March 22, 2023

Acrylic vs. Dip Powder: What makes them different?

In the world of ever changing nail enhancements, it’s important to understand the key differences between the various options available so you can make the best choice for yourself or your clients. Today, we’ll delve into the difference between acrylic and dip powder nails, talk about what’s actually different, what’s similar, and introduce you to an innovative solution that allows you to have both dip powder and acrylic- All-in-One!

Acrylic Nails: What You Need to Know

Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking for a durable and long-lasting nail enhancement. This nail enhancement involves the use of a liquid (monomer) and a powder (polymer) which, when combined, undergo a polymerization process to create a strong, hard material that adheres to the natural nail and creates a long-lasting nail extension. The acrylic is typically sculpted onto the natural nail, using an acrylic nail brush, and then shaped and filed to the desired length and shape.

What is acrylic powder?

Acrylic powder is a key component in the acrylic nail enhancement process. Made from a blend of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), color pigments, and other ingredients, it is designed to bond specifically with Ethyl Methacrylate (EMA) monomer, to form a strong, durable nail enhancement. When the acrylic powder is combined with the liquid monomer, it forms a mixture that hardens as it dries, resulting in a long-lasting and sturdy finish that can withstand daily wear and tear. Acrylic powder is available in various colors and finishes, allowing for endless creativity and personalization. Although acrylic nails are renowned for their strength and longevity, this process usually requires a professional touch to ensure optimal nail health and prevent potential damage to the natural nail.

Dip Powder: What You Need to Know

Dip powder nails are a relatively new addition to the world of nail enhancements, with brands like Kiara Sky Nails creating their revolutionary dip powders in early 2008. This technique involves dipping the nails into a colored powder, which contains a blend of pigment, acrylates, and other ingredients. The nail is then coated with a special resin adhesive, which helps the powder adhere to the nail. Once the process is complete, the nails are sealed with a top coat to create a smooth, durable finish. Dip powder nails are known for their ease of application, they don’t require a UV/LED Light for curing, or monomer, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Is dip powder the same as acrylic?

This question has sparked some debate, but the simple answer is no. Dip powder and acrylic powder are not the same thing. While both contain acrylates, they have distinct added ingredients that allow them to react differently with their respective application methods. Dip powder is designed to work with a set of glazes and adhesives, while acrylic powder is formulated to react with a monomer.

If you’ve attempted to use a monomer with dip powder, you might have noticed that the powder marbled and the white separated from the color. This happens because the pigments in dip powders have different weights than the acrylates, leading them to separate and create an uneven color distribution. In contrast, acrylic powder is specifically crafted with pigments, acrylates, and other ingredients to ensure a smooth, buttery, and even consistency when mixed with a monomer.

What is the difference between dip powder and acrylic?

Though both acrylic and dip powder nails utilize acrylic-based materials, there are several key differences between the two:

Can I use dip powder as acrylic?

As we mentioned earlier, both dip powder and acrylic powder contain acrylates, but they have distinct added ingredients that enable them to chemically react with different application methods. However, in recent years, Kiara Sky Nails developed a new and revolutionary “All-in-One” powder that allows you to use dip powder as acrylic, and acrylic as dip powder, all in one jar!

All-in-One Acrylic: What You Need to Know

In response to the growing demand for versatile nail enhancements, some innovative brands like Kiara Sky Nails have developed the All-in-One acrylic and dip powder system. These products allow nail technicians and DIY enthusiasts to enjoy the benefits of both acrylic and dip powder nails, depending on their preference and skill level, all with the same powder! With this all-in-one system, you can choose to apply the product as an acrylic nail enhancement or use it as a dip powder, 3D art, sugar effects, etc, offering greater flexibility and customization.