Pros & Cons of Different Manicures for Your Wedding Day

Your nails on your wedding day are a fun detail worth investing in! Your nails and hands are going to show in so many of your wedding photos. Having the perfect manicure on your wedding day is more important than some may think! When choosing what type of manicure you are going to get, read through this list to see what is the best option for you.

Basic Polish Manicure

Pros: Basic polish is something we all are very familiar with and we likely have had it on our nails multiple times in our life. It is very affordable and doesn't have any negative effects on your nails long term.

Cons: Regular nail polish doesn't last on your nails for a very long time. It can chip even on the first day you get them. Plus, you have to ensure they are totally dry before you can touch anything.

Gel Manicure

Pros: Gel, also known as "shellac" is a manicure that cures under a UV light and can last up to 2-3 weeks with no chips! You don't have to worry about it chipping the weekend of your wedding and can even have your nails look fabulous as you jet off to your honeymoon post-wedding day! You can even do it yourself with this gel light, top and base coats, and gel colors off Amazon. It is super easy to do at home.

Cons: A gel manicure can be a bit pricier than just getting regular polish, especially if you don't do it at home. It is also harder to take off and therefore harder on your nails long term as it requires acetone and aluminum foil to get it off yourself at home.

Dip Manicure

Pros: Chances are your nail technician has tried to talk you into it once or twice as this is a very trendy option currently. A dip manicure is where your nail is dipped in pigmented powder after they have painted your nails with adhesive. It ensures it is very clean and there typically won't be anything on your cuticles. These manicures can last 3-4 weeks so it is another great option if you want your nails to last through your wedding and honeymoon with no chips. You can also do this pretty easily at home with this kit!

Cons: Dip will cost you slightly more than both regular polish and gel manicures. They also can damage your nails long term.

Acrylic Manicure

Pros: Short nails? No worries, acrylics have your back! These are used with extensions that are put on the ends of your nails with liquid and powder and hardens to make it so you have longer nails instantly. These can last 2-3 weeks, so again another good option if you want a manicure that is going to last you awhile.

Cons: Acrylics tend to weaken your nails overtime and can be hard to adjust to. They are also hard to get off, especially if you are taking them off on your own at home.

No matter what you choose, be sure you are happy with it. You won't want to look back on your wedding day pictures and see the manicure you weren't so crazy about!