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Acrylic Nails vs. Gel Nails: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Acrylic nails are hard and durable extensions made with a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer, while gel nails are a softer enhancement cured under UV light.
Acrylic Nails vs. Gel Nails

Key Differences

Acrylic nails are created using a mix of liquid monomer and powder polymer, which hardens when exposed to air, providing a strong and durable nail extension. Gel nails, on the other hand, are made from a gel-based polish that requires curing under UV or LED light to set, offering a more flexible and glossy finish.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Paragraph 2: The application process of acrylic nails involves sculpting the mixture onto the natural nails and can be more time-consuming. Gel nails are applied in layers and each layer is cured under UV light, making the process faster and less odorous compared to acrylics.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Paragraph 3: In terms of longevity and maintenance, acrylic nails typically last longer and are more resistant to breakage but can be more damaging to the natural nail if not removed properly. Gel nails offer a more natural look and are less damaging to the natural nail, but they may not last as long and are more prone to chipping.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Paragraph 4: Removal of acrylic nails requires soaking in acetone and can be more harsh on the natural nails, whereas gel nails can be soaked off more gently, though frequent use of UV light for curing can be a concern for some.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Paragraph 5: Acrylic nails are ideal for those looking for a longer-lasting and sturdy nail enhancement, while gel nails are better suited for those seeking a more natural appearance and a less invasive application and removal process.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
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Comparison Chart

Composition

Liquid monomer and powder polymer
Gel-based polish
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Application Process

Sculpting onto nails, air-dried
Applied in layers, UV/LED light cured
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Durability

Harder and more durable
Softer, more flexible
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Effect on Natural Nails

Can be more damaging if improperly removed
Generally less damaging
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Removal Process

Requires soaking in acetone, more abrasive
Softer removal, less abrasive
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
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Acrylic Nails and Gel Nails Definitions

Acrylic Nails

A type of artificial nail enhancement.
Acrylic nails require regular fill-ins to maintain their appearance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Gel Nails

Softer, more flexible nail polish.
Gel nails feel more natural compared to other types.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Acrylic Nails

Artificial nails suitable for nail art and extensions.
She loves acrylic nails for their versatility in design.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Gel Nails

A type of nail polish that requires UV light to set.
Her gel nails were set quickly under the LED lamp.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Acrylic Nails

Nail enhancements that harden when exposed to air.
Her acrylic nails were sculpted to perfection.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
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Gel Nails

Less damaging, natural-looking nail overlays.
She prefers gel nails for their minimal impact on natural nails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Acrylic Nails

Nail extensions made from a mix of liquid and powder.
She opted for acrylic nails for their durability.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Gel Nails

Nail enhancements cured under UV light.
She chose gel nails for their glossy finish.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Acrylic Nails

Hard and strong nail overlays.
Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those who want long nails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Gel Nails

Nail enhancements known for their shine and color.
Gel nails offer a variety of vibrant colors.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

How long do Gel Nails last?

Around 2 weeks before they start to chip or peel.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

How long do Acrylic Nails last?

Typically 2-3 weeks before needing a fill-in.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

How natural do Gel Nails look?

They provide a more natural and glossy appearance.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Are Acrylic Nails durable?

Yes, they're known for their strength and durability.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

What are the benefits of Gel Nails?

They have a natural look, flexibility, and a glossy finish.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

What are Gel Nails?

Nail enhancements using gel polish cured under UV light.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Is UV light needed for Gel Nails?

Yes, to cure each layer of the gel polish.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

How are Acrylic Nails removed?

By soaking in acetone and filing down.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

How do you remove Gel Nails?

Typically, they are soaked off with a gentler process.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Can Acrylic Nails be used for nail art?

Yes, they're great for various nail art designs.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

What are Acrylic Nails?

Artificial nail extensions using a liquid and powder mix.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

How quickly can Gel Nails be set?

Quite fast, each layer sets in minutes under UV light.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Can you apply acrylic over Gel Nails?

It's not recommended as they have different removal processes.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Can Acrylic Nails damage natural nails?

If not removed properly, they can be damaging.
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Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Is the application of Acrylic Nails time-consuming?

Yes, it generally takes longer than gel nails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Do both Acrylic and Gel Nails come in various colors and designs?

Yes, both offer a wide range of colors and design possibilities.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Are Gel Nails less damaging?

Generally, they're considered less harsh on natural nails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Do Acrylic Nails require regular maintenance?

Yes, regular fill-ins and proper care are needed.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

What should be considered before getting Acrylic Nails?

Consider the maintenance and potential impact on natural nails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

Are Gel Nails a good choice for frequent changes?

Yes, they're easier to remove and change.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023

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About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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