What’s The Difference Between Acrylic, Gel, & Shellac Nails?

Knowing how they differ can help you make better choices at your next manicure session.

Reviewed by Simone de Vlaming, Beauty Expert Simone de Vlaming Simone de VlamingBeauty Expert facebook_icontwitter_iconlinkedin_iconyoutube_icon
Written by , MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) Esha Saxena MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by , MA (English) Asmita De MA (English) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by , MA (Comparative Literature) Vaishali Sinha MA (Comparative Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
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There is no denying the aesthetic and hygiene-related benefits of a manicure. But how often do you find yourself staring down the list of services at the nail salon, all confused about the difference between various nail enhancements like acrylic, gel, and shellac nails? True, we are spoilt for choice (and we aren’t even complaining!), but it helps to know the difference between various manicures to understand what we are getting ourselves into. Check out this article for all the information on different manicures, techniques, nail care tips, and benefits to make an informed and wise choice next time you visit the salon. Read on.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

What are acrylic nails
Image: Shutterstock

Acrylic nails are done with a mix of liquid and powder monomeri  A molecule that in conjunction with acrylic powder (polymer) forms a bond to fashion a solid structure that becomes the artificial nail. that’s rounded into a ball of dough, shaped onto your nails with a brush, and air-dried. When you’re getting acrylics, the nail technician usually fashions them into tips to achieve a more natural look. After this, each nail is shaped into your preferred nail shape (almond, round, ballerina, or stiletto are the most popular shapes) and painted with polish. The nail technician may use regular or gel polish. They often prefer gel polish as it goes well with acrylic nails and stays put for at least 4 weeks with ease. If you want more length or are looking to change the shape of your nails, acrylics are ideal for you.

Acrylic nails last about two to four weeks with proper care. However, it is recommended to get them refilled by a technician after 5-6 weeks. This will remove any air bubbles underneath the acrylic and helps prevent infections! You must understand the pros and cons of acrylic nails to keep your natural nails healthy and beautiful!

Pros
  • Durable
  • Versatile (you can decide the length, shape, and color)
  • Uniformity in length and shape
  • Long-lasting (they stay for 4 weeks)
Cons
  • High maintenance
  • Dealing with the chemical odor while getting them done
  • Can damage your natural nails
  • Expensive
protip_icon Trivia

Polymethyli  Belonging to the engineering plastics group of materials, it is a solid polymer used in the making of acrylic nails. Methacrylate (PMMA), also called acrylic glass, is used to make acrylic nails.

What Are Gel Nails?

What are gel nails
Image: Shutterstock

Gel manicures promise chip-free, ultra-glossy nails for up to two weeks. Whether you have natural nails (short or long) or would like to get tips glued on first, gel manicures are for everyone. The technician starts off by applying a base coat that primes your nails for the gel. Then the gel polish is cured under a UV light. After each coat is painted on, you have to place your hand under the UV lamp for 30 seconds. Finally, a glossy topcoat and one minute under the light wraps up the process.

Kiana, a YouTube vlogger, shared her experience as a beginner using gel nail extensions. Prepping is an important part of doing nail extensions, she says: “I’m just adding a dehydrator first and then a primer so that the gel extensions are gonna stick. I just added a thin coat all over my nails for both of these (i).” This protects your natural nails and helps cure the gel nails faster.

Pros
  • Shiny and glossy finish
  • No damage to the nail bed
  • No chemical odor while getting them done
  • Up to 2 weeks of wear time
  • Quick drying time
  • No chips and smudges
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Exposure to UV rays

But, the big question still remains…

protip_icon Trivia

Since gel nails are hard, acetone cannot always remove them. Instead, salons use buffing to get them off the nails.

But, the big question still remains…

What Is The Difference Between Acrylic And Gel Nails?

To put the acrylic vs. gel nails plainly, acrylic is a mixture of liquid and powder, while the gel is gel. Both these formulas can be made to match the shape of the nail or lengthen it. So, if you want longer or stronger nails, you can opt for either acrylic or gel extensions. However, gel nails are typically more flexible and can endure significantly more force than acrylics. They also cost around 15-20% more than acrylics. On the other hand, acrylics stay on longer compared to gel nail polishes and are easier to lengthen (think about those long and vibrant nails sported by Cardi B or Khloé Kardashian)!

Now, you must be wondering where shellac polish fits into this picture. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Shellac Nail Polish?

What is shellac nail polish
Image: Shutterstock

Shellac is a patented nail product by the company CND (Creative Nail Design). It is basically a hybrid of gel and regular nail polish. As it is like polish, it can’t be used to extend your nails. However, it does a great job of adding strength and durability. Shellac also happens to be a lot less damaging to nails when compared to traditional gels or acrylics.

Pros
  • Lasts for 14 days
  • Mirror finish
  • Long-staying
  • No drying time
  • Does not chip, peel, or fade
  • Free of formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP
Cons
  • UV exposure
  • Not meant for brittle or thin nails

Here’s how shellac nail polish differs from gel nail polish.

Shellac Nails Vs. Gel Nails – All You Need To Know

While the processes for getting both manicures are similar, there are two significant differences between the two. The first one has to do with the formula. Shellac is a type of permanent nail polish (half gel-half polish), while gel polish is basically a gel in the form of polish. The second big difference is in the removal time. Shellac is faster and easier to remove than gel nails.

How Do You Know Which Ones Are Right For You?

A woman getting a manicure at the salon
Image: Shutterstock

In the end, all these manicures are going to give you beautiful, smooth, and long-lasting results. But if you have to pick, you need to know what you’re trying to achieve. Here are some pointers to help you make a decision:

  • If you want longer nails, acrylics are your best bet.
  • If you want stronger nails and a long-lasting mani, gel or Shellac is the way to go as it will give you chip-free, durable nails.
  • Shellac works best if you want the most natural finish.

Infographic: Acrylic Vs. Gel Vs. Shellac Nails: Which One To Choose?

While the perfect manicure may appear simple, it is actually more difficult than you believe. How to achieve chip-free, long-lasting, ultra-shiny, and eye-catching fingertips? How can a nail enthusiast choose what to try with so many manicure possibilities? As each treatment has its benefits, we’ve compiled a list of everything you need to know about gel, shellac, and acrylic before booking your next manicure. Check out the following infographic to find out the perfect manicure best suited to you.

Infographic: acrylic vs gel vs shellac nails

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The state of your nails reflects your overall health. Taking care of them is as important as your skincare, haircare, dental care, or general health care routines. You can ensure your nails always look their best by learning how to do a manicure at home. When experimenting with your nails, you have a range of options to choose from, including nail art to nail extensions. To achieve the best results, it’s important to approach well-trained estheticians who can guide you through the process. We hope you find this article useful where we have detailed the differences between acrylic and gel nails and more. All these manicures have their unique charm and pros and cons. They all look great after the finishing touches. You just need to figure out your desired style, and the experts will work their magic for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gel or acrylic more expensive?

Gel nails are more expensive than acrylic nails. However, acrylic nails have a more natural finish than gel nails. Ensure that you understand the pros and cons of gel and acrylic nails before opting for one.

Which is easier to remove – acrylic or gel nails?

Gel nails are easier to remove because they are more flexible. However, incorrect gel or acrylic nail removal techniques may damage the nail bed. Exercise caution while removing gel or acrylic nails. It is essential to learn how to remove acrylic nails safely to prevent damage to your nails.

What lasts longer, gel or acrylic?

Acrylic nails last for 2-4 weeks whereas gel nails last for two weeks. You can choose either gel or acrylic nails based on your preference.

Key Takeaways

  • Acrylic nails consist of liquid and powder monomers. They are great for changing the length and shape of your nails.
  • Gel nails use a gel formula hardened and set by using UV rays or LED light.
  • Shellac nails are a blend of gel and regular nail polish that offer a glossy finish.
  • Acrylic nails are durable, while gel nails are less damaging. Shellac nails, however, give the most natural look.

Illustration: What&039s The Difference Between Acrylic Gel & Shellac Nails?

difference between acrylic and gel nails

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Are you confused about which nail treatment is better—acrylic or gel? Then check out this informative video that shows which one would be a more suitable choice, and decide accordingly.

Personal Experience: Source

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Simone de Vlaming
Simone de VlamingBeauty Expert
Simone de Vlaming is a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone.com. She specializes in makeup, skin care, fragrances, and nails. Simone decided to start a beauty blog during her graduation to find an outlet for her passion.

Read full bio of Simone de Vlaming
Esha Saxena
Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

Read full bio of Esha Saxena
Asmita De
Asmita DeAssociate Editor
Asmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.

Read full bio of Asmita De
Vaishali Sinha
Vaishali SinhaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Vaishali Sinha is a beauty and lifestyle writer with five years of experience in writing for various genres. She has a master’s degree in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University. She combines her passion for beauty and lifestyle topics with her artistic background as an Indian classical vocalist to bring a fresh and creative perspective to her writing.

Read full bio of Vaishali Sinha