Dip Powder 101: Everything You Need To Know About Dip Powder


So you’re thinking about getting your own Dip Powder manicure? Are you considering using Dip on your own nails at home or even on your clients in the salon? Perhaps it's your first time learning about Dip Powder manicures! If that’s the case, you’re in luck! Here’s your quick little cheat-sheet on all things Dip!

What is Dip Powder anyway?

You can think of Dip Powder as a hybrid between gel and acrylic.  Dip powder is a system of powder and glazes that are used for a nail enhancement. Dip powder can be used on both your natural nails or on an artificial tip. Dip powder is a finely milled powder which is perfect for achieving a smooth, even application and it comes in a wide variety of highly-pigmented colors which mean that the design possibilities are endless! Dip Powder is formulated without harsh chemicals and has added vitamins and calcium to strengthen the nails without damaging the nail bed.

How is Dip Powder applied?

Dip Powder is applied through a series of glazes that help the powder adhere to the nail. The great thing about dips is that they are secured with an activator Seal Protect so no monomer or UV/LED curing is needed. Want a full, in-depth tutorial on how to apply Dip Powder for beginners? Click here!

What is the difference between Dip Powder and Acrylic?

Dip Powders and Acrylic might have similar polymers but we assure you, they are not the same thing! By now we all know that with acrylic requires monomer, and some people can become sensitive to the smell of monomer or perhaps even develop an allergy to it. Dip Powder, on the other hand, is odorless and has absolutely no need for monomer which makes it the perfect choice for those who want a more natural alternative but don’t want to sacrifice having fabulous nails! 

You might also notice that dip powder application is MUCH thinner than acrylic application. Although thinner, dip powder has the same structure and just as much strength as acrylic. Not to mention, dip powder application is faster than traditional acrylic. The thin structure of dip powder makes it feel like natural nails, but even stronger.

How long does it take to apply Dip Powder nails?

As with everything, the more you practice, the quicker and easier applying Dip Powder becomes. When you are just starting out, dip powder application can take about 30-40 minutes for a full application but after a bit of practice, most nail techs typically only spend about 15-20 minutes on a full set using Dip Powder.

How long does Dip Powder last?

Dip Powder’s complex bonds keep nails from chipping, discoloring, and lifting. If applied correctly, a dip powder set can last anywhere from 3-4 weeks without chipping! Pretty great, right?

Is Dip Powder easy to remove?

YES! Dip Powder is extremely easy to remove. All you have to do to remove your set of Dip Powder nails is file away the shine so that you can soak your nails in acetone for 10-15 minutes and it will come right off. If you don’t want to remove a dip powder completely, it is very easy to do a fill using Dips as well!

We hope this helped you learn everything you need to get started using Kiara Sky’s Dip Powder systems! Need a little refresher? We’ve got you covered! Click here for a sweet and short video to recap everything we just learned!