I’ve always been a nail girl. Since I was 16, I’ve been getting my nails done—acrylics, tips, you name it. There’s just something so empowering about having long, almond-shaped nails. When they’re done, I feel like I can take on the world.
When I first started going to my regular nail salon, I got acrylics because I liked that they could be filled in. One day, my nail tech suggested I try dip nails again. I’d done dip in the past but didn’t love it, so I was hesitant. Still, I gave it a shot and stuck with it—for a while.
Don’t get me wrong, I loved my dip nails.
But they’re expensive. A set for me is usually around $70 because I get tips, almond shape, and sometimes a design. On top of that, I noticed my nails were getting stuck in my hair when I washed it, and it really hurt. I finally decided to take them off.
As my next appointment approached, I realized I probably wouldn’t have the money for a dip set. That’s when I decided to try gel nails instead. They were half the price of my usual dip set, so I figured, “Why not?” If I hated it, I could always go back to dip.
At the salon, my nail tech tried hard to convince me to stick with dip. She said gel nails would chip and I’d have to come back sooner. But I stood my ground and got the gel set.
Game. Changer.
First, the process was so quick! My dip sets usually take 45 minutes to an hour, but I was done in 20 minutes. Even my mom was surprised when I got in the car, asking, “Are you sure you got them done?”
As I wore the gel set, I realized how much easier life was with shorter, lighter nails. I could type on my computer without typos, text without mistakes, and even wash my hair without worrying about getting my nails stuck.
That first gel set lasted over two weeks. While there was a little chipping toward the end, it wasn’t noticeable like it is with regular polish.
When I went back for a new set, I stuck with gel.
The removal process was way better than with dip nails. I absolutely hate how dip nails are removed—the drill burns, and I can’t relax. With gel, they used a plastic cone-shaped tool instead of a blade, and it didn’t hurt at all. After soaking in acetone, my nails looked healthy and clean, unlike the damage I usually see after dip.
The only thing I don’t love about gel nails is putting my hands under the UV light. It burns sometimes, but it’s a small price to pay for how much better they feel overall.
For now, I’m sticking with gel nails. They’re quicker, cheaper, and less damaging than dip. I’m excited to see how long I can grow my nails with this new method.
Do you get your nails done? What’s your go-to? Let me know in the comments!
Featured image via Oleg Ivanov on Unsplash
Switching to gel dip polish for a longer lasting finish. Just like mastering skills in gunspin requires the right tools and techniques.