Gel Nails and Acrylic Nails, Which Is Best for Northern Adventures?

Summer is a time for plain dwellers to escape the heat and explore the cool northern areas like Nathiagali, Swat, Kaghan, and Kalam Valley. With scenic beauty and refreshing weather, these hill stations make family trips unforgettable. However, when preparing for such adventures, one important, often overlooked detail is nail care.

The right type of nails affects your comfort and style throughout the trip. Among the most popular styling picks are gel nails and acrylic nails. Though both products are unique, only a sound understanding can help you choose your best-suited option. 

This blog details gel and acrylic nails. It also elaborates on costing, debunks some popular myths, and shares essential care tips to ensure your nails remain flawless during your summer excursion.

About Gel Nails

Unlike traditional nail paints, these nails are designed with the help of a gel-based formula. They are cured under a UV or LED light, which hardens the gel and provides a durable, flexible finish that lasts longer than regular polish.

Application 
These gel nail tips come pre-shaped and ready to use. You just need to attach them to your natural nails with adhesive tabs or nail glue, making the process quick and hassle-free. No curing under UV or LED light is required since the nails are already fully finished. 

Appearance
These nails have a naturally thin appearance. They feel light on the fingertips and have less bulk, which makes them comfortable for everyday wear.

Durability and Lifespan
Gel reusable press-on nails come pre-designed with a glossy, natural finish and can be attached at home using adhesive tabs or nail glue. A major advantage is their reusability. If you handle them with care, they can last at least 20 to 25 uses.

Pros & Cons  

These nails do not become brittle in hot weather. However, in case of exposure to chemicals or excessive water, they may chip off easily. This can reduce their durability during activities near streams or waterfalls and require more frequent care in rough conditions.

About Acrylic Nails    

These nails have long been a classic choice for those who want strong, durable nail enhancements. A liquid monomer is mixed with powder polymer, and then the mixture is applied to the nail extensions to make these nails.  

Application  

Acrylics can be attached by pressing them on with adhesive tabs or applying nail glue. This method skips any additional preparation or curing steps.

Appearance
Acrylics are genuinely thicker and stronger as compared to gel nails. That’s why they have a more robust appearance. They can sometimes feel heavier or bulkier, but are preferred for their resilience. The ongoing acrylic nail trends in Pakistan show a strong preference for tough, reliable nails that last long.

Durability and Lifespan

These artificial fingernails do not soften in hot weather. They do not crack easily. You can apply and remove them easily 20 to 25 times during such trips.

Pros & Cons  

Given the rugged terrain and activities involved in northern trips, acrylics offer excellent durability against chips and cracks. They can withstand knocks and scratches better than gel nails. However, because of less flexibility, they can sometimes feel uncomfortable during prolonged physical activities or hiking.  

Environmental Factors  

In the summer season, the climate of northern Pakistan is characterized by pleasant, cooler temperatures compared to the plains, with occasional rain and high humidity in some areas. The terrain includes mountainous paths, forests, streams, and waterfalls.

These conditions pose unique challenges for nail care:

Temperature Fluctuations: Nails may contract or expand slightly with temperature changes, affecting durability.

Thus, make sure to buy the best artificial nails in Pakistan based on these factors for minimal maintenance.

Debunking Myths

Girls often hear a lot on social media about nail types, what’s good, what’s bad, and what could ruin your natural nails. There’s so much advice flying around, it’s easy to get confused. Let’s clear up some common myths so you can make a confident choice without all the noise.

• Gel nails damage natural nails more than acrylics. In reality, damage depends on application and removal techniques, not nail type.
• Acrylic nails are always bulkier and unnatural. That’s untrue because modern acrylic techniques can create thin, natural-looking nails.
• Gel nails do not last as long as acrylics. That’s no longer the case. While acrylics often last longer, gel nails can be equally durable with proper care.
• Acrylic nails cause more infections than gel nails. The truth is, both types carry a risk only if hygiene and application practices are poor. Only proper care prevents infections.
• Gel nails are extremely rigid for removal. Who said that? The reality is that gel nails often soak off faster, while acrylic removal may require more filing or longer soaking.

Cost Comparison

When you look at the nail price in Pakistan, acrylics usually cost less than gel nails. For instance, at NailsQueen.pk, gel nails cost about 1400 PKR, while acrylics are offered around 1000 PKR. Even though acrylics are cheap, affordable gel nails in Pakistan require low maintenance and give a lasting, natural look.

Shapes & Styles for Your Trip

The right shape can help you enjoy your excursion because of certain qualities, for instance:

• Round: Best for durability and less prone to breaking, ideal for outdoor adventure with either gel or acrylic nails.
• Ballerina (Coffin): Stylish and trendy but more fragile, better suited for gel nails if you want style without sacrificing comfort.
• Square: Strong edges but prone to chipping; acrylic nails handle this shape better in rugged conditions.
• Almond: Elegant and natural-looking, it works well with gel nails.

For northern trips, round or almond-shaped gel nails offer durable comfort, while acrylics allow for more dramatic shapes like ballerina or square with long-lasting strength.

Travel Essentials

To keep your nails fresh on your northern vacation, pack:

• Nail file and buffer: This is for quick smoothing of any chips or rough edges.
  
• Cuticle oil: Hydrate nails and maintain moisture, especially in a dry mountain climate.
  
• Nail glue: Useful for minor repairs of lifted or broken nails.
  
• Hand moisturizer: Protects skin and nails from dryness caused by weather changes.
  
• Topcoat polish: For gel nails, a travel-size topcoat can extend shine and protection.

Remember to avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged water exposure. Always dry your hands thoroughly after washing or swimming. An artificial nail kit consisting of all these essentials makes maintenance easier while you travel.

Bottom Line

Both gel and acrylic nails offer clear advantages for northern trips. Gel nails feel light and provide comfort and style without bulk. Acrylics provide strong and durable protection against rough outdoor conditions. The choice depends on how much time is spent near water or on physical activities during the trip. With proper care and maintenance, either type lasts well in the northern climate. Considering the terrain, weather, and preference for a sleek or tough finish ensures nails remain flawless throughout the adventure. Thus, by understanding the differences between acrylic nails vs gel nails in Pakistan, you can make a confident selection.

Author: Eshal Irfan