WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HARD GEL NAIL POLISH AND ACRYLIC NAILS?
Gel nail polish and acrylic nails have been long-trending. We see all our favorite stars and influences sporting them. But if you are new to the world of nails, you might get a bit overwhelmed with it all. There are so many different products and techniques that are used to make the nail look beautiful. Before you head to Nails A More to get your nails done, you must know the difference between gel nail polish and acrylic nails so that you can make a sound decision. Having the needed information will help you to get the nails that you want.
What is gel nail polish?
Gel nail polish is a thick liquid. It is usually available in two types of gels which are hard gel and soft gel. Hard gel is strong enough to build on a nail extension. In contrast, soft gel can’t be built on a nail extension. It is too liquidy and not thick and strong enough to hold the extension. It is that gel nail paint that is usually painted on natural nails. On the other hand, hard gel is painted on acrylic nails.
The hard gel has a goopy consistency like syrup. It is a 2 part system and can be mixed in the same container. It is applied using a gel brush which is stiff and has been cured under the LED/UV lamp. While working with gel, make it a point to avoid using bright lights as the product will harden fast. The gel nail paint sticks to everything. The only way to remove it is by filling it off.
What is acrylic?
Acrylic also comes into two forms – a powder (polymer) and liquid (monomer) form. It is a two-part system but works differently from a gel. The powder and liquid are stored separately. When they are mixed, they become acrylic which gives a beaded look. While the nail is being worked upon, it begins to cure. Hence, one needs to be quick when applying it. Acrylic has a strong odor, so a ventilation system is required when working with it. To remove the Acrylic, you need to soak it in acetone for about 20 minutes.
What is the difference between hard gel and acrylic?
Both need the same kind of preparation. However, the applying techniques for both are very different from one another. The gel nail paint has been packaged in a way such that no light shines on them. Whereas acrylic liquid comes in a bottle, and the powder is in a container. Hard gel is flexible and can be filed off, but it is more tricky to work with acrylic nails as it becomes hard after it has dried out. Acrylic is usually heavy and depends upon how much you have put on it. Whereas on the other hand, the gel is strong, lightweight, and natural ad with no odor. But with acrylic, there are harsh fumes from the liquid, which smell funny.
