If you are someone who has the habit of nail-biting, you’d know what a mess it creates for you. You always dream of having the perfect nails, but then the nail-biting habit kicks in. To break free from the torturous nail-biting habit, you can opt for nail extensions, in the form of gel nail extensions or acrylic nail extensions. As soon as you have them on, each time you get the temptation to bite your nails, you won’t be able to. Besides that, the fact that your nails will look gorgeous, with these extensions on and you won’t be able to chew on your nails, you surely need one.
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Before digging into the specifics, let’s first discuss the gel or acrylic nails difference:
What Are Gel Nail Extensions?
Gel nail extensions are made up of hard gel which is sculpted and then shaped to add length and sturdiness to the existing nails. They make a great and healthier alternative to acrylic nail extensions. When comparing hard vs soft gel extensions, the hard gel nail extensions can be shaped easily into coffin french tips, almond-like, and many other shapes. But the soft gel nail extensions – are easily soaked off with acetone, but can’t be made into extensions. Taking off the hard gel nail extensions can be a huge struggle and cannot be done without professional help though.
What are Acrylic Nail Extensions?
While comparing gel nails vs acrylic nails, the gel extensions are made up of hard or soft gel and are shaped accordingly, while the acrylic nail extensions are made up of plastic and require a monomer liquid or polymer powder to create a sculpted nail. Substances are mixed to form a paste which is applied on the top of the nail. The paste is then smoothened by a professional to make them as natural as possible. When the resin is completely dry, the nails become strong and durable. They then last for a month or so if maintained well.
Acrylic Nails vs Gel Nails Pros and Cons
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Pros of Gel Extensions |
Cons of Gel Extensions |
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Easy to apply and quick removal |
May make your nails weaker and more rugged |
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Durable and versatile |
Persistent exposure to sun rays may be harmful to nail skin |
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A healthier alternative to acrylics |
Not appropriate for short nails |
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Gel nail extensions help to extend up the length of your natural nails |
Lasts up to 2-3 weeks only |
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More attractive and appealing |
Requires patience and can be time-consuming to shape them |
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Great for everyday wear or special occasions |
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Can be personalized into different modern shapes like coffin french tips, stiletto nails, almonds, etc. |
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Pros of Acrylic Nail Extensions |
Cons of Acrylic Nail Extensions |
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Excellent solution for nail bitters – the hard material of acrylic nail extensions make it impossible to chew on them, thus breaking the habit as a whole |
Can damage your natural nails by limiting growth and leading to potential bacterial infections |
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Perfect for women who have weak and brittle nails |
The application of acrylic nail extensions requires strong chemicals to which some women may be allergic |
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They last longer than hard gel nail extensions |
Refilling is required every month so can be costly |
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They can be repaired easily if you end up leaving a crack in them |
Can make your nails feel heavy |
Which Is Better Gel or Acrylic Nails?
That having said on acrylic nail extensions vs gel nail extensions. Though it is safe to use both of the nail types now and then, it also can be rather disadvantageous if you are using these fake nails for everyday wear, all the time. Your nails need time off to breathe, so as long as you are taking care of that, you are good to go with any sort of.
Also, it depends on the occasion. If you’re going on vacation for more than a month, then acrylic nail extensions would be great for you as they last longer. On the other hand, hard gel nail extensions would be better for week-long or two-week-long wedding events as they can wear off after 2 weeks.
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