There are different ways to get a manicure in the salon, and today we want to talk about two of them: using gel polish and using dipping powder.
Will one formula be better than another? Which lasts the longest? What could be more harmful for long-term nails? Here’s what the experts think.
What is gel polish?
Like regular gel polish, it has a liquid consistency and is applied with a brush. “Gel polish is nail polish that contains acrylic monomers and oligomers that bond together when exposed to ultraviolet light,” says Tamara Di Lullo, nail technician and salon owner.
What is a deep powder?
As the name implies, deep powder comes in the form of a powder – for application you need to lower the nail into a container with it. The powder is similar to acrylic, but it doesn’t use the strong-smelling liquid monomer, says manicure instructor Leah Smith. In addition, no UV lamp is needed to set the powder.
Read also: Powder Coating as an Alternative to Gel Polish: An Honest Review from VOICE Editors
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What are the benefits of gel polish?
- The gel is more hygienic. By dipping your fingers in the powder, the skin comes into direct contact with the powder, which is used to work with many clients – gel polish does not have this problem.
- Same colour. As Tamara explains, deep powders, especially poor quality ones, often lead to blemishes, discoloration, and uneven tone.
What are the benefits of powder manicure?
- Powder is more durable than gel polish, making it a great option for those with weak nails or women who work a lot with their hands.
- Deep powder dries on its own: each coat takes about two minutes. The absence of ultraviolet radiation makes powder manicure an excellent option for owners of delicate skin whose hands are baked in a UV lamp.
- Powder is more durable than gel polish: it can last up to five weeks.
Which is more harmful: powder manicure or gel polish?
According to the two experts, the side effects are not related to the composition of the coatings: all problems are usually the result of poor removal, which has damaged the nail.
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