PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Prep

The key difference highlighted in the correct answer is that acrylic nails are created using a liquid and powder system. This traditional method involves mixing a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to create a dough-like consistency, which is then applied to the natural nail and allowed to harden. This chemical process does not require any special lighting to set, making it a staple technique in nail technology.

Acrylic nails tend to have a more matte finish compared to gel nails, which often have a shiny and glossy appearance due to the gel products used that cure under UV or LED light. While gel nails are indeed known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, they cure through a different mechanism, distinguishing them from acrylics. When understanding these methods, it’s important to recognize that the preparation and setting processes are fundamentally different, which affects both application techniques and the resulting nail characteristics.