Are Acrylics Making a Comeback?
For years, builder gel has dominated salon appointment books, becoming the go-to choice for clients wanting strong, natural-looking nails. But recently, acrylics have been making a noticeable return. So, is this classic nail system officially making a comeback?
We caught up with nail technician and content creator Nicole, also known as @nudeynails, to get her take on why acrylics are regaining popularity and why they continue to have an important place in the nail industry.
Why Are Acrylics Still So Popular?
One of the biggest reasons acrylics have stood the test of time is their strength. Acrylic remains one of the strongest nail enhancement systems available, making it ideal for repairing broken nails, creating extensions, and providing durable overlays for clients whose natural nails are prone to breaking.
Thanks to this strength, acrylic enhancements can offer long-lasting wear with minimal signs of wear and tear between appointments.
Builder Gel vs Acrylic: Which Clients Suit Each System?
According to Nicole, choosing between builder gel and acrylic should always start with a consultation.
While many clients arrive knowing what treatment they want, it's still important for nail technicians to understand their lifestyle, nail goals and expectations before recommending a system.
Questions Nicole asks include:
- Do you want to add length to your nails?
- Are you hoping to grow your natural nails over time?
- Is this a one-off appointment or will you maintain regular infills?
- What condition are your natural nails currently in?
- Are your nails naturally flexible?
- Do you work with your hands throughout the day?
The answers help determine which system will provide the best long-term results.
Which Nail System Lasts Best?
For clients who are particularly hard on their nails, Nicole often finds acrylics deliver better durability.
"When builder gel first became popular, I had lots of clients make the switch. However, some clients with manual jobs or very active lifestyles found that as their natural nails grew longer, they experienced more chips and fractures due to the flexibility of the gel."
For these clients, switching to an acrylic overlay helped solve the issue, providing additional strength while still allowing them to grow their natural nails underneath.
A Creative Favourite for Nail Techs
While both systems offer endless possibilities, acrylics hold a special place for many nail artists.
Nicole credits acrylics as one of the reasons she fell in love with the industry in the first place.
"The creativity around acrylics was incredible. New brands were launching, coloured powders were everywhere, and nail artists were pushing the boundaries with ombrés, sculpted French sets, encapsulated glitters and crystal designs."
Although gel nail art remains hugely popular today, acrylics continue to provide a versatile foundation for more intricate and advanced nail designs.
So, Are Acrylics Making a Comeback?
Nicole believes the answer is yes.
Rather than replacing builder gel or other enhancement systems, acrylics are finding their place alongside them as part of a more personalised approach to nail services.
As clients become more aware of the different options available, nail technicians are increasingly able to recommend systems based on lifestyle, nail condition and desired results, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
And with a new generation of nail artists embracing acrylic techniques, Nicole is excited to see how the trend evolves.
"Acrylics are definitely making a comeback, and I can't wait to see how they transform creatively this time around. Hopefully, they'll continue to sit alongside other popular nail systems and become an even more valuable part of a prescriptive manicure service."
You may also enjoy…
Builder in a Bottle Guide: BIAB Nails Explained – Salons Direct
The Ultimate Bridal Nail Inspiration Guide for 2026 – Salons Direct
60 Summer Nail Designs You Need To Try For 2026 – Salons Direct
Most Profitable Nail Services to Offer This Summer 2026 | Salon Growth Tips – Salons Direct
Follow Salons Direct on Instagram
