gentle pink gel polish

GEL NAILS VS DIPPED NAILS VS ACRYLIC

There are several types of nail extensions available, each offering its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Whether you’re considering dip powder nails, gel nails, or acrylics, it’s important to know what to look for when deciding which option is best for you. Before diving into the details, let’s explore the pros and cons of dip nails, gel nails, and acrylics to help you make an informed choice.

WHAT ARE GEL NAILS?

Gel nails are created using a gel formula that is cured under UV or LED light. They’re much more flexible than traditional acrylics, making them less prone to breakage.

While applying gel nails can be a bit challenging due to the sticky residue left behind, which must be wiped off with alcohol, they are highly durable once set and typically last 2-3 weeks.

Unlike hard gel extensions, which are ideal for salon use, gel polish is easier to apply and suitable for both at-home and professional applications.

Disadvantages of Gel Nails

  • Time-consuming application: The process can take a while, as each nail needs to be shaped individually and cured under UV or LED light.
  • UV/LED light exposure: Some individuals may be sensitive to UV or LED light used during the curing process, which can cause skin irritation. To reduce this risk, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen to your hands before exposure.
  • Harsh chemicals: Some gel brands may contain harsh chemicals like BHA, so it’s best to avoid those when possible.

WHAT ARE DIPPED NAILS?

Dip powder nails, or dipped nails, are made using finely milled acrylic powder and are bonded with a special adhesive called cyanoacrylate.

The powder is applied to the nail and sealed with a top coat. Dip powder nails are known for being both flexible and durable, making them longer-lasting than other types of artificial nails. When applied properly, they are also resistant to chipping and breaking.

The dipping method is particularly suited for home use. Unlike hard gels and acrylics, which require skill and experience to sculpt the nails, dip nails don’t involve sculpting, making them easier to apply.

In addition, dip powders are flexible, durable, odorless, non-toxic, and don’t require curing lights.

Disadvantages of Dip Nails

  • Hygiene concerns: While dip powders are great for home application, if you’re getting them done at a salon, ensure your fingers aren’t being dipped into shared powder pots, as this can lead to infections.
  • Messy application: The process of applying dip powder nails can get a bit messy.

WHAT ARE ACRYLIC NAILS?

Traditional acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer, typically applied with a brush and then shaped to the desired look.

Acrylic nails are the most popular type of artificial nails due to their durability, longevity, and relatively simple application process. However, if not applied correctly, they can cause significant damage to your natural nails.

Disadvantages of Acrylic Nails

  • Toxic smell: Liquid monomers often contain harsh chemicals like MMA, which can be harmful to your health, potentially causing allergies or asthma.
  • Harsh chemicals: Some types of acrylics contain dangerous substances such as formaldehyde and toluene. While it hasn’t been definitively proven, toluene has been linked to potential health issues.
  • Lack of flexibility: Unlike gel or dip powder nails, traditional acrylics are quite rigid. This means that if they hit something hard, they are more likely to break due to their stiffness.
  • Bacterial or fungal infections: Improper application or trauma to the nails can lead to gaps between the acrylic and the natural nail, creating a breeding ground for bacteria or fungi.
  • Acrylic nail removal: Removing acrylic nails is a lengthy process, requiring soaking the nails in 100% acetone for 30-40 minutes. It’s recommended to have a professional handle the removal, as attempting it on your own can risk damaging your nails.

DIPPED NAILS VS GEL NAILS – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE

Dipped nails and gel nails are both popular options for fake nails, but how do they differ? Let’s break it down.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Both dip powder and gel nails are great for home use. However, applying hard gel (gel extensions) can be much trickier for a DIY project.

Gel nails usually take longer to apply than dip nails because gel polish or hard gel needs to be cured under an LED or UV light.

For a gel manicure, the process includes prepping the nails, applying a base coat, gel polish color, a top coat, and curing under a lamp.

A dip powder manicure involves prepping the nails, applying a base coat, dipping them in powder, adding a top coat, and using an activator.

Traditional acrylics include prepping the nail, applying acrylic powder and liquid with a brush, and finishing with nail polish and a top coat.

UV/LED LIGHT EXPOSURE

Dip powder nails don’t need UV or LED light to set, unlike gel nails, which require curing under these lights.

LASTING POWER

Gel polish: If done right, gel polish can last 2-3 weeks.

Hard gel extensions: They can last more than 3 weeks but usually need a fill-in after 3-4 weeks.

Dip powder nails: When applied properly, they can last over 3 weeks without chipping.

Acrylic nails: Acrylics are very strong and can also last over 3 weeks without cracking or chipping.

NAIL DAMAGE

If not applied or removed properly, all three types—gel, dip powder, and acrylics—can harm your natural nails. This can range from mild irritation to more serious issues like infections or allergies, depending on the person and the process used.

COST AND TIME

Gel polish: Costs $35-$50 and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. In the U.S., the average price is $40.

Hard gel extensions: Cost around $80 and take 1-1.5 hours. Prices may rise if you add decorations like rhinestones.

Dip nails: Typically cost $40-$50 and take about 45 minutes.

Acrylic extensions: Cost between $75-$100 and take 1-1.5 hours in a salon.

REMOVAL PROCESS

For gel nails and dip powder nails, the removal process is similar: first, file off the top coat, then soak the nails in acetone for 15-20 minutes. For acrylic nails, removal takes longer. You need to soak them in acetone for 30-40 minutes and then file them off.

CONCLUSION

So, what’s the verdict? It really comes down to your preferences. If you’re looking for something quick and easy to do at home, both a gel polish manicure and a dip powder manicure are great options. If you prefer to visit the salon for a full set of extensions, then gel or acrylic nail extensions might be more your style.

Acrylic allergy: If you’re allergic to acrylics, none of these options will work for you since they all contain acrylic. In that case, you could try a regular polish manicure or a shellac manicure. While these won’t last as long, they are gentler on your nails in the long run. Whatever you decide, remember to care for your nails and give them a break every now and then!

20 SHORT PINK NAILS FOR A FEMININE TOUCH

Ready to elevate your manicure? Short pink nails are the perfect blend of chic and practical. Pink is more than a color; it’s a statement of style that complements every skin tone and exudes timeless elegance. From soft blush to bold magenta, there’s a pink shade to match your personality.

Short nails offer both style and convenience. Whether you prefer minimalist or maximalist designs, there’s a world of possibilities to explore. Get inspired by our curated collection of short pink nail ideas and discover your next manicure obsession.

Ready to imbrace your inner Barbie but lacking the inspo? Scroll to discover 42 pink nail designs, that you’re definitely going to love.

GLITTER HIGHLIGHT

Sparkle isn’t just an accent; it’s a statement. Imagine a single nail that catches the light and dazzles like a star. Whether you’re in the office or out on the town, glitter nails add a touch of glamour and confidence to any look.

PINK ZEBRA

The Pink Zebra Nail is a fun and playful way to add a touch of personality to your look. This design is perfect for anyone who loves animals and wants to show their wild side.

MARBLE SWIRLS

Marble nails are pure artistry. Each nail is a unique canvas where pink and other colors swirl together in a mesmerizing dance. It’s like carrying a tiny abstract masterpiece on your fingertips. With every movement, the design shifts, creating a constantly evolving look.

BOW ACCENTS

Bow nails are the ultimate in girly glam. They’re like a tiny, perfect bow tied around your fingertips. It’s a playful touch that adds a dash of sweetness and sophistication to any look. Channel your inner princess with this adorable nail trend!

CHROME BABY PINK

This unique combination creates a striking balance between modern sophistication and youthful charm, making it a popular choice for everything from fashion accessories to custom car details. The chrome finish adds a metallic shine, giving it a futuristic, glossy appearance that’s sure to stand out.

MINIMALIST FRENCH TIPS

Minimalist French tips are the essence of chic. They offer a subtle elegance, enhancing your pink nails with a sleek and polished touch. This style shows an appreciation for timeless classics while embracing a modern twist.

SUBTLE OMBRÉ

Subtle ombré pink nails blend soft, gradient shades of pink to create a delicate and seamless transition from light to dark. This understated style adds a touch of elegance to your nails, perfect for those who love a refined, feminine look with a modern twist.

SOFT MARBLE AND SHIMMER

Soft marble and shimmer unite to form a nail design that’s both ethereal and luxuriously grounded. The gentle, swirling marble patterns resemble a precious stone, while the shimmer particles capture the light, adding a celestial glow.

HOT PINK AND SILVER GLITTER



Hot pink combined with silver glitter is the perfect duo for those who love to make a statement. The vibrant pink exudes confidence and energy, while the silver glitter adds a touch of sophistication and festive sparkle. It’s a bold choice that demands attention and shows you’re ready to stand out.

PINK POLKA DOTS

The cheerful pink base, dotted with contrasting spots, creates a lively and retro-inspired look. Perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of whimsy and personality to their style.

NUDE PINK WITH SUBTLE SHIMMER

This combo delivers a hint of color with a subtle sparkle, enhancing your nails’ natural beauty. It’s a “your nails but better” look, adding just the right amount of shine to stand out without being flashy.

PINK JELLY

Sparkly Pink Jelly nails offer a fresh, juicy look that feels straight from the salon. Their translucent, glossy finish makes the vibrant pink color pop, while the sparkles add a playful, whimsical touch.

MODERN CHECK

Modern check pink nails combine a contemporary twist with classic patterns, featuring sleek, geometric check designs over a chic pink base. This stylish manicure balances boldness and femininity, offering a fresh take on a traditional look.

SWIRL GLITTERS

This design intertwines streams of glitter, creating dynamic patterns that dance and shimmer with the light. Whether you’re off to a party or just adding some sparkle to an ordinary day, these nails bring the celebration to you.

STARRY HOT PINK

Hot pink star designs add a cosmic flair to your manicure, merging vibrant pink with starry accents for a look that’s truly out of this world. It’s a bold, adventurous style that lets your nails shine and say, “Look at me!”

DUAL-TONE JELLY

Two-tone jelly nails provide a contemporary twist on color blocking with their translucent layers that exude innovation and style. By pairing contrasting shades of pink in a jelly finish, this look achieves a playful and captivating effect.

ROSE FADE

Rose fade nails feature a graceful gradient from soft pink to deep rose, creating a delicate and elegant transition. This subtle ombré effect adds a touch of sophistication and romance, perfect for a refined and timeless manicure.

PINK AURA

Want a touch of glam without overpowering your nails? Recreate this stunning pink aura look! Start with a neutral base, then add a burst of sparkle with Beetles Nail Blooming Gel in Jelly Pink and Gelcare UV Gel Nail Polish in Acai Berry. Finish it off with dazzling silver rhinestones from Cirque Colors Starry Night Charms for the ultimate touch of luxury.

PINK PLAID

Elevate a plaid manicure by replacing the traditional greens, reds, yellows, and blues with a bold pink. It’s giving off major Clueless or Mean Girls vibes, don’t you think?

CHEETAH GIRLS

Animal prints are bold on their own, but for a real showstopper of a mani, try an animal print in bold, bright hues. It adds a sense of whimsy and fun—plus, it looks downright adorable.