On Instagram and Pinterest You regularly come across the most beautiful pictures of women with lovely long gel or acrylic nails. These nails are beautifully painted, and you see the most creative creations passing by. You might sometimes wonder whether these nails are real or fake? Not everyone is lucky with their own nails. Gel or acrylic nails are a solution for this, but what exactly is the difference between gel and acrylic nails? What are the disadvantages? And how do you care for your nails after removing fake nails? We are going to answer all these questions for you!
Acrylic nails
Acrylic nails are the most common form of artificial nails. When applying an acrylic nail, the salon uses acrylic powder and liquid. First, a plastic fake nail is glued onto the natural nail, and then a small ball is formed from the acrylic powder and liquid. This ball is applied to the entire nail using a brush. The acrylic layer then hardens, causing the nails to become thicker and the plastic fake nail to no longer be visible. If you have your nails done at a professional salon, you will see no difference between an acrylic nail and a real nail.
Acrylic nails often look very beautiful and are ideal for nail art. However, there are a few disadvantages associated with these nails.
Disadvantages of acrylic nails
Even the slightest bump can cause a break in the artificial nail. This also damages the natural nail, as the acrylic nail is bonded to your nail bed. It has also been shown that artificial nails are a breeding ground for bacteria. The microorganisms settle in the small space between the fake nail and the natural nail. This is invisible to the naked eye and therefore impossible to keep truly clean. Also be careful if you have sensitive skin, as an allergic reaction can easily occur during the application of the acrylic powder and liquid.
Gel nails
The biggest difference between gel and acrylic nails is that different substances are used, which means applying the artificial nails takes slightly longer than with acrylic nails. gel nails A UV lamp is used to dry the various layers. These layers are applied with polymer or resin. To remove the gel nails, you must return to the salon: do not do this at home! The gel nails must be professionally removed by filing or soaking with chemicals. This often causes mild to severe damage to the natural nail. The damage makes your nail thinner, more brittle, and more vulnerable to external influences.
Differences between gel nails and acrylic nails
In short, the biggest differences between acrylic nails and gel nails are:
- The chemicals that are used
- The drying method
- The flexibility/fragility of the artificial nails
- The appearance of the nail (gel nails shine more compared to acrylic)
And what about gel polish?
Then there is gel polish. The difference between gel polish and nail polish is quite significant. Gel polish is cured with a UV lamp, whereas nail polish dries on its own. Also, do not remove gel polish yourself. Doing so can severely damage your nails. After using gel polish, your nails are often brittle, fragile, and damaged. This type of polish deprives the natural nails of oxygen. Therefore, always take a break between wearing gel polish and give your nails extra care in the meantime.
Repairing nails after acrylic nails or gel polish
Herome does not advise against the use of acrylic or gel polish, but does advocate for healthy nails. Taking regular breaks to allow the nails to recover is therefore very important. With the right nutrition and care, the nails can recover quickly. Herome has developed a special set for this purpose: the Nail Essential Set For severely damaged nails. In just 3 steps, your nails will be beautiful and healthy again.
Step 1. Nourish the nails
The Nourishing Nail Oil Herome's contains a unique vitamin complex and essential oils to restore the natural balance of your nails. Apply one drop to each nail for 7 days. Massage this oil in with your fingers. Be sure to include the cuticles as well, since they also play an important role in healthy nails.
Step 2. Strengthen your nails
Your nails are thin and often sensitive after removing artificial nails. Therefore, we always recommend strengthening your nails with a nail hardener when you are finished with the 7-day oil cure
Step 3. Caring for cuticles
Cuticles tear or are often pushed back too far, which can cause damage. Therefore, give your cuticles extra love with the Wonderpen. Treat your nails with this, and within 7 days your cuticles will be cared for and wound-free again.
Also check out our blog about the Nail recovery after artificial nails.
Tips and advice for beautiful nails
Do you want beautiful nails but no longer want to damage them? It is very easy to take good care of your own nails and make them beautiful. Looking for inspiration? Then also check out our tips for easy nail art and other fun nail polish ideas.
Personal advice?
You can also ask us a question via one of our social media channels such as Instagram or Facebook. We are happy to provide you with personal advice!