Nail extensions are trendy procedures that can benefit people who have difficulties growing nails out or just want longer designs. The most common types of extensions are the Gel and Acrylic, and while similar in a few ways, they are still different processes with pros and cons.
In general, acrylic extensions are harder than gel. This happens because they are made of a powder (a type of polymer) mixed with a liquid (a type of monomer) mixed together to form a dough-like consistency and can be filed and molded into any desired shape.
On the other hand, Gel is usually more flexible and softer. They are also known for not being as damaging to the natural nails as acrylic is (there are even some Gels that are removable by just soaking the nails). Another difference is that Gel extensions already come mixed in a texture similar to honey and must be cured with LED or UV lamps. It is important to remember that as fake nails of gel have a higher technology and tend to be more flexible and natural-looking, they are also more expensive.
When choosing what type of extension to do, it is necessary to consider the present status of the natural nails. In cases of hard and brittle nails, it is required to use a product to help the nails to be flexible enough to avoid nail breakage, especially at the extension edge of the nails so Gels would be the best option. However, extra strength is needed in soft and splitting nail cases, so acrylic products are recommended.
In conclusion, both types of nails can have excellent results if done correctly by an experienced and reliable professional. Furthermore, knowing the differences can make a choice easier, so it is possible to have more realistic expectations of what will be like in terms of the polymerization process, ease of removal, and nail density.
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About the Author: MSci Maísa Melo is a Pharmacist and a current PhD student in cosmetic technology, from São Paulo, Brazil. She has earned her master’s degree from the University of São Paulo and has been involved with the development, stability, safety and efficacy of cosmetics since 2013. She has specialized in the clinical efficacy of cosmetics by biophysical and skin imaging techniques as well as the use of alternative models to animal testing. Her research work has been published in several scientific journals and book chapters from the field.