Polygel, Acrygel and Liquid Acrygel for Nail Extensions and Strengthening
Polygel and acrygel combine the strength of a builder gel with the workability of acrylic. The thick material does not run, so you can shape it calmly, and it cures only in a UV/LED lamp, with no liquid monomer. "Polygel" and "acrygel" are names different brands use for the same type of material, and each formula differs mainly in density and flexibility.
Thick Polygel and Acrygel – Extensions and Repairs
Thick polygels and acrygels come in jars or tubes. Take a portion with a spatula, place it on the nail or form and spread and shape it with a brush dampened with slip solution. They are ideal for extensions on upper or paper forms, rebuilding broken corners, correcting the nail shape and fixing 3D designs.
Liquid Acrygel – Strengthening with Self-Levelling
Liquid acrygel comes in a bottle with a brush and sits between a base and a polygel. It is applied like a base and levels itself on the nail, yet it is firm enough to strengthen the nail and extend the corners. It is the quickest way to strengthen natural nails and build thin overlays.
How to Choose
- Technique: thick polygel or acrygel for extensions on forms, liquid acrygel for strengthening and overlays.
- Shade: clear for extensions and the free edge, camouflage and milky shades for a natural look; liquid acrygels also come in a wide palette of colours.
- Packaging: a tube dispenses an exact portion, while a jar makes it easy to pick up the material with a spatula.
- Slip solution: essential for thick polygels and acrygels, not needed for liquid acrygels.
Polygels and Acrygels by Brand
- DARK: polygel in jars with a soft, play-dough-like consistency.
- TOUCH: clay-like polygels in 30 ml jars, also suitable for creating and fixing 3D designs.
- DNKa': thick three-phase Acryl Gel in jars and tubes, and liquid Fast Gel with a base-like consistency.
- LUNAmoon: Light Acrygel liquid acrygels that combine polygel and base, in a wide range of shades.
- Kodi: Slip fluide smoothing and shaping liquid.
Complete Your Set
Shape thick polygel with a dedicated polygel brush, build length on upper and paper forms and cure in a UV/LED nail lamp. Prepare the nail with prep liquids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between polygel and acrygel?
Mostly the name. Both are thick UV/LED gels that hold their shape, and the formulas of individual brands differ in density and flexibility. Liquid acrygel has a different consistency: it is self-levelling and comes in a bottle with a brush.
Do I need slip solution?
Yes, for thick polygels and acrygels. Slip solution keeps the material from sticking to the brush and helps you shape it smoothly. Liquid acrygels are applied without it.
Polygel or liquid acrygel – which is easier for beginners?
Liquid acrygel is applied straight from the bottle like a base, so most beginners find it easier. Thick polygel needs a little practice with slip solution but gives more control over long extensions.
Can polygel repair a broken nail?
Yes. Polygels and acrygels are used to repair damaged edges and cracks and to rebuild a broken corner until the next infill.
Can I use polygel for 3D designs?
Yes. Clay-like polygels hold small 3D elements well and can also be used to fix decorations on the nail.
