Super glue and nail glue are two common adhesives, but what’s the difference between them?
Keep reading to learn optimal uses of super glue versus nail glue.
Differences Between Super Glue and Nail Glue
Super glue and nail glue are not the same thing. While they share some similarities, they have important differences:
- Composition – Super glue is made from cyanoacrylate while nail glue contains ethyl cyanoacrylate plus additional chemicals to make it more suitable for nail application
- Purpose – Super glue is a versatile adhesive used to bond various materials. Nail glue is specifically formulated to adhere artificial nails/tips to natural nails
- Flexibility – Super glue bonds are rigid and inflexible when dry. Nail glue bonds are designed to be more flexible to withstand the bending of nails
- Drying time – Super glue dries extremely fast, often in under a minute. Nail glue takes longer to dry, around 2 minutes, to allow time to press on the artificial nail
Is It Safe to Use Super Glue on Nails?
No, it is not recommended to use regular super glue on your natural nails. Super glue is not formulated for use on nails specifically. Using it can lead to several problems:
- Damaging nails – The rigid, inflexible bonds super glue forms can lead to cracking and weakening of natural nails when they flex and bend. Nail glue is designed to be flexible when dry.
- Irritation – Super glue gives off fumes as it dries that can irritate eyes, nose, and skin. Using it near your face increases this risk. Nail glue fumes dissipate faster.
- Inability to remove properly – Super glue is extremely difficult to remove from natural nails. It could take filing the entire nail surface off. Nail glue can be removed with acetone.
- Imprecise application – Super glue tends to run and drip. Nail glue bottles have brush applicators for precise, clean application.
- Rapid drying – Super glue dries too quickly to properly position an artificial nail. Nail glue allows more working time.
Conclusion
In summary, super glue and nail glue are both cyanoacrylate adhesives but have important differences. Super glue can bond almost any material very quickly and strongly, making it ideal for minor repairs and projects.
In contrast, nail glue is designed specifically for adhering artificial nails and tips to natural nails safely. Nail glue bonds are flexible and strong to withstand the bending of nails.
Though nail glue takes longer to dry, it allows precise application without damage. While super glue is better for general repairs, nail glue is superior for nail enhancement due to its flexibility and nail-safe formula.
