SNS vs acrylic nails: Everything you need to know.

November 05, 2022 Post a Comment

Have you been hearing a lot about SNS nails recently? Wanna know how they compare to traditional acrylic nails? This post is all about SNS vs acrylic.

We’re going to clear up any confusion you may have about SNS and how it stacks up against acrylic nails.

When you’re done reading, you’ll know everything you need to know to make the right choice for your next manicure.

Ready to get into it?

Let’s get started.

Here’s everything we’ll cover:

The meaning of SNS in nails.

What does SNS mean in the nail world?

SNS stands for “signature nail systems”.

Most people don’t realize this, but SNS is just a brand name, like Essie or OPI.

SNS is actually a brand of dip powder.

So, put simply, SNS and dip powder are the same thing.

They are both made from acrylic.

However, the acrylic is finely milled and applied differently (dipped) with SNS.

How does SNS compare to acrylic?

Let’s compare SNS and traditional acrylic nails.

Is the nail preparation the same between SNS and acrylic?

Whether you are going to do an SNS manicure or an acrylic manicure, the nail is prepared in the exact same way.

This means filing, buffing, and shaping the nails, applying a primer or bonding agent, and adding tips or forms for extensions.

Is the application method the same for SNS and acrylic nails?

No. the application method is different between SNS and acrylic.

You can do an overlay (just covering the natural nail) or an extension (adding extra length) with both SNS and acrylic.

The main differences between SNS and acrylic nails are the bonding agent used and the method of application.

Acrylic nails are applied using a strong-smelling monomer liquid. But SNS uses a resin-based bonding agent that doesn’t smell as bad.

With traditional acrylics, the nails are applied using a nail art brush dipped in monomer and then into acrylic to form a bead.

With SNS, a bonding agent is applied and the nails are dipped (often 4 or 5 times) into a finely milled acrylic powder.

After the dipping part is done and the shape is correct, an activator is applied to set the nails.

Both SNS and acrylic dry without the need to use a UV or an LED lamp.

Is the removal method the same for sns and acrylic nails?

Basically yes.

Both SNS and acrylic nails can be removed by filing down any excess product and then soaking the fingertips in pure acetone.

SNS nails may be slightly easier to remove though because they are usually thinner and lighter.

Can I get acrylic and SNS nails filled?

Acrtylic nails can easily be filled once they grow out.

There is also a way to fill in dip powder nails like SNS nails.

However, a lot of salons do not offer this service for SNS nails.

Because of the nature of the product, many salons prefer to completely remove the SNS nails and begin again with a whole new set.

Is acrylic or SNS better?

Whether acrylic or SNS nails are going to be better for you depends on your lifestyle and on what you value in a manicure.

Niether acrylic nor SNS are very flexible, so they can both be equally prone to creacks and breakages.

If you want very long nails or an unusual shape, traditional acrylic nails are perhaps a little better.

Traditional acrylic is also better if you are quite rough with your nails.

Acrylic nails are often thicker and more hard wearing than SNS nails, so that;s something to think about when choosing.

If you like a more natural look, then SNS is going to give you that because its much lighter and thinner.

Another thing to think about is how easy the application process is.

SNS nails are much easier to do at home than traditional acrylic nails.

You don’t need a smelly monomer and you don’t need to know any special brush techniques for SNS.

This is one of the key reasons why dip powder nails have become so popular.

In terms of nail health, neither SNS nor acrylic are any better.

Both require the use of acetone to remove which can dry out the nails and make them brittle over time.

Is SNS more expensive than acrylic?

Yes, SNS or dip powder nails are a bit more expensive than acrylic nails.

This is because the product is more expensive and the application process takes longer.

You should expect to pay around $10-$30 more for SNS nails than you would for acrylics.

An acrylic manicure will set you back around $30 – $55.

An SNS application will cost between $50 and $70 on average.

Of course, the price you pay for your nails is going to be affected by the area you live in and the grade of salon that you choose to visit.

Final thoughts

So, there you have it! A comparison of SNS vs acrylic nails.

It really comes down to what your preferences are and what you value most in a manicure.

If you want something more natural looking, then SNS is probably the best choice.

But if you want something that will last a little longer and can take more of a beating, then go for acrylics.

I hope that you found this comparison between SNS vs acrylic useful.

Now, before you go, let’s answer some of your burning questions about SNS vs acrylic.

FAQ’s about SNS nails

What are SNS nails?

SNS nails are acrylic dip powder nails made by a company called SNS.

They are applied using a resin-based bonding agent and then dipped (usually 4 or 5 times) into a finely milled acrylic powder.

After the dipping part is done and the shape is correct, an activator is applied.

How does SNS compare to acrylic nails?

SNS is more expensive but it’s more natural looking.

Both SNS and acrylic nails can be removed by filing down any excess product and then soaking the emails in pure acetone.