When choosing between hard gel and acrylic nails, the decision often comes down to durability, maintenance, and personal preference. Both have their strengths and as a nail tech, understanding these differences can help you recommend the best option for each client.
Below, we’ll break down the key differences and compare how they perform 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 - Hard Gel or Acrylic?
Hard gel and acrylic are known for their strength, but how they handle stress is different. Hard gel has a bit more flexibility, making it less likely to snap under pressure. Acrylic, on the other hand, is incredibly strong but more rigid, which can make it more prone to cracking under direct impact.
For clients who work with their hands a lot (e.g., hairdressers or cleaners), hard gel might be a better choice because it’s non-porous and more resistant to water exposure. However, acrylic is the go-to for clients who love extra-long nails and high-strength extensions.
Maintenance: Which is Easier to Look After?
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 infill as acrylic—once the top coat seal is broken and the product is lightly etched, infills are straightforward. Some techs even prefer working with hard gel because of its smooth self-levelling properties.
However, hard gel can be less prone to lifting, meaning fewer emergency fixes. That said, regular infills are essential for both to maintain a fresh, polished look.
💡 Pro Tip: If your client is always on the go, recommend acrylic overlays for a balance between strength and easy maintenance. Check out our Acrylic Powders Collection to find the perfect shades for every client.
Is Acrylic is a Must-Have for Every Nail Tech? Yes!
While both options have their place in a nail tech’s toolkit, acrylic remains the most versatile and widely used system in salons. Whether you’re creating sculpted extensions, overlays, or intricate designs, acrylic offers ultimate control and durability—which is why it’s a staple for nail professionals worldwide.
🛒 Shop Acrylic Essentials:
• Coloured Acrylic Powders – A wide range of shades to match every client’s vibe.
• Acrylic Brushes – The perfect tool for precision application.
• Acrylic Classroom Course – Level up your skills with expert training.
Final Thoughts
Hard gel and acrylic both have their place for a client, but for techs looking for ultimate versatility, strength, and a system that can be easily removed, acrylic is a no-brainer.
If you’re looking to perfect your acrylic technique or expand your skills, why not check out our training courses here? Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, we’ve got something to take your skills to the next level. Acrylic remains the go-to for creating bold, structured looks, while hard gel provides a lightweight alternative for those who want a natural yet durable finish. Stocking high-quality acrylics and mastering your technique will ensure your clients keep coming back for flawless nails every time.