Pretty nails are attractive. From elegant French manicures to curated theme-designed nail tippings, a lot can be done in the relatively small area our nail occupies.
Key Takeaways
- Soft gel nails are made of a flexible gel substance that is cured under UV or LED light, while acrylic nails are created using a liquid monomer and powder polymer that harden when exposed to air.
- Soft gel nails are more natural-looking and lightweight, whereas acrylic nails are more durable and long-lasting.
- Acrylic nails can damage natural nails due to the filing and chemical exposure, while soft gel nails are gentler and easier to remove.
Soft Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails
Soft gel nails are more flexible and lighter, soft gel nails also require a UV lamp to cure. Acrylic nails are more durable and can be shaped more easily, acrylic nails require mixing a liquid and a powder to create a hardening chemical reaction.
Soft gel nails provide their users with a natural look that is both fresh and glossy. These nails are life-like and can last up to a span of two weeks, i.e., a fortnight, when applied rightly.
Acrylic nails are made of a substance called acrylic glass. When combined with a liquid monomer, it gives birth to acrylic nails. Acrylic nails have a rougher texture and are placed on top of the person’s real nails.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | Soft Gel Nails | Acrylic Nails |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Acrylic monomers and oligomers. | Acrylic glass and liquid monomer. |
| Appearance | Glossy and natural | Comparatively rougher |
| Lasting duration | Two weeks | Lasts for a longer period of time |
| Cost | Comparatively more expensive | It is affordable and cheap |
| Flexibility | Can be flexible to an extent | Less flexible; prone to breaking |
What are Soft Gel Nails?
Soft gel nails are made of acrylic monomers and oligomers. These are artificial nails that are used as extensions for the real ones.
People prefer it for its life-like appearance. Soft gel nails provide their users with a natural look that is both fresh and glossy.
Soft gel nails are preferred to be applied on by experienced people.
They are done under UV lighting. However, exceptions exist for different types of soft gel nails that can be cured with a gel activator.
These fake nails can be applied using a primer and a base and allow options to opt out of both as well.
Though soft gel nails may last for a relatively lower period, it takes much less time to finish.
They are a safe option to bet on. Although it has to be noted that an elongated period of contact with water can cause infections.
Soft gel nails are a bit more expensive than acrylic nails and might require expert assistance, but they are worth every penny.
What are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are made of a substance called acrylic glass. When combined with a liquid monomer, it gives birth to acrylic nails.
These artificial nail enhancements give the users a beautiful touch of style.
Acrylic nails pack within their own set of pros and cons. They are preferred by people who like to have a little texture or character to their finger-crowns.
Acrylic nails have a rougher texture and are placed on top of the person’s real nails. Acrylic nails have a slower curing time due to the time it takes to apply the acrylic liquid and powder.
When applied properly, acrylic nails are a much cheaper alternative that also lasts longer. Acrylic nails can be applied to oneself using efficient do-it-yourself kits.
Acrylic nails do not give the benefit of appearing genuine and are not flexible. This can make them more prone to breaking.
It is advised to try not to let the skin not come in contact with any material that is used in acrylic nails. All it takes is a little time and patience.
Acrylic nails can also cause harm if in contact with water for an elongated period of time.
Despite their drawbacks, acrylic nails remain to be popular for their price.
Main Differences Between Soft Gel Nails and Acrylic Nails
- Soft gel nails are also more expensive than their acrylic counterparts, which are much cheaper in comparison.
- Soft gel nails are more flexible but last a shorter period of time. Acrylic nails are less flexible but last longer.
- https://ijdvl.com/?view-pdf=1&embedded=true&article=ce0e059f9453aad277b3512ddba75e81Wh6AtfI%3D
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ced.13929
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Such an interesting article, I really liked the comparison this author made. It’s very insightful.
I disagree, soft gel nails are worth the price. They look and feel so much better than acrylic nails.
Now I’m considering switching to soft gel nails. The information was very helpful.
I have to agree with Rose, the article compares the two types of nails.
I found the information misleading, some points are incorrect.
I have tried both, and honestly, I found that the comparison between the two types of nails was informative.
Acrylic nails are not worth the risk nor the price, soft gel nails are much better.
The article makes the differences between soft gel and acrylic nails very clear.
It’s true, the comparison table makes it easier to understand the two types of nails.