What’s the Difference Between Dipping Powder & Acrylics?

With so many manicure options available, the choices can seem overwhelming. Should you go for gel or shellac, acrylic or dipping powder nails? With all the techniques and looks on offer, the one thing we can all agree on is the desire to have strong, long-lasting and chip-free nails.

To help you narrow your choices, this article will explore the difference between dipping powder and acrylics.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are made by combining an acrylic liquid (known as a monomer and a powder polymer) to create a dough-like mixture. This is then applied onto the nail with a brush, where it is molded and shaped as desired to give your nails extra length, strength and thickness. The nails are left to air dry and once the acrylic has hardened, they can be styled and polished to suit your preference.

If you would rather give your natural nails some extra length, acrylic nail tips can be added to make them appear longer without the need to apply an acrylic mixture to your entire nail.

The best way to remove acrylic nails is to visit your nail salon where a nail technician can take them off properly. This usually involves filing away the top layer of the acrylic and then soaking your nails in acetone for a short time to break down the protective layer making it soft and easy to remove.

Acrylic nails are highly durable and long-lasting and can give you the appearance of beautifully polished and chip-free nails for two to three weeks. Here are some tips to make your acrylic nail last as long as possible.

What Are Dipping Powder Nails?

In this nail technique, a base coat is applied to the nails which are then dipped into a colored powder, such as this acrylic nails dipping powder, with a resin-type glue which then hardens to create a long-lasting manicure which can last up to a month.

There are many different types of nail dipping powder available with brands like OPI dip powder giving you the option to create several styles of manicure depending on your tastes or the occasion.

Like acrylic nails, there is no need to use an ultraviolet (UV) lamp to dry your nails making the application process relatively quick and easy. The removal process for both acrylic and dipping nails is also similar. To remove dip powder nails, follow these steps:

1. Cut down the false nails and file them down.
2. Soak your nails in acetone for 10 minutes.
3. Gently pull off the dip powder product.
4. Scrape the remaining product from your nails.
5. File and buff your nails.
6. Apply cuticle oil and massage it into your nails.

The Main Differences Between Dipping Powder & Acrylics

One of the main benefits of dip powder nails is their longevity as they can last up to four weeks compared with acrylic nails which usually last around two to three weeks.

Unlike acrylic nails, dip powder nails do not stop the natural growth of your nail and are less likely to cause damage to your nails. Most dip powders are also free from toxins, unlike some acrylic nail glues which contain toxins and chemicals that are harmful to your natural nail.

Now that you can make an informed choice on whether dipping powder or acrylic is better for you, shop our extensive range of nail supplies today.