“Dip Nails”: That’s why professionals recommend this long-lasting manicure trend
You are looking for one, which takes less time and provides results that last up to three weeks (in some cases even longer)? Then could“Dip Nails”be the right trend for you.
Below we have put together professional answers to the frequently asked questions about “Dip Nails”: What is the difference between “Dip Nails”, also called “Dip Powder Nails”, and? Can you do a dip powder manicure at home? And is the dipping powder harmless to them??
To answer these and other questions, we haveGaldina Jimenez, Global Education Manager atOPI, and the nail artistDeanna Rattanavongspoken.
Was sind “Dip Nails” aka “Dip Powder Nails”?
Deanna Rattanavong explains that “Dip Nails” is a manicureIt involves using a resin-based base coat with colored powders: “You dip the nails into the powder – hence the name ‘dip nails’” – to apply a permanent colored layer to the nails.”
So it's the dipping powder that gives the nails the color, not a traditional liquid polish. “The dip uses an activator that accelerates the curing of the base coat, powder and top coat,” adds Galdina Jimenez.
However, multiple coats of powder may be required to achieve the desired coverage, which may require multiple passes of powder and activator. Jimenez points out that “Dip Nails” is unlikeCan be applied “as an overlay on the natural nail” and can also be used with a short or medium tip extension.
How are “Dip Nails” applied?
Deanna Rattanavong explains the steps of the application:
- Preparation:The natural nails must be clean, filed and polished.
- Unterlack:The base coat is applied to the nail.
- Power:While the base coat is still wet, the nails are dipped into the colored powder. Alternatively, the powder can also be sprinkled or brushed onto the nails. This step is repeated for each nail individually until the desired coverage is achieved.
- Activation:An activator is then painted onto all nails to harden the powder. Sometimes a second layer of activator is applied.
- Final touches:After activation, the nails are further shaped or filed; This varies from person to person and depends on the look you want.
- Coating:The nails are sealed with a top coat. Jimenez recommends applying a second coat.
- Subsequent:As soon as the nails are dry, they should be moisturized with nail oil.
Is dipping powder healthy for nails?
As always, when it comes to out-of-home manicures, look for a reputable studio with well-trained staff, advises Deanna Rattanavong. "Dipping powders and other nail strengtheners are safe when used and removed properly," she says. “However, there is always a risk of damaging the nails if the product is not applied and removed properly.”
For hygiene reasons, you should also ask about the “pour-over” method, in which, as the name suggests, the powder is poured over the nails instead of dipping the nails into the powder container, recommends Galdina Jimenez.
Are “dip nails” better than gel nails?
It comes down to personal preference - although Deanna Rattanavong says there are reasons why she thinks you should choose dip nails over gel nails. “Compared to a gel manicure, dip nails provide a stronger coating that protects weak nails. In addition, no UV light is required for curing,” adds Galdina Jimenez. “Compared to acrylic, dip powder offers similar strength benefits, but without the odor of the liquid used in traditional acrylic systems.”
Visually, “dip nails” can appear thicker than gel and acrylic nails due to the layering process. “Since the product is filed and polished, you can ask for the layer to be made a little thinner again,” says Jimenez.
How long do “dip nails” last?
A “dip powder” manicure lasts about three weeks. It may also be slightly shorter for people who use their hands a lot. If you are very careful with your hands, you can enjoy your nails for up to a month.
Can you get additional nail designs on “Dip Nails”?
Yes, you can apply designs to “Dip Nails”. “Dip nails are perfect for designs like aura, ombré and embellishments,” says Jimenez.
How do you remove “dip nails”?
As with most manicures, you need acetone to remove “dip nails”. "First, it's important to file down the top coat to break the seal so the acetone can penetrate more easily," says Deanna Rattanavong.
After filing, soak nails in acetone for about 10 to 15 minutes and scrape off the softened product with a cuticle pusher or rosewood stick,” advises Rattanavong. “If you still have product residue on your nails, you can soak them in acetone for a few more minutes until the residue comes off.”
Are breaks advisable when doing “Dip Nails”?
Both experts agree that nails don't need a break - as long as they are healthy and well cared for. However, it is important to renew your nail design regularly: “It is ideal to consistently stick to the four-week rhythm. Otherwise the nails will grow out and reach dangerous breaking points if they are worn for too long,” says Galdina Jimenez.
Can “Dip Nails” be filled in?
“Dip Nails” cannot be filled in as the dip formula is designed to require complete removal between uses. Filling in “dip nails” can cause lifting at the edges or uneven results, says Deanna Rattanavong.
How much do “dip nails” cost?
It always depends on where you live – or where you get your manicure done. Prices are generally higher in large cities - between 40 and 50 euros is a good benchmark.
Can you do “dip nails” at home?
Yes. There are numerousKits for “dip powder” nails at home.
“As a professional, I strongly recommend following the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid problems and get the most out of the manicure,” says Galdina Jimenez. “Above all, you should make sure that no product gets on youcomes!"
A good home kit should contain a primer, an activator, a top coat and of course the powder itself. To prepare, you also need cuticle sticks, cuticle nippers, alcohol and cotton pads - as well as a file, a buffer and a brush.
This article was first published by our GLAMOR colleagues in the USA.
