Dip Powder nails is a method of nail enhancements in which you apply pigmented powder to your nails. When applying at home you literally dip your nails in to a pot of powder. Hence the name!
When applied in a salon the method of application is slightly different (to avoid contamination and for hygiene reasons) where the powder will be scooped over or brushed on to your nails instead.
Dip nails are like a hybrid between gel nails and acrylic nails..
Dip systems are designed to set without a uv/led lamp and are formulated without any harsh chemicals.
Dip Powder nails typically require a base coat which adheres the powder to your nail, an activator to set the powder and a top coat to give you the shine and to seal everything in place.
Dip nails can last around 3-4 weeks without any chipping, peeling or lifting (if applied correctly) they are also extremely strong and durable.
Dip nails are more resilient than gel nails and require no uv/led nail lamp to cure. Dip nails are actually created using acrylic powder. The same powder that is used for acrylic nails but the method of application is different as doesn't require monomer.
The exact method of applying dip nails will vary with different brands products but generally consists of the following:
1.Prep nails by pushing back cuticles and gently buffing shine from the nail plate. You should also shape your nails during this step. You can also trim cuticles if required using cuticle nippers. Remember to be careful!
Then brush off any debris.
Make sure your hands and nails are completely clean before starting.
2.Clean nails with alcohol or acetone.
3.Apply nail primer - this step dehydrates your nail and removes any oils that could cause lifting.
4.Apply base coat then quickly dip nail in to powder. Always apply base coat in a thin and even application layer to ensure your final results aren't too bulky and won't require much (or any if you're lucky!) filing. Be sure to have your powder ready as the base coat dries QUICKLY!
Put nail directly in to the pot of powder at a 45 degree angle. If your powder is running low you can tip the pot to the side or you can use a scoop for better application. Alternatively, you can use our dip tray to scoop and pour the powder over your nails. We recommend this method when using the clear powder especially to avoid colour contamination.
5.Brush off excess powder using a soft fluffy brush.
Don't use a rough brush and don't press down. Gentle motion is the key. You don't want to poke or indent the powder.
6.Apply 2nd layer of base coat and again quickly dip nail in to powder.
7.Brush off excess.
8.If the colour is pigmented enough you can move on next to the next step or you can opt for a 3rd layer of colour or a clear powder to protect the colour in case of filing.
9.Apply activator
10.Allow a few minutes. Test to check if this layer is set by gently tapping on the nail. If you hear a click sound, you can move on to the next step.
11.Buff and file any lumps or bumps until smooth. This step can be done using either an e-file (if you know how) or a medium grit manual file and buffer.
Check out our blog post on nail files and grits for more information.
Brush off any dust or use an alcohol wipe
12.Apply 2nd coat of activator
13.Allow a few minutes and again do the click test
14.Apply Top coat
15.Allow a few minutes
16.Apply 2nd top coat - remember to cap the free edge of each nail too!
And done ✔️
You can go ahead and apply cuticle oil now too
Remember, if you are new to dip nails. The key is PRACTICE! Practice makes perfect! You will soon find and perfect your method of application.
One of the benefits of dip nails is you can grow out thin or brittle nails. Dip powder will seal and protect your natural nails with a hard protective layer.
Dip nails rival gel and acrylic nails for longevity and durability.
Dip nails are also infused with calcium and vitamins to help your nail health. Usually contained within the base coat as this is the only layer that actually touches your natural nails.
Some brands claim to have vitamins etc in the powder but this won't actually do anything because the powder never touches your nails.
Dip Powder won't harm your natural nails but what can harm your nails is improper removal. Just like with any other nail enhancements, you must remove them correctly to avoid any damage.
So how do you remove the dip nails? Dip nails are removed similarly to gel and acrylic nails.
File the top of each nail to remove the top coat
Use acetone. You can put this in a bowl or you can use cotton balls and foil.
Soak the cotton balls in acetone, put one ball on the top of each nail and wrap the entire nail and cotton ball in foil.
Wait around 20 minutes, loosen the foil and take a look at each nail. You should be able to see the colour coming away from the nail. Wipe with the cotton ball.
If the powder is still stuck to the nail, wrap the nail again. If you notice the dip has started coming away you can remove using a cuticle pusher or very gently buff the excess away. Be very careful not to file your natural nail!
Once all of the dip is off the nails, wash your hands.
Apply cuticle oil
Done ✔️
We hope this guide has helped you understand all about dip powder and how to apply and remove!
Any questions? Reach out to use at any time
All products mentioned above can be purchased here at Tipstastic Nails and Beauty
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