Acrylic Nails vs Gel Nails: A categorised comparison

Requires proper nail preparation, which includes cleaning, buffing and dehydrating the natural nails before application.

Made by mixing a liquid (monomer) and a powder (polymer). The mixture is then sculpted and shaped over a form or on the natural nails. This paste-like substance hardens over the natural nails.

 The nails are then filed and shaped to the desired length and shape.

 The process can take up to an hour or more, depending on the skill of the nail technician and the desired look.

Requires proper nail preparation, which includes cleaning, buffing and dehydrating the natural nails before application.

Applied using a base coat and gel-based polish and requires curing under a UV/LED lamp

Top coat required.

 The process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. Still, it can vary depending on the skill of the nail technician and the desired look.

Appearance

Typically thicker, more opaque, and can look more artificial

Glossy finish, shiny, and have a more natural appearance.

Durability

Known for their strength and are resistant to chipping and breaking

can be prone to cracking or chipping if not appropriately maintained, and both need regular fill-ins to preserve their appearance.

Durable but more flexible than acrylics. They can be less resistant to chipping.

can be prone to cracking or chipping if not appropriately maintained, and both need regular fill-ins to preserve their appearance.

Application Time

Takes about an hour or more

Typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour

Maintenance & Removal

Acrylic nails must be filled in every two to three weeks to maintain their appearance. During a fill-in, the technician will remove the grown-out portion of the natural nails and add a new layer of acrylic to the nails.

They are also prone to yellowing or discolouration over time, so regular buffing and cleaning are required to maintain their appearance.

 Acrylic nails are removed by soaking them in acetone for 15-20 minutes, then filing and buffing off the remaining acrylic. This process can be harsh on the natural nails and may cause damage if not done correctly.

Gel nails must also be filled in every two to three weeks to maintain their appearance. During a fill-in, the technician will remove the grown-out portion of the natural nails and add a new layer of gel to the nails.

Gel nails are less prone to yellowing or discolouration than acrylic nails. However, regular cleaning is still required to maintain their appearance.

Cost

 Generally less expensive.

Acrylic nails tend to be less expensive than gel nails. Still, the cost can vary depending on location, salon, technician, nail art, length and shape of the nails, and the technician's skill.

 Require regular maintenance, and the costs can add up over time.

 Typically more costly

The cost may vary based on the nails' design, length and shape and the technician's skill.

 Require regular maintenance, and the costs of maintaining them can add up over time.

The price of a UV/LED lamp (needed for gel nails) should also be considered.

Pros

Durability, affordability, low maintenance, variety in design, customizability.

Natural look, easy removal, long-lasting, lesser damage to natural nails, and a wide variety of colors.

Cons

Potential for nail damage, less natural appearance, possible allergic reactions due to harsh chemicals.

Need for a UV lamp, typically more expensive, not as robust as acrylics, potential sensitivity to UV light, and the requirement for regular maintenance