So you have decided to take the plunge and try out red bottom nails.
Great, there are so many ways to achieve these beautiful nails from DIY tutorials to professional services. It can be a little overwhelming, especially if you are unused to getting your nails done.
There are basically two types of red bottom nails: gel and acrylic.
So what exactly is the difference between the two? Which one should you get for your first time? Are there any downsides to either one of them? Read on for everything you need to know about red bottom nails.
What Are Red Bottom Nails?
Red bottom nails are nails with red bottoms. They are a type of nail art that uses a special UV cured gel polish to create a stained glass like effect on the ends of the nails. The gel polish used for this type of manicure is thicker than regular nail polish, so it is applied to dry nails.

After the polish dries, it is then cured under a UV light. This creates a hardened finish that can last up to two weeks on the nails. The UV light also gives the polish a special stony look that makes the nails look just like stained glass.
Gel Red Bottom Nails
Gel red bottoms are created with a special UV cured gel polish in red. This type of nail polish is very similar to acrylic. It is applied to dry nails, then cured under a UV light. Like with acrylic red bottom nails, you can also choose to have the gel polish in different colours.
Be mindful, darker colours will make the stony effect less noticeable. These red bottom nails can last up to two weeks on the nails with little upkeep required. They are a bit more expensive than acrylic red bottom nails, but they do look more natural on the nails.
Acrylic Red Bottom Nails
Acrylic red bottom nails are created with a special coloured acrylic gel. The gel is applied to dry nails and then hardened with a special UV lamp. You do not have the option to have the colour of the acrylic red bottoms match your natural nail colour.
While this does make them a bit more noticeable on the nail and less natural-looking, it also makes them last longer. This type of red bottom nails can last up to two weeks on the nails with little upkeep required. They are a lot cheaper than gel red bottoms, but they are definitely not as natural-looking.
Differences Between Gel and Acrylic Nails
Gel and acrylic red bottoms look very similar. The main difference between the two is that while
acrylic red bottoms are created with a coloured gel,

gel red bottoms are created with a special UV-cured gel polish in red.
Both types of red bottom nails can last up to two weeks on the nails with little upkeep required.
Well, there are a few small differences between the two.
First, acrylic red bottoms are a bit more expensive than gel red bottoms.
However, this is often because it is easier to make a mistake when applying the acrylic than it is with gel.
Also, acrylic red bottoms are a bit less natural-looking than gel red bottoms.
Things to Know Before Getting Red Bottom Nails
If you have very weak or brittle nails, acrylic is probably not the best option for you. Acrylic is basically a glue that adheres to your nails, making them thicker and harder to break. Unfortunately, this also makes your nails less flexible and more prone to breakage. So if you have brittle nails and decide to get acrylic red bottoms, you will need to be extra careful with them until they grow out and become more flexible again.
If you get acrylic red bottoms, you will need to make sure to get a UV-cured top coat to seal and protect the acrylic. If you do not seal the acrylic, it will chip and peel off very easily. UV-cured top coats are usually a bit more expensive, but they are definitely worth it.
How to Get Red Bottom Nails at a Salon?
If you decide to get red bottom nails at a salon, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, make sure the salon you are going to uses the type of red bottom nails that you want. While many salons offer both acrylic and gel red bottoms, some only offer one or the other. So if you want acrylic red bottoms, make sure you go to a salon that offers them.
Second, the person doing your nails will need to use a longer nail coat brush to get the red down to the tips of your nails.

And finally, it is a good idea to set up your appointment for the beginning of the week. This way you will have plenty of time for any chipping to heal before going to work or a special event.
Conclusion
There are many ways to get red bottom nails, from DIY tutorials to professional services. It can be a little overwhelming, especially if you are unused to getting your nails done.
However, red bottom nails look great on everyone, no matter what their nail shape or length. So do not be afraid to try out this classic nail art. Just make sure to prepare your nails.