I think I know what you mean. Usually the acrylic is mixed with a clear substance and brushed on the nails. The method you are asking about is where the clear substance is painted onto your nails and then the nail is dipped in the acylic powder. This is repeated about 3 times and gives a much more natural finish.
The materials are the same, it's just a different method of application. My manicurist in Perth (Scotland) is South African and she is the only one I can find who does it this way.
Nails done using the other method look really clumsy in comparison.