Here's a quick guide to help you decide: For Durability: Choose acrylic nails if you need long-lasting strength and versatility. For Healthier Nails: Opt for dipping powder for a less harsh, durable option. For a Natural Look: Go for gel nails if you prefer a flexible, glossy finish.
Dip powder nails are healthier than acrylics in basically every way imaginable. They're among the safest nail enhancements you can get, and you're not sacrificing any quality at all. We pride ourselves on being a health-conscious nail salon – and our clients love the dip powder treatment.
Gels (and acrylics), while safe for most people, contain ingredients that can sometimes cause allergic reactions. If you've experienced an adverse reaction to manicure products in the past, we recommend using an all-natural dip powder instead of gels, acrylics, or nail varnish.
Unlike traditional techniques like acrylic or gel, dip powder nails do not require any UV light exposure. This eliminates the potential harm caused by UV lights, making dip powder a healthier choice. Moreover, dip powder nails are known to be highly resistant to chipping and peeling, ensuring longer-lasting manicures.
Acrylics tend to be more damaging because they're hard and inflexible, which makes them more likely to catch on surfaces and chip or break. Additionally, acrylic nails are more difficult to remove than gel nails, which means that they may be more likely to damage the natural nails.
Dip powder is a great alternative to gel. It also provides long-lasting results without the need for UV curing. Pros: Dip powder manicures offer a durable finish and can last up to four weeks. They are less harmful than some gel manicures and require fewer chemicals for removal.
Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.
While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.
Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) manicures are famous for their exceptional strength and durability. The specialized formula used in BIAB products creates a sturdy protective layer on the natural nail, reducing the risk of breakage and chipping.
Although gel manicures can be beautiful and long-lasting, they can be tough on nails. Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.
Best overall: Olive & June
They offer a whopping 41 nails in 21 sizes, the largest range on the market by a longshot. These nails are incredibly thick and durable, had no chipping, and stayed put for 18 days — the longest amount of time press-ons have ever lasted on me.
The Downsides
Durability can come at a price as both King and Kandalec say that dip powder nails are very difficult to remove. If not done properly, it can really damage your nail beds.
Contrary to popular belief, dip powder nails can indeed be filled to maintain their appearance. Filling involves infilling the regrowth area near the cuticle, maintaining the length and shape of the manicure.
Because you're creating several coats over your natural nail, dip nails tend to look a bit thicker compared to a simple gel manicure or even acrylics. That said, a skilled nail tech can create a natural-looking, smooth appearance that's not overly thick.
Dip powder is applied by dipping your nails into a colored powder or brushing the powder onto your nails. A base coat is brushed on first so that the powder adheres. A dip powder manicure can last up to four weeks.
Overall, Dip Powder Manicures are a great way to get a healthy manicure that will protect and strengthen your nails without causing any damage. Just like any nail treatment, you do have to make sure you properly remove it to keep your nails safe and healthy – Don't pick at your manicure!
If you've ever had a gel manicure before, you know that it can be hard to resist the temptation to peel it off — which is one of the worst things you can possibly do to your nails. Instead, Dr. Ranasinghe says, you should have the gel polish removed by your manicurist. “If you're removing gel polish yourself,” Dr.
Downside of gel nails
If you get them often, they can make your nails weak or thin. This is because taking off the gel is tough on your nails. You have to soak your nails in acetone, which makes them dry and brittle. Also, when you file your nails to remove the gel, it can make them thinner over time.
“Manicures seem harmless, but gel manicures come with unexpected risks.” UV light is associated with skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. Too much UV exposure may damage the skin's elastin, which keeps skin looking supple. “People usually get manicures to make their hands look more attractive,” Dr.
If your nails are thin and weak, dip powder can provide the necessary strength while allowing you to enjoy your favorite colors.
The Russian nail method is a dry process of filing, cutting, and removing the cuticle with electric drill bits entirely for a clean look and feel. The Russian manicure can prevent the dry cracking of cuticles or hangnails, thus extending the longevity of the manicure.
Acrylic nails are perfect if you need long-lasting, strong nails, while gel nails are ideal for those who want a lighter, more natural look. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so consider your specific needs when making your choice.