When going for a manicure, several of us have considered the gel versus acrylic debate. These are two of the most popular nail polish treatments in salons across the world. They offer beautiful, chip-free polished nails that can last for weeks. But how are they different and which one is better for your nails?
Gumtree gives you all the information you need.
Gel nails
Acrylic nails
Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to shop! Head to gumtree.co.za or your Gumtree app (click for Apple & Android) and don’t forget to use your location settings to find nail products and information close to home.
Gumtree gives you all the information you need.
Gel nails
- These are applied in a three-step process: brushing on a base coat, nail polish and a topcoat.
- Each coat is cured under UV light for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The UV light ensures the gel polish does not smudge like regular nail polish, giving you a glossy, freshly manicured look for a longer period of time.
- If you are looking to extend the length of your nails, you can use an acrylic extended tip that is then applied with gel polish and strengthened under UV light.
- Gel nails usually last for two weeks, with little peeling or lifting at the end of their lifecycle.
- Removing gel nail polish is simple – a cotton ball dipped in acetone is placed on each nail and then wrapped in aluminium foil.
- Gel nails are usually more popular as they do not damage your nail bed and look more natural than acrylic nails.
Acrylic nails
- The first step in the acrylic process consists of filing down your natural nail to give it a rough surface.
- Next, the acrylic powder and liquid are mixed well to create a mould that is applied to the nail bed with a brush. This artificial nail mould is then filed and shaped.
- Finally, each of the nails is painted with a base coat, nail polish and topcoat.
- As acrylic nails are exceptionally durable, they last longer than gel nails without the hassle of lifting or peeling.
- However, removing acrylic nails can be more difficult and even cause damage to the natural nail bed. Thus, they need to be removed by a professional in a salon, while gel nails can be removed at home.
Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to shop! Head to gumtree.co.za or your Gumtree app (click for Apple & Android) and don’t forget to use your location settings to find nail products and information close to home.
