how much is acrylic nails at a salon

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!

19 RED AND WHITE CHRISTMAS NAILS YOU SHOULD TRY

We’ve curated a collection of over 19 breathtaking and fashionable red and white Christmas nail designs, offering you an abundance of inspiration to get your manicure holiday-ready! From classic patterns to creative twists, these designs will help you find the perfect look to celebrate the season in style. Let’s get started!

ELEGANT RED AND WHITE COFFIN NAILS

Let these beautiful red and white coffin nails inspire your next manicure. This collection features a range of designs, from classic French tips with a festive twist to intricate snowflakes that capture the magic of winter. Each design blends elegance and creativity, helping you make a striking statement this Christmas season.

SPARKLE RED AND WHITE 

When it comes to your Christmas nails, there’s no such thing as too much sparkle! Have fun experimenting with various shapes, sizes, and finishes of glitter to create a manicure that’s both festive and uniquely yours.

CUTE SANTA CLAUS CHRISTMAS NAILS

Make a statement this holiday season with this charming Santa Claus nail design. It’s an eye-catching look that’s easy to achieve with just a few basic colors: red, white, black, yellow, and pink nail polish. To add the finishing touches, use a dotting tool to carefully create Santa’s eyes and nose, bringing this festive character to life on your nails.

ELEGANT RED AND WHITE CHRISTMAS NAILS

Give your nails a sophisticated holiday makeover with these elegant candy cane almond-shaped designs. Featuring classic red and white stripes with a chic gold accent, this festive look combines a refined almond shape with a touch of holiday sparkle. It’s a perfect way to add a glamorous twist to your seasonal manicure.

RED AND WHITE NAILS WITH SNOWFLAKES

For a simple and speedy Christmas snowflake nail art design, decorating your nails with snowflakes in various sizes is a great option. If you’re craving a bit of sparkle, enhance your manicure with gold glitter accents to add a festive touch and make your snowflakes truly shine.

RED AND WHITE CHRISTMAS GIFT NAILS

Looking for some festive Christmas nail ideas? Consider this elegant yet simple 3D nail art design that captures the essence of the holiday season. Using the classic colors of Santa Claus—rich red and crisp white—this design adds a sophisticated touch to your nails while embracing the joy and tradition of Christmas. The 3D elements elevate the look, making it both stylish and seasonally appropriate.

RED AND WHITE NAILS FOR EVERYDAY

If you love the white and red nail combo, don’t wait for a specific holiday to rock it! You can enjoy this stylish duo any time of the year. For a more casual everyday look, consider a classic white French manicure with red tips. And if you’re concerned about achieving perfectly neat tips, curved stencils are a great tool to help you get a flawless finish.

MATTE SANTA CLAUS CHRISTMAS NAILS

Elevate your holiday manicure with this chic Santa Claus nail design, featuring a modern twist with red and white matte nail polish. This stylish design blends the festive spirit of Santa’s iconic colors with a sleek matte finish, creating a unique and trendy look for the season.

SNOWFLAKES ART

Snowflake nails are a beloved choice for Christmas, and it’s easy to see why. Snowflakes are among the first things that come to mind when you think of winter, making them an ideal design for capturing the season’s essence.

CLASSY RED AND WHITE CHRISTMAS NAILS

Draw inspiration from this refined Christmas nail design, which adds a festive twist to the classic French manicure. This sophisticated style blends timeless elegance with holiday cheer, offering a chic and understated festive look.

NORTH POLE NAILS

The design can be elevated with metallic accents to mimic the sparkle of snow under the northern lights. It offers a playful yet elegant look that embodies the spirit of the holidays.

CUTE SNOWMAN CHRISTMAS NAILS

Bring this charming Christmas nail art to life by using red, white, and gold glitter nail polish, combined with playful snowman stickers. Start with a festive red base, then add white and gold glitter polish for a touch of sparkle. Finish with adorable snowman stickers to complete the look, creating a joyful and eye-catching holiday manicure that’s sure to spread cheer.

MINIMALIST RED AND WHITE NAILS DESIGNS FOR CHRISTMAS

If you’re heading to a fancy Christmas party and want your manicure to look both elegant and polished, consider opting for these simple yet sophisticated nail art designs. They are quick and easy to create while ensuring that your nails perfectly complement any outfit, adding a touch of refined charm to your overall look.

SANTA HO HO HO CHRISTMAS NAILS

Here’s a Santa Claus nail art design that’s easier to recreate than it might seem. Gather red, white, beige, and gold nail polish, along with a brush, a liner, and a dotting tool. This combination of tools and colors will help you achieve a delightful Santa Claus theme with ease, adding a festive touch to your holiday manicure.

CANDY DESIGN

Candy cane nail designs are a timeless Christmas favorite. If you prefer a simpler approach than hand-painting candy canes, you can achieve a festive look by using their iconic print. Just gather high-pigmented white and red nail polishes to create bold, vibrant stripes that capture the essence of this classic holiday treat. This method is both easy and effective, giving you a stylish holiday manicure with minimal effort.

BADDIE COFFIN CHRISTMAS NAILS

Check out these red and white coffin-shaped Christmas nails for a sleek, edgy look in 2024. This design combines classic holiday colors with a bold coffin shape, perfect for achieving a sophisticated yet standout baddie style.

SANTA BELT

Looking for a manicure to pair with your red Christmas party dress? Consider adding a Santa Claus belt design to your nails. This cute and charming design effortlessly complements your outfit while adding a festive touch to your ensemble.

SIMPLE PEPPERMINT CANDY CHRISTMAS NAILS

To recreate these candy cane Christmas nails, start by applying a base coat to your nails. Once the base coat is dry, use straight stickers to create vertical stripes on the left and right sides of each nail. Next, apply a coat of white nail polish over the entire nail. After the white polish has dried, place stickers diagonally across the nail and paint red lines in the gaps to mimic the candy cane stripes. Finally, seal your design with a layer of top coat for a glossy finish and long-lasting wear.

EASY CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS NAILS

This stunning candy cane Christmas nail design is easy to create. Start by painting your acrylic nails with a nude base coat. Next, use a dotting tool to apply red and white dots in a candy cane pattern. Finish with a layer of top coat to seal in your design and add a glossy finish.

CONCLUSION

Red and white Christmas nails are a match made in heaven, offering endless possibilities for beautiful designs. With the help of our guide, we hope you’ll find it easy to select the perfect statement manicure for the holiday season.