Acrylic vs Dip Nails: Which One is Better?

Well-manicured nails can make you look more glamorous and put together. But like everything, there are several options in the market when it comes to manicures. Two popular ones include acrylic and dip powder nails. Both of them give stunning and durable results. But both are also distinct from one another in several ways. So, how can you decide between acrylic vs dip nails? Learning more about each type of nail will help you pick the best one. Let’s begin.

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Acrylic Nails: What You Should Know

Acrylic nails are made out of a mixture of liquid monomer and powder. This mixture is shaped onto your nails, after which they are air-dried. These types of nails are perfect for adding more length. They are also ideal for those wanting to experiment with their nail shape.

Durability of Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails are extremely durable. However, you need to get a fill after three weeks to maintain them. Their durability is influenced by the type of work you do. However, trying to prolong the stay of acrylic nails is not advised. This can lead to infection and even swelling and redness among those with sensitive skin.

Maintenance of Acrylic Nails

Maintaining your acrylic nails is not difficult if you know the right way to care for them. Use these tips.

• Pick the length of nails that enables you to perform daily chores easily.
• Moisturize your nails with nail oil.
• Keep the nails clean by washing them with mild soapy water.
• Remove the nails after three weeks.

Safety of Acrylic Nails

There has been some concern over acrylic nails causing damage to the real nails. People have experienced problems like brittle nails, dry skin around the nail, and a nail infection. However, the likelihood of them is very low if you get your nails done by a professional. Acrylic can be damaging to the nails of those who have a habit of picking and peeling at their nails. It causes pieces of your nail plate to become stuck to the acrylic’s underside. This, in turn, weakens your nails.

Dip Nails: What You Should Know

Dip nails are something in between acrylic nails and gel nail polish. A bonder is applied over the nails after cleaning them. Then, a base coat is applied to one nail, and it is dipped in the powder. After a few minutes, a topcoat is applied. 

Durability of Dip Nails

Dip nails are extremely long-lasting. Most people can easily flaunt these nails for about three to four weeks. If you do not engage much in work involving your hands, it is possible to extend this time even further. 

Maintenance of Dip Nails

Similar to acrylic nails, taking proper care of your dip nails is crucial to extending their longevity. Here are some tips for you.

• Keep your cuticles moisturized. Do not cut them too often, as that might lead to infection.
• Reapply the top coat regularly post-manicure. It helps preserve the nail art and keep it looking fresh.
• Refrain from using hand sanitizer. It contains alcohol, which can dry out your nails.
• Use the products that your nail technician recommends to take care of your dip nails.

Safety of Dip Nails

When it comes to the safety of dip nails, all eyes are on the dip powder. This is the only thing that can be tough on the nails. The risk of infection majorly stems from dipping your nails repeatedly into a container where others have also dipped their nails. This can lead to contamination and spread of germs. Some people are also allergic to the adhesive used to hold the dip nail powder. It can cause itching, swelling, and even fluid-filled bumps on the skin surrounding the nail. 

Acrylic Vs Dip Nails: Tips To Choose Between the Two

Choosing between acrylic and dip nails isn’t hard. Just remember the following:

1. Cost

The cost of acrylic nails ranges anywhere between $30 to $60 on a single design. Linger acrylic nails cost much more than shorter ones. But acrylic fills are quite affordable. You must also consider the cost of acrylic nail removal. Doing so at a parlor can cost you anywhere up to $100. Alternatively, removing the nails at home through a DIY kit can cost between $15 and $35.

Contrarily, dip nails cost anywhere between $50 to $120 when done at a salon. It isn’t much cheaper to dip nails at home, either. You have to purchase the required tools, a dip liquid set, as well as a nail powder and a removal system. 

2. Lifestyle

Acrylic nails are extremely robust. Their durability makes them an ideal choice for those with an active lifestyle. Scheduling regular touch-ups and keeping the nails clean and well moisturized at home is all you need to rock fabulous acrylic nail manicures for weeks.

Quite similarly, dip nails are also quite durable. So, if your work involves using your hands a lot, dip nails can be ideal. However, dip nails aren’t as durable as acrylic nails. So, keep that in mind when planning to choose between the two.

3. Your Own Preference

Acrylic nails let you experiment with a ton of unique designs. From extra-long to neon-pink and elegant French manicures, you can choose any type of nail according to your preferences. Acrylic nails are perfect for those who want to make a statement with their nails.

Dip nails also offer much scope for stunning nail designs. The technician dips your nails and sprinkles powder on them. It, in turn, leads to the creation of creative nail designs. Moreover, the dipping powder makes it even simpler for the technician to create intricate designs.

4. The Strength of Your Nails

Do you have weak nails? Dip nails might be a better option. They offer good protection but are not damaging. Acrylic nails are more suited for those with strong nails. Moreover, the dip nail removal procedure also does not cause any harm to the nail.

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Summing up

Both acrylic vs dip nails provide beautiful results. However, there are certain distinctions between them, which make one more suitable for specific people than the other. Ultimately, you can make the best choice based on your preferences and by learning about how a specific nail type affects your real nails.