The nail industry has stepped far forward: today, in manicure, you can embody almost any design fantasy, easily restore a broken nail, choose between a shiny and matte finish, and simulate the most unexpected geometric shape. The main question: gel or acrylic?
What material is more harmful?
No. If you come across a statement about the safety and benefits of gel compared to acrylic, do not believe it. Both materials have a similar chemical composition and come from the same family of polymers - acrylates. Neither gel nor acrylic make nails stronger and healthier, nor do they harm with proper extension and absence of allergies. The difference between them lies in the application technology and physical qualities.
What is the difference between gel and acrylic?
Gel for nail extension is a viscous and sticky polymer, similar in consistency to ordinary varnish. The material hardens under the influence of an ultraviolet lamp or a catalyst, is odorless and allows air to pass through, allowing the nails to “breathe”. Gel extension provides a glossy finish.
Acrylic is a polymer in powder form. When mixed with a special liquid (monomer), it becomes a thick plastic substance and solidifies on its own in air, while emitting a specific smell. The material hardens quickly, so the master must have time to distribute it evenly. Unlike gel, acrylic is matte and requires buffing to create a sheen.
Features of using gel and acrylic
Both materials are applied to natural nails or built up on tips and forms. It is difficult to say what to work with faster and easier, since a lot depends on the specifics of the design and the professionalism of the master. Objectively easier - with the gel.
The build steps are the same:
primer preparation and application;
application of modeling material;
applying a finishing coat.
The gel is spread with a brush, then polymerized. Mistakes are hard to correct: only filing helps, and in severe cases, filing the entire nail and a complete alteration of the work. The varnish applied on top can be removed with a liquid with acetone.
To apply acrylic, you must first moisten the tool in the monomer, then grab the acrylic powder on it, form a small ball and roll it on the surface. The hardened coating is easy to correct and remove with a softening compound and a spatula. Since acrylic does not allow air to pass through, nails should be treated with an antifungal agent at the preparatory stage. Do not use acetone to remove nail polish.
Excessive mechanical stress is detrimental to both materials. Acrylic is considered more wear-resistant, but if it breaks, it is usually along with a natural nail. With gel build-up, cracks affect only the artificial part.
Pros and cons of gel and acrylic
Advantages of gel extension:
the ability of the nail to "breathe", glossy shine, no smell;
simple procedure: it is easier to make an even coating compared to acrylic;
the effect of "liquid glass" - ideal for creating bright large nail art;
resistance to chemistry, long-term preservation of a neat appearance.
Disadvantages of gel extensions:
the impossibility of repairing a cracked nail - only a remake;
dust when sawing - you need to work with a hood and in protective equipment;
reaction to temperature changes: severe frost, sauna;
the risk of uneven distribution of small decor.
Advantages of acrylic building:
the ability to restore a cracked nail;
natural look when choosing a coating to match natural nails;
easy removal of material with a softening solution;
wide possibilities of volumetric modeling in design.
Disadvantages of acrylic building:
"Dental" smell during the procedure;
difficult work with the material - a professional approach is needed;
the need for polishing to achieve shine;
susceptibility to chemicals, including products with acetone.
Both materials open up scope for the realization of all sorts of ideas. Acrylic is ideal for sculpting and creating volumetric nail art, while gel is ideal for spectacular drawings and designs using sparkles, rhinestones, foil, dried flowers and other decorations. Timely correction will help to maintain a neat manicure with any type of extension.
What to choose in the end: gel or acrylic?
From all of the above, we can conclude that each material has its own characteristics, but in general, the differences are not too significant. The choice should mainly depend on the desired strength of the nails, the skills of your master and the idea. A professional can handle both gel and acrylic.
