What distinguishes hard gels from soft gels?

Hard gels are characterized by their ability to cure to a firm finish, which makes them ideal for creating structured, durable enhancements on the nails. This firmness allows nail technicians to file and shape the hard gels much like acrylic nails, providing a high level of control and precision in nail design. Additionally, hard gels are designed for longevity, making them less prone to chipping or breaking compared to other formulations.

On the other hand, soft gels are designed to be more flexible and can be soaked off with a solvent, which is beneficial for quick removal and is preferred for temporary enhancements. Soft gels typically have a more malleable and lighter texture, making them suitable for certain applications where flexibility is an advantage.

The difference in properties between hard and soft gels is significant, particularly in terms of application techniques, durability, and removal processes, which makes the distinction emphasized in this choice accurate and important for understanding the materials used in nail technology.