Are you planning to get your nails done as a treat, for the holidays, or just to keep them maintained and looking good? When it comes to nail treatments, the two main options to consider are gel nails or acrylic. Both look great, but they differ from each other when it comes to a range of factors including the materials used, the finished look, the application process, and how the nails are removed.
First, Find a Good Technician
Both gel and acrylic nails can give you the nail design that you want when it’s done by a good nail technician. It’s important to do your research and find a reputable salon like utopiabeautique.com for your nail treatment to ensure that you get excellent results and your nails remain strong and healthy. Once you’ve found the right technician, which type of nails should you choose? Knowing the differences between the two can help you make the right decision.
Gel Nails
Gel nails are formed from a sticky, jelly-like substance. The gel is applied to the nails before it is cured under an LED or UV light. Gel nails are made of a complicated chemical compound known as polymer resins. The gel can be applied to your natural length or tips can be added to lengthen your nails before applying the gel. Firstly, your technician will apply a base coat, before adding the desired gel nail polish colour or design. These nails have a natural, glossy finished look and tend to be one of the safer options to have since the chemicals are not harmful to health.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are the most popular option when it comes to nail extension treatments. They use a combination of liquid and powder to create a strong, hard coat over your natural nail. They are usually applied in combination with tips to extend the length of your nails and create your desired shape. The powder and liquid components are mixed together before being applied to the nail beds and brushed onto the nail, creating a solid layer after drying in the natural air. There is no need to use any extra heat to dry acrylic nails since they will try at room temperature. Once the acrylic hardens, you can coat it with your desired choice of polish. Gel nail polish can be used over acrylic extensions.
The Look
Both gel and acrylic nails produce a different finished look. Gel nails tend to feel lighter on your nails and look glossy and natural. On the other hand, acrylic nails tend to have a shinier finish, but these nails can often feel heavier on your natural nails and it might take a while for some people to get used to them if you are having them done for the first time or have had natural nails for a while.
Whether you’re treating yourself to new nails just because, want to look great for an upcoming event, or simply want to try something new, deciding between gel or acrylic nails can be tricky. Both look great and have different options to suit everyone’s preferences, so it’s up to you which you prefer.
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