Acrylic vs. Fake Nails: What's the Difference & Which is Right for You?

Question
QUESTION: Ok, so what is the difference between acrylic nails and fake nails? Also, I either want a full set of fake nails or acrylic, and I wnat them clear with white tips, kind-of french manicure-ish. What would that be called? Can you help me decide if I want fake nails or acrylic?

Thanks,
Heather

ANSWER: "Fake nails" are any nails that aren't the ones that grow naturally from your fingertip. It doesn't matter what product is used to create them. They can be made of plastic and glued to the ends of your natural nails or on top of your natural nails a la "press on" nails; they can be custom-built onto your natural nail with acrylic, or gel or any number of other products available for extending, strengthening, or decorating the natural nail.

In essence: acrylic nails ARE "fake nails."

The professional nail industry shies away from the term "fake" however. Professional products are designed to be applied to the natural nail in ways that enhance the nail, not replace it, therefore we prefer the term "enhancement" to refer to products applied to the nail.

I suspect that you are looking for a set of pink and white acrylic enhancements. I suggest doing a few internet searches for this term and see if you can find some photos of what you want your nails to look like and take the photo with you to the salon to show the technician so she will know exactly what you want.

One step better would be to see if there is a salon or nail technician in your area has a website or Myspace page that would allow you to preview their work before booking your appointment.

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QUESTION: So when someone talks about "fake nails" they are talking about acrylic nails, correct?

Answer
Not necessarily. There are lots of different types of "fake nails." Acrylic is the most popular type of professional nail enhancement. But there's also gel and silk wraps and even a powder glazing technique. You're probably already familiar with the options found in most stores that you can buy; plastic nails that you can fit onto your natural nail.

Fake nails are just nails that you did not grow yourself. Acrylic nails are fake nails, but not all fake nails are acrylic.