Consider the pros and cons of acrylic nails compared to gel and dip nails.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
If youre new to the world of artificial nails, you might not even use the word acrylics."
Photo:Piranka/Getty Images
According to CND co-founder Jan Arnold, its an old-fashioned term for whats presently called nail enhancements.
They serve as a great base for color, art, and embellishment.
Acrylic nails are ideal if your nails need a strong protective shell.
How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?
How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?
Acrylic nails require maintenance every two to three weeks.
This is called a “fill-in.”
Fill-ins keep your nails looking fresh and account for the new growth of your natural nails.
Acrylic nails are often confused withdip nailssince they both require powder system.
Theyre actually the same product, just applied in different ways, Do explains.
Acrylics are created with a liquid monomer and dont require resin.
But Do recommends acrylics to people who want nail art, extreme lengths, or experimental shapes.
What Is the Difference Between Acrylic Nails and Gel Nails?
Acrylic nails can cure in about 10 to 15 minutes of air-drying and don’t need a special light.
They give your natural nails a stronger layer, which works great for adding length.
Gel nails tend to look and feel more natural than acrylic nails.
Are Acrylic Nails Damaging?
If not done well, acrylic nails can harbor bacteria and cause fungus, says SpaRitual founder Shel Pink.
This weakens and dehydrates the nail, causing splitting and cracking.
Be sure to use ingredient-conscious products.
Speak with your nail tech for advice.
File your natural nails into a rounded shape while taking a break from acrylics.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
Controlling Chemical Hazards during the utility of Artificial Fingernails, June 6, 2014.
