What Type of Manicure is Best?

TikTok has revolutionized press-on nails by improving fit and quality, offering options that may last up to one or even several weeks depending on brand/type selection.

Gel and shellac manicures are popular due to their long-lasting nature, but for those seeking something different there are various nail types and services to consider.

Acrylics

Acrylic nails are a popular method for nail enhancement that employs liquid monomer and powdered polymer to form a protective layer over natural nails or false tips, before being shaped, painted and decorated to achieve your desired look. Acrylic manicures provide long-term color retention as well as strength. This manicure type is often chosen by those seeking long-lasting color and strength in their manicure style.

However, they can be damaging to natural nails if removed incorrectly, and should be avoided when working with chemicals that could potentially erode your nails‘ structure.

Press-on nails provide another quick, low maintenance manicure option; however, they typically last only several days and may require professional removal in order to be removed properly at home. Furthermore, they tend to be more fragile than other options available to them.

Gels

Gel manicures last significantly longer than traditional polish and don’t chip easily, provided they’re removed properly. Plus, experts believe they can be molded to mimic natural nails more closely – meaning less filing!

Soft gel manicures (also referred to as soak-off gels) are popular due to their flexibility and ease of application. Applying this type of nail polish under LED or UV lights enables it to cure quickly, yet can easily be removed with a quick soak in acetone for quick removal.

LECHAT Nails brand educator Syreeta Aaron describes builder gel manicures as similar to acrylic but without liquid monomer and powder polymers, as per an overlay service that provides sturdy enhancement without tips or forms for nail art designs. They’re suitable for people wanting to extend their length while creating stronger canvasses for nail art; and are an excellent choice that won’t get damaged during daily activities or filing, according to Glass.

Dip Powder

Dip powder nails may be less damaging to natural nails (provided they’re removed promptly and you use your hands only for light activities), as well as more robust and long-term than gel manicures.

A dip powder manicure requires your nails to be cleansed, prepped, and polished before being dipped into a tray of finely milled powder in your chosen shade (OPI’s You’ve Got That Glas-gow is one such hue I like). Your manicurist then brushes on this powder several times until achieving desired opacity.

Once completed, a top coat is applied and your nails are ready for show! While a dip manicure should last two weeks before needing replacement or replenishment at the salon.

Nail Art

A manicure is more than just an aesthetic treatment; it’s an expression of yourself and style. Yet choosing the ideal type can be daunting when there are so many choices on the market.

As there’s a manicure out there to suit every nail shape and length preference imaginable – classic to gel and acrylic – when selecting your ideal style it is important to take into account budget, lifestyle and how long before needing refills. We consulted salon owners, nail techs and manicure specialists (plus one beauty writer with firsthand experience of each) on pros and cons of each popular option for more insight. Read on!