Anyone who has sought a longer-lasting manicure than regular polish will have encountered the gel vs. acrylic nail dilemma. Both types make great manicures, perfect for adorning your nails with beautiful colours, intricate designs, and the latest nail trends. But which is better?!
Both gel and acrylic nails have pros and cons, and most of the choice comes down to personal preference. However, to make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the key differences between these iconic manicures to help you make the best choice for your next salon appointment.
Table of contents
Difference between acrylic and gel nails
What lasts longer, gel or acrylic?
Is gel as damaging as acrylic?
What is the healthiest way to get your nails done?
Which is better, gel or acrylic?
Difference between acrylic and gel nails
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newbie to the world of manicures, it's easy to get bogged down in the details of the difference between gel and acrylic. We’ve put together a quick-fire comparison to help!
Gel vs Acrylic Nails
| Gel | Acrylic | |
| Application | Cured under UV/LED light | Air dries naturally |
| Removal | Removal by acetone soak and filing | Removal by acetone soak and filing |
| Longevity | Between 2-4 weeks | Between 2-4 weeks |
| Appearance | Thin, more natural appearance | Bulkier and more artificial look |
| Feel | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Damage level | Less damage to the natural nails | Can be very drying and weaken the nails over time |
| Price tag | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Application experience | Heat spikes can be uncomfortable | Strong smell and lengthy application |
| DIY? | It can be done at home | Requires a professional |
Builder gel vs acrylic
Builder gel is a step up from gel polish. It’s strong, durable, and flexible, meaning it can maintain shape for up to 4-6 weeks with proper application and care.
It is applied directly onto the natural nail and cured under an LED/UV light. Depending on the shaping and shade of builder gel, it can look much more natural than acrylic nails and, as a result, has emerged as a more popular choice than acrylic in recent years.
Builder gel is more flexible and pliable, making it less likely to snap than acrylic nails. Still, acrylic is stronger as it is much thicker. The stronger acrylic structure makes them preferable for those who like a bold nail design and shape.
Hard gel
If you want even more choices, add hard gel to the list! Hard gel is another variant of builder gel. It can be sculpted and shaped to extend the nail because it cures much more rigidly than standard gel polish. Similarly to builder gel, hard gel can be used with regular gel polish to add a long-lasting design or colour.
Hard gel is less damaging than acrylic, so many people opt for hard gel extensions as it allows the natural nail to grow and strengthen underneath.
What lasts longer, gel or acrylic?
Gel and acrylic polish or extensions are pretty evenly matched in longevity. Both last around 2-4 weeks with proper maintenance, depending on your lifestyle. Acrylic extensions risk breaking or snapping off, whereas gel is cured to the nail and shouldn’t budge if applied correctly.
Is gel as damaging as acrylic?
Gel nails are much less damaging than acrylic. They are less harsh on the natural nails during the application and removal and are a better option for those with weakened or brittle nails. Acrylic nails are harder and less flexible, making them more likely to catch on surfaces and break. They’re also harder to remove, requiring a long soak in acetone and a lot of filing to remove all the product.
What is the healthiest way to get your nails done?
Any type of manicure will reduce your nail health to a degree, but it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your trips to the salon! As long as you look after your nails and give them the TLC they need, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy strong, healthy nails and have a beautiful manicure.
Here are our top tips for nail care in between visits to the salon:
- Avoid biting or picking at your nails or the surrounding skin. This can be a hard habit to break, but it's worth persevering to improve your nails' overall health and appearance.
- Apply cuticle oil. Just one application daily will make a noticeable difference to your nails, helping nourish and moisturise them and the surrounding skin. It will also make your manicures look even better!
- Wear gloves when tackling household chores. Always wear gloves when washing up or cleaning around the house to avoid the risk of snagging your nails or letting harsh cleaning chemicals get on your skin.
- Maintain healthy habits. Drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet, and prioritising wellness will all contribute to strong, healthy nails.
Which is better, gel or acrylic?
Now you know the ins and outs of the differences between gel and acrylic nails. It’s time to decide which is right for you. Unfortunately, we can’t decide for you! We think both manicures look amazing. Ultimately, it’s down to what best suits your preferences and lifestyle. Here are some final considerations before you head to your next appointment with your nail tech:
Are your nails brittle? Do they break easily?
Gels are a better choice if your nails are prone to breakage. It is also gentler on natural nails.
Do you have a hands-on job or hobbies?
Acrylic nails are stronger, but long extensions are more likely to break. For this reason, you should choose short acrylics or a gel manicure.
How often can you get to the salon?
If you have a busy schedule and struggle to make time for regular salon visits, gel nails are the better option, as they can be removed at home more easily.
Do you want nails for a one-off occasion?
Go for acrylic nails. If you choose a longer set, they can be very striking, making them a great standout option for a special occasion.
Gel and acrylic nail supplies for professionals at The Nail & Beauty Link
At The Nail & Beauty Link, we supply professional products for you and your salon. Our collection has everything you need to create gel and acrylic manicures. Shop acrylic powder, monomer and liquids or browse our extensive range of gel polish and builder gel to create beautiful, long-lasting manicures for your clients.