If it’s the first time you have been to a nail salon, you may see a lot of different options like regular polish, gel polish, acrylic, dip powder, etc. Each of these polishes has its own strengths and weaknesses.
This article will help you compare gel polish and regular nail polish head to head, so you know which one suits you best before your next visit.
Keep reading to learn more!
What are gel polish and regular nail polish?
First, we should know the definition of gel polish vs regular polish:
1. Gel polish
Gel polish is a newer type of polish. It is made up of acrylic monomers and oligomers that bond together when placed under UV light. The polish only gets hardened under UV light (no air drying).
2. Regular polish
Regular nail polish is also called traditional or classic nail polish. This type of polish is more temporary and easier to apply and remove. The composition of regular nail polish sometimes is more harmful compared to bio gel polish.
Application
Gel polish and regular polish are two different types of nail polish that are applied and removed in slightly different ways.
Gel polish is applied in a similar way to regular polish, but it is cured under a UV or LED light, which helps it to harden and set. Moreover, gel polish always requires at least 3 layers including base, colored, and top coat. Each of the layers needs to be cured before applying the other. The average time to cure a layer is around 45 seconds up to 1 minute in some cases.
Regular polish, on the other hand, is simply allowed to air-dry. You can also use different layers for regular nail polish. However the layers are not different in terms of structure like gel-based polishes.
Durability
One of the main differences between gel polish and regular polish is its durability. Gel polish is much more durable than regular polish and can last for up to 4 weeks without chipping or peeling.
Regular polish, on the other hand, is less durable and typically chips or peels within a few days of application.
Ease of removal
Another difference between gel polish and regular polish is the way they are removed.
Gel polish must be soaked off using a special solution which is acetone. After the nail polish is soaked with acetone, you need to wrap it using foil and wait for 5-10 minutes. The acetone remover will soften the gel polish structure, and make it easier to get wiped off.
While regular polish can be easily removed with nail polish remover (alcohol-based or non-alcohol).
This means that removing gel polish can be a longer and more involved process than removing regular polish.
Cost
The cost of gel polish is considerably higher than regular polish. You can refer to our menu to learn more about the cost breakdown.
Conclusion
Overall, the choice between gel polish and regular polish will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Gel polish is more durable and long-lasting, but it is also more expensive and requires more time and effort to remove. Regular polish is less durable, but it is also less expensive and easier to remove.