When you’ve had your fair share of manicure appointments, it can start to feel a little repetitive and boring. After sticking with the same few manicure services, you might be looking to try something different, and a dip powder manicure can help you spice things up. While you’ll be left with a drastically different look, you’ll also be shocked to find a few pleasant surprises as well. Here’s everything you need to know about dip powder manicures!
What is a Dip Powder Manicure?
A dip powder manicure is a unique type of manicure that actually relies on pigmented powder for color rather than traditional nail polish. The name comes from the fact that you quite literally dip your nails into some colored powder in order to create a beautiful layer of color over your nails, which can create an entirely different texture and appearance compared to other types of manicures.
What’s the Difference Between Dip Powder Nails and Gel Nails?
What’s the Difference Between Dip Powder Nails and Acrylic Nails?
The main difference between dip powder nails and acrylic nails is the application process. Acrylic nails use a combination of powder and liquid to create a paste. This paste is applied to your nail and molded to your desired shape and length before it’s painted. On the other hand, dip powder nails start off with a layer of liquid base coat on each nail that is then brushed or dipped with colored powder.
What Steps are Involved in Dip Powder Nails?
While the steps may vary depending on the salon you go to, here’s what you can expect when you get dip powder nails:
- After your nails have been cleaned, trimmed, and filed to your preferences, your nail technician will prepare your nails by applying a bond liquid or dip base coat over each nail.
- While the bond liquid is still wet, your nail technician will coat your nails with the colored powder of your choice. This can be done by dusting, brushing, or dipping your nails and will need to be repeated a few times for optimal opacity.
- Once the powder has been added, some nail technicians may also opt to add a clear powder coat to act as a protective buffer. Then, the top layer of the powder will be buffed to smooth out any lumps and unevenness.
- A liquid sealant will be applied over each nail to harden the powder on your nails. After two to three minutes, a top coat will be painted over each nail to give you a nice and glossy finish.
What are the Benefits of Dip Powder Nails?
Here are some benefits you can look forward to when you book a dip powder manicure appointment:
- Dip powder manicures offer longer-lasting results compared to regular or gel manicures, typically lasting three to four weeks.
- Since dip powder manicures involve cyanoacrylates, they’re much more resistant to damage than gel nails and can keep your nails safe.
- For those of you who are hesitant to use lights to cure your nails, then don’t worry because dip powder nails don't involve any UV light. It uses a binding agent that cures in the air.
- Dip powder comes in a wide range of colors and finishes for you to choose from.
Is Dip Powder Bad for Your Nails?
Dip powder isn’t bad for your nails, provided that your nail technician is observing the proper safety precautions. There’s nothing wrong with dipping your nails in colored powder, but make sure that the powder is placed in a single-use container rather than a communal jar that has already made contact with other hands and fingers.
The last thing you want is to contract an unwanted bacterial infection from your manicure. Alternatively, your nail technician can also dust or brush the powder directly over your nail.
How Long Do Dip Powder Nails Last?
Dip powder nails can last around three to four weeks, but this will be greatly affected by the quality of the products used, as well as your overall lifestyle and activities.
The Takeaway
If you’re looking to give your nails a brand new and unique look, then definitely give dip powder manicures a try. Not only do they color your nails in a vastly different way than other manicures, but they also offer long-lasting and durable results that can leave your nails looking amazing for up to a month.
