QuestionI like to have my nails done but do not know the difference between acrylic,
UV gel, wraps,etc. What is the difference between the different types? Are any
"better" for your nails? Which ones are the least expensive to keep up?
AnswerHi Maryann,
The first thing you should know is that no one type of nail enhancement is "better" (i.e. causes more or less damage) for your nails than another. This is up to the skill of your tech and how much care she takes not to overfile or nip off old product; it is also up to YOU as the wearer to care for them properly at home, and not pick at them, or peel them off, and not use them as tools.
Another thing to know is that all three are from the acrylate family, and so are basically chemical variations of the same thing. There are major differences in the application and wearability of the three, however:
1. "Acrylic" is a liquid and powder that is mixed together on a brush and applied to the natural nail, and sculpted into shape. This is the hardest of the enhancement types, and is usually the best choice for people who work hard with their hands (waitresses, warehouse workers, busy moms, heavy-duty typers, and hobbyists for example).
2. UV gel comes in a honey-like consistency, and is applied to the nail with a brush (or sometimes a squeeze bottle), and cured under a UV lamp. If a nail salon tells you they offer gel nails, and they pull out liquid and powder (as described in #1 above), you are NOT getting gel. Virtually all professional gel products are cured under a UV lamp. Gels range from medium-hard to hard, and are suitable for many clients. They are more flexible than gel, and therefore tend to lift less than acrylic, so are good for those who have difficulty keeping acrylics on due to excessive lifting.
3. Wraps consist of a resin "glue" which is brushed on (or applied with a squeeze bottle), a piece of thin mesh of fiberglass, silk, or linen, and set with a spray or brush-on activator. This type of enhancement works for people who have very good natural nails already, and who want to keep them strong, keep polish on longer, etc. It has the least amount of strength of the three, and so lifestyle should be carefully considered.
As far as expense goes, that can vary. Most professional nail techs don't charge much more or less for each service (I don't). What you're getting is a personalized service that has been decided upon by you and your nail tech, taking into consideration your lifestyle, hobbies, work, any health issues, etc. More important than the cost is that you're getting the type of enhancement that's right for you--however, you should probably expect to pay more for this service than you would at a discount nail salon.
I hope this helps you! Feel free to follow up if you have any more questions. :)
