Product Tutorials

Everything You Need to Know About Dip Powder Nails

 

Dip powder nails are another form of nail technique. It's famous for a reason since it has the durability of acrylic and can be easily removed with acetone. Dip powder is a nail method wherein the nail tech will apply a base coat to the nails then dip them to the dip powder.

For sanitary reasons, some nail techs would scoop the dip powder and pour it over the nails. If you're looking for a new nail method to try or learn, you should consider getting dip powder nails. Not only do they look gorgeous on your nails, but they are easy to do. It's perfect for DIY nail enthusiasts or newbie nail techs. 

 

What are dip powder nails?

Dip manicure is popular nowadays since it's an easy nail method that requires minimalist techniques, and it also has a beautiful salon-quality. However, like every nail method, dip powder nails need a good old nail prep and nail products to aid adhesion and make the manicure stay longer. Then, of course, you can wear dip powder nails with nail extensions.

 

How good is dip powder good for your nails?

Dip powder nails are safe as long as you take proper precautions when using this nail product. Just like any nail product, it's essential to implement nail sanitation when using dipping powders to avoid having a nail dip flu in the long run.

Dip powders are safe since they don't have toxic chemicals. iGel Beauty formulates dip powders with vitamins to help make the nails stronger and healthier, and it's also vegan! One of the best techniques to avoid dipping powder being inhaled is using safety gear like a face mask and a dust brush to remove excess dust.

 

Dip powder nail essentials:



 

Steps on how to apply dip powder nails:

Step 1: Nail prep

 

Complete your nail prep by using a buffer or nail drill since a smooth surface prevents lifting. Next, push back and trim your cuticles and sanitize thoroughly. 

 

Step 2: Use a Bond

 

Apply a coat of Bond to all fingers on one hand. Make sure not to use too much - you want to keep it on your nail and away from the cuticle.

 

Step 3: Apply Base Coat

 

Apply your Base coat to one nail and dip the nail in the powder at a 45-degree angle. Cover the finger completely with powder and remove immediately. Tap your finger to remove the excess and wait at least 30 seconds before brushing off the excess powder with a nail brush.

Repeat this step on the same nail until you get the color and thickness you desire. Then, repeat on the rest of one hand. The base acts as an adhesive for the powder application.

Step 4: Use an Activator

 

Apply activator to all fingers on one hand and wait at least 30 seconds. You want to make sure the dip is properly cured and very hard. 

Step 5: Remove excess oil or chemicals


Wipe each nail with an oil-free wipe to remove any excess activator and prevent it from contaminating your liquids. If you don't do this properly, the activator will turn your base and top coat gummy and harden your brush. Alternatively, you can rinse your hands (no soap) and dry them very well.

Step 6: Buff your nails

 

File your nail to the desired length and shape to remove any unevenness.

Step 7: Go back to using the Base Coat

 

Apply one last layer of base coat to each nail and allow it to dry for at least 60 seconds. Then, apply the activator again. This step is optional; however, it helps your nails last. The last layer of the base coat helps seal all the dip layers and even out any minor surface imperfections left.

Step 8: Wipe again

 

Give your nails one final wipe with a paper towel or an oil- free wipe. Then, apply one thin layer of top coat. Allow this to dry for 30 seconds but not more than 90 seconds.

Step 9: One last swipe 

 

Apply the second and final layer of the top coat. This layer can be slightly thicker, but don't overdo it. Make sure you cover all areas of your nail surface and cap the free edge of your nail. Allow this to dry for at least 2 minutes.

Step 10: Moisturize your nails

 

You can apply the iGel Beauty nourish oil to protect your cuticles and moisturize them. Dip powder nails can dehydrate the nails and if you’re someone who is wearing them often, make sure to practice nail care.

 

How to remove dip powder nails:

Things you need to remove dip powder nails:



  • 100% acetone nail polish remover
  • Buffer or nail file
  • A small bowl
  • Cotton balls
  • Metal pusher or orangewood stick
  • Aluminum foil

 

Steps to remove dip powder nails:

Step 1: File the top coat

Take a buffer or a nail file to remove the shiny top coat. Keep filing or buffing the top coat until the top layer of your nails is covered with white dust. Keep in mind to gently buff off the top coat – don't file it down to your nail bed! Once the shiny top coat is removed, the acetone will penetrate more easily to your nails.

 

Step 2: Use acetone to remove the dip powder

Here are two ways to use acetone for removing the dip powder manicure:

  •  Wrap your nails In foil

 

Take a cotton ball and thoroughly soak it in acetone remover. Next, place the soaked cotton ball on top of your nail and tightly wrap your nail in aluminum foil. Repeat the same process on each nail. Leave the foil for 10 to 15 minutes.

The acetone will sink into the strong layers of resin and powder, and the manicure will come off easily and gently. Remember that you should work on one nail at a time. While removing the foil, gently rub the cotton ball along with the foil on your nails.

 

  •  Soak your nails in acetone

 

One of the dip powder removal technique you can do is by soaking your nails in 100 percent acetone with hot water. You can either place a tissue (optional) on top of a bowl with hot water then pour the acetone or add a  zip lock then place the acetone there. You can soak your nails for minimum of 5-10 minutes depending on your preference and if you can see the dip powder nails is already soft.

Step 3: Remove the remaining dip powder

 

After step 2, the manicure will flake off gently. You can use a metal pusher or an orangewood stick to remove the remaining bits off your nails. The dip powder will come off easily. There will be no need to apply pressure on your nail bed to remove the remaining dip powder.

Step 4: Buff, Shape, and Nourish

 

After removing the dip powder manicure, buff the surface of your nails to even out the top layer. You can use a nail file or buffer to buff the nails gently. Then shape your nails with a nail file and create your desired shape. Don't forget to nourish your nails. Acetone strips the moisture off your nails and dehydrates them. To moisturize your nails, apply cuticle oil and gently massage it into your nail beds.

 

Dip powder nails are here to stay, and you might want to have dip powder nail inspiration. You can join our iGel Beauty Facebook community, where you can see numerous nail art inspirations for your next nail set. Join us!