The 11 Best Dip Powder Nail Kits For Salon-Level Results

“Dip nails are [a] combination of [a] resin base and color powder, usually applied onto natural nails to strengthen them or used with tips for extensions,” says Totty. “No need to use monomer, gels, or UV lamps, just a few prep products, and your favorite powder. A dip manicure usually lasts 3-4 weeks; anything past that is not really recommended. They cannot be filled, so, unfortunately, you have to remove the product and reapply each time.”

“I would not say that they are necessarily healthier, but because they strengthen your natural nail, it could help grow them out,” says Totty. “Since you have to remove them each time, you don’t risk getting bacteria stuck underneath and cause damage as long as you don’t over-file and moisturize afterward.”

“Dip nails are removed by soaking with acetone-based soak-off remover, just like gel polish or acrylics. You have to buff the top, wrap in foil with [a] cotton ball soaked with remover and wait for 15 minutes,” says Totty. Penrose adds: “The best part is, though this soaking process may seem tedious, once the color is dissolved, it should wipe off easily and cleanly–no scraping required.”

“This is how the at-home process typically works,” says Penrose. “First, you’ll want to apply a base coat onto clean, freshly buffed nails (this helps to smooth out any ridges so that the powder can coat the nail evenly). Next, you’ll dip your nail into a pot of pigmented powder instead of painting the nail color with a brush, as with a traditional or gel manicure. Then, tap or brush off any excess powder (many kits include a buff brush) and repeat the process to ensure an even coat.

After two go-rounds of dipping, you’ll paint on a clear activator polish. This activator turns the colored powder into a glossy lacquer and essentially bonds it onto the nail itself. Once that’s dry, you’ll apply a clear coat of polish as a topcoat, and voila! Your DIY dip powder manicure is done, and it should last at least a few weeks (or more). Of course, these are general guidelines—always follow the instructions of the specific kit you’re using, as each one may differ slightly.”

Nerisha Penrose is ELLE’s Beauty Commerce Editor and a dip-powder manicure expert. Tatjana Freund is ELLE’s Beauty Commerce Writer who has embarked on a healthy nail journey.