A Step-By-Step Guide To Ombre Nails Using Dip Powder
If you are looking for a great, practical way to do ombre nails yourself, then the dip powder method might be the perfect method for you. This may also be a great option to investigate if you are looking for something new and unique to do with your nails. Ombre nails are generally a special type of manicure that can create a color gradient. It is most common to have a light color at the beginning of the nail, which will gradually blend into a darker color once it reaches the tip. It can take a fair amount of time and practice to be able to get the best ombre effect on your nails, especially with certain methods. However, there is a wonderful and practical option to create vibrantly colored ombre nails—dip powder nails.
This process involves coloring your nails with high-pigmented powder. After a few layers and some sealer, they are complete. Having recently risen in popularity, there are now even more ways to use dip powder, including creating ombre nails. To learn this special method, we offer a step-by-step guide to ombre nails using dip powder.
Step 1. Prepare Your Nails
In order to start the process, it is important to correctly prepare your natural nails. This involves properly cleaning your nails to remove excess oil, which will help ensure adhesion to give your dip nails long-lasting wear. It’s also important to gently trim your nails with clippers until you reach your desired length. After you have taken care of this, push back your cuticles a bit too. You will want to do a bit of filing to create a texture that is rougher on the nail plate. Using a file can also smooth out any rough edges, giving your nails a more defined shape.
Step 2. Apply Step 1 Bond
Once you have properly prepared your natural nails, you can start applying the first layer of bond. This is a Step 1 base that must go on the nail in order to ensure that each subsequent layer will stay on and form a tight seal. This step also nourishes the nail bed. You will want to apply this first coat to all fingernails.
Step 3. Apply Step 2 Bond
This next step of applying bond is a bit different than the previous. You will need to use a step 2 bond for this application and will need to apply it halfway onto the surface of the nail. It is important that you do not apply it to the entire nail surface. Once you have started the base in the middle of the nail, continue stroking it out towards the tip of the nail. As an important tip, you should avoid getting this product on your cuticles as much as possible. The base will pick up powder anywhere that it has been applied, ensuring your nails will have a clean, finished look.
Step 4. Dip the Nails
Following the application of your Step 2 base, you will need to apply what is known as the Clear or Natural dipping powder, which will help build the apex. This is the thickest point of nail enhancement, providing the nail with strength. You need to build a good, strong foundation. Follow this by applying another layer of the base. You can then start the coloring process by dipping just the tip of the nail into the dipping powder.
This powder should be the lighter color acrylic that you want your nails to be. Make sure you are dipping your nails into the powder at a 45-degree angle. It is helpful to bring the jar of dip powder up to the nail rather than dipping straight down into it. This will prevent you from smudging the product. When you remove your nail from the powder, you can get rid of any excess powder by simply tapping it off.
Step 5. Apply the Darker Color
At this point, you will be ready to start applying the darker powder color to the nail. Make sure that you have a fluffy brush to apply the powder. Something similar to an eyeshadow brush will work best. Add a layer of bond again, starting from the middle and brushing out to the tip. Use the brush to dab the darker powder onto the tip of the nail. As you dab the powder on, let the tip darken, then fade it in as it gets closer to the middle of the nail. If you want more coverage over your nails, you can repeat steps 4 and 5 until you achieve your desired look.
Step 6. Add Your Sealers
Once you have completely applied the color to your liking, it will be time to start using the sealers. Begin this by applying your Step 2 base over the whole nail. Next, apply a clear finishing powder over the whole nail. Following the powder application, you will need to paint a layer of finish over the entire nail bed. This layer of finish will help seal in the powder.
Step 7. Activate, Buff and Finish
One of the best parts of a step-by-step guide to ombre nails using dip powder is reaching the last step and seeing the final product. You will need to apply an activator to the nail. Make sure to apply this thoroughly over the full nail, then wait three minutes for it to harden. The activation process is important because, without this, the nail will not dry properly. After you have added the activator, file and shape the nail a bit more.
Next, you will need to buff out the nail. Once you have completed all these steps, you should clean the nails by either washing them or using alcohol wipes. This makes sure the nails are completely clean for the final step. You can then apply a coat of Step 4 Sealer over the entire nail. Give it three minutes, and repeat. And just like that, you have completed your ombre dip powder nails!
Shop around special retailers for dip powder products to make sure you get the best quality options. This will make your process all the better and will ensure you are working with non-harmful products.
