Is it better to extend nails with acrylic or gel? Which method is better for nail extensions: gel or acrylic? Differences in gel and acrylic extension technology

Acrylic nails

Today, the most common materials for nail extensions are acrylic and gel. The extension composition is made from a mixture of liquid with. This mixture is toxic and has an unpleasant, pungent odor. Chemicals can irritate the skin and make natural nails brittle and weak. You will have to refuse acrylic extensions in the following cases: if you are undergoing a course or taking antibiotics (in this case, the body begins to produce acetone, which rejects the material); you are suffering diabetes mellitus, herpes or intestinal diseases; there are hormonal disorders. The chemical components that make up the acrylic mass can cause an allergic reaction, fainting and even suffocation.

Among the advantages are the following:

Acrylic is a fairly durable material. Such nails will be worn for a long time, reliably;
- if you accidentally break an acrylic nail, you can even repair it yourself;
- a fairly simple process for removing such nails; there are special solvents that will help remove acrylic nails in a matter of minutes.

Disadvantages of acrylic extensions:

Your natural nails with acrylic extensions are susceptible to negative impact. Acrylic penetrates deeply into the nail plate, which creates difficulties during correction and filing;
- acrylic nails they look more rough and artificial, even if made by an experienced craftsman (which cannot be said about gel ones);
- after wearing acrylic nails for a long time, the natural plate begins to deplete, so special care is required after removing artificial nails.

Gel nails

Pros of gel nails:

Gel nails look more glossy and natural than acrylic nails;
- the polymerization process occurs faster than that of acrylic, sometimes two minutes is enough;
- the components included in the gel do not emit toxic substances and do not smell;
- little filing is required during the extension process.

The main component for gel nail extensions is the resin of coniferous trees, as well as other semi-synthetic and natural components. This composition is considered less harmful, it does not have a strong odor and is non-toxic.

Cons of gel nails:

They are not as reliable and strong as acrylic ones, although they cost a little more;
- gel nails are very difficult to do on your own;
- it is impossible to repair damaged gel nails on your own;
- gel nails cannot be removed with special means (as is the case with acrylic); in this case, there is only one way out - filing.

So what should you choose?

Both acrylic and gel have similar results: they strengthen nails and make them long, making hands feminine and sexy. But you should still pay attention to the characteristics described above and make your choice. An experienced nail technician will also help you decide on the structure of your natural nails based on your wishes and requirements. By the way, the polish looks much better on gel nails.

Beautiful and well-groomed nails are a source of pride for women, but what to do if natural nails look weakened, thin and lifeless? The answer is to increase it.

The most common materials for nail extensions today are gel and acrylic. What is their fundamental difference and is acrylic as harmful and gel as beneficial as they say?

Which is better, gel or acrylic?

Acrylic is often accused of being “harmful” due to the pungent chemical smell that accompanies the extension process, while the gel is absolutely neutral. In fact, the chemical composition of gel and acrylic is practically the same.

• Smell. The strong odor from acrylic appears due to the evaporation of the polymerizing liquid. Because the acrylic – self-curing material, it hardens in air while gel – light-curing, and it can only be dried under the influence of ultraviolet rays.
• Chemistry. The chemical effect of both gel and acrylic on the nail is equally neutral. If the manicurist correctly prepares the nails for applying the polymerizing material, there will be no harm from any of them.
• Durability. Acrylic and gel are equally good to wear. Peeling of material from the cuticle or on the sides of the nail is 100% the fault of the master who did not carefully treat the nails before applying acrylic or gel. Proper preparation of a nail for extensions includes filing off the top layer of the nail with an abrasive, polishing, removing the cuticle, applying a primer and, directly, extensions.

In 10% of 100% cases, rejection of extension materials is not the fault of the master, but of the client’s body. Acrylic often does not hold up during periods of hormonal imbalances, and the gel can peel off due to an allergy to any component or due to biological incompatibility.

• Master's choice. If over time (a year after the first arrival) the master was unable to choose the right suitable material for nail extensions (or have not even tried to do this), it is better to look for another person. Sometimes it can take a lot of time to select the right brand of base coat, primer and top coat, but if the technician’s work suits you and he keeps trying, wait a little longer, he’s honestly trying to help you.

Result: a clear answer to the question “which is better: acrylic or gel?” No. Both materials are very resistant to external damage, they last equally long on nails and have a similar chemical composition. You can choose gel if you have allergies or hormonal diseases; you can choose acrylic if you have active physical work.

Many ladies use nail extensions, but not everyone clearly understands what is better to choose: gel or acrylic. These extension materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, which are very important to know before choosing one or the other. The differences lie not only in the properties, but also in the extension technology itself. artificial nails.

Differences in gel and acrylic extension technology

And it differs in technology, and these nuances are more likely to concern the master himself than the client, because this does not affect the nails in any way. The extension process begins with filing the nails. Easy removal of natural gloss with a file occurs in both versions. The next important stage is the formation of an artificial nail. Nothing happens here that would radically affect the nail plate. But on the other hand, novice masters note that the formation of nails with acrylic is more difficult due to the speed of hardening of this material.

It will take a lot of time to get good at extension skills, but later it will pay off many times over

But the gel hardens only in a special lamp with UV radiation and has a fluid structure, allowing you to spend more time on the formation of an artificial nail and simplifying the work of the master. But there is also a “fly in the ointment” in this “barrel of honey”. The fact is that often masters with little experience, when laying out nails, do not close the jar with the material in front of the open window, and under the influence of sunlight the material hardens and becomes unsuitable for work. Therefore, the first rule of working with gel: you cannot leave it in the open sun.

The difference between the two extension technologies is most clearly visible when considering the process of removing nails extended by both methods: the acrylic is removed special liquid, and the gel has to be cut off. If a woman is going to constantly get her nails done, then she needs to think carefully about whether she is ready to expose her nails to such stress every time?

Acrylic

• Pros: easy removal
• Cons: hardens too quickly

Gel

• Pros: Easier to use
• Disadvantages: removal only by sawing, requires additional equipment for hardening of the material, is afraid of sunlight.

Advantages and disadvantages of extension materials

Technological “troubles” are more interesting to nail extension specialists, but for those who wear these nails, it is much more useful to learn about the properties of these materials. Considering their pros and cons, it should be noted that the gel is similar in composition to acrylic, but has some additional materials. It entered the wider nail industry market much later than acrylic, so perhaps it is the result of developments that were aimed at eliminating the shortcomings of acrylic.

Gel

Gel is lighter than acrylic, and therefore you get used to it faster. It has a glossy surface, while acrylic has a matte and opaque surface, which is why acrylic nails are often coated with varnish. The gel has more potential for beautiful, intricate, fishbowl-like designs due to its glassy texture.

The gel has a less dense texture, which allows the nails to “breathe” and prevents fungus from developing. The gel is afraid of severe frost: at low temperatures it becomes very fragile. When baked in a UV lamp, the nail is exposed to short-term heat, for 1-3 seconds, however, the consequences of this procedure rarely appear. Interesting fact: Nails coated with gel grow much faster.

Pros:

• easy;
• transparent;
• Beautiful design;
• protects against bacteria.

Minuses:

• fragile;
• cannot be corrected if broken.

Acrylic

Acrylic is easier to correct and can be extended if the tip is broken, for example. But the gel nail will have to be completely rebuilt. Acrylic almost always turns yellow during wear and is resistant to nail polish removers with acetone. When applying acrylic extensions, your hands should not be wet on the first day, as weak nails may peel off. Gel nails do not have such restrictions.

When a nail breaks, stronger acrylic most often breaks along with the natural plate. Acrylic can be considered a safe material, because dental fillings used to be made from it. However, it has a pungent odor (not toxic, just unpleasant).

Pros:

• subject to correction;
• safe;
• lasting.

Minuses:

• turns yellow;
• afraid of acetone;
• afraid of water;
• unpleasant pungent odor.

Which nail extension material is better?

When choosing a material for nail extensions, clients should focus primarily on personal feelings (can they tolerate the strong smell of acrylic, are they allergic to the material, etc.). The main selection criterion should be the master’s experience of working with a particular material and positive recommendations from friends.

Helpful advice: during the extension process, it is important to avoid swallowing dust from filing nails: it can settle on the larynx and cause coughing attacks.

When you come to a nail salon, there are quite a lot of options regarding which nails to choose. If you are considering nail extensions, you may be asked if you want acrylic nails or if you prefer to use gel for them. Before you decide, here's what you need to know.

Acrylic nails, extension technology

Acrylic nails have been a staple in the beauty industry for many years and are strong and durable, which has contributed to their high popularity. Donn Geer, co-founder of Hey, Nice Nails!, explains the acrylic application process this way: “Acrylics are applied using a liquid monomer and powder polymer to create a tough, protective layer over your natural nails. When acrylic hardens, it provides the perfect canvas for applying color or design.

Gel nail extension

Jamie White, beauty and product expert at Space, notes that "gel nails are as durable as acrylic nails, but they look more natural." Unlike acrylic nails, gel nails only undergo a curing process when exposed to ultraviolet light. Donn Geer explains that “Working with gel coat is similar to working with nail polish—you have a base coat, a layer of color, and a top coat. Each layer should be cured under UV light for two to three minutes.” Both types of nails undergo a chemical bonding process with the natural nail, but there are some differences between them.

GEL EXTENSIONS OR ACRYLIC... WHAT IS BETTER?

In many ways they are similar. They can extend short nails, strengthen them and make your fingers look longer and slimmer. However, each coating has some pros and cons that can help you decide which to choose for yourself. So let's look at a few popular questions women ask and compare each coverage:

- How do they look and feel?

Acrylic nails. Acrylics can look less natural than gel nails, especially if they aren't done exactly right. Also, some women may end up with sore and crooked nail beds due to the use of acrylic.

They can look more natural and glossy than other types of cosmetic nails. Gel, compared to varnish, looks thicker. This thickness ensures the strength of such a nail, but still such a nail does not look bulky.

- How much do they cost?

Acrylic nails. Acrylic nail extensions cost less than gel nail extensions. Most salons range in price from about $30 to $60 for a full set of new acrylic nails. Monthly adjustments are typically half the cost of a new set, and the price will be between $15 and $30.

The cost of such a coating is usually slightly cheaper than acrylic extensions. A set of gel nails or gel manicure will range from $25 to $60. Although the price is almost the same as acrylic nails, keep in mind that you will pay that amount every time you visit the salon; a gel polish repair is a complete replacement. .

- Is your own nail damaged?

Acrylic nails. They can damage your nail, and according to White, this can then create a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria. If you remove them incorrectly, they can remove almost all layers of your natural nail.

When removing the gel, your nails may become excessively dry due to the acetone used during removal. It is necessary to regularly use oils to moisturize your nails during the period when they are not wearing varnish. With gel that is not removed correctly, the damage can be the same as when removing acrylic, you can lose layers of your natural nail.

- How flexible are they?

Acrylic nails. Acrylics are very hard and durable, but not flexible at all.

They have some flexibility. They are much stronger than natural nails, but not as hard as acrylics.

- How long do they last?

Acrylic nails. When everything is done correctly and good care for nails, they can be worn for a long time. Acrylic adjustments should be performed at least once a month.

They don't last as long and are less durable than acrylic ones, so they cost a little more. On average, such nails are worn for 10 to 14 days before correction, while some women can wear them for a month. But correction will be necessary in the future.

- Do they emit an unpleasant odor?

Acrylic nails. During the extension procedure itself, a rather unpleasant chemical odor is released. Due to such chemical fumes, this procedure is highly not recommended for pregnant women.

Gel nail mixtures do not emit chemical fumes compared to acrylic extensions - gel is considered a safer and more environmentally friendly option.

- Are they repairable?

Acrylic nails. If you break an acrylic nail, you can almost always fix it even at home with glue. And you, without any problems, will be able to wear it until your next visit to the salon.

If your gel nail breaks, you could be in trouble. Sometimes a slight damage can have a greater negative effect than a broken piece. Therefore, self-fixation of damage is not an option here. You need to schedule an appointment with your nail specialist as soon as possible.

- How are they removed?

Acrylic nails. The removal process is simple and straightforward, it is performed by a professional. They can be removed either with a special liquid or by regular cutting.

The gel is most often simply cut off, although now there are some removal technologies using special dissolving liquids.

- How do they freeze?

Acrylic nails. Acrylic hardens from simple contact with air. Most brands of acrylic require 24 hours to fully cure before they can be varnished.

Most gel nail polishes require UV light to dry, making them more difficult to do yourself. The total drying time (each layer in turn) is no more than 5-6 minutes.

While both types of nails can be done at home, it is best left to a professional. After all, acrylic vapors can greatly spoil the atmosphere in your home. And without ultraviolet radiation, you will not be able to fix the gel coating.

And in conclusion, you can apply a design, you can do a French manicure or do any other projects on ANY type of nails. Although some people note that airbrushing looks better on gel nails because they have a more glossy surface. But the gel can also be applied over acrylic)).

Factors to consider

If durability and cost of extensions are important factors in your decision, you should also consider a few other things. So, acrylics are better for some women, while gel ones are better for others. It all depends on your level of activity and the nature of your work.

Life style

If you have a job that places your hands in a wet environment very often throughout the day, you may find that gel coating is the best option for you. The gel, in its properties, is very similar to regular polish, and water does not have the same effect on it as it does on acrylic nails. If your hands are exposed to water more than just daily hand washing, the water can cause the acrylic to peel off the nail. This will put your nail at risk of fungal infection.

The same applies to athletes. Sweat will not affect gel nails as much as acrylic nails. Sweat and your body's oil glands will cause the acrylic to peel away from the nail bed.

Budget, time and service

Does your budget play a major role in choosing your extension method? As well as the time spent visiting the salon? Well then, it's important to know that although the cost of the procedure is almost the same for both acrylic and gel nails, there are actually a few big differences:

The choice is yours

There are many components to consider when choosing artificial nails, so you may want to consult with a nail technician in your area or city to discuss the different techniques. Ask your friends, find out what options they use, what they like and what they don’t. To accurately answer the question: “Which nails should I choose?” - impossible, it’s a matter of your personal preferences, your taste, your image.

Nail extensions with gel or acrylic – which is better? Grow long beautiful nails and daily monitoring their shape and color is not an easy task, but extended nails are a great solution!

Acrylic - first and durable

The nail extension industry began with acrylic. This material is a combination of two substances: a powder polymer and a liquid monomer. When they interact, they form a new polymer that hardens in air. Creation nail plate made from acrylic and additional special powder, it happens in much the same way as installing a filling at the dentist. The manicurist applies the resulting paste to the prepared nail plate, smoothes it, polishes it, and then covers it with light powder, pink, cream or white. After this, a manicure is already done. For acrylic nails, you can choose any coating.

The main advantage of acrylic is its strength - it is difficult to break such a nail. Moreover, if it breaks, it often falls off in a piece without damaging the natural nail plate. Due to their strength, such nails last longer, and, as a rule, correction can be done no earlier than after a month. Acrylic extensions are easy to remove: you just need to hold your hands in a special solution and the acrylic will come off the surface. This has a gentle effect on natural nails. It should also be noted that acrylic manicure looks quite natural, and good master can grow nails so much that they will not differ from real ones. It is important to note that working with acrylic is more difficult than working with gel and requires special attention.

Of course, this coating also has disadvantages. Firstly, there is a sharp, specific smell of solvent during the extension process. Secondly, after removing the polish, the natural glossy shine disappears from such nails. True, technology does not stand still and this problem is already being solved. Previously, acrylic nails were polished to a shine using finely abrasive files and oil, which significantly lengthened the time spent on the extension process. Now there are finishing gels that provide the necessary gloss and protect nails from unwanted external influences much faster, better and higher quality than oil polishing.

There is also an opinion that nails hardly breathe under acrylic, so such nails must be removed at least once every six months to a year. Today there is acrylic more High Quality which solves this problem. And one more minus: if the work of a nail art master is not professional enough or the acrylic is of poor quality, then the thickness of the nails will still reveal their extended origin.

Gel – natural and brittle

Gel extensions have their undoubted advantages.

This method uses semi-synthetic or natural materials. Gel nail extensions began relatively recently. This material has the necessary porosity and looks great.

By the way, acrylic and gel, as mentioned earlier, have almost identical composition. Both acrylic and gel are a mixture of monomer and polymer.

Only in the acrylic system it is necessary to mix the monomer with the polymer for polymerization. And in the gel system, the monomer and polymer are already mixed together, and polymerization occurs due to the initiator (ultraviolet light) through a UV lamp.

It is important that there are no odors during the gel extension process, and this is quite a big plus.

Gel nails have a natural glossy shine and they look more sophisticated. If you remove varnish or a design from the surface of the nail plate, such nails will still shine due to the material. This is where the positive properties of the gel end. The disadvantages of gel nails include very brittleness. If such a nail breaks, it can lead to injury to the native nail plate. It is very difficult to remove such a manicure at home. The gel must be removed with special files to the base. It's better to do this in a salon.

Gel plus acrylic - solution to the dilemma

When considering the question of which nail extension is better, objectively you need to give preference to acrylic extensions. This is a more durable material. Moreover, acrylic allows you to correct irregular nail shapes, correct their growth and appearance. Gel copes with this task worse. At the same time, gel extensions also have their regular customers, because they often look more sophisticated.

Nail art masters, by the way, have resolved the eternal question of what to choose, gel or acrylic, by combining these two technologies. Now, at the end of the manicure, acrylic nails are covered with a layer of gel, and the client gets two in one. What is best for extensions should be chosen after consultation with a manicurist, who will recommend a good option suitable for a woman. Having extended nails, a woman will feel more impressive, stylish and free! After all, she won’t need to devote time to manicure every week. It is enough to go for correction once a month and make sure not to injure the extended nails.