The two hottest manicure techniques today are without question UV gel nails and dip nails. Walk into any salon and the technicians will likely recommend one or both of these as favored options. What are the similarities and differences between the two and how do you decide which you prefer?
Gel Nails
The process for gel nails performed at a professional salon will involve layers of a specific gel polish that is dried in between using a UV light. It dries completely as soon as you’re finished so you can leave the salon without sitting waiting on nails to dry. The manicure lasts for weeks, even with the shine intact, which is probably the most prominent reason for its popularity. It doesn’t usually chip or crack and has to be redone after 2 weeks because the nail tends to grow out. The color selections are plentiful. Most salons will use the UV light to perform a pedicure too. Though some have concerns about health risks associated with sitting with your hands under the UV light, there are ways to mitigate the risks. You can wear sunscreen or fingerless gloves. Or even better, SNS Nails has a new safer hybrid LED/UV light. Salons that carry their Healthy GelStarUV gel polish should also be using this light but be sure to ask ahead. Gel nails will tend to be the most flexible of the long-lasting manicures. Be aware they are also dramatically affected by the quality of the product: a cheap gel product just will not last as long as the higher quality popular brands such as SNS and OPI.
Dip Powder Nails
Like gel nails, dip powder nails are especially popular right now because of their durability. A dip powder manicure will typically last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks and maintain a brilliant shine the entire time. The process is completely different though, and it is a newer generation of nail beauty technology than UV gel. Dip powder is applied in layers to the nail using an adhesive base that is brushed on. The nail is then sealed with an activator and given a long-lasting shine with a special top coat. The powder is extremely fine, and the color is infused directly into the powder. As a matter of fact, dipped nails can reach amazing rich bold color ranges. Dip powder fans boast that it is a healthier option than gels because you do not need the UV phase, and you have the option of adding healthy ingredients via the bases and sealers used in the process. The dip powder process from start to finish is a few minutes quicker than the gel polish application, and it sometimes will cost a few dollars more. SNS is the most popular brand by far, the industry pioneer. Some other brands are now following in their footsteps of the dip powder megatrend. Obviously, the easiest way is to try out each of them for yourself, but hopefully this overview will give you a headstart in evaluating your options.
