How Long Do Dip Nails Last? Your Guide To Dip Powder Nails

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We all love getting our nails done. After all, nothing looks more sleek and stylish than a perfect manicure.

And it’s so fun trying different colors and finding ways to express ourselves through our nails.

But it can get exhausting finding that perfect manicure destroyed almost immediately after going to the salon or after working hard at home.

That’s why long-lasting nails have become such a big deal.

Many people prefer to get a gel manicure to ensure that gorgeous and shiny nails last for at least three weeks before having to be replaced or touched up.

But are gel manicures your only option? 

Not anymore! 

Now, many nail lovers are opting for dip powder nails. This manicure can last much longer and is not harmful to your nails. It’s like a manicure holy grail.

But what makes it different from other manicures? How long do dip nails last? And can you do it at home? 

We take you through the basics of dip manicures and how you can get long-lasting perfect manicures each time.

What Is a Dip Manicure?

There are many options for gorgeous nails. Some people like classic nail polish, while others prefer more long-lasting treatments like gel polish and acrylics.

Another option for beauty lovers who want long-lasting nails is dip powder. This technique is done by dipping your nails into colored powders.

The powder is made from liquid polishes combined with vibrant and colorful acrylic powder. You, or your nail tech, will apply a base coat and then apply the powder.

After two powder layers are applied, a sealant is applied in the form of a liquid activator. The activator will set and cure the manicure and harden it.

It doesn’t use chemicals or UV lamps, resulting in a manicure that lasts up to a month if done right and cared for properly.

How Long Does a Dip Powder Manicure Last?

Now back to the important question. How long does nail dip last exactly?

When done correctly, dip powder nails can last anywhere between two to four weeks. The long-lasting dip procedure bonds to your nail like an adhesive, so there’s no worry of chipping or lifting.

At the same time, dip powder nails are durable and they reinforce your nails, so you don’t have to worry about brittle or broken nail beds as long as you do them right.

Because of this, they are an excellent choice for anyone who works with their hands while still flaunting gorgeous and perfect-looking nails.

It’s important to note, though, that lasting time may vary depending on the powder you use, where you get your nails done, and your daily activities.

How Do Dip Nails Stack Up Against Gel Nail Polish?

When deciding which long-last manicure to choose, many people often decide between dip powder, acrylic, and gel. These are the most popular choices.

But is one type of manicure better than the other? Again, this depends on your preference. Acrylic aside, the more long-lasting option between dip and gel is dip. 

Simply put, dip nails last longer than gel because the polymers in the powders are stronger.

After all, dip powder is like a glue-based resin that will harden with the activator applied after the powder. That’s why it doesn’t need a UV lamp to cure.

So if you want something that lasts longer, dip nails are your best choice. You can have gorgeous and sturdy nail colors for up to six weeks if you’re careful.

How to Do Dip Manicures at Home — Plus Everything You Need to Do it Yourself

Yes! While it may seem complicated, several dip nail starter kits can give you everything you need to do your own dip powder nails at home.

There may be a slight learning curve, but one of the most significant benefits of doing your own dip nails is that you don’t have to worry about bacterial infection from sharing powders.

While most salons try to be very careful, dipping your fingers in the same powder pots that other people use is a risk.

Even if they drizzle the powder onto your nails, if they collect that same excess powder back into the jar, it still may carry a risk of infection.

When having your nails done at the nail salon, the safest way to have dip nails done is for them to give you a jar of powder just for you, without reusing the remaining powder.

At home, at least you know that your fingers are the only ones coming in contact with your powder.

Most kits will come with everything you need for your DIY dip nails. This includes the following:

1. Base coat
2. Dip powders
3. Activator
4. Finish gel
5. Thinning gel

You’ll also need the following tools:

1. Buffer block
2. Nail file
3. Cuticle nipper and pusher

Nail technicians almost always use an e-file drill, which can make things easier but is optional.

Steps to Apply Dip Powder Nails Yourself

Once you have all the necessary supplies and tools, you can begin to apply your dip powder.

Here are simple step-by-step instructions on how to do a dip powder manicure at home.

1. Prep Your Nails

The most important step to a successful manicure is to prep and clean your nails properly. First, wash your hands and nails thoroughly. It’s essential to clean your nails before applying the dip product.

2. Push Back Your Cuticles

Using a cuticle pusher, gently push back your cuticles. This removes them from your nail plate, which ensures better adhesion.

Be careful though as you don’t want to damage them.

3. Buff and File

Then gently file your nails. You can also buff the nails to remove the excess oil on your nails and allow for better product adhesion.

4. Apply Base Coat

This part may differ a bit depending on the dip system you’re using, but most of the time, you begin by applying a base coat. 

Next, you can dip the nail directly into the colored powder or a clear base powder.

Some nail systems say that color adheres better and is more vibrant when you use a clear base powder first.

5. Color and Build

Once you’ve done the base, you can now dip into the colors.

Apply the base coat (one nail at a time, as this is the glue and can dry quickly), and then dip your nail into your color powder of choice.

Tap on the side of the finger to dust off excess powder. Repeat this process for each nail. When they have had a few minutes to set, you can use a brush to brush the powder off.

Do this two times for each nail to create two coats of color.

6. Activator to Lock and Seal

Once you have two coats, paint your nails with the activator to harden the powder and set it. Give it about two minutes to dry thoroughly.

7. Buff and Finish

Once the activator has dried, use your buffer to buff the tops of your nails. This gives your nails a smooth finish.

When this is done, repeat another layer of activator and buff again.

8. Final Coat

After you’ve completed your nail buffing, you are ready for the last step.

Apply the final top coat. Wait until it dries, then add one more layer. This coat ensures you get glossy finished nails.

How Do You Remove Dip Powder Nails?

After two to four weeks, dip powder nails will usually be ready for removal. When removing them yourself, be sure to do it correctly! 

Don’t attempt to peel off the powder, or else you will most likely damage your natural nail and endanger the health of your nails.

Instead, grab the right tools and do your removal the proper way.

1. Buff the Top

Using your nail buff again, coarse buff the top of your nail and remove/loosen the top layer.

2. Acetone Soak

After you buff, soak a small cotton pad in acetone and place that on top of the nail. Secure it in place with a clip or aluminum foil. Let this soak for around 15-20 minutes.

3. Remove and Rub

Remove the acetone cotton with a slight rubbing and twisting motion to help loosen the polish. Once it’s off, use a cuticle pusher to gently push away the remaining color.

If it doesn’t come off quickly yet, repeat the acetone soak.

4. Buff Again

Once you remove all the color, finish by gently buffing the nail beds once again to ensure you remove any leftover bits of product.

5. Moisturize

After completing the removal process, use a gentle hand lotion or cuticle coat to soak and moisturize your hands and nails.

Tips to Making Dip Manicures Last

You’ve done all the steps correctly and have the perfect dip manicure. Now how do you make sure it lasts as long as possible?

Here are some essential tips on making your mani look gorgeous longer.

1. Properly Prep Your Nails

Nail prep is one of the most critical steps. If you properly prep and clean your nails before applying the powder, you can prevent early and unnecessary lifting and chipping. 

So be sure to follow the guide above on cleaning, removing the cuticles, and filing to get rid of oil before applying your manicure.

2. Use a Dehydrator or Primer

Another tip is to use a dehydrator or nail primer. These are mainly used for gel and acrylic applications but are also helpful for dip nails. 

The primer helps to roughen the nail, which makes the nail bed rougher and allows the powder to adhere better to the nail’s surface. 

The dehydrator helps remove excess oil from the nail bed, allowing for better adhesion. Some dip powder kits have a bonder that acts like a dehydrator too. 

3. Apply the Powder Properly

Applying the product correctly is essential if you want a long-lasting mani. Be sure to follow each step of the dip kit thoroughly, do all the required coats, and take all the time you need.

It may take a while (especially applying each coat one at a time), but it will be worth it. Rushed nails don’t look as nice and don’t last as long.

4. Invest in a Premium Brand 

While most dip kits have relatively the same procedures, not all are created equal.

Some brands invest in high-quality ingredients for their powders, which are more durable, water-resistant, and ultimately longer-lasting.

5. Reapply Your Top Coat

Another fun way to lengthen the life of your dip powder manicure is to reapply the top coat. Since this is the “sealing” coat, it’s also the first that begins to wear away.

To keep it strong, reapply a layer of top coat roughly once a week. This will extend the life of your manicure and keep your nails looking nice and glossy too.

Common Questions

How long do nail dips last?

The most popular question is still “How long should dip nails last?” There isn’t one correct answer for this.

It’s usually four to six weeks but it can depend on the application procedure and the product used. 

How long does it take for dip powder to adhere?

It doesn’t take very long at all. Just a few minutes is enough. That being said, be sure to give it time before brushing off any excess product.

How long do dip powder nails last with tips?

If properly cared for, dip powder nails will still last up to a month or longer, even when done with tips or nail extensions.

How long do dip nails take?

The whole procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how good your nail technician is or how used to doing it at home you are.

Take your time. You’ll get better results if you give each step the right amount of time.

Dip Nails — A Final Word

If you want gorgeous nails without worrying about chipping or cracking, then dip nails may be your best choice for a beautiful, long-lasting manicure.

When done right, dip powder nails last up to four weeks or longer, looking glossy, vibrant, and smooth till the last few days.

You can get them done at your favorite salon or find a good premium quality dip nail kit and do them yourself at home.

Do you love dip powder nails? What are your manicure must-haves? Let us know in the comments!

Want to read more nail stories? Check these out:

• Manicure Vs Pedicure: Differences, Similarities & Health Benefits
• How Much Does A Manicure Cost? + How Much To Tip
• Are Press-On Nails Reusable? Can You Really Reuse Them?