Question by Amber: What is the difference between acrylic nails, gel nails, and solar nails?
I currently have acrylic nails but they are so thick and have to be covered while tanning. Also, I always have a french manicure, but the tips (where they are air-brushed) look terrible after a few days. I also have a major problem with them lifting. Are gel or solar nails better? Also, how can I make sure they are true “gel” nails? I have heard that some salons will try to pass acrylic as gel.
Best answer:
Answer by Juana G
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are called many different names, with the nail technician’s least favorite being “fake nails”. We much prefer the term artificial nails. There are several different types of artificial nail enhancement products as well as application procedures. The most commonly applied enhancement is traditional acrylic, which is a two-part system of liquid (monomer) and powder (polymer). This type of product can be applied with one color of acrylic, pink and white acrylic for a Permanent French look, or can be applied with colored acrylic, glitter acrylic or in any combination.
Solar Nails
Its basically white and pink acrylic instead of polish. It lasts longer than reg acrylic nails and doesn’t chip because the acrylic gets buffed. Its much harder and stronger, but harder to get off.
Gel Nails
Gel acrylic is a one-part system consisting of the application of a thick viscosity gel acrylic. Gel is normally ‘cured’ under a UV light. Do not confuse gel with traditional acrylic. Even though the two products are actually acrylic, they apply and wear differently. Gel applied over acrylic to seal the surface does not make your nails “Gel Nails”. Gel nails are actually acrylic nails; they are made from the same class of acrylates, but with different molecular structures, appearance, application procedures and different curing methods. Be certain you are receiving the artificial nails you requested.
…………………………………….
I had the same problem when i got an airbrushed french tip. Why dont you just get white tip nails put on. These tips are already white. They look alot better and more natural then airbrushed frenches. There like $ 5 more.
Acrylic has more of a whitish look to it. Gel is clear and sticky like. They should be in separate bottles.
What do you think? Answer below!