Acrylics offer incredible versatility and durability but at a price. They make for expensive manicures with toxic fumes and aggressive filing that weakens the natural nails. Furthermore, there’s a steep learning curve to applying acrylics. Instead, we invite you to explore the 5 best alternatives to acrylic nails that are safer and better.
The nail industry is increasingly turning towards dip powder nails, poly gels, builder (or hard) gel, soft gels, and press-ons. We’ll summarize the benefits and downsides of each nail enhancement in this article. Soon, you’ll be able to choose the ideal alternative to acrylics for your own nails.
Best Alternatives to Acrylic Nails
Hard Gel (Aka Builder Gel) Overlays and Extensions
Hard gel is known as builder gel because it can be shaped into extensions and 3D nail enhancements. It's a gel with a thicker texture than regular polish, which makes it perfect for protective overlays on weak nails.
Hard gels have a more natural appearance than acrylics but are as long-lasting and durable. Moreover, they come in a convenient range of colors, eliminating the need for additional polish.
Builder gel is an excellent option for those who want to avoid the pungent odor of acrylics. While it does require a nail lamp for curing, this process is quick and easy. Although some slight discomfort may occur due to heat spikes during the curing process, the end result is well worth it. It's essential to be mindful of prolonged exposure to UV rays, but with proper precautions, builder gel can be a safe and beautiful choice for your nails.
Lastly, some hard gels soak off with acetone. But most will require some filing to allow the acetone to penetrate.
Lavis Builder Gel
Polygel
Did you know that polygel is a blend of acrylic powder with gel polish? It provides the best features of both options in one package.
The premixed, non-toxic formula features botanical ingredients. It's ready to use right out of the tube. You only need a brush and slip solution to apply it and a nail lamp to cure it. It's helpful to have a mold to shape extensions.
Polygel nails are lightweight, robust, and easy to file and shape. What’s more, polygel comes in a wide range of colors and may not require additional polish.
With practice, you can achieve professional-quality results with polygel. Plus, it's easy to remove with acetone, although you may need to file your nails beforehand to ensure that the acetone can work effectively.
LAVIS Poly Gel
Dip Powder Nails
Dip nails are similar to acrylics in that you need both liquid and powder to apply them. Nevertheless, the process is nearly odorless and more accessible for beginners. A hard-wearing dip powder manicure may last for four weeks and still look like new.
Moreover, the components are safer than acrylics for natural nails. The finely milled dip powders come in stunning shades and styles. Some brands are compatible with acrylic powders, too.
While dip powder may not be the best choice for those looking for long extensions, it still has many benefits to offer. Its unique method provides a durable finish for a low-maintenance manicure. Although the application process requires practice, it is well worth the investment of time and money for those who want to achieve a flawless look.
On the downside, dip powder can't build long extensions like acrylics, poly gel, or builder gel. Not only that but applying dip nails requires several steps and an assortment of liquids and powders. It's a significant investment of time and money for beginners.
LDS Dipping Essentials
LDS Dipping Powder Colors
Soft Gel Nails
Soft gels are one of the easiest ways to enjoy long, beautiful nails with minimal effort. They are pre-shaped, thin, and light, resembling a natural nail much more than acrylics or any other alternative. What’s more, they last up to four weeks without breaking.
Soft gel application is straightforward. The natural nails need to be prepared with a primer. Then, the soft gels are glued on and can be trimmed with clippers and filed if required. The only special tool needed is a nail lamp to cure the adhesive.
Once the soft gels are in place, they can be painted and decorated in various ways.
Removal is also simple. It only takes a few minutes of soaking in acetone to soften the glue.
Lavis Soft Gel Tip Kit
Apres Soft Gel
Press-On Nails
Press-on nails are suitable for beginners who want extensions with minimal effort and low cost. They come in many different designs to match every occasion and whim. Furthermore, many types of press-ons can be painted.
The typical fake nail package includes an assortment of sizes so every fingertip has a match. It usually consists of two types of adhesive: double-sided tape and glue. Of course, the glue provides a longer-lasting manicure.
It's easy to remove press-on nails, too. Often, soaking the hands for a few minutes in warm, soapy water with oil will do the trick.
Press-On Nails
Which Is the Best Alternative to Acrylic Nails?
As you contemplate these five alternatives to acrylics, ask yourself some questions:
- What length do you prefer?
- How long do you want your manicure to last?
- What type of nail design do you want?
- What’s your budget?
For example, soft gels are available in long extension shapes like stiletto and ballerina. Nevertheless, you can build long extensions with hard gel and polygel or wear press-on nails.
Moreover, every acrylic alternative in this article is available in short lengths, and some, like builder gel, are perfect for overlays.
Next, the most durable alternatives to acrylic nails include dip powder, poly gel, hard gel, and soft gels. Each provides up to 4 weeks of wear. Obviously, press-on nails are the least durable and may only stay on for a few days to a couple of weeks.
If you want 3D nail art, try polygel or builder gel. If you’re not equipped for a gel manicure, press-on nails can often be painted with nail lacquer.
Finally, press-on nails are the most economical option. However, if you have a nail lamp and supplies to do gel manicures, working with polygel, hard gel, or soft gels is not much more investment.
Conclusion
To sum up, each of these alternatives to acrylic nails offers a safer and better experience for your nails. We hope this article provides you with the knowledge you need to choose the best type of nail enhancement for your situation.
While you’re here, we also invite you to see what’s trending in the nail world. Take advantage of our sales to stock up on all the supplies you need today.