Why Regular Nail Polish Doesn’t Last as Long as Gel Polish: A Breakdown

Written By Jenny C

When it comes to manicures, one of the biggest decisions we face is whether to go with regular lacquer nail polish or opt for gel polish. While both options can deliver stunning results, the key difference lies in their longevity. If you’ve ever noticed that your regular polish starts chipping after just a few days, whereas gel polish seems to last much longer, you’re not alone. There’s a scientific reason behind it, and we’re here to break it down for you!

1. The Formula Difference

One of the main reasons regular lacquer polish doesn't last as long as gel polish comes down to the difference in their formulas.

  • Regular nail polish is composed of solvents (like ethyl acetate or butyl acetate), pigments, and film-forming agents. Once applied, the solvents evaporate, leaving behind a thin film of color on your nails.

  • Gel polish, on the other hand, has a more complex composition, often including polymer resins that harden under UV or LED light. This creates a thicker, more durable layer that bonds more strongly to the nail surface.

2. Drying vs. Curing

Another big factor in the longevity of these two types of polish is how they dry or harden.

  • Regular nail polish air-dries over time as the solvents evaporate. This process can leave the polish more vulnerable to smudges or chips, especially in the first few hours after application.

  • Gel polish is cured using a UV or LED lamp. The curing process chemically hardens the gel, making it immediately resilient and resistant to everyday wear and tear. As soon as your hands are out of the lamp, your nails are fully dry and hard, ready to withstand whatever you throw at them!

3. Durability and Wear

Gel polish is known for its exceptional durability and long wear.

  • Regular polish is thinner and more flexible. This makes it easier for the polish to crack or chip as your nails bend or come into contact with different surfaces.

  • Gel polish forms a more rigid and sturdy layer over the nail. Because it adheres so strongly and resists bending, it doesn’t chip or peel as easily, often lasting up to two to three weeks.

4. Exposure to Environmental Elements

From water to cleaning products, our hands are constantly exposed to external elements that can wear down nail polish.

  • Regular polish is more porous, which means it’s more likely to absorb moisture or oils. This can cause it to weaken and lift from the nail plate, leading to quicker chipping.

  • Gel polish forms a waterproof seal on your nails, making it far less prone to being affected by water, heat, or chemicals, which explains its longer-lasting finish.

5. Application Technique

The way each polish is applied also plays a part in its longevity.

  • Regular polish involves multiple layers, starting with a base coat, followed by the polish itself, and topped off with a top coat. Each layer needs to dry properly before the next is applied, which can increase the risk of smudging or uneven layers.

  • Gel polish is applied similarly but cured layer by layer under a UV/LED lamp. This ensures each coat is fully hardened before moving to the next, resulting in a smooth, even, and long-lasting finish.

6. Removal Process

The removal process for regular and gel polish also highlights why gel lasts longer.

  • Regular polish can be removed easily with acetone or regular polish remover, which means the polish isn’t as strongly bonded to the nail. This makes it more prone to lifting and chipping.

  • Gel polish requires soaking in acetone and careful removal due to its stronger bond. This indicates that gel polish adheres more securely to your nails, contributing to its long-lasting power.

Which Is Right for You?

So, why doesn’t regular nail polish last as long as gel polish? It’s all about the science behind the formulas, the curing process, and the way each type of polish interacts with your nails and the environment.

If you’re looking for a quick, easy manicure for a special occasion or just like to change your nail color often, regular polish might be your go-to. But if you’re after a durable, chip-resistant manicure that lasts for weeks, gel polish is definitely the better option.

No matter which you choose, proper application and care will always make a big difference in how long your manicure lasts. So treat your nails right and enjoy beautiful, long-lasting results!

Have you tried gel polish yet? Let us know in the comments which type of manicure is your favorite! 💅

Jenny C
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