7 Acrylic Liquid Substitutes For Nails [With Pros and Cons]

Acrylic nails have been a popular choice for nail enhancements for many years. They are durable, long-lasting, and can be customized in various colors, shapes, and designs. Acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid acrylic and a powdered polymer to create a dough-like substance that can be shaped onto the nail.

However, traditional acrylic liquid can be harsh and can cause allergic reactions in some people. As a result, many nail technicians and clients have been turning to acrylic liquid substitutes that offer similar results without the harsh chemicals.

In this article, we will explore some of the most popular acrylic liquid substitutes for nails and their advantages and disadvantages.

1) Polygel:

Polygel is a hybrid product that combines the best features of both acrylic and gel nails. It is a cross between a hard gel and acrylic, providing a lightweight, strong, and flexible option.

Polygel is applied using a brush-on technique and cured under a UV lamp. It is odorless, and unlike traditional acrylics, it does not require mixing. Polygel can be easily filed and shaped, and it does not lift or crack. It is also non-toxic and non-damaging to the natural nail.

Advantages:

• Lightweight and flexible
• Easy to shape and file
• Non-toxic and non-damaging
• Odorless

Disadvantages:

• Requires a UV lamp for curing
• Can be more expensive than traditional acrylics

2) Dip Powder Activator:

Dip Powder is a powder-based system that creates a durable, long-lasting finish on the nails. The process involves applying a base coat, dipping the nail into a colored powder, and repeating the process until the desired thickness is achieved. Dip Powder is then sealed with a topcoat, creating a glossy finish. Dip Powder is available in various colors and finishes, and it is easy to apply.

Advantages:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to apply
• No strong odors
• Available in various colors and finishes

Disadvantages:

• Requires a base coat and topcoat
• Can be messy to apply
• Difficult to remove

3) Acrygel:

Acrygel is a combination of acrylic and gel, providing a strong, durable finish that is also flexible. Acrygel is applied using a brush-on technique, similar to traditional acrylics, and it is cured under a UV lamp. Acrygel is ideal for clients who prefer a natural-looking finish and a thinner layer of product on their nails.

Advantages:

• Durable and flexible
• Easy to apply
• Thinner layer of product
• Non-toxic and non-damaging

Disadvantages:

• Requires a UV lamp for curing
• May require a longer curing time than traditional acrylics
• Can be more expensive than traditional acrylics

4) Hard Gel:

Hard Gel is a clear, gel-like substance that is applied to the nails using a brush-on technique. Hard Gel is cured under a UV lamp, and it provides a strong, durable finish that is ideal for clients who prefer a natural-looking finish. Hard Gel can be easily filed and shaped, and it is available in various colors and finishes.

Advantages:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to apply
• Available in various colors and finishes
• Non-toxic and non-damaging

Disadvantages:

• Requires a UV lamp for curing
• Can be more expensive than traditional acrylics
• May require more maintenance than traditional acrylics

5) Nail Wraps

Nail wraps are a flexible, adhesive material that is applied to the nails to provide strength and support. Nail wraps are available in various colors and patterns, and they are an excellent alternative for clients who do not want to add length to their nails. Nail wraps can be easily removed, and they do not require any harsh chemicals.

6) Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. While it has some uses in the nail industry, it is not a substitute for acrylic liquid.

When used in the nail industry, hydrogen peroxide is typically used as a disinfectant for tools and equipment. It can also be used to clean and sanitize the nail bed before applying nail products, although it is not as commonly used for this purpose as rubbing alcohol.

Advantages of using hydrogen peroxide in the nail industry include its effectiveness as a disinfectant and its ability to kill bacteria and germs. It is also widely available and affordable.

However, hydrogen peroxide is not a suitable replacement for acrylic liquid when it comes to attaching nail extensions. It does not have the adhesive properties needed to bond nail enhancements to the natural nail, and it is not strong enough to provide the necessary support for artificial nails.

7) Rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is also sometimes used as a substitute for acrylic liquid in the nail industry, although it is not an ideal replacement.

When used in the nail industry, rubbing alcohol is typically used as a nail prep solution to clean and sanitize the nail bed before applying nail products. It can also be used to remove any residue or oils from the nail surface to ensure proper adhesion of nail enhancements.

Advantages of using rubbing alcohol in the nail industry include its effectiveness as a disinfectant and its ability to dry quickly. It is also widely available and affordable.

However, rubbing alcohol is not a suitable replacement for acrylic liquid when it comes to attaching nail extensions. It does not have the adhesive properties needed to bond nail enhancements to the natural nail, and it is not strong enough to provide the necessary support for artificial nails.

Conclusion

In conclusion, acrylic liquid substitutes have become a popular choice for nail enhancements due to their non-toxic and non-damaging properties. Polygel, Dip Powder, Acrygel, Hard Gel, and Nail Wraps are excellent alternatives to traditional acrylics and can provide a strong, durable finish without the use of harsh chemicals. It is recommended to consult with a professional nail technician to determine the best product and technique for your nails.