Gel, Shellac, SNS or Acrylic? The Real Difference Between Nail Types (Finally Explained!)

"Shellac? SNS? Gel? Acrylic? What the heck is the difference??"

We hear it all the time — "I don't even know what's on my nails!"

If you've ever sat at a salon chair staring blankly at the options... you're not alone.

Here's your ultimate guide to understanding the actual difference between all the types of nail enhancements — so you can choose what suits your lifestyle (and nails) best 💅🏼

Before We Start: The Truth About Brand Names

Let’s get one thing clear — SNS, BIAB and Shellac are brand names, not types of nails.

They became household names (like Panadol or Bandaid) because they were the first on the market — but what you're really asking is about the technique behind the brand.

The Nail Systems Explained

Nail Lacquer

• Just your standard nail polish (aka nail varnish)

• Comes in all shades, applied without UV/LED lamps

• Lasts 3–10 days, depending on your lifestyle

• Easily removed with non-acetone remover

• No damage to your natural nails

Gel Lacquer aka Shellac

• A hybrid of polish and gel, applied from a bottle

• Cured under LED lamp between layers (30 sec each)

• Lightweight, flexible — but chip-free and long-lasting

• Lasts 10–15 days (or more with care!)

• Removed by soaking - Shellac is just a popular brand of gel lacquer

Gel Nails

• Comes in a pot, applied with a small brush

• Needs curing under LED lamp

• You’ll hear “hard gel” vs “soft gel” (refers to flexibility)3 common application methods:

  • Gel overlay on natural nails

  • Tips with gel overlay

  • Sculpted extensions with forms

• Lasts 2–4 weeks, can be infilled or soaked off

Dipping Powder System

• Often mistaken for "SNS nails"

• Still technically acrylic, just in a powder form

• Liquid base applied, then nails dipped in coloured powder

• Slightly thicker than gel, but thinner than acrylic

• Lasts 10 days to 3 weeks

• Must be soaked off and reapplied every time

Acrylic Nails

• The strongest system – tough like concrete

• Mixed on the spot: liquid + powder that hardens on contact

• Applied as overlays, tips or sculpted extensions

• Great for those rough on their hands

• Lasts 2–4 weeks before needing an infill

• But… contains stronger chemicals than other options

So, What Should You Choose?

Your perfect match depends on:

• Your lifestyle (do you use your hands a lot?)

• Your desired look (natural vs bold)

• Your maintenance preferences (infill vs soak-off)

When in doubt? Ask your nail tech! At Inner Beauty Lennox, we’re here to guide you with zero judgment and lots of sparkle.

Not sure which mani is right for you?

Pop by Inner Beauty Lennox and let’s chat nails!

We offer expert advice, walk-ins welcome, and a full menu of nail services — from express polish to long-lasting enhancements

You’ll find us in the heart of Lennox Head - Shop 4/90-92 Ballina St, Lennox Head NSW 2478

Book your Glow NOW