What Are Dip Powder Nails? What You Need to Know | 1999 House of Nails (2024)

Dipping powder nails, also known as dip nails or SNS (Signature Nail Systems) nails, are a type of artificial nail that uses a powder to create a more durable and long-lasting finish. Unlike traditional acrylic nails, which are made with a liquid monomer and a polymer powder, dipping powder nails use a pre-mixed powder that is dipped directly into a liquid solution before being applied to the nail. This creates a stronger and more resilient nail that is less likely to chip or break.

Dipping powder nails are also known for their glossy finish and natural-looking appearance.

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There are several benefits to using dipping powders for artificial nails. One of the main benefits is that they tend to be more durable and long-lasting than traditional acrylic nails. Because the powder is already mixed with the liquid solution, the resulting nail is stronger and less likely to chip or break.

  • No curing with UV lights:One advantage of dipping powder nails over gel nails is that your hands don't have to be cured by UV lights, and your nails still dry in minutes.
  • Wide range of color choices:With a growing demand for dipping powder nails, brands are scrambling to market with endless color options. Just like traditional nail polish, you wouldn't have any trouble finding the colors of your choice.
  • Great for nail designs: your technicians can also get very creative with nail design because you can dip, and sprinkle powders on your nails. Generally, it's a lot more simple to create beautiful nails design with dipping powder compared to acrylic nails.
  • Less damaging to nails: Dipping powder nails also tend to be less damaging to the natural nail than acrylics, which can cause the nail to become weak and brittle over time.

What Are Dip Powder Nails? What You Need to Know | 1999 House of Nails (1)

Dipping powder manicures can last up to two or three weeks, depending on the individual's nail growth and activities. This means that it is less likely to chip or break, and can therefore last longer without needing to be touched up. However, like any type of artificial nail, a dipping powder manicure will eventually need to be removed and redone to maintain a fresh, healthy appearance.

Not all nail salons offer dip powder manicures. Dip powder nails are a relatively new trend in the world of artificial nails, and as a result, you might not find dip powder nails available in all salons in your local area. It is always a good idea to call ahead and check with the salon to see if they offer dip powder manicures before making an appointment. Alternatively, you can search online for salons in your area that specialize in dip powder nails.

There are a few different ways to remove dipping powder manicures, but the most common method involves soaking the nails in acetone for about 10-15 minutes.

Once the nails have been soaked, a wooden cuticle pusher or a metal cuticle spoon can be used to gently scrape the nail to remove the powder. It is important to be careful when scraping the nail, as the acetone can make the nail bed soft and delicate.

After the powder has been removed, the nails should be washed with soap and water to remove any remaining acetone. The process of removing dipping powder nails can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, so it is always a good idea to visit a professional nail salon for this service.

What Are Dip Powder Nails? What You Need to Know | 1999 House of Nails (2)

To take care of your dipping powder manicure, it is important to avoid activities that could damage the nails, such as typing too hard on a keyboard or using your nails as tools. It is also a good idea to avoid exposing the nails to water for extended periods, as this can cause the powder to become soft and weak.

To keep the nails looking their best, it is recommended to apply cuticle oil or moisturizer to the nails daily to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products that could damage the finish. Additionally, it is a good idea to have your dipping powder nails touched up every two or three weeks to maintain a fresh, healthy appearance.

The main difference between dipping powder nails and acrylic nails is the type of product used to create the artificial nail. Acrylic nails are made using a liquid monomer and a polymer powder, which are mixed together to form a thick, pliable substance that is applied to the nail.

Dipping powder nails, on the other hand, use a pre-mixed powder that is dipped directly into a liquid solution before being applied to the nail. This creates a stronger and more resilient nail that is less likely to chip or break. Additionally, dipping powder nails are known for their glossy finish and natural-looking appearance, whereas acrylic nails often have a matte finish.

Dip powder nails and gel nails are both types of artificial nails that can be used to enhance the appearance of natural nails. They are both applied over the natural nail and require a curing process to harden and set. However, there are some key differences between the two types.

For dip powder nails, the technician first applies a base coat to the natural nail and then dips your nails into a powder made of acrylic resin. The nail is then coated with a sealant to protect the powder and create a glossy finish. Dip powder nails are generally more durable and longer lasting than gel nails, but they can be more difficult to remove and may damage the natural nail if not applied or removed correctly.

Gel nails, on the other hand, are created by applying a layer of gel polish to the natural nail and curing it under a UV or LED light. Gel nails are more flexible and less likely to chip than dip powder nails, but they may not be as durable. Gel nails can be removed by soaking the nails in acetone, which can be harsh on the natural nail.

What Are Dip Powder Nails? What You Need to Know | 1999 House of Nails (3)


Both dip powder nails and gel nails offer a wide range of colours and designs; and can be found at most salons and spas in New Zealand. When removing your nails, it's important to get them removed professionally to avoid damaging your natural nails.

The cost of dip powder nails will vary depending on a number of factors, including the nail salon you visit and the level of service you receive. In New Zealand, you can expect to pay between $50 and $60 for a dipping powder overlay and $65-85 for a full set dipping powder extension.

Some salons may offer discounts for first-time customers or for customers who book multiple services at once, so it is always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a decision.

Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of dip powder nails will also depend on the type of design or embellishments you choose, as more complex designs will typically cost more.

Dip powder nails are generally considered to be less damaging to natural nails than traditional acrylic nails. This is because the powder is mixed with a liquid solution before being applied to the nail, which creates a stronger and more resilient nail that is less likely to break or chip.

Additionally, dip powder nails do not require the use of a nail drill or other mechanical tools, which can cause damage to the nail bed if used incorrectly. However, it is always important to have your dip powder nails applied and removed by a trained professional to minimize the risk of damage to your natural nails.

If you're looking for a professional nail salon specialised in Dipping Powder Nails, 1999 House of Nailsis one of the top choices for nail salons in Christchurch. Make sure to Book in an appointment with us for a nail treatment of your choice!

1999 House of Nailsis one of the top nail salons in Christchurch, New Zealand. We offer an exotic comfortable space and highly talented nail technicians who are always committed to ensuring that every client is 100% satisfied. If you're looking for long-lasting & beautiful nails, book an appointment with us.

What Are Dip Powder Nails? What You Need to Know | 1999 House of Nails (2024)

FAQs

What all do you need to do dip nails at home? ›

Aside from the powder and liquid polishes, here are some general supplies to gather:
  1. Nail buffer.
  2. Nail file.
  3. Dust brush or lint-free towel.
  4. Cuticle pusher.
  5. Alcohol.
  6. Optional: Dip powder recycling system and cuticle oil.
Jan 6, 2022

How long do dipped nails last? ›

Dip powder is applied by dipping your nails into a colored powder or brushing the powder onto your nails. A base coat is brushed on first so that the powder adheres. A dip powder manicure can last up to four weeks.

What are dipping powder nails? ›

Dip powder nails—also called SNS nails—are a hybrid between gel nail polish and acrylic extensions that involve "dipping" the nail into a carton of pigmented powder. The powder is then topped with a clear sealant for a longer-lasting manicure.

Can you shower with dip nails? ›

After application, shake off all the dust outside on a non-windy day. Hop in the shower immediately once your dip nails are dried to rinse off any remaining residue.

Do you use activator after every dip? ›

Be sure to apply enough Activator. The Sealer needs to react with the Activator to fully dry and harden the DIP. If you ever re-do a nail, buff off the top coat and reapply Activator, too.

Is dip better than gel? ›

Both gel and dip powder nails are highly durable, but dip powder nails tend to be more chip and scratch-resistant. On average, gel nails last two to three weeks and dip powder nails last two to four weeks, but these results can vary from person to person.

Can you fill dip nails? ›

In conclusion, dip powder nails can absolutely be filled, providing a cost-effective and time-saving solution to keep your manicure looking stunning.

Do you have to remove dip nails every time? ›

Getting a dip manicure is sort of a slippery slope. Once you get your first one, you'll want to either head back to the salon for a fill or a complete refresh. Even if you plan to only get a dip mani once, you'll still need to have it professionally removed with salon-quality acetone and/or an E File nail drill.

What is the healthiest nail option? ›

Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.

Why do my nails hurt after dip powder? ›

If your dip powder manicure is not done correctly, it can also cause your nails to feel weird. If the layers of powder and liquids are applied too thickly or unevenly, it can create an imbalance in pressure on your nail bed, leading to discomfort or numbness.

Can you do dip on short nails? ›

If you have nails that are barely longer than your fingertips, it's actually recommended for you to apply dip powder on short natural nails and NOT use fake nail tips while you grow them out. This will protect your short nails, prevent them from breaking, and help them gain strength.

Can you peel off dip nails? ›

It's not possible to safely remove dip nails without acetone, says Alabama-based nail artist and LeChat educator Syreeta Aaron. “Removing dip nails is very similar to removal of any artificial nail enhancement,” Aaron explains. “It's always best to file off the top layer of the artificial nail (the dip nail).

What are dip flu nails? ›

"Dip Flu" is a series of flu-like symptoms, like sneezing and watery eyes that develop for some dip powder users. It's nothing severe, but some individuals experience sensitivity to dip powder, dip liquids, or both.

How sanitary are dip nails? ›

“Dips carry greater risk of infection as the dipping powder comes in contact with your skin and is then reused on another person,” says Dr.

Do you need an UV light for dip powder? ›

Dip nails don't require UV/LED light and are typically a much quicker process to apply. Also, soak off easier than gel polish, leaving your nails healthy and beautiful after removal. Unlike traditional manicures, dip powder can hold up for a whole month.

How to do dip powder nails step by step? ›

Step by Step Gelish DIP NAILS!
  1. STEP 1: Cleanse, shape, and prep nails.
  2. STEP 2: Apply Base Coat, dip into powder and repeat.
  3. STEP 3: Brush on Activator.
  4. STEP 4: Seal the nail with Base Coat. Buff and shape. Apply Activator.
  5. STEP 5: Complete with Top Coat.
Apr 22, 2022

Do you need a base powder for dip nails? ›

Take it from Bee—the Base & Finish powder sure makes a huge difference in your dip manicure. It can change the look of your dip nails, but it has a more notable effect of making dip colors appear more vibrant. Dippers use this clear acrylic powder under certain colors to get them to really pop.

What is in the activator for dip nails? ›

To be brief, here is the ingredients list in your typical dip activator, from highest concentration to lowest: Urethane Acrylate. Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone. Isobornyl Methacrylate.

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