Trying to decide between builder gel and gel polish? You're not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get at 14 Day Mani. The truth is, both are brilliant in their own way, and which one is “right” really depends on your nails, your goals, and how you like to do your manicures. Let’s break it down. What Is Gel Polish? Gel polish is the go-to for a fast, glossy manicure that lasts. It applies like traditional nail polish but cures under an LED lamp, leaving a hard, shiny finish that lasts up to 14 days without chips or smudging. Perfect if you: Want a quick, beginner-friendly manicure Prefer a thinner, natural finish Have healthy, natural nails Love colour and shine Our Gel Polish Starter Kit was designed to make gel polish simple and safe to use at home - and it’s been shortlisted for The Sunday Times Style Beauty Award 2025. Everything from the prep products to the lamp is chosen to deliver a professional result, even for first-timers. What Is Builder Gel? Builder gel is a thicker, more sculptable formula that’s used to add strength, structure, or even length to natural nails. It’s ideal if your nails are soft, prone to breakage, or you simply want to build a more defined shape. It can take a little practice - but we have lots of guides, tips, and tricks to help you perfect your technique. Perfect if you: Have weak, peeling, or damaged nails Like the feel of extra strength and structure Are happy to spend a little more time on application Want to grow your natural nails longer Our Builder Gel Starter Kit includes everything you need to create that strong foundation - including our self-levelling builder gels, LED lamp, and pro tools. It’s a salon-level result, designed for use at home. Builder Gel vs Gel Polish: Side-by-Side Feature Builder Gel Gel Polish Best For Strength, Nail Health, Shaping Colour, Shine, Quick Manis Texture Thick, Sculptable Thin, Polish-Like Skill Level Intermediate (but learnable!) Beginner-friendly Nail Condition Weak, Peeling, Prone to Breakage Healthy, Natural Nails Finish Structured, Smooth, Long-Lasting Glossy, Natural Feel Longevity 2-3 Weeks with Proper Care Up to 14 Days Can You Use Both? Absolutely. In fact, many of our customers do. A common routine we love: Start with builder gel for strength and shape Apply gel polish on top for colour and shine Both products cure under the same LED lamp, and both are part of our HEMA-free range - made to be gentle, effective, and long-wearing. So, Which One Should You Choose? 💅 Choose Gel Polish if: You're just getting started with at-home nails You want a fuss-free, beautiful manicure You love switching colours often 💪 Choose Builder Gel if: Your nails need strengthening or rehab You want longer nails without acrylics You’re ready for a longer-lasting base At 14 Day Mani, we believe nail care should feel effortless, and safe. That’s why both our gel polish and builder gel systems are formulated to be gentle, durable, and easy to use with the right tools and guidance. Whether you go for builder gel, gel polish, or a mix of both, you’re in good hands. Each product at 14 Day Mani is designed to give you a salon-quality result at home - minus the stress, cost, or harsh chemicals. Still not sure which kit is right for you? Feel free to contact us. We’re always here to help.