When deciding between hard gel and acrylic nails, the choice often comes down to durability, maintenance, and personal preference. Both systems have their strengths, and as a nail tech, understanding the differences helps you recommend the best option for your clients.
Let’s break down the key differences and compare how each performs in real-world scenarios.
Hard Gel vs. Acrylic: Key Differences
|
Feature |
Hard Gel |
Acrylic |
|
Durability |
Strong but slightly more flexible, making it less prone to snapping. |
Very strong and rigid, providing excellent durability but can be more prone to breaking under direct force. |
|
Best For |
Clients who need a lightweight feel and water resistance. |
Clients who want ultimate strength and structure, ideal for long nail shapes. |
|
Application |
Applied in layers and cured under a UV/LED lamp. |
Mixed from liquid monomer and powder, air-dried without the need for a lamp. |
|
Removal |
Must be filed off completely as it does not soak off with acetone. |
Can be soaked off with acetone, making removal easier. |
|
Maintenance |
Less prone to lifting but can be trickier to infill due to its smooth, non-porous surface. |
Requires regular infills but bonds strongly with the natural nail. |
|
Appearance |
Naturally glossy, making it look ultra-smooth without extra buffing. |
Can be sculpted into more dramatic shapes and designs. |
|
Skill Level Required |
Requires precision and a steady hand due to its self-levelling properties. |
More forgiving for sculpting and shaping, making it a great all-rounder for nail techs. |
Durability: Which Lasts Longer?
Both hard gel and acrylic are known for their strength, but they handle stress differently. Hard gel has more flexibility, making it less likely to snap under pressure. Acrylic, on the other hand, is extremely strong but more rigid, meaning it can crack under direct impact.
For clients who work with their hands a lot (e.g., hairstylists or cleaners), hard gel may be the better choice because it’s non-porous and more resistant to water exposure. However, acrylic is perfect for clients who love long, structured nails and extra durability.
Maintenance: Which Is Easier to Care For?
If your client wants something that’s easier to maintain and remove, acrylic takes the win. It can be soaked off with acetone, whereas hard gel must be fully filed away.
That said, hard gel is just as easy to fill as acrylic—once the top coat seal is broken and the surface is lightly etched, filling is straightforward. Some techs even prefer working with hard gel because of its smooth self-leveling properties.
💡 Pro Tip: If your client wants the strength of acrylic but with lower maintenance, recommend acrylic overlays for a balance between durability and easy upkeep. Check out our Acrylic Powders Collection to find the perfect shades for every client.
Why Acrylic Is a Must-Have for Every Nail Tech
Both systems have their place, but acrylic remains one of the most versatile and widely used techniques in salons. Whether you’re creating sculpted extensions, overlays, or intricate designs, acrylic gives you ultimate control and durability—which is why it’s a staple for professional nail techs.
🛒 Shop Acrylic Essentials:
• Coloured Acrylic Powders – A wide range of shades to match every client’s vibe.
• Acrylic Brushes – The perfect tool for precise application.
Final Thoughts
Hard gel and acrylic both have their place in the nail world, but for techs looking for maximum versatility, strength, and an easy-to-remove system, acrylic is a must-have.
At the end of the day, choosing between hard gel and acrylic comes down to your client’s lifestyle and preferences. By offering both, you can attract a wider range of clients and position yourself as an expert nail tech. Acrylic is the top choice for structured, bold looks, while hard gel is great for clients who want a durable but lightweight feel. Stocking high-quality acrylics and mastering your technique will keep your clients coming back for flawless nails every time.