Shellac vs Gel vs BIAB vs Acrylic vs SNS: The Ultimate Guide
What is the difference between Shellac, Gel, BIAB, Acrylic and SNS nails?
Expert comparison to help you choose the perfect manicure for your nails and lifestyle
Walking into a nail salon can be overwhelming with all the options: Shellac, Gel, BIAB, Acrylic, SNS. It's confusing trying to figure out which one is best for your nails.
Each system has unique advantages and disadvantages that affect everything from the final look to the health of your natural nails. This expert guide breaks down exactly what each manicure type offers so you can make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Shellac vs Gel vs BIAB vs Acrylic vs SNS
| Feature | Shellac | Gel Polish | BIAB | Acrylic | SNS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Branded hybrid polish | Liquid polish cured under lamp | Builder gel for strength | Liquid & powder mixture | Dipped powder system |
| Best For | Natural look & shine | Durability with natural feel | Strengthening natural nails | Length & extensions | Lightweight durability |
| Application | Brush-on, UV/LED cure | Brush-on, UV/LED cure | Brush-on, UV/LED cure | Sculpted, air dries | Dipped, sealed with activator |
| Feel on Nail | Thin & flexible | Thin & flexible | Strong but flexible | Can be thick & hard | Lightweight |
| Durability | 2-3 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 3-5 weeks | 3-6 weeks | 3-4 weeks |
| Removal | Acetone soak-off (easy) | Acetone soak-off (easy) | Acetone soak-off (moderate) | Soaked off with difficulty | Acetone soak-off (moderate) |
| Damage Risk | Low | Low | Very Low | High | Medium |
Detailed Breakdown of Each Nail System
1. Shellac: The Branded Hybrid
What it is: Shellac is actually a brand name by Creative Nail Design (CND), not a different type of product. It's a hybrid system that combines the ease of regular polish with the durability of gel.
Pros
- Gentle on nails when removed properly
- No dry time - cured instantly under lamp
- Wide range of trendy colors
- Natural, thin finish
Cons
- Doesn't add strength or length
- Brand-specific system
- Limited to CND color range
Who it's for: Ideal for anyone who wants a long-lasting, glossy manicure on their natural nails without damage risk.
2. Gel Polish: The Durable Classic
What it is: This is the generic category that includes any polish requiring UV/LED curing. Shellac falls under this category along with other brands.
Pros
- Extreme durability and chip resistance
- Wide availability at most salons
- Flexible but strong formula
- High-gloss, flawless finish
Cons
- Requires UV/LED lamp for curing
- Improper removal can damage nails
- Can be difficult to apply perfectly at home
Who it's for: Almost everyone - it's the go-to for long-lasting, low-maintenance manicures on natural nails.
Expert Recommendation
Ambedo Solid Nail Gels: For a unique at-home experience, Ambedo offers solid gel formulas that provide high-shine, long-lasting results with mess-free application. Unlike traditional liquid gels, they don't drip and are easier to control.
3. Builder Gel (BIAB): The Nail Strengthener
What it is: Builder Gel, often called BIAB (Builder In A Bottle), is a thicker gel designed to add strength and structure to natural nails. It can be used as a protective overlay or for subtle extensions.
Pros
- Strengthens and protects natural nails
- Helps weak, brittle nails grow out
- Strong but flexible - reduces break risk
- Soak-off removal (unlike acrylics)
Cons
- Requires skill for proper application
- Thicker layers take longer to remove
- Can feel thicker than regular gel
Who it's for: Anyone with weak, damaged nails who wants to strengthen them, or those wanting more strength than standard gel offers.
Expert Recommendation
Ambedo 5-in-1 Fibre Fix Builder Gel (BIAB): This all-in-one product acts as base, builder, top coat, and nail strengthener infused with fibres. Perfect for creating resilient, flexible overlays that protect and repair natural nails.
4. Acrylic: The Ultimate Extension
What it is: Acrylic is a system combining liquid monomer and powder polymer that hardens in air. It's used for strong extensions or adding significant strength.
Pros
- Unbeatable strength and durability
- Best choice for dramatic length extensions
- Long-lasting (3-6 weeks with infills)
- Great for intricate 3D nail art
Cons
- High damage risk with improper application/removal
- Strong chemical fumes during application
- Can feel thick and heavy on nails
- Difficult removal process
Who it's for: Anyone wanting dramatic length extensions or with very weak nails needing heavy-duty reinforcement.
5. SNS Dip Powder: The Lightweight Alternative
What it is: SNS (Stand N' Seal) is a brand name for a dip powder system where nails are dipped into colored acrylic powder.
Pros
- No UV/LED lamp required
- Lightweight feel compared to acrylic
- Durable and long-lasting
- Natural-looking finish
Cons
- Hygiene concerns with communal powder pots
- Possible 'Dip Flu' allergic reactions
- Multiple layers make removal time-consuming
- Can be drying to natural nails
Who it's for: Someone who wants acrylic-like durability in a lighter form and doesn't react to the powder dust.
Expert Verdict: Which Manicure Should You Choose?
Choose Shellac or Gel Polish if:
You love your natural nail length and just want a flawless, chip-resistant color. Both offer beautiful results with minimal damage risk when properly applied and removed.
Choose Builder Gel (BIAB) if:
Your natural nails are weak, peeling, or you need a protective shield to help them grow. It's the perfect middle ground between regular gel and acrylics.
Choose Acrylic if:
You want to add significant length via extensions or have exceptionally weak nails that need heavy-duty reinforcement.
Choose SNS Dip Powder if:
You want strong, long-lasting manicures that feel lightweight and you prefer to avoid UV/LED lamps (provided you're not sensitive to the powders).
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.