Dip Nails Vs. Acrylic: Which One is Better?

Dip Nails Vs Acrylic.

When it comes to deciding between dip or acrylic nails, which is the right choice? There are a lot of factors here, such as lifestyle, aesthetic expectations, and budget, so the answer isn’t necessarily one-size-fits-all.

• If you’re on a budget, dip is better. At first glance there isn’t much of a cost difference between dip and acrylic, but the initial cost at a nail salon doesn’t tell the whole story. First of all, dip nails last longer than acrylics, so they require fewer trips to the nail salon. Dip nails last about three weeks, while acrylics need a fill every two. Even though one week doesn’t seem like much of a difference, it adds up quickly. Another reason why dip is cheaper is because you can do it yourself. Purchasing dip powder and the necessary tools are accessible to consumers. Unfortunately, the same isn’t true for acrylics. Typically, acrylic nails require a trip to the salon, and it’s absolutely more cost effective to do your nails yourself than to pay someone else to do them.

• If you want a natural look, acrylic is better. Dip nails require many layers alternating the powder and activator, which makes them quite thick. This makes them durable but does tend to cause dipped nails to deviate from the natural look. Acrylics don’t require multiple layers, so they can be left thin which appears more natural.
• If your hands see lots of wear and tear, dip is better. Both dip and acrylics are durable, but dip is more flexible which is good if your hands tend to take a beating. This may seem counterintuitive, but since acrylics have less leeway, they’re more likely to chip. Then you’re either stuck with an unappealing manicure, or you have to spend time and money to have it fixed. Either way, if you’re afraid your lifestyle doesn’t bode well to pretty nails, go for dip.
• If you want to add length to your nails, acrylic is better. It’s wildly common for acrylics to involve adding a plastic extension to the tip of the natural nail to then be cut to your desired length. Dip nails don’t usually include this, so if you’re unhappy with the length of your natural nails, go for acrylics- they can give you the long nails you’re dreaming of.

In our opinion, dip nails are better than acrylics. We like that they’re cheaper in the long run, less likely to break or chip, and we don’t mind the thick look or lack of additional length. If you’re like us, then dip nails are the one for you! But if not, acrylics are a great option for many people, as their long, natural look can be worth the money.