Navigating the wide variety of nail services at your local salon can be tricky as there are so many options to choose from. Should you go for gel nails, choose acrylics, or maybe try the increasingly popular powder dip nails? No worries – we’re here to break it all down for you!
Acrylics have been a salon staple for years. Contrary to popular belief, acrylic nails aren’t only the glued-on fake tips but also refer to the polish applied afterward. The polish is a mix of powder and liquid and when it reacts, it hardens up to give you sturdy, long-lasting nails. They’re affordable, easy to fix if broken, and simple to remove. Some drawbacks include their less natural appearance, potential harm to your natural nails, and a tricky application process. If you need a cost-effective option or have a habit of chipping your polish, acrylics are a great choice.
Gel nails, a more recent addition to the nail scene, have quickly gained favor. They require a UV lamp to harden the polish through a chemical reaction. Gels give a remarkably natural look, don’t emit fumes, and the application process is relatively simple, taking only a minute to cure per coat. Despite these pros, gels can be tough to remove, could potentially damage the nail bed, need specialized equipment, are harder to fix if broken, and cost more than acrylics. Choose gels if the natural look is a priority and you don’t mind a slightly higher price tag or owning some extra tools.
Finally, we have powder dip nails, a novelty in many salons. This involves applying a bonder to the nail, dipping it into colored powder, and finishing with a gel coat. This process results in a super smooth surface. Benefits include natural nail protection, a lightweight feel, and no need for special equipment. Powder dip cannot be refilled and must be removed before reapplying, it’s more expensive than other options, and it may turn out poorly if done by inexperienced technicians. If you’re battling damaged nails or striving for a flawless finish, give powder dip nails a shot.
Vanessa, the writer of this guide and a nail enthusiast, is a mother and wife who has spent more than a decade in the beauty industry. She now takes care of her two young kiddos and dedicates her time to helping others decode nail care options.
Tags: Nail Polish
