Hard Gel or Acrylic – Which Lasts Longer and Needs Less Maintenance?

If you’re a nail tech, you know that choosing between hard gel and acrylic can make a big difference in your services. Whether you’re looking for durability, ease of application, or maintenance requirements, each system has its strengths. Understanding their differences will help you recommend the best option for your clients based on their lifestyle and nail needs.

What Is Hard Gel?

Hard gels are a popular choice for nail techs looking to offer clients a strong yet lightweight alternative to acrylics. Applied in layers and cured under a UV or LED lamp, hard gels create a glossy, natural finish that offers flexibility and durability.

Benefits of Hard Gel:

• Lightweight and natural feel – Clients often say they feel like their own nails.

• Flexible and less prone to breakage – Great for clients with weaker nails.

• Minimal odor during application – A big plus for scent-sensitive clients.

• Non-porous – Ideal for clients who have their hands in water frequently.

Important Note: Hard gels cannot be soaked off with acetone and must be carefully filed down for removal.

Best for: Clients who prefer a natural, lightweight feel and need extra protection in water-heavy environments.

What Is Acrylic?

Acrylic nails have been a staple in the nail industry for years, known for their strength and versatility. Created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer, acrylics harden as they are exposed to air, making them an ideal choice for building length and creating sculpted designs.

Benefits of Acrylic:

• Exceptionally strong and durable – Suitable for clients who need long-lasting nails.

• Sculptable and versatile – Great for extreme lengths and custom shapes.

• No need for curing – Dries naturally, speeding up application time.

• Can achieve a similar look to hard gel – A skilled tech can make both look identical.

Important Note: Like hard gels, acrylics cannot be soaked off with acetone and must be filed down for safe removal.

Best for: Clients who prioritize strength and want a variety of shapes and styles.

Similarities Between Hard Gel and Acrylic

While they have differences, both hard gel and acrylic share a lot in common:

• Similar durability – With proper application and care, both can last for weeks.

• Wide range of shapes and styles – Both systems can achieve the same lengths and shapes.

• Comparable appearance – In the hands of a skilled nail tech, acrylic and hard gel nails can look identical.

• Maintenance requirements – Regular fills are needed to keep nails looking their best.

• Removal process – Neither system can be soaked off with acetone and both require professional filing.

Expert Insight:

“In my experience, hard gel and acrylic have a similar lifespan in terms of durability. Hard gel is more suitable for clients who have their hands in water frequently because it’s non-porous. A good nail tech should be able to create an acrylic nail and a hard gel nail that, to the eye, you wouldn’t be able to tell apart.”

— Charli Jepson, Head of Education at Glitterbels

Key Differences Between Hard Gel and Acrylic

Trends for 2025: What’s Popular?

As we move into 2025, client preferences are shifting, with some key trends emerging in the world of hard gel and acrylic nails:

• Minimalist hard gel overlays – Clean, sheer looks are trending.

• Bold acrylic shapes – Long, sculpted nails with intricate designs remain popular.

• HEMA-free formulas – More clients are requesting HEMA-free products due to sensitivities.

• Efficiency-driven techniques – Pre-shaped tips and forms are helping nail techs speed up service times.

• Earthy tones – Expect to see a surge in browns, deep greens, nudes, and rich reds like burgundy and oxblood.

So, Which One Lasts Longer and Needs Less Maintenance?

In reality, both hard gels and acrylics offer similar durability when applied correctly and maintained properly. Acrylics may provide extra strength for clients who are tough on their nails, while hard gels are better suited for those frequently exposed to water due to their non-porous properties.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the client’s lifestyle, preferences, and maintenance habits. Whether they prefer the flexibility of hard gel or the classic strength of acrylics, both systems can deliver beautiful, long-lasting results with the right care.