Acrylic vs. Gel Nails: Understanding the Difference & Nail Health

Question
What is the difference between acrylics and a nail gell used for fingernails?  My friendsays that the gell they use is not acrylic and dodes not harm the nail underthe product all it does is strengthen her nails.

Answer
Hello Pat,


first of all there is no product as acrylic or gel - as far as I know... - that strengthens the nail. There as some bio gels that do no harm and they might be nutritional.
The difference between acrylics and gels is how your tech puts it on your nail (gel needs a lamp, acrylic just dries) and the most serious difference is the way your tech takes it off. Acrylic can be removed by using a product called "tips off" or "nail remover" and does no actual harm on your nail (just a dryness and you can humidify it with oils and creams). Gel has to be removed ONLY by scratching your nail with a file which sometimes seems to be very-very dangerous and harmful. This does not apply for the bio gels and some other products that contain acrylic.

I hope I was helpful.
At your disposal for further information.

J.