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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!

24 CHIC NEW YEAR’S NAILS IDEAS FOR EVERY STYLE 

New Year’s is the perfect time to go all out with your look, and that means embracing extreme sparkle in your outfit, hair, makeup, and especially your nails. Nail art is like the final touch that pulls your entire ensemble together, creating a cohesive and festive vibe that’s perfect for the ultimate party mood. If you love a good theme, this is your chance to go all-in with glitter, shimmer, holographic finishes, and plenty of sparkle. When it comes to color, don’t hesitate to go brighter or bolder than usual—this is the season to indulge and treat yourself for all the hard work you’ve put in this year.

We believe that a great manicure sets the tone for anything you want to achieve. Kick off the new year with a stylish manicure that’s sure to earn you a night full of compliments. Check out these 24 New Year’s nail designs we’ve saved to bring to the salon—let your nails be a sign that this will be your best year yet.

CHROME SILVER NAILS FOR NEW YEAR

The chrome silver nail trend has been everywhere lately, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s a subtle accent on plain nails, the tip of a chic French manicure, or an all-over statement color, this metallic look is incredibly versatile. While you can definitely rock these nails before New Year, they would be the perfect addition to any party outfit, adding that extra touch of glam.

GLITTER STARS FOR NEW YEAR

Glitter nails are going to be everywhere this New Year, and it’s hard not to love them, especially when paired with black stars for an extra festive and elevated look. If you’re thinking about trying this at home, you can stick on a few black star decals and finish with a long-wear top coat to keep them looking fresh all night.

SPARKLY AND BEJEWELED

The intricate detailing and sparkling gems in this design offer a luxurious and festive look, making sure your nails shine brilliantly as you welcome the New Year. The sheer pink base beautifully complements the pink tones in the gems, adding a touch of elegance and cohesion to the design.

SILVER AND PINK GLITTER TIPS

Ring in the New Year with a French manicure that’s elevated by a dash of glitter for extra shimmer. If you’re having trouble choosing just one shade for your tips, the holidays are the perfect time to go all out and mix it up!

GOLD-CHROME NAILS FOR NEW YEAR

If you’re ready to get funky with your nail art for 2024, 3D nails are a great choice for NYE. A sheer, shimmery base with gold chrome keeps things mostly minimal, while the raised details add an edgy touch that will definitely have people asking where you got your nails done. Your artist will likely use hard gel as the base for the chrome powder to create that cool textured effect.

BABY BLUE SPARKLES

Illuminate your New Year’s Eve with a dazzling glitter manicure, complete with intricate nail art and stylish baby blue accents. This combination beautifully captures the festive spirit while ensuring your nails are the perfect accessory for the celebration.

RAINBOW CONFETTI NAILS

Confetti cannon meets nails in this vibrant rainbow manicure! Here’s a tip from my recent experience: when bringing confetti embellishments to your nail appointment, make sure they’re small enough to fit your nails. I learned the hard way when I brought confetti that was way too big and ended up with a very different mani than I had envisioned, lol.

METALLIC BLUE

Rock out this year with an intergalactic blue chrome manicure. Light-reflecting and eye-catching, this look is perfect for New Year’s nails, bringing just the right vibe to start the year with a bold, futuristic flair.

GLITTER SWAP

Enhance a vibrant color like cobalt blue with alternating half-glitter designs for a striking New Year’s look. Pair it with corresponding gold jewelry to really turn up the volume and make your nails the star of the celebration.

ABSTRACT EXTRACT

This unique manicure, featuring dots of red, green, gold, black, and white, showcases a creative and modern artistic flair. The gold is used sparingly, providing just a hint of sparkle for a sophisticated touch.

DIAMOND NUDE

The muted tones of this manicure offer a sophisticated backdrop, while the subtle sparkle adds just the right touch of glamour. It’s perfect for those who want a more understated yet celebratory look for New Year’s Eve.

SNOWFLAKE NEW YEAR’S NAILS

If you’re still into festive manicures, go for wintery vibes for New Year’s Eve. Enhance the look by adding rhinestones around your nails for a touch of bling or choosing a shimmery base color beneath the snowflakes to make the design feel more NYE-appropriate.

HOLOGRAPHIC SPLIT

If you prefer a minimalist look, consider a holographic stripe split down the middle of each nail. It’s a chic and subtle way to add a touch of glamour for New Year’s Eve and beyond.

IRIDESCENT-PURPLE NAIL IDEA ​

If you love the multicolor look of water-marble nails, give them a New Year’s upgrade by using shimmery nail polishes. For an extra festive touch, add a glittery top coat for a confetti-like effect that’ll make your nails sparkle all night long.

FIERCE AND FABULOUS

Celebrate the countdown to the New Year with fierce and fabulous claw nails. The elongated, pointed tips add a dramatic flair to any look, making a bold and edgy statement that exudes confidence and style.

BEJEWELED BABY BLUES

This icy blue French tip manicure combines sparkle with sophistication. While some nails feature a simple painted tip, others are adorned with tips made entirely of jewels, adding a touch of glamour and elegance to your look.

GOLDEN SWIRL

Welcome the New Year with understated elegance by choosing soft pink nails embellished with intricate gold chrome swirl details. This manicure beautifully balances simplicity with a touch of glamour, making it a perfect choice for ringing in the year with style.

HOLOGRAPHIC GLITTER NAILS FOR NYE

If DIY nail art feels daunting or your nail tech is fully booked, don’t worry! Opt for a super-glitzy holographic nail polish for an easy at-home manicure. For a super-opaque look, apply three coats of polish and finish with a shiny top coat to ensure a dazzling finish.

ABSTRACT POP

Get ready to be the life of the party with these abstract nails! Featuring a pop of orange, a dash of black, and gold-foil details, they’re sure to catch everyone’s attention and add a vibrant touch to your New Year’s look.

STICKER FUN

For a minimalist New Year’s look, consider going with a clean, color-free manicure accented by a hint of silver adhesives. The abstract design is subtle yet undeniably stunning, making it a sophisticated choice for celebrating the occasion.

STARS & HEARTS

This dazzling manicure features a pristine white base adorned with gold stars and hearts, creating a look that exudes fun and festive spirit. The contrast between the gleaming gold and the clean white backdrop makes the design pop, adding a touch of elegance while keeping the mood playful and celebratory.

NEGATIVE SPACE HEARTS

Ring in the New Year with a modern twist by opting for a negative space heart design. The combination of robin’s egg blue and silver creates a chic and frosty look that’s perfect for winter. This design offers a fresh, stylish take on the traditional festive manicure, blending elegance with a touch of seasonal charm.

PLANET PARTY

Planet designs are trending in fashion and beauty this year, making an interstellar manicure a fantastic choice for minimalist nail enthusiasts. The celestial theme offers a sleek, modern look that’s both trendy and understated, perfect for those who appreciate a subtle touch of cosmic flair.

GLITTER NAILS FOR NYE

When in doubt, simply dip your nails in glitter and call it a day. The multicolor shimmer in these nails is truly mesmerizing, catching the light with every movement and creating a dazzling effect. This approach ensures your manicure stands out with a vibrant, festive touch, making it perfect for any celebration.

CONCLUSION

There you have it-24 fabulous New Year’s nail designs to suit every taste and skill level. What I love most about New Year’s nails is the freedom to experiment. You can use any colors and create any patterns you like, as long as your manicure has a touch of sparkle, it’ll definitely fit the New Year’s vibe.