Whenever you see manicure photos on social media, whether they’re minimal and chic or incredibly elaborate, they’re likely one of three popular options: acrylic nails, dip powder nails, or a gel manicure.

Upgrades from the traditional nail polish mani-pedi, these elevated manicure options are perfect for those who want a more durable finish or something that is longer than their natural nail can grow. However, each of these manicure styles has its own features and benefits that make them uniquely suited for different preferences. If you’re not sure which option to ask for during your next appointment at your nail salon in Newport Beach, CA, here’s everything you need to know about acrylic nails, dip powder, and gel manicures.

Dip Powder Manicure

Dip powder manicures have recently exploded in popularity due to their long-lasting results and easy application. Unlike traditional liquid polishes, dip powder involves applying a base coat and then dipping the nail into a colored powder. A sealant is then applied and cured under a UV or LED lamp, locking in the color for weeks.

One of the biggest benefits of dip powder nails is their durability; they can often last up to four weeks without chipping. They can also help add strength to natural nails. This makes them an ideal option for anyone with weaker nail beds who wants a long-lasting color without chipping polish or breaking nails. Dip powder can also be used to achieve nail extensions that are more flexible and easier to remove than acrylics, offering an ideal in-between for those debating a gel manicure versus acrylic nail extensions.

Gel Manicure

Similar to dip powder manicures, gel manicures are a great option for those seeking a natural nail look that lasts for weeks. Gel manicures use a special gel polish that is applied like a traditional polish and then cured under a UV or LED light for a hard-wearing, glossy finish. Since gel polish is applied to the natural nail, gel manicures can’t provide nail extensions and are best for a more natural appearance.

While gel manicures are more long-lasting than traditional nails, they don’t last quite as long as dip powder manicures. Whereas dip powder can last up to four weeks without chipping, gel manicures tend to last around two weeks. However, while dip powder can have a thicker look because of the powder coating, gel manicures offer a more natural and lightweight look and feel. They are also easier to remove than a dip powder manicure, making them a popular choice for those who switch up their manicure style often.

Acrylic Nail Extensions

For anyone looking to drastically change the length and shape of their nails, acrylic nail extensions are the go-to option. This manicure style has been popular for decades, adding length to your manicure and allowing for a long-lasting finish long before dip powder or gel polish came onto the scene.

Acrylic nails involve combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to create a malleable paste that is applied to the nail. Once the mixture hardens, it provides a solid nail-like structure that’s ready to be filed to the preferred shape and painted. 

Acrylic nail extensions are beloved for their strength and longevity, as they can provide long, pristine nails for as many as six weeks. They’re particularly popular with those who have shorter or weaker nails that are prone to breaking. It’s important to note, however, that since they’re so durable, they’re also more difficult to remove, so you should always get your acrylic nail removal done by a professional nail salon in Newport Beach, CA.

Whether you’re looking to try something new or stick to your tried and true manicure style, Newport Nails has several customizable manicure options that will suit anyone’s needs. We’ll help you sit back, relax, and achieve an Instagram-ready mani, so contact us online or visit us at Westcliff Plaza or one of our other convenient locations today and let us know how we can service your manicure needs.