Acrylic nails are one of the most durable options and this is one of their biggest selling points. They can last for multiple weeks without as much chipping or peeling.
The problem with the application process of acrylics is that when you layer the acrylic nail on top of your own nail, you are potentially sealing a layer of bacteria or fungus between the real nail and fake nail, which can lead to all kinds of nail infections underneath from the gap.
But being aware of the health, hygiene, and time-consuming implications when choosing acrylic nails is something that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially if you visit the nail salon on a regular basis.
Not only this, they take a long time to apply and typically require a lot of harsh chemicals such as nail primers and dehydrators.
Ladies, we know how sexy it feels to get a fresh set of nails done. Nothing completes an outfit like a matching outfit and nail combination.
So here are five of the best acrylic nail alternatives that we recommend to our audience. Get your french tips and coffin nails ready, as we’re about to show you the best options on the market.
1. Gel Nail Extensions
Top of the list, and for good reason, are gel nail extensions. These are a great alternative to acrylic nails and probably the most common solution for those seeking a strong overall finish.
Many celebrities such as Ariana Grande use this type of nail and are one of the most comparable options to acrylic nails.
Gel nail extensions are applied similarly to acrylic nails as they are still built out from your nail, and they become extended.
However, one of the major differences is in the ingredients, as gel nail extensions are free from certain ingredients such as methacrylate monomers, formaldehyde, and methacrylic acid, which have been shown to be harmful.
In terms of overall look, they provide a much more natural look and feel when compared to acrylic nails, as they are much lighter and more flexible. This means they put less pressure on the nail bed which can cause irritation to the nail itself.
One other major benefit of using gel nail extensions is the lifespan of the nail. An adhesive is applied to both the nail and nail extensions, and it wouldn’t be uncommon for the nail to last over 3 weeks without so much as a chip or a crack.
Gel nail extensions typically cost more than other types of nails because the builder gels are more expensive, so bear this in mind if you are on a tight budget.
Pros
Typically long-lasting and can stay consistent for up to 3 weeks without peeling or cracking.
These are safer for your nails and do not feature several ingredients that are shown to be harmful to the nail.
They have a much lighter and natural feel to them which a lot of users like and are a great comparable option to acrylic nails.
Cons
If you are avoiding UV lights due to the potential health risks, this option may not be for you as gel nail extensions require a UV light to cure.
2. Dip Powder (SNS)
Dip powder, also commonly known as SNS is another popular alternative to both acrylic nails and gel extensions. They work by dipping the nails in a fine-colored powder whilst applying a sealant on top of the nail to seal it off.
This type of nail is typically used for simple style manicures, but can also be used for nail extensions. The big win is that this method doesn’t require a UV lamp which is a big put-off for the health-conscious nail advocate, and so make this a slightly more ‘healthier’ option than gel extensions.
In terms of the installation and removal process, they have both their advantages and disadvantages. The application process is quick and is one of the best DIY options available to you.
This is why so many ladies swear by SNS, as they don’t have to go out of their way to get their nails done, especially if looking to save money. The problem comes with removing them. You need to soak them in acetone for around 15-20 minutes which has the potential to dry out the cuticle.
However, they are still easier to remove than acrylic nails which can take a lot longer to soak and remove the nail.
The other major downside of dip powder is the price. When compared to acrylic nails or gel extensions, they are going to cost more to apply.
Bear in mind that the shelf life of this type of nail is roughly two weeks as well, which is typically less than acrylic and or gel extensions so you’re going to be paying a lot more long-term.
Pros
They are quick and easy to apply and can be applied at home if you want to save on costs.
They do not use harsh chemicals that acrylics use making them a better option for your nail health.
They are a durable option and can last up to two weeks without peeling or cracking.
They do not require a UV lamp, which is a massive bonus for those who are more health-conscious.
Cons
They are pricier than acrylic and gel extensions if done professionally.
They can be tough to remove and you will need to soak your nails in acetone for up to 15-20 minutes.
3. Press on Nails
Press-on nails are another super DIY option and are fake nails designed to be easily pasted to your natural nails within minutes.
These are a great option for those looking for a more understated nail that isn’t going to take a lot of maintenance and would be suitable as a substitute for acrylic nails.
To apply the nail correctly, once you have cleaned your nails, applied the adhesion, have pushed back your cuticles, all you’ll need to do is line up the nail and press down firmly.
With regards to why these are more suitable than acrylic, we’ve already established that application is a big feature for press-on nails, and why so many prefer this method, even against gel nail extensions.
They will take less than 10 minutes to apply and shape which is certainly a lot less time and hassle than driving down to the local boutique.
As with many of the other options, press-on nails is a minimalist solution as it doesn’t feature harsh chemicals that can harm the nail and the only thing you’ll need is the adhesive that is provided with the kit, although some brands come with a built-in adhesive to the nail that is also nail-friendly.
Another great feature of the press-on nail is the removal of the nail itself: they are super easy to remove, and most brands will just pop off after a little pressure is applied.
Make sure to soak them in acetone for 1-2 minutes before removing them as you never want to remove a fake nail without loosening them first.
In terms of their lifespan, they are not as durable as acrylics or gel extensions which doesn’t make them a good choice for long-term application.
Before using these, make sure you know how to apply them, as they can fall off prematurely if you don’t clean your nails before use, or place them on correctly. A typical lifespan of press-on nails is around 5 days, but if you’re really careful they could last as long as 2 weeks.
Pros
They are easy to apply and your nails can be completed within 10 minutes.
They avoid harsh chemicals and only require an adhesive.
They are an affordable option and one of the best choices for those that want a cheaper solution.
They are easy to remove and won’t take long once they have been soaked in acetone.
Cons
Because they are a cheaper option, they aren’t going to last as long as some of the other options on this list. These would be great for a short trip, i.e. a family reunion or wedding-type event.
Can be fiddly to apply and if not done correctly will shorten the lifespan of the nail.
4. Nail polishes
Time for a classic option that has been used time and time again. Nail polish has been around for decades, and they are one of the most popular DIY options for nails. This is the best option for those that don’t want a lot of hassle and want a quick solution to beautiful nails.
In terms of ease of application, it’s one of the best choices, as typically you’ll be applying a coat or two to ensure even coverage.
As long as you are careful with the application, and have a good set of nails that makes the coat look smooth, you won’t need to worry about more than two applications.
From start to finish, you’re looking at a 10-15 minute application process, and most brands dry quickly to ensure the process doesn’t take any longer than necessary.
Removing the polish is just as easy and it won’t take long to go back to your natural color. And if you don’t like the color you have chosen, apply some acetone and it will wipe away after about 5 seconds.
This makes nail polish a versatile option because you can change your nail color every day if you want to mix things up.
Most brands offer an affordable price, and you won’t be spending above and beyond to get a good brand and color. This makes nail polish a great option for those on a budget or those that are new to getting their nails done and want to try out different styles and colors.
You also won’t need a UV lamp when using nail polish, and the ingredients are all considered safe to use, unlike the acrylic options on the market.
One downside to nail polish is that even though it dries quickly, this can be a bad thing as you may find yourself rushing to get the nails coated evenly. Other DIY options such as gel polish (which we’ll come onto in just a second) don’t have this problem.
Pros
One of the easiest to apply, and with a little practice this can be a solid nail coloring option in less than 15 minutes.
This is one of the most affordable options on the market, with most brands costing less than $10 to buy.
Another safe option in terms of overall health, that you won’t require a UV lamp and nail polish contains safe ingredients.
Cons
Because nail polish tends to dry quickly, some may feel rushed when applying more than one coat to even out the color.
5. Gel polish
Our final option is similar to nail polish but differs slightly in finish and texture. With gel polish, you are going to be getting a thicker coat with a more durable finish, making this an ideal choice for nail longevity.
These are a versatile option as you can add nail tips and add gel polishes that have a similar finish to acrylic nails or gel nail extensions. Just one thing to note is this method isn’t going to be as durable as the other options, which lowers the lifespan of the nail.
One downside to gel nail polishes is that you have to use a UV lamp to cure, harden and dry the gel polish.
This process takes around 30 seconds per hand, and you’ll need to apply at least two coats as well as another run-through after you have applied a gel top coat, so this process will take around 5 minutes to total on top of the gel polish application.
If you’re not worried about the potential health implications of UV rays and want a fast but great finish to your nails, this would be a sound option.
This is also not the best choice if you don’t want to take a lot of time removing the polish. Unlike nail polish that can instantly be wiped, you’ll need about 10-15 minutes of acetone soaking to remove gel polish.
Also worth noting is that between nail polish and gel polish, there is the chance that you’re going to get the stuff on your skin around the nail, which if left unchecked will dry and stay stuck to your skin. However, this will become less likely with more practice.
Pros
Provides a thicker texture that some prefer to the lighter nail polish finish.
They are more durable than nail polish and can last upwards of 3 weeks without losing their color.
You can add extensions on your nails using nail tips if you want a longer-looking nail.
Cons
Takes longer to apply than other options, and you’ll need to use a UV light to cure and dry the coat.
Gel polish is much more difficult to remove than regular nail polish and may take upwards of 10-15 minutes to remove.
Final Thoughts
So there we have it. Five awesome alternatives to using instead of acrylic nails. Hopefully, we’ve covered off the most popular options that vary in type and costs. But which do we think is the best option?
Whilst we’ve listed our pros and cons for each option, it really does depend on a few factors, and not every choice of the nail is going to suit everyone.
Some have much larger budgets and care more about the finish, whilst others want a simple at-home option that isn’t going to take a lot of time. Or perhaps you want a durable option that isn’t going to be chipped or cracked as easily as some of the cheaper alternatives.
The good news is that you can still get that same quality from a nail technician by going with gen nail extensions or dip powder. These are going to be the most durable and have the best finish.
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to the professional options, we like press-on nails as they look great whilst not costing as much. Even though they are slightly less durable, they would be perfect for short trips or events such as weddings or birthday bashes.
In terms of DIY, look no further than the gel nail polish and regular nail polish options. These are affordable solutions that will look glamorous, even when done solo.
Just be wary that you’re going to need a bit of practice coating the nail and avoiding a coat of polish around the skin area of the nail, which looks scruffy and untidy.
Frequently asked questions
How Bad Is Acrylic For Your Nails?
In terms of health and hygiene, there are much better options on the market. Use one of our recommended options from the list above if you would like a more hygiene-friendly choice.
How Long Does It Take To Remove Acrylic Nails?
Removal of acrylic nails takes around 20-30 minutes to remove. To avoid damaging your nail, use a bowl of acetone and soak your nails for the best way to break down your acrylic nails.
What Will Ruin My Gel Nails?
The use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can break down nail polish or gel polish. Most household chores including washing the dishes, cooking, and cleaning will wear down your manicure.
Are Gel Nails Hard To Do Yourself?
This will depend on your dexterity and precision. This is the best option for those just starting with DIY nails. Just don’t expect to get them perfect the first time! As with anything, practice makes perfect.
Should Acrylic Nails Hurt?
No, you should feel no pain when applying or removing acrylic nails. This could be an indication that you have a fungal infection from moisture under the nail, and you may have to remove the nail. We recommend you speak to your doctor if you encounter any pain with acrylic nails.
Are Press-On Nails Bad For Your Real Nails?
No, they should not damage your nails in any way, as long as you properly clean them before and after use.
Why Are My Nails Green After Removing Fake Nails?
This is likely because your nail bed was not sealed properly and water or moisture was trapped between the fake nail and the real nail. You will need to remove all of your nail products and keep this area dry until it has fully healed.
Hi, my name is Miranda Cole, and I’ve been working in the makeup industry for the last 10 years. I began my journey as a beautician, and now I specialize in both makeup and hair.
Over the last 10 years, I have watched as the latest trends change, and have seen the evolution of beauty and makeup in particular. As a result of this, I have a good knowledge of different makeup products, and hairstyles that will suit specific complexions or face shapes.
I want Fabulyst to be an extension of my day job, so that I can help educate others on everything they need to know about fashion and beauty. From the latest style pieces to wear, to the best hairstyles, I will be covering everything there is to know.
