How often do you re-apply your nail polish or reach out to buff and file your nails every time they chip off? We get it - it’s hard to maintain your natural nails. That’s why you may want to try nail extensions that are sturdier and easier to maintain.
So what is a nail extension? These are nails that last longer and look better. The most popular types include gel extensions and acrylic nails. You can choose between the two choices in addition to availing the benefits of a manicure and pedicure at one of our salons near you. Wondering what is the difference between acrylic and gel nails? Here’s a guide on gel extensions vs acrylic nails that should make your choice easier.
Wondering what acrylic nails are? One of the key differences between acrylic and gel nails is that you can try acrylic nails to give your nails a fairly realistic appeal. Acrylic nails consist of a polish and powder or liquid monomer combination that is spread over the natural nail as an extension to give it an appropriate shape and length. The professional will perform the below-mentioned steps:
Every step of the process involves air drying the polish, coat after coat. This ensures that the nail doesn’t chip off and the polish remains durable till the acrylic nails are taken off after weeks.
When deciding between acrylic vs gel nails, gel extensions do not use a mixture to create extensions for your natural nails. They are then applied to your natural nails with the help of a gel glue and shaped properly. Gel extensions utilise three coats – a base coat, gel nail polish and a top coat that can be applied on the nail tips. Each coat is dried off under a UV light for around a minute or two. This is done to ensure every coat becomes sturdy and durable, without the risk of smudging, unlike regular polishes. The professional will perform the below-mentioned steps:
The final look will consist of polished, glossy or matte nails (based on your preference) that will make you stare at your hands all day long! You can also get nails without the extensions as this process can also be administered on natural nails.
Wondering what is the difference between acrylic and gel nails? If you’re looking to book your next nail salon appointment, you can consult the technician about the differences before you begin.
Ideally, you need to consider the following factors before choosing gel extensions and acrylic nails.
| Differences | Acrylic Nails | Gel Nails |
| Longevity | Acrylic nails can last you around a week or so. | Gel nails or gel extensions last for at least 14-15 days. |
| Durability | Since acrylic nails last for a shorter duration of time, they are not durable. | Gel nails are more durable than acrylic nails, making them suitable for daily chores or sporty activities. |
| Appearance | Acrylic nails are sturdier in appearance. | Gel nails provide a glossy finish to the extensions. |
| Process | Acrylic nails can be dried off by air. | Gel nails have to be dried off under UV light. |
| Removal | Acrylic nails can be removed with acetone. You can dip your hands in the solution for 20 minutes to peel off the extensions. | Gel nails cannot be removed via acetone. You need to have the gel filed off from the nail. |
| Risks of Infection | If not correctly applied, acrylic nails can create infections or damage to the nail bed. | Gel nails are relatively safer than acrylic nails and do not pose any risks for infection. |
| Cost | Starts at Rs. 2500 | Starts at Rs. 1000 |
| Maintenance | Regularly apply cuticle oil, avoid harsh chemicals, wear gloves during chores, and get professional removal to preserve nail health and the gel finish. | Acrylic nails require regular maintenance involving filling to prevent lifting, avoiding harsh chemicals to preserve the acrylic, moisturising cuticles, and professional removal. |
Now that you’re aware of the difference between acrylic and gel nails, you can also check out some nail trends that are going to be huge in 2024.
If you ask what we prefer between acrylic vs gel nails, we can provide you with many options to choose from at our nail salon. We cater to both acrylic and gel extensions and have some other interesting types of nail extensions and art formats available at our Mumbai and Bangalore salons.
Get your question answered about which is better acrylic or gel nails by visiting our salon directly or booking your appointment online.
Also, if you want to gain comprehensive knowledge about the application techniques for both acrylic and gel nail paints enrol in Bodycraft Academy’s esteemed Bodycraft Academy Nail Art Course.
The price of getting acrylic nails starts from Rs. 2500.
The price of getting gel extensions starts from Rs. 2800.
If you have acrylic nails, visit our salon after a week to get your extensions safely removed. If you have gel extensions, we recommend coming after 15 days. In case you want to remove your artificial nails at home, we recommend cutting off the extensions to make them as short as possible. Proceed by dipping your nails in acetone-free nail polish remover for at least 20 minutes. This process will soften the artificial nails making them easy to remove.
You can buff your nails at home to remove the stain. In case that doesn’t work for you, proceed by dipping your nails in lemon juice for about 10 minutes. This will lift off the yellow, turmeric colour without damaging your extensions.
Since gel extensions last longer than acrylic nails, they can be flexibly used in your daily routine. That being said, it is also important to ensure that there is no outward impact on the extensions as it can lead to breakage of the nails or pain on your nail bed.
While getting gel nails, your nails will be cut and filed. However, unlike a regular manicure, it won’t follow the process of massaging and moisturising your hands, in addition to applying a gel lacquer. Gel nails utilise a gel polish that is UV-dried rather than air-dried.
Since nail extensions are applied on the nail bed, we advise getting a manicure only after the removal of the nails.
Yes, you can remove acrylic nails at home, although it's generally recommended to have a professional do it to prevent damage to your natural nails.
Acrylic nails typically do not fall off in water unless they were not properly applied or if they've been on for a long time and are starting to lift. Water exposure can weaken the bond between the acrylic and natural nails, potentially causing them to loosen over time.
There isn't a truly permanent nail extension. While some types like hard gel or acrylic nails can last for several weeks, they will still require maintenance and infills every few weeks due to natural nail growth.
For a wedding, many prefer gel extensions or acrylics as they provide durability and can withstand the wear and tear of wedding preparations and events. Gel extensions offer a more natural look while acrylics are known for their strength.
Generally, gel extensions tend to look more natural because they are thinner and more flexible than acrylics. They can be sculpted to match the shape of the natural nail bed, giving a more realistic appearance. Additionally, newer techniques like dip powder can also provide a natural-looking finish.