Pretty nails are attractive. From elegant French manicures to curated theme-designed nail tippings, there is a lot that can be done in the relatively small space of area our nail occupies. And this means there are several different things involved in its making. Growing nails is a rather redundant way when gel and acrylic nails which look genuine are available for use. These are different materials used for fake nails.
Soft Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails
The main difference between soft gel nails and acrylic nails is that while soft gel nails are glossy in their appearance, acrylic nails, on the other hand, showcase a much less refined look. The soft gel type of nails lends a smooth, shiny exterior. Acrylic nails possess a little extra texture and character.
Soft gel nails are made of acrylic monomers and oligomers. These are artificial nails that are used as extensions for the real ones. 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. Although they lack the glow provided by their counterparts, acrylic nails make up for it by being affordable and long-lasting.
Comparison Table Between Soft Gel Nails and Acrylic Nails
| 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 is 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.
It is preferred by people for its life-like appearance. Soft gel nails provide their users with a natural look that is both fresh and glossy.
These nails help make your hands elegant and can last up to a span of two weeks, i.e., a fortnight when applied rightly. Soft gel nails are generally preferred to be applied on by experienced people.
Soft gel nails have a speedier curing time. They are done under UV lighting. Though 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 lesser time to get done.
Soft gel nails are popular among users for their minimal efforts, rich and natural look, and flexibility. 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 is 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 the 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.
Although they lack the glow provided by their counterparts, acrylic nails make up for it by being affordable and long-lasting. 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 made up of acrylic monomers and oligomers. Acrylic nails contain acrylic glass and liquid monomer.
- Soft gel nails are glossy in their appearance, acrylic nails on the other hand showcase a much less refined look. This causes the former to look real and the latter, less so.
- Soft gel nails take a lesser period of time to be applied on when compared with acrylic nails.
- Soft gel nails are also more expensive than their acrylic counterparts, that 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.
Conclusion
Both soft gel nails and acrylic nails talk about artificial nail extensions or enhancement that are predominantly used in a cosmetic sense.
Soft gel nails are popular due to their real-life appearance, glossy look, less curing time, and overall flexibility. However, they are expensive and last only up to a selected period of time.
Acrylic nails are popular among those who prefer to make bold statements, lending them a rough, stable, and characterized texture. These nail enhancements are affordable and require a tiny bit of effort whilst applying. They repay back by lasting longer and costing lesser.
Choose what you are most comfortable in, as the level of comfortability matters a lot. Happy choosing!
References
- 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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