Acrylic and gel nails are artificial nail enhancements done in place of natural nails. Gel nails tend to provide a more glossy and natural look whereas acrylic are more sturdy and durable as compared to gel.
| Acrylic Nails | Gel Nails | |
|---|---|---|
| What are they? | Artificial Nail enhancements | Artificial Nail enhancements |
| Appearance | May look less natural than gel nails, especially if applied incorrectly. | Natural, glossy Freshly-manicured for up to 14 days |
| Cost | Generally cheaper than gel nail application. | $25 to $60 Salons typically start with manicure price and add an upcharge up to 50% |
| Durability | Lasts longer than gel nails. | Up to 14 days |
| Corrosive effect | If properly applied with the correct quantity, primers(with or without methacrylic acid) do not etch or damage the nail bed. However, skin contact needs to be avoided to reduce the risk of allergic reaction. | Gel nails can be applied with or without a base or primer.(CND GEL uses a non-acid primer to bond the gel to the nail). If primer is applied correctly, it does not damage the nail bed. |
| Curing techniques | Slower curing time. Acrylic liquid and powder are applied to the nail and the acrylic nails. | Faster curing time. Most gel nails are cured under uv-light; some cure with a gel activator and do not require uv-light (no-light gels). |
| After effects | Overuse and incorrect application of primer can cause damage to the nail bed and leave an impression on the nails. Prolonged exposure to water may result in fungal infection. | In general, Gel nails applied without a primer leave no hard impressions.Overuse and incorrect application of primer can cause damage to the nail bed and leave an impression on the nails. Prolonged exposure to water may result in fungal infection. |
| Flexibility | Acrylic nails are hard and very robust, when applied correctly. | Most of them are more flexible than the acrylic nails, but not as flexible as natural nails. |
| Range | There is not much variety that you can go with the acrylic nails as far as the material texture is concerned. | Gelish – 141 colors; OPI – 71 colors; Essie -- 36 colors |
Appearance & Durability
One of the primary factors for choosing gel nails over acrylic is the appearance. Gel nails tend to have a more natural and glossy appearance as compared to acrylic. On the other hand, acrylic nails are very sturdy. If applied correctly and with proper care, may last much longer than gel nails.
