What are Overlay Nails & Which is Best: Gel, Acrylic or Dip

Overlay nails are artificial nails that are applied over the top of your own natural nails. They can be made from a variety of materials, including acrylic, gel, fibreglass, and silk. Overlay nails are a popular way to achieve a long, polished look, and they can also help to protect your natural nails from damage.

However, it is important to ensure that they are applied correctly and cared for properly in order to avoid damaging your natural nails.

Benefits of Overlay Nails

1. Proof shields and strengthens your nails so that you can grow them out long and strong. Overlay Nails would provide a strong, protective layer over your nails, making them stronger and more resistant to damage.
2. Nail extensions can feel heavy and unnatural, but our product feels lighter and more natural.  With overlay nails, you’ll use less product, and your nails will feel lighter as a result. Nail extensions use more product, which makes them thicker and heavier.
3. Last Longer than Nail Extensions. Since overlay nails are shorter and have less surface area, they are less likely to lift prematurely.
4. More durable than a nail polish manicure. Depending on the type of product used, overlay nails can last 3-4 weeks or longer. In contrast, nail polishes would only last 5-7 days.
5. Nail Extensions are typically more expensive than regular nail care. Applying overlay nails is quicker and requires less product than other methods.

Who Should Get Overlay Nails

Overlay nails are ideal if you:

1. Have weak and brittle nails – By using a nail product like dip powder or gel, you are protecting and reinforcing your nails which will allow them to heal and become stronger.
2. Want a strong and durable manicure without nail extensions – Overlay nails are a type of fake nail that adheres to your natural nail. They are perfect for people who want a long-lasting manicure without having to grow out their own nails..
3. If your occupation doesn’t allow you to have long nails, but you want a more durable manicure than just regular nail polish.

Which Type of Overlay Nails are Best

The type of overlay nails will depend on what product is used. The main products used to make Overlay Nails are:

1. Dip Powder – (Feels natural, easy to apply, yet durable & safe & healthy for your natural nails)
2. Acrylic Overlay – (Most widely available & durable & long-lasting)
3. Gel Overlays (Lighter and feels more natural when compared to acrylic)
4. Polygel Nails

1. Dip Powder

If you’re looking for a natural and durable nail overlay, dip powder nails are a great option. Dip powder is made of a variety of materials, including acrylic, gel, fibreglass, and silk, and can be applied over your own natural nails.

It is important to ensure that they are applied correctly and cared for properly in order to avoid damaging your natural nails.

Benefits of dip powder nails

• Proof shields and strengthens your nails so that you can grow them out long and strong.
• Are a strong and durable manicure without nail extensions.
• Lasts longer than nail extensions.
• Are more durable than a nail polish manicure.
• Are typically more expensive than regular nail care.
• Use less product than other methods, making them lighter and feel more natural.

Drawback of Dip Powder Overlay

• Not Widely Available in Nail Salons – Because dip powder is a new product, not many salons offer the service. But you can buy it online and do it yourself at home easily.
• Tends to Cost More – Dip Powder Nails usually cost more than other types of manicures.

How to apply Dip Powder Overlay

Recommended Dip Powder Kit to Apply At Home

2- Acrylic Overlay Nails

The majority of people get acrylic overlay nails because they are widely available and require little maintenance.

The only difference between Acrylic Overlay Nails and a conventional acrylic manicure is that your natural nails are not extended.

Benefits of Acrylic Overlay Nails

1. One of the many reasons to choose acrylic overlays is that they are much more durable than other types of overlays. They can last up to 6-7 weeks, but will need a fill-in every 2-3 weeks as your nails grow.
2. Acrylic Overlays are extra strong and can endure a lot, meaning they will protect and enlarge your natural nails.
3. you can find this product easily
4. Acrylic overlays are typically more affordable than other types of overlay nails.

Drawbacks of Acrylic Overlay Nails

1. Applying and removing acrylic can be tough, especially if you’re not getting the right liquid-to-powder ratio.
2. Can be Harsh on your Natural Nails – Acrylic nails are applied and removed using strong chemicals and a lot of filing, which can damage your nail plate.
3. Acrylic Overlays will feel heavier and more unusual when compared to other types of overlay nails.

3- Gel Overlay Nails

Gel Overlay Nails are created by using a hard builder gel to cover your natural nails. Gel polishes do not offer the same level of protection as an overlay nail manicure. The second most popular type of Overnail Manicure is the Gel Overlay Manicure.

Gel Overlay Nails Vs Acrylic Overlay

gel overlays are usually better than acrylics because:

1. Less harsh on your nails – because they use milder chemicals
2. Looks better and feels more natural – One advantage of gel nails over acrylic nails is that they are lighter.
3. Does a great job protecting your natural nails – The main disadvantages of gel overlays, when compared to acrylics, are that they cost more and require a UV lamp for curing.

How Long do Gel Overlay Nails Last?

The average lifespan for gel overlay nails is 3-4 weeks, though this varies depending on your chosen activity level and how carefully the nails were applied.

4- Polygel Overlay Nails

Polygel is a innovative nail product that combines both acrylic and gel properties. Polygel is also commonly referred to as a hybrid gel.

Polygel nails offer a better alternative to both gel and acrylic overlays. They are easier to apply but provide all the benefits of both products.

Although Polygel is effective for creating overlay nails, it is not as good as Dip Powder. The main reason being that Polygel, similar to gel and acrylic, is meant to extend the length of your nails rather than add strength.

If you’re looking for a way to have beautiful nails without visiting a salon, consider Polygel Nails.

You can check out the video below to see how to apply polygel overlay nails.

Recommended Polygel Kit

The Morovan Polygel Kit is perfect for beginners as it includes everything needed to create beautiful Polygel nails.

You can click here to see the current price for one on Amazon.

How to apply overlay nails at home

Applying overlay nails at home is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started. First, it’s important to choose the right size nails for your fingers. If the nails are too small, they will look unnatural and uncomfortable. On the other hand, if the nails are too large, they may not stay on properly.

Second, you need to make sure that your natural nails are clean and free of any oils or debris. This will help the overlay adhere better. Finally, when applying the overlay, be sure to start at the cuticle and work your way out. Once the overlay is in place, you can use a file to shape the nails as desired. With a little practice, you’ll be able to apply overlay nails like a pro!

How to remove overlay nails without damaging your natural nails

Overlay nails are a type of artificial nail that is applied over your natural nail. They are usually made of acrylic or gel, and they can last for several weeks. However, when it’s time to remove them, you need to be careful so that you don’t damage your natural nails. The first step is to soak your nails in acetone for 10-15 minutes. This will dissolve the artificial nails and make them easier to remove.

Next, use a nail file to gently scrape away the softened acrylic or gel. Be sure to avoid filing too deeply, as this could damage your natural nails. Finally, use a cotton ball soaked in acetone to remove any remaining residue. With a little care, you can easily remove overlay nails without damaging your natural nails.