Nail enhancements have come a long way over the years. While acrylics have been a long standing favourite in salons worldwide, soft gel tips have recently taken the spotlight for their ease of use and natural look. Whether you're a seasoned nail technician or a beauty enthusiast considering a new set, understanding the differences between these two methods can help you make the best choice.
Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and key differences between soft gel tips and acrylic powder with monomer application.
What Are Soft Gel Tips?
Soft gel tips are pre-formed, full-coverage nail extensions made of soft gel. They’re adhered to the natural nail using a gel adhesive and then cured under a UV/LED lamp.
Application Process:
- Prep the natural nail (buff, cleanse, and dehydrate).
- Select the correct size tips.
- Apply a gel adhesive to the underside of the tip.
- Press onto the natural nail and cure under a lamp.
- Shape, buff, and paint as desired.
Pros:
- Lightweight and flexible.
- Fast, clean application (no dust or strong odours).
- Easy soak-off removal with acetone.
- Minimal damage to the natural nail (if removed correctly).
- Pre-shaped tips save time on filing and shaping.
Cons:
- Less customizable than sculpted acrylics.
- Not as strong for extremely long or narrow shapes.
- May not last as long under high stress conditions (like manual labour).
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails involve the combination of a polymer powder (acrylic powder) and liquid monomer, which creates a mouldable paste. This paste is shaped over the natural nail and often a form or tip, then left to air-dry and harden.
Application Process:
- Prep the natural nail (buff, cleanse, and dehydrate).
- Apply a tip or sculpt using a form.
- Dip the brush into monomer, then into powder to create a bead.
- Place and shape the bead on the nail.
- Let air dry and then file and shape.
- Finish with polish or gel top coat.
Pros:
- Highly customisable in shape and length.
- Strong and durable for long wear.
- Can be sculpted directly on the natural nail.
- Ideal for extreme shapes and detailed nail art.
Cons:
- Strong chemical odour during application.
- More dust and potential mess.
- Longer application and removal time.
- Can damage the natural nail if not applied or removed properly.
Key Differences at a Glance:
| Feature | Soft Gel Tips | Acrylic Powder & Monomer |
|---|---|---|
| Application Time | Fast (30-45 mins) | Longer (60+ mins) |
| Skill Level | Beginner friendly | Requires more training |
| Durability | Medium (2-3 weeks) | High (3-4 weeks) |
| Odour | Odourless | Strong chemical smell |
| Removal | Soak-off | Filing and soaking |
| Customisation | Limited to pre-shaped tips | Fully customisable |
| Finish | Natural, flexible | Hard, durable |
| Ideal For | Clients who want lightweight, fast nails | Clients who need strength, durability, or extreme shapes |
| Start Up Cost | Low | High |
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Soft Gel Tips if you’re looking for a lightweight, quick, easier learning curve and beginner friendly option that looks natural and is easy to remove.
- Choose Acrylics if you need maximum strength, long lasting durability, or want to sculpt custom shapes and designs.