Gel nails vs. Acrylic nails
Gel nails vs. acrylic nails, what exactly is the difference between the two? Well they are as different as chalk and cheese. Acrylic nails came into origin much before gel nails making them easily available as compared to the latter. The basic composition of these two also varies drastically. Acrylic nails comprise of a liquid and a powder like substance (ethyl methacrylate), which is expensive but less harmful. On the other hand gel nails are made of clear gel that is sticky like honey making them softer and more flexible than the hard, durable acrylic nails which comprise of monomers and polymers.
Artificial nails always get with them the risk of chipping. The characteristics of each in the gel nails vs. acrylic nails battle is starkly different. Acrylic nails if broken are easy to maintain and can be fixed at home which is not the case with gel nails. The wonderful varieties and shades of nail polish available in the market last longer on acrylic nails than gel nails. Gel nails need to be filed regularly whereas acrylic nails do not get damaged even if they come in contact with acetone. If we differentiate between the two on the basis of luster and shine, gel nails emerge as a clear winner. Acrylic nails on the other hand need to be buffed and polished.
Beauticians in spas and salons are exposed to the gel nails vs. acrylic nail debate regularly but they claim to have more expertise in the application and removal of acrylic nails due to their existence much before gel nails. From the aesthetic point of view gel nails look more natural and appealing than acrylic nails which look synthetic on closer viewing. Gel nails have no odor, unlike the odor that strong chemicals impart to the acrylic nails. The curing time for gel nails is much lesser than acrylic nails when exposed to UV light. The strong chemicals used in the acrylic nails are harmful and may cause damage to the nails and their cuticles in the long run.
Being a relatively new concept gel nails are expensive an affair as compared to their acrylic counter-parts. Therefore as is obvious both have their set own set of advantages and limitations. One needs to consider many factors like individual taste, aesthetic appeal, time in hand and the budget before narrowing down on either one of these options. However with the growing priority given to external appearances, nails are not behind in this league anymore. Ultimately in this gel nails vs. acrylic nail debate who would miss a pair of well-manicured hands?
