What Is Regular Nail Polish?

Regular nail polish is the type most people are familiar with. It comes in a bottle with a brush and is applied in a few simple steps. After applying the polish, you let it air dry. Regular nail polish has been around for many years and comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes, such as matte, glossy, and glitter.

What Is Gel Nail Polish?

Gel nail polish is a newer type of nail polish that lasts longer than regular polish. It also comes in a bottle with a brush, but it needs to be cured under a UV or LED light to harden. Each layer of gel polish is applied and then cured under the light. This process is repeated for a few layers to get the desired color and thickness.

Pros of Regular Nail Polish

Easy to Apply and Remove

Regular nail polish is easy to apply and doesn’t require any special tools. You can remove it at home with regular nail polish remover.

Affordable

Regular nail polish is usually cheaper than gel polish. You can find a wide range of colors and brands at a low cost.

Quick to Dry

While gel polish requires curing under a light, regular polish air-dries, which is simple and convenient.

Change Colors Often

Since it’s easy to remove, you can change your nail color frequently without much hassle.

Cons of Regular Nail Polish

Less Durable

Regular nail polish doesn’t last as long as gel polish. It can chip and peel within a few days, especially if you use your hands a lot.

Longer Drying Time

Even though it air-dries, regular polish can take a while to fully dry, and you need to be careful not to smudge it.

Less Shine 

Regular polish may not have the same high-gloss finish that gel polish offers.

Pros of Gel Nail Polish

Long-Lasting

Gel polish can last up to two weeks or more without chipping. This makes it great for vacations or busy schedules.

High Shine

Gel polish has a glossy, shiny finish that looks fresh and vibrant for a longer time.

Strengthens Nails

Gel polish can add a layer of strength to your nails, helping to prevent them from breaking.

Quick Drying

Each layer of gel polish cures in about 30-60 seconds under the light, which means you don’t have to worry about smudging.

Cons of Gel Nail Polish

Requires Special Tools

You need a UV or LED light to cure the polish, which means you either need to invest in one or go to a salon.

Removal Process

Removing gel polish requires soaking your nails in acetone, which can be time-consuming and potentially drying to your nails.

Cost

Gel polish and the tools required can be more expensive than regular polish.

Potential Damage

If not removed properly, gel polish can damage your natural nails.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between gel polish and regular polish depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a quick, easy, and affordable option that you can change frequently, regular polish is a good choice. It’s perfect for experimenting with different colors and styles.

If you prefer a long-lasting, durable manicure that stays shiny and chip-free for weeks, gel polish is the way to go. It’s ideal for people who don’t have time to redo their nails often or want a more polished look.