Dip vs. Acrylic Nails Compared: Which Manicure Is Better?

When you’re thinking about doing your nails (either at home or by a professional nail technician), you have many options.

There are gel manicures, a basic manicure using traditional polish, acrylic nails, and dip powder nails.

If you’ve narrowed it down to acrylic nails and dip powder nails, you’re probably scratching your head, wondering which one is right for you.

Well, today, we’re discussing the differences between dip nails and acrylic nails and why powder dip nails tend to be the “better” option for almost everyone.

What Are Dip Nails?

Dip nails are exactly how they sound - it’s a manicure that involves “dipping” natural nails slathered with a base coat into a bowl of dip powder.

Then, the dip powder manicure is covered with a top coat to “seal” it in place, creating faux nails that look natural and stunning.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are almost always used as nail extensions.

A nail tech will find the right size nail tips, then glue them onto the nail beds of the natural nail.

From there, acrylic powder and liquid are combined to form the fake nail.

After it has dried, nail polish is placed onto the nail. Sometimes, gel polishes are applied on top of the nail for added strength, longevity, and beauty, requiring a UV light.

What are Key Differences Between Dip and Acrylic Nails?

There are many differences when it comes to powder dip nails and acrylics, from the way they’re applied to how long they last.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty about these popular nail manicure styles.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Application

The most significant difference between these two kinds of fake nails is the application process. Dip nail application is much easier than applying acrylic nails.

With dips, all you need to do is apply a base coat and dip your nails into the dip powder.

Continue until you reach the desired consistency, shake off excess powder, then seal it with a top coat.

With acrylic nails, the process is more extensive and requires way more skill, so most people will opt for nail professionals to create their acrylic nail style.

The nail artist will use many tools, including an artificial nail, nail drill, nail glue, and acrylic powder and liquid.

They will prep the nail bed of the natural nails and then glue the nail extension.

From there, they will “build” the acrylic nails before styling the plastic nail extensions.

Are Dip or Acrylic Nails Easier to Make?

Dip powder nails are far easier to make than acrylics, which is why they are the better option for at-home manicures.

They require less time to make, too. Dip nails should only need around 30-45 minutes, while acrylics can take anywhere from 1-1 ½ hours.

Is The Dip Powder Easier To Remove Than Acrylics?

Dip powder is easier to remove than acrylics because you only need to soak them in acetone or a bowl of warm water and soap or oil, and they should come right off.

On the other hand, acrylics will need to be removed using nail drill buffs or a strong buffer to remove them layer by layer before soaking and removing them entirely.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Comfort While Wearing

Another big plus for powder dip nails is that they are more comfortable than acrylic nails.

Dip nails are surprisingly lightweight and thin (yet retain as much strength as acrylics).

They have a more “natural” feel to them - so much you might mistake your natural nail for your weekly manicure.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Which Looks Better?

Looks-wise, it’s up in the air.

Some people will say that acrylic nails look better because they utilize nail forms that can be impressively long with incredible shapes and designs.

But those who prefer a more tame and natural look will enjoy the glossy and gorgeous appearance of dip nails. It’s simple when you choose a pretty colored powder!

Both are great options in terms of beauty.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Which Last Longer?

An acrylic nail application will typically last up to four weeks, while dip nails can last up to five.

The big difference is that your actual acrylic nail can be left on for a few months with an acrylic process known as a “touch-up.”

Dip nails will need to be redone entirely.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Which Are Safer?

Dip nails win again when it comes to safety.

That’s because when you apply dip powder, you use many harsh chemicals.

Not only does the powder and chemical liquid mix create a strong chemical smell that is unpleasant, but it can be harmful to your nails and skin (hello, irritated skin).

While dip nails aren’t exactly “great” for your nails, they are far less damaging.

This is especially true if you apply dip nails properly and use high-end, chemical-free products.

Dip vs. Acrylic: Costs

Dip nails are cheaper than acrylics, whether you get them done by nail techs at the local nail salon or create them independently.

Professional nail technicians typically charge $30-45 for a dip manicure and $40-60 for acrylics.

Dip Nails vs. Acrylic Nails: Comparison

Let’s go over the primary comparison between these two popular manicure styles.

Dip vs. Acrylic Nails: Which Should You Choose?

If you want a manicure that’s relatively quick and straightforward yet produces stunning and robust results - even on fragile nails - consider dip nails.

Consider acrylics if you want to add incredible length and shapes (while allowing more room for impressive nail art).

FAQ

Is Acrylic Dip The Same as Dip Powder?

Although they are similar and can be used interchangeably, the application will vary when using acrylic dip powder over “actual” dip powder.

That’s because acrylic powder contains nail glue (resin), while dip powder does not.

So, when using an acrylic dip in place of dip powder, you will need to apply glue before you dip nails directly into the acrylic powder.