Few things are more enjoyable than a spa manicure at your favorite nail salon in Newport Beach. Especially with the holiday season upon us, many people are opting for stunning nail designs that will last them from office holiday parties to New Year’s celebrations.

If you want a flawless and durable manicure that you can trust to last you through event after event, acrylic and dip powder nails are the two most popular options. While you can’t go wrong with either one, each method has its pros and cons that may make one manicure better suited to your needs. To help you decide, here are the major differences between dip powder and acrylic manicures.

Application Process

Although they have a similar end result, dip powder and acrylic nails have very different application processes. Acrylic nails are created by first combining a powder polymer with a liquid monomer to create a paste. This paste is then bonded to the natural nail and formed into the desired shape using a brush. Once in the desired shape, acrylic nails harden into place, creating a durable canvas for nail polish that will last for up to six weeks.

On the other hand, dip powder nails use a colored powder with no liquid monomer. During the dip powder application process, the nails first get a typical polish base coat. Then, they are brushed with or dipped into colored powder. They’re then coated again with a protective clear polish, and the process is repeated at least once more. 

One of the biggest differences in the application of these two spa manicure methods is the use of chemicals. Acrylic nails contain a chemical called methyl methacrylate, which can cause allergic reactions or irritation to those with sensitive skin. Dip powder nails do not contain this or any other harsh chemicals, making them a preferred choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Manicure Longevity

Although both manicure types are durable and long-lasting compared to traditional polish, acrylic nails typically last longer than dip powder nails.

Due to the chemical composition of acrylic, the nails are harder and less prone to chipping or breakage. As such, acrylic nails can last up to eight weeks, while dip powder nails may need to be redone every three weeks.

This timeline will depend on several factors, however, such as how often you work with your hands or how quickly your natural nails grow. For those who use their hands regularly and have an active lifestyle, acrylic manicures as the preferred choice because their flexibility makes them less prone to breaking than dip powder manicures.

Which Type of Manicure Should You Get?

Ultimately, the type of manicure you choose depends on your personal preferences and needs. For those looking for a quick and easy application process, dip powder nails may be the preferred choice. They tend to take less time to apply than acrylic nails, and the lack of harsh chemicals may be a deciding factor for those with sensitive skin.

However, if durability and longevity are a must, then acrylic nails may be the better option. They’re also easier to maintain, as they can be touched up with a fill every two to three weeks rather than needing to be entirely redone.

Which manicure reigns supreme can also be dependent on your desired design and style. For those who prefer shorter nails or simpler designs, dip powder manicures are generally preferred. If you’re looking for long nails with more intricate designs, acrylic nails are typically the way to go.

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.