Nail Glue vs. Super Glue – What’s The Differences? 

Nail glue and super glue are both good ones if adequately used. But what is the best between these two? When it comes to nail glue vs. super glue comparison, there is some explanation you need to know. 

Both of the glues have the same ingredient, that is cyanoacrylate. But these are made in different ways. Nail glue is best for nails and fake nails. On the other hand, super is good for random repairs. 

See the details about nail glue and super glue for a better understanding. 

Both Are Same? 

Nail glue and super glue are not the same. Although both are very similar, they don’t work the same way. The main ingredient of them is cyanoacrylate which is the same. But the formulation and using purpose are different. 

Cyanoacrylate works pretty quickly on whatever surface it is. The monomers polymerize and create long and strong chains between the surfaces. Pure cyanoacrylate is super glue. This means super glue includes 100% of cyanoacrylate. But nail glue contains other ingredients too. 

Check out more information about the similarities between nail glue and super glue to know more. 

Nail Glue vs. Super Glue

What Is The Difference Between Nail Glue And Super Glue? 

As you already know, nail glue and super glue have similar ingredients, cyanoacrylate. Super glue has 100% of it, but nail glue has several components with it as well. For the different formulas, nail glue and super glue have different viscosity. Nail glue is safe for the skin, whereas super glue is not. 

Some ingredients help with nail growth. As it is designed for nails, nail glue is the suitable one. On the other hand, super glue is much stronger than nail glue. It includes a bit of toxicity. Also, if super glue is exposed to water, it becomes weak. 

Moreover, nail glue is hand wash-safe, but super glue isn’t. There are a lot of differences between these two types of glues. Both are equally good in their field. But if you misuse them, things may not be the same. 

Nail Glue Ingredients 

Nail glue has cyanoacrylate. There are some more ingredients like alcohol and photo-bonded methacrylate. Nail glue is also used as false eyelash glue. The pre-polymer is composed of alkyl cyanoacrylate and formaldehyde. It is called depolymerization. This is how nail glue is made. 

Super Glue Ingredients 

Cyanoacrylate is mainly cyanoacrylate. Any cyanoacrylate esters are used. For this ingredient, super glue makes a quick bond. It forms quickly and creates the strongest bond possible. Commercially, it is known as Super Glue and Krazy Glue, that bond materials like plastic, metal, glass, and several types of surfaces. 

Nail Glue on Nails 

The most important thing is nail glue doesn’t only have cyanoacrylate. It also has other ingredients, making it an ideal option for nails. The elements of nail glue help it last longer and make a strong bond without damaging the nails. 

Besides, nail glue is suitable for handwashing. Overall, the ingredients that nail glue contains help to make a good bond between the nails and the surface, keeping it flexible. 

Super Glue on Nails 

Using super glue on nails is not a good idea. If you want a suggestion, I prefer avoiding super glue nails. You may have some successful DIY nail videos on the internet, but that doesn’t mean it is a good idea to do. 

As super glue contains cyanoacrylate, the strength and chemicals are not good for the nails. Moreover, it is a long-lasting adhesive. But it is dangerous for the skin and eyes. Thus, it is not suitable for nails. 

Read More: Nail Glue vs. Adhesive Tabs

Why Should You Avoid Using Super Glue on Nails? 

There are some valid reasons why you must avoid using super glue on nails. The first reason is super glue can damage your skin and your natural nails too. Most super glue brands contain toxic elements that are dangerous for your nails. These can roughen and break the nails. 

Another reason is super glue is hard to remove. If it sticks to the nails and skin, it may not be removed easily. It will be a hassle for you. Besides, compared to nail glue, super glue isn’t durable enough. Nail glue contains additives and a lower amount of cyanoacrylate than super glue. So it lasts longer. 

What Can Be The Alternative to Nail Glue? 

Instead of using harmful super glue on your nails, you should use nail glue. But if you are looking for an alternative to nail glue, there are some safe options. One of them is gel nail polish. 

Do your base coat with gel nail polish that works like nail glue. To use it properly, you need to wash your hands first. Then apply a layer of base coat, and leave it under the UV light for 30 seconds. After properly cured, press your fake nails and set it. Once it’s set, you need to apply the base coat again on top of the nails, and this is it. 

Another good option that is on trend nowadays is nail glue tabs. These sticky nail tabs are easy to use and less messy. One popular option for fake nails is acrylic powder or liquid. It is widely used in nail extension salons. It is difficult for newbies, but it is more sturdy than any ready-made nails. 

Which Is The Better? Nail Glue Or Super Glue? 

Both nail glue and super glue are good in their fields. It depends on the purpose. If it is for nail extensions or any nail fixing purpose, nail glue is the best. Super glue isn’t suitable for doing this. On the other hand, super glue is best for crafts, DIYs, furniture repair, household projects, and even industrial applications. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Last Opinion

Now that you know that super glue and nail glue are different, you can decide what you want. For nail purposes, use only nail glue. Super glue is dangerous for skin and nails. And for other purposes like minor repairs, furniture, DIY, and appliance repairs, use super glue for maximum strength. 

When it’s about nail glue vs. super glue, super glue is more versatile in this comparison. Choose the better one according to your purpose.