Nail extensions are highly popular in Dubai. For those who relentlessly bite their nails and aren’t great at caring for their nails at home, nail extensions can prove to be a holy grail. However, choosing between gel and acrylic nails can be difficult. Especially if you don’t know much about the benefits of gel nails vs acrylics. But the fact is, both these nail enhancement treatments can give a dramatic makeover to your hands.
However, knowing which one you want and whether it would be suitable for your lifestyle is important before booking your appointment for nail extensions at home. Tag along as we explore the benefits and compare gel and acrylic nails so that you can decide easily.
Exploring the Benefits of Gel Nails vs Acrylics
Let’s understand how gel nails are different from acrylic nails and what each has to offer.
Gel Nails
Gel nails involve gel, of course. Did you know gel nails first appeared in the 1980s? They didn’t get much success at the time because of a poor formula and application process. The gel nails we know of today are much improved, durable, and glossy.
These nails are made through a 3-step process. The first step involves brushing the base coat. The second step involves applying the nail and the third step involves applying the top coat. After the application of each coat, nails are placed under a UV light for 30 seconds to 2 minutes for curing. The final result is glossy manicured nails!
Benefits of Gel Nails
Let us now see why people are so fond of gel nails these days:
- Natural Appearance
The primary benefit of gel nails is their appearance. They look natural and glassy compared to acrylic nails, which are hard. If you are looking for polished and shiny nails, gel nails fit the bill!
- Fast Curing Time
As mentioned earlier, gel nails are cured under UV or LED light. They dry up almost instantly. So, as you walk out of the salon, you can go about your day without worrying about smudging the manicure or getting your new gel nails chipped off.
- Nail Protection
Once dried up, gel nails stick securely to the natural nail bed. For people with damaged or brittle nails, a coat of gel nail polish can offer protection and keep the nails from chipping further. In other words, this manicure shields your nails and helps strengthen them as well.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are a combo of powder polymer and liquid monomer. Both these ingredients are used to form a paste which is applied to your nails with a brush. Then, the technician fills your nails and gives them a natural shape. You are free to choose the length and thickness!
Once the nails are shaped, the technician applies the nail paint of your choice. It’s generally a base coat, a nail color followed by a finishing coat. The nails are then left to dry naturally or under a fan.
Benefits of Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are great, but what makes them better than gel nails? These benefits explain everything:
- Nail Lengthening
With acrylic nail extensions, you can add as much length to your nails as you like. It’s perfect for those with short and thin nails. Artificial nails like these can add more substance and strength to your natural nails.
- Long Lasting
Acrylic nails are popular for their longevity. They can last for 6 to 8 weeks. They even outlast gel nails, which can last for up to 3 weeks. Furthermore, acrylic nails are more resistant to breakage.
- More Affordable
Since acrylics are widely available, they are relatively cheaper compared to gel nails. The price tag can go higher depending on the complexity of the design.
So Which Ones Are Better?
Although acrylic nails are sturdy, long lasting, and affordable, they aren’t as flexible. The extended drying time can make it difficult to perform regular tasks. However, if you are simply looking for nails that won’t peel off, acrylics meet the need perfectly. Gel nails, on the contrary, may be expensive but they are more natural-looking. They dry quickly and have a lasting shine, which adds to their appeal.
So before you choose between gel and acrylic nails, ask yourself what’s the occasion, how long you want the polish to last, and what are your day-to-day activities.
Summing Up
As you book your next nail appointment, consider the benefits of gel nails vs acrylics and pick the nail treatment accordingly. Whatever nails you get, both will require some maintenance and a couple of filling appointments.
Whenever you are ready for some trendy nail art, book an appointment for nail extensions at home in Dubai on ServiceMarket and flaunt your pretty nails.
