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Acrylic, gel or tips: which nail extensions should you choose

Acrylic, gel and tips are the three most common techniques for lengthening or strengthening nails. They look fairly similar at a glance, but their properties and application differ quite a bit.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a mix of powder and liquid that hardens in the air. It is particularly strong and impact-resistant, making it a good choice if you use your hands a lot day to day. Its texture also allows very precise shapes to be sculpted, such as square or stiletto nails.

Gel

Gel hardens under a UV or LED lamp. It is lighter and more flexible than acrylic, often giving a more natural-looking result. It suits people who want a light feel and a more discreet finish.

Tips

Tips involve gluing a pre-shaped plastic tip onto the natural nail, then covering the whole nail with a thin layer of gel or acrylic to blend the join. It's the fastest of the three techniques, since there's no sculpting involved: it works well for a one-off length boost, before an event for example. On the other hand, it is generally less durable over time than acrylic or gel applied along the whole nail.

Which one to choose?

If you use your hands a lot or want maximum durability between appointments, acrylic is usually recommended. If you prefer a light, flexible result, gel is often preferred. If you're after a quick fix for a specific occasion, tips are a good option. In all cases, allow about 3 weeks before a touch-up appointment, once natural regrowth becomes visible.

Our nail technicians will advise you based on your nails and lifestyle at your appointment. See prices on our Services page.