Gel Nails vs. Acrylics: Identifying Proper Application & Avoiding Bubbles

Question
I have had acrylic nails for about 5 months.  I went to a new nail tech who was recommended to me.  She suggested gel nails.  However, I don't think she is actually applying gel nails.  She uses a powder and liquid and applies it to the nail like acrylic.  Then she follows this up with one coat of a clear liquid from a bottle.  She puts my nails under a UV light for a few minutes.  The nails are then shiny.  However, the nails get bubbles in them.  She denies that there are bubbles.  Are these really gel nails?  I'm paying extra for them, but I don't think that's what I'm getting.

Answer
I are absolutely right, you're not getting gel nails, you are getting acrylic nails with a gel top coat. This is used to give arylic andinstant shine without having to buff them, but they are not gel nails. Gel is just that, a gel applied directly to the nail that sets once placed under a uv light.
If the nails are getting  bubbles in them then her application is not being very good, pehaps you should be going to another tech.
Hope i could help.