Comparing Nail Polishes

Throughout history make-up has signified beauty and stature within many social classes. As time has progressed so has the development of many of these beauty products and nail polish is certainly no exception. Although the benefits and drawbacks of the various kinds of nail polish have often been reserved to make-up professionals and those with cosmetology training. It is still important that the average user know the differences between each as well as which may best suit their needs.

Understanding Nail Products

Here is a basic breakdown of the pro and cons regarding Acrylic Nails, Gel Nails and Shellac Polish:

Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails make hands more attractive. They are on put on over natural nails using glue to put a plastic tip on the natural nail. When the tips are glued on your nails, a mix of acrylic powder and liquid is laid over the nails. The acrylic starts hardening within 30 to 40 seconds and hardens completely within 15 minutes.

To remove the acrylic, soak it in acetone for 15 to 20 minutes. Acrylic nails were popular because they were cheaper than gel nails. However, there are a few negatives with acrylic. If the acrylic nail is moved, it can make a space between it and the natural nail. With acrylic being porous bacteria can form. Nail infections are not uncommon between the acrylic and natural nail, which is hard to see sometimes with the overlay. Gel nails are healthier for you.

Gel Nails

Gel nails are a more popular for enhancing nails. A thin layer of gel is applied over the nail, with a tip or sculptured nail. The sculptured gel nails use forms under the real nails over which gel is applied. It is cured becoming hard when put under an ultraviolet light. More layers of gel are applied and set up under the light. Taking it off is longer because gel has to be filed off.

Gel nails look more natural and have a more natural feeling because they are more flexible then acrylic nails. Watch out when seeing a salon offering gel nails. Some salons choose to do acrylic first and then put on a gel overlay. It is best to ask first before having your nails done. Gel nails are premixed and very durable. You can work well with your hands with these nails. Bacteria will not go through your nails with gel nails.

Shellac Polish

Shellac is a gel polish hybrid. Just like polish, it is put on with a base coat, which is two coats polish and one coat top coat. Then the nails are dried between coats of the polish with a UV light, which hardens polish to make it dry right after a manicure. Shellac has the same properties as gel does but without any filing. This polish has a high shine to it and levels out any nail imperfections. A Shellac manicure normally last for two weeks without coming off, chipping and losing shine. Shellac is made for toes too, which dries fast.