Skip to content
Nail Drill Bits

Professional Vs. DIY manicures - pros and cons

In the sparkling realm of the manicure, this debate has always simmered: Professional manicures vs. DIY. While both have their merits, there's a certain magic that only a professional touch can bring to your nails. Being a renowned professional-only brand, you might say we are biased (spoiler alert: we are!) but we wanted to try to be impartial so we have broken down the pros and cons of professional vs. DIY manicure.

Understanding the Basics


Before diving deep, it's essential to understand the key products. Products such as acrylics, builder gel, HEMA-free gel polish, and  HEMA-free builder gel set the stage for transforming plain nails into works of art. And professional quality products are only generally available for professionals. Now let's get into some of the pros of a professional manicure:

The Pros of a Professional Manicure


Expertise and Training

A professional manicurist undergoes rigorous training, mastering the delicate art of nail care. Their knowledge base is expansive, covering everything from nail health to the latest nail art techniques, ensuring you get a flawless finish, all with a focus on keeping your natural nails healthy.

Quality of Products

Enter Glitterbels: a brand that epitomizes the excellence of professional-only products. There's a reason why over-the-counter alternatives often fall short. Products produced by professional-only brands will have been developed in conjunction with nail technicians so the focus will always be on quality and longevity.

Equipment and Tools

Ever noticed the array of tools and equipment at a professional nail salon? These aren't just for show. Advanced equipment, unavailable for general home use, can substantially enhance the quality and longevity of a manicure. Professional nail technicians need to invest significantly in not just products like acrylic powder, gel polish and builder gel but also equipment like eFiles but also their salon furniture and the general upkeep of the premises.

 




Hygiene and Safety

Professional salons adhere to strict sanitation protocols, ensuring that every manicure is not just a treat for the eyes but also safe for your health.

Customization and Artistry

With a rainbow of colors, intricate designs, and so many different styles – a professional nail technician brings a palette of options to the table. Using Glitterbels products, they can craft designs that are not just stunning but also unique to your personality. Remember professional nail technicians practice their craft day in, and day out so they can give you the benefit of their artistry and experience.

The Pros of DIY Manicures


Cost and Environment

Delving into the DIY manicure can have its merits and one salient advantage is the cost. Investing in a DIY kit can often be less expensive initially than regular appointments at a professional salon. Also, for the environmentally conscious amongst us, DIY manicures can be a greener option. By using eco-friendly products and reducing the number of trips to a salon, you would certainly be reducing your carbon footprint. With many brands now offering sustainable and non-toxic nail products, DIY enthusiasts can enjoy a manicure that's both pocket-friendly and kinder to the planet.

The Cons of DIY Manicures


Limitation in Skill Level

DIY may sound fun, but it comes with its set of challenges. The application can be uneven, you might encounter the dreaded air bubbles, or the finish might not be salon-like. Did you know it is often quoted that you need to spend 10,000 hours doing something to become an expert? In the case of a DIY manicure, you would need to go from zero to hero, very quickly. And though each state has its own regulations - a nail tech will have spent at least 4-6 months training in a classroom in order to qualify.


Compromised Product Quality

Not all nail products are created equal. Many DIY kits lack the finesse and quality of professional-grade products, leading to less-than-perfect results. Buying cheap often means paying twice and this is especially true in the case of a manicure.

Safety and Hygiene Concerns

Improper tool usage or contaminated products can lead to infections or nail damage. Without the right knowledge, it's easy to make these blunders at home. For instance, do you know how to remove gel polish quickly and safely and how this differs from acrylic? A professional nail technician certainly will.

Inadequate Tools and Equipment

Home kits can be limiting. Without access to professional-grade equipment, achieving that perfect, long-lasting finish becomes a daunting task.

The Financial Aspect - Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Value


Though DIY manicures might seem like a cost-effective option upfront, when you factor in durability, you might find yourself redoing your nails more often than you'd like. Plus, correcting a flawed DIY manicure can sometimes cost more than getting it right the first time with a professional. Ask yourself how did it go that time you tried to cut your own hair. A manicure is no different.

Glitterbels – The Mark of Professional Excellence


Glitterbels isn't just a brand; it's a statement of quality. Committed exclusively to professionals, Glitterbels ensures that every manicure is a masterpiece. And don’t just take our word for it. Professionals across the globe have vouched for Glitterbels' unparalleled quality, solidifying our reputation as leader in the nail industry.