GEL NAILS AND Acrylic
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
Comparison chart
| Gel Nails | Acrylic Nails | |
| What are they? |
Artificial Nail enhancements
|
Artificial Nail enhancements |
| Appearance | Natural, glossy Freshly-manicured for up to 25 days |
May look less natural than gel nails, especially if applied incorrectly. |
| Cost | 550kr - to 800kr Salons typically start with manicure price and add an upcharge up to 50% |
Generally cheaper than gel nail application. |
Durability |
Up to25days |
Up to25days |
| Corrosive effect | Gel nails can be applied with or without a base or primer. If primer is applied correctly, it does not damage the nail bed. | 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. |
| Curing techniques | 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). |
Slower curing time. Acrylic liquid and powder are applied to the nail and the acrylic nails. |
| After effects | 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. |
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. |
| Range | Gelish – 141 colors; OPI – 71 colors; Essie -- 36 colors |
There is not much variety that you can go with the acrylic nails as far as the material texture is concerned. |
| 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. |
Removal Process
Both Acrylic and Gel nails frequently requires professional help for better results. Nails can also be soaked rather than filed off, which is a fairly popular technique these days.
Cost
Acrylic Nails are generally cheaper than gel nail application.
Comfort
Most people do not like acrylic nails because of the uneasiness that follows to the cuticle. Gel nails, on the other hand are just like a gel and take their shape themselves and hence are very easy on the hands.
Flexibility
Acrylic Nails are hard and also look thicker than Gel nails. Any stress applied to acrylic nails can hurt the original nail. Gel nails are flexible and not hard on the touch.