of Gel Nails:

  • Can sometimes be more expensive: Gel nails can be slightly more expensive than acrylic nails, depending on the salon.
  • Require UV or LED light for curing: Gel nails require a special UV or LED light for curing, which can be an added cost.
  • May not be as durable as acrylic nails: While gel nails are durable, they may not be as strong as acrylic nails and are more prone to breaking.

Pros of Acrylic Nails:

  • Durable and long-lasting: Acrylic nails are strong and can last up to three weeks without chipping.
  • Can be shaped and sculpted into a variety of designs: Acrylic nails are highly versatile and can be shaped and sculpted into a variety of designs.
  • Sometimes more affordable than gel nails: Acrylic nails are sometimes cheaper than gel nails, depending on the salon.

Cons of Acrylic Nails:

  • Thicker and less flexible than gel nails: Acrylic nails are thicker and less flexible than gel nails, which can make them feel less natural.
  • May require more maintenance and fills: Acrylic nails require more maintenance and fills than gel nails, which can be time-consuming.
  • Can be more damaging to natural nails: Acrylic nails can be more damaging to natural nails if they are not applied or removed properly.

Our Verdict

Our team of expert nail technicians have extensive experience working with both gel and acrylic nails. However, we have found unanimously that gel nails are generally the preferred choice among our technicians and clients as they offer the perfect combination of style, convenience, and affordability.

While acrylic nails may be a popular choice for some, they do have their downsides. Acrylic nails are thicker and less flexible than gel nails, making them more prone to breakage and damage. Additionally, acrylic nails can be more difficult to remove and may require more frequent maintenance and fills.

Gel nails on the other hand are incredibly durable and long-lasting, often lasting for up to two to three weeks without chipping or peeling. This means that you can enjoy beautiful, flawless nails for a long period of time.

In addition, gel nails are much more flexible and natural-looking than acrylic nails. Gel polish can be applied in thin, lightweight layers, designed to mimic the appearance of natural nails and are available in a wide range of shades, finishes, and designs. This means that you can achieve a flawless, polished look without sacrificing the health or integrity of your natural nails. Gel nails can be worn with confidence, knowing that they won’t look fake or over-the-top.

Introducing Verity

At Cosmetic Avenue, we are proud to have Verity Hart as our expert nail technician. With over 20 years of experience in nails and beauty, Verity is a true professional in the field. She used to work for Femi Health and Beauty salon, and has honed her skills over the years to become an expert in the latest nail techniques and trends.

Verity uses only high-quality products for her clients, including The Gel Bottle, Navy, and Bio Sculpture. She knows that quality products are key to achieving a flawless finish that lasts. She has also been further trained by industry experts, including The Gel Bottle, to ensure that her work stays current.

Contact us today to book your appointment and experience the magic of gel nails for yourself!

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