Gel and acrylic nails are currently the fastest rising trends in the beauty industry and nail technology. As a nail technician or even as a salon owner, your experience and understanding of gel and acrylic nails is crucial for meeting your client’s needs. But skill alone does not suffice, the right equipment is pivotal too. This blog helps you understand the difference between Gels and Acrylics as well us get to know which tools are necessary for each application.

GET TO UNDERSTAND GEL NAILS

Gel nails are a popular option for those looking for luminous shine, as well as for a natural finish to their nails which can be worn for 2-3 weeks. The application is done with a gel material that is then set through UV or LED light, creating an exquisite finish. 

ESSENTIAL TOOLS

·         UV/LED LAMPS

These are some of the most important items required for the application of gel on nails. Purchasing of an efficient lamp serves to enhance the effectiveness of maintaining chip free or durable gel nails. Not only does investing in an effective lamp improve the end result and quality, but it also eliminates excessive overheating. Opt. for a rechargeable lamp if you’re going for a sophisticated and luxury look in your nail parlours and a non rechargeable one if you’re starting on a low budget.

·         Gel Base and Top Coats 

These layers are paramount in ensuring the nail adheres correctly as well as achieve a seamless finish. A base coat applies a shielding layer on the natural nail, whilst a top coat is used to put a protective layer on gel and intensifies the shine on the gel. 

·         Precision Nail Brushes 

Smooth application starts with the right set of tools. Professional nail brushes make sure that the gel is spread out across the nail evenly, which opens up creative avenues as well as allows for detailed designs when necessary. 

·         Cuticle Pushers and Nippers 

Altering the nail bed is a fundamental procedure. Getting rid of excessive cuticle guarantees that the gel sticks well and avoid lifting.

·         Lint-Free Wipes and Gel Cleanser 

These come in handy to remove the sticky substance that typically used to remain after cur, leaving the nails all shiny, and Ultra-smooth. 

Understanding Acrylic Nails.
Acrylic nails are a traditional pet nail for clients who are after strength, large designs and can be worn for 4 weeks plus hence more durable. A liquid monomer and powder polymer are whisked together, the mixture dries to form the nail. These are the perfect nails for the client who requires long extensions for the nails or intricate nail art.

Essential Tools for Acrylic Nails 

·         Acrylic Powder and Liquid Monomer

These materials form the foundations of doing acrylics. By making use of professional units, the nails apply smoother with more stability and less chances of lifting or cracking.

·         Acrylic Brushes

 Acrylic brushes are the tools used during the acrylic design process to remove the excess acrylic. With the right tools, nail technicians can form the acrylic in the desired way which can be both bold and natural. 

·         Nail Forms or Tips

 These aid in the process of sculpting acrylic extensions by providing standard lengths and shapes according to the requirements of a client.

·         Electric Nail Drills

Instead of spending hours shaping and refining the surface of the acrylic nails, a little extra time spent on an electric nail drill would result in a clean finished look in a fraction of the time.

·         Dust Collectors 

Acrylic application often produces a fine dust that can pollute the air of your salon. A dust collector, aside from keeping you or your employees safe, maintains a hygienic working environment for both the technicians and the clients. 

You might be asking yourself what is the key differences between gel and acrylic nails or rather what is better for nails gel or acrylic, well this is reliant on the client. Gel nails suit those who desire a more natural look because they are light and flexible. A brand of nail that is thick, strong and has a longer lasting finish than gel nails, and ideal for detailed decoration are Acrylic nails. Also gel can be issued over manicured acrylic nails to give smoothness and binary joints with the strength of acrylic.

Application process acrylic nails does not need a UV or an LED light to harden, it will harden on its own, in contrast to gel nails that need to be heat cured. 

In concerns of durability and maintenance, Acrylic nails could be the best choice for the customers because they are able to bear with a lot of stress. While gel nails are able to withstand slightly less abuse they, however, are easier to use which is a reason to be on their list of favorites.

When you are in a dilemma of which service best suits your customer, it is highly recommended  for you to consider the needs of your client, Gel nails are the best option if your client does not want anything more than what is bare to their hands and prioritizes comfort. While for the customers needing better strength and wanting to strive for elaborate structures, acrylic nails would serve them well. It is wise to keep your salon/parlour fully stocked to offer both services, this way you are able to attend to a wider variety of people and accommodate their distinguishing characteristics.

To conclude, advise clients to apply cuticle oil on a regular basis, avoid using their nails as tools, and to make timely refills or professional removal. Gel and acrylic nail applications requires skill, creativity, and the necessary tools. You must ensure that your salon is equipped with professional grade products so that the results achieved are exceptional. Smarptly’s mission is to help you maximize your services with high quality tools. From UV lamps, acrylic brushes, acrylic powers, manicure table set/lamps etc we provide a curated range of products to help you meet the highest standards of nail care. Make all your nail services more effective by exploring our products at http://smartply.info/ta9rm