When you see that shiny coating on nails, it could be anything from press-ons, nail paint, or an acrylic manicure. However, it can be a bit challenging at times to grow your natural nails to a certain length. For such nail enhancements, both builder gel and acrylic are among the popular options.
Both options allow you to achieve stunning nails, but they vary in terms of nail care routine and other factors. That is why you must know the difference between builder gel and acrylic.
This blog will outline the characteristics of both nail types to facilitate a clearer understanding of builder gel vs acrylic.
Also Read: Gel X vs Acrylic: Is Gel X Better than Acrylic?
Builder Gel vs Acrylic Nails: An Overview
You can understand the difference between popular nail enhancements, gel builder nails vs acrylic in the following table:
| Feature | Builder Gel Nails | Acrylic Nails |
| Composition | Builder gel nail formula combines a primer and base coat in one bottle. | Acrylic is a mix of liquid and powder. |
| Strength and Maintenance | It is flexible and gives a natural look. | It is harsh on the natural nails, requires consistent upkeep, and prioritizes longevity. |
| Application Technique | Builder gel nails can be molded into the desired shape using a slip solution. The nail technician then fills the gel and buffs for the final results. | Acrylic nails are applied by dipping a wet brush into acrylic powder, creating a malleable acrylic bead that is then spread onto the nail bed for final touches. |
| Flexibility and Toughness | Builder gel nails are chip-resistant and less likely to break. | Acrylic nails transform into a hard and durable surface when they dry. This makes them difficult to bend. |
| Gaps in Nail Fills | They grow out more naturally with your nail. This results in a few noticeable gaps and lifting. | The gaps might be clearly visible which makes regular filling every 2 to 3 weeks essential. |
A Debate Between Builder Gel vs Acrylic Nails
Builder gel vs acrylic is a common debate. Both options offer long-lasting nails, but they differ in a few ways.
Builder Gel
The builder gel polish formula combines a primer and base coat in one bottle.
The gel is applied to your nails under a UV or LED lamp. Builder gel is flexible and provides a natural appearance, making it a suitable option for maintaining nail health.
Acrylic Nails
Acrylic is a mix of liquid and powder. It is applied to the nails and shaped with a brush. Once applied to nails, it hardens as it dries, creating a strong surface. You can also apply various designs to it.
When deciding between gel builder and acrylic, consider that the hardened surface of acrylic nails can be harsh on natural nails. Acrylic nails require consistent upkeep due to their rigidity and thickness.
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A Detailed Comparison of Builder Gel vs Acrylic Nails
When it comes to achieving the perfect manicure, there are various options to choose from. Let’s take a closer look at gel builder vs acrylic comparison:
Composition
Let’s discuss the chemical composition of gel builder vs acrylic. Both the nails have different compositions.
Builder gel is made from a gel-like substance that is cured under a UV or LED nail lamp. This substance is made of a combination of polymer powder and a liquid monomer.
Acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to form a moldable substance. It requires a primer to be applied to the nail. A nail technician will shape the acrylic over your natural nail with a brush. It is formed and shaped under a nail lamp on the nail.
Application Techniques
A comparison of gel builder nails vs acrylic based on application techniques:
Builder gel nails are less damaging to the natural nails because it is easier to apply. Once they are applied, they can be molded into the desired shape using a slip solution. The nail technician then fills the gel and buffs it to achieve the final results.
As mentioned earlier, acrylic nails are more damaging to the natural nails.
Acrylic nails are applied using a wet brush dipped into acrylic powder, which creates a malleable acrylic bead. This bead is then spread onto the nail bed for the final touches.
Flexibility and Thickness
Let’s discuss a few more properties related to gel builder vs acrylic:
Builder gel nails are not as strong as acrylic nails. They are known for their flexibility and chip-resistant reputation, perfect for those with more active lifestyles. They are less likely to break if you hit them on a hard surface.
Acrylic nails can also withstand daily wear and tear since they transform into a hard and durable surface when they dry. This makes it hard for them to bend easily.
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Maintenance and Aftercare for Builder Gel vs Acrylic Nails
Whether you opt for builder gel or acrylic nails, you will need to maintain them, as they require regular filling.
Builder gel nails are low maintenance. Due to its lightweight nature, it tends to grow out more naturally with your nail. This results in a few noticeable gaps and lifting.
Acrylic nails require consistent upkeep due to their thickness. The gaps might be clearly visible, which makes regular filling every 2 to 3 weeks essential.
The following are the best aftercare tips to maintain your nails:
- Moisturize your hands and oil your cuticles regularly
- Avoid using your nails to open packages, since it can cause them to chip or break
- Wear gloves for household chores
- Avoid picking or biting your nails
- Schedule regular infills every 3-4 weeks
- Use an acetone-free formula for nail polish remover or other products
Also Read: How to Fix Damaged Hair: Expert Tips & Hair Care Routine
Final Thoughts for Builder Gel vs Acrylic Nails
In conclusion, various options are available that offer benefits in terms of flexibility, customization, and application. When choosing between builder gel for nails and acrylic nails, consider that acrylic nails may be harsher on your natural nails, as they tend to last longer.
It is essential to consider your lifestyle needs and nail care routine when deciding between gel builder nails and acrylic nails.
Alternatively, if it is challenging for you to visit a salon every 2 to 4 weeks, you can have your services done at home. Mauve Beauty Salon offers salon-quality care in the comfort of your own home.
Our home services cover everything. From manicures and nail extensions to facials and other services, we ensure you enjoy our comprehensive beauty treatments. Our home service nail salon transforms your nails’ strength and style.
So, let our skilled nail technicians help you find the perfect nail solution.
FAQs
Can you use builder gel on natural nails?
Yes, you can use builder gel on natural nails to add strength, protection, and length, creating a strong overlay that prevents breakage, splitting, and chipping.
Why is builder gel better than acrylic?
Builder gel is better than acrylics because it allows for easy shaping and sculpting of extensions without excessive filing or drilling on the natural nail bed. Additionally, gel builder offers a more lightweight feel compared to traditional acrylics while still providing strength and durability.
How long do builder gel nails last?
On average, builder gel nails can last between 3 and 4 weeks. But with anything beauty-related, this depends on how well you take care of them.
Can builder gel cause allergic reactions?
Well, the main ingredients to blame are methacrylates. They have chemicals that help the polish to harden under UV light. When uncured methacrylates come into contact with your skin, your immune system might overreact, leading to an allergic reaction.
Does gel last longer than acrylic?
Hard gel extensions are more robust, adding length and lasting around 3-4 weeks with proper care. Acrylic nails, on the other hand, are extremely durable and strong, which makes them less likely to break or chip.
