Getting one’s nails done is the latest trend after getting the lips and nose done. It wouldn’t be wrong to state that getting one’s nails done is less harmful than lips, nose, and other cosmetic surgeries. Colorful nails and nail extensions serve as the unexpected accessory. It doesn’t matter whether you opt for the more trendy gel nail polish or go for the traditional lacquer nail polish – colorful, beautifully manicured nails add to the overall look and serve as the ultimate fashion statement.
There is loads of confusion surrounding the difference between gel manicures and regular lacquer nail polish. You might be wondering the same and thinking about the safety aspects of both nail polishes. Another question could be the durability of color gel. No worries, we have it all covered for you. Let us break down all questions and address things in detail.
What is Different – Gel vs. Lacquer?
If we assess the basics of both types of nail colors, we see that typically the lacquer nail polish doesn’t need a UV or LED light to cure and dry your nails. On the other hand, the gel nail polish requires a UV light for the curing of your nails and making your manicure long-lasting and durable.
The “drying” process of the nails is also known as curing, and it usually takes less than a minute for the nails to get cured with a UV/ LED light. The UV light doesn’t take more than 45 seconds to cure nails. However, the curing process can be a bit longer with LED light, where it can take up to 2 minutes to cure the nails.
Gel nail Polish – How Long Does it Last
If you follow the right application process of gel nail polish, you can make your gel nail polish last for more than three weeks. Ensure to follow the three steps that are part of the gel polish colors – the base coat, the gel color coat, and the top coat. In between the application of the coats, make sure to cure your nails before applying the next coat. The base coat ensures that the gel color nails adheres to your nails, while the top coat induces the glossy shine of the nails and allows you to have a professional finishing. Your nails will look as if you just came from the best nail salon in your town.
As the chemical ingredients of the gel nail polish are entirely different from the chemical formula of the lacquer gels polish, the use of a UV/ LED light is mandatory with the gel polish manicure. The costs for the gel polish will hardly exceed $45, and hence it is quite cost-effective. Depending on the type of gel polish kit, you can find all the necessary tools essential for a good manicure, including the UV/ LED light lamp.
If you don’t cure your nails properly with the gel polish manicure, your manicure will become sticky and smudgy, which is why you should cure each layer properly for a long-lasting manicure.
Safety – Gel Nail Polish vs. Lacquer
The safety of your manicure depends on the frequency with which you change your nail colors. The thing about lacquer nail polish is that it can cause chipped nails. The Gel Nail polish is generally safer as it is chip-free and doesn’t cause brittle nails. The gel polish is safer. However, you will have to make sure to give your nails a little break, especially if you care for your nail’s health. That said, if you are getting your nails done every week, we recommend giving your nails a little break. Too much UV and LED light might lead to skin cancer. In contrast to the lacquer polish, the Gel nail polish can last up to three or four weeks.
Removal Process of Gel Nail Polish vs. Lacquer Nail Polish
In contrast to gel nail polish, the removal process of the lacquer nail polish is easier as it can smoothly be wiped off with some acetone. The removal of gel polish isn’t as easy as it takes a couple of more minutes to soften the hardened gel from your nails. Resultantly, you must soak your nails for a longer time in some acetone. We know that it can become a bit frustrating. However, we strongly recommend you refrain from giving in to the urge to peel off the gel manicure. If you peel your gel manicure, your nails will become weak and brittle.
Conclusion
If we were to put things in simple words, it would be safe to state that lacquer gel polish is your regular nail polish, which is easy to apply, dry, and remove. You will have an awesome experience with gel nail polish for someone looking for a professional DIY manicure. Make sure to properly cure your nails for a long-lasting, glossy, and shiny manicure that allows you the perfect nail salon manicure experience.