One of my longest lasting pandemic hobbies has been learning how to do dip powder nails at home. I was influenced by my friend A’Dell who had these beautiful manicures that she was creating all on her own. So, I bought a complete set of supplies and started trying my hand at getting a salon quality set of nails from my kitchen tables.
While there certainly is a learning curve to dip nails, with a little practice and a willingness to learn, this is absolutely something you can master at home! We recommend this Dip Nails community on Facebook for advice and support as you’re getting started!
What are dip nails?
Dip nails are similar to acrylics in that they are hard once they are set. The process of applying them is different than acrylics. The main difference is that the color in dip nails is in the powder itself, rather than a polish over the finished nail.
What are the Best Dip Powder Kits?

The dip powder nail industry has exploded recently and there are so many companies selling powders and liquids.
Kiara Sky Starter Kit – Kiara Sky is one of the big names in the dip nail community and they have a huge product line. Their dip starter kit is more expensive than most, more than double the cost of each of the kits listed below, but it comes with a full complement of liquids.

Modelones – I impulse purchased a kit from Modelones on Amazon when long shipping times were making me anxious to get started. Modelones is affordably priced and their kits come with a number of useful items like a cuticle pusher, file, buffer, liquids, and a variety of dip powder colors. If you’re just dipping your toe into dip nails, this might be a good place to start. However, there was a noticeable difference between Modelones and the next product on this list.

Revel Nails – Revel is one of the first brands that I tried and I really love the quality of their powders and liquids. It’s worth noting that Revel is experiencing some shipping delays
I love the quality of the powders from Sparkle and Co, but their subscription boxes are what set them apart. They have a variety of options for all budgets and their subscriptions often come with a few fun surprises!
How to do Dip Nails at Home
I recommend spending some time watching tutorials about how to do your own dip powder nails before you get started. For me this was a great way to pass the time while waiting for my supplies to arrive. There are a ton of tutorials on YouTube, but I’ve included one of my favorites below.
How to remove Dip Nails
This is a real do as I say, not as I do situation. For me, the second one of my nails starts to lift, I start to rip them all off. Resist this temptation! This is the fastest way to ruin your natural nails! Here’s a tutorial for removing your dip nails without thrashing your natural nail!
What supplies do I need for dip nails?
In addition to dip powder and dip liquids linked above, you’ll need a several supplies on hand to make your nails look their best.
Buffing Blocks – You’ll want to use these to smooth your dip nails after activating but before applying a top coat.
Cuticle Pusher – If you don’t already have one of these on hand, you’ll need one. Making sure your cuticles are pushed back and cleaned up is the number one secret to success with dip nails.
Cuticle Oil – All of the buffing and filing can be rough on your cuticles. When your nails are done, apply a little cuticle oil and reapply every couple of days to keep your cuticles happy.
100% Acetone is absolutely necessary to removing your dips without ripping them off in a fit of rage.
Orange Sticks – The trick to a clean cuticle line is running an orange stick, or a toothpick, around the edge of your cuticle after each and every dip. Slightly labor intensive but well worth your time!
Nail Files – Essential for shaping and smoothing your nails before and after application.
Gel UV Light – While it’s not essential, I prefer to finish my manicures with a gel top coat as it helps them last even longer. Pair it with this top coat for shiny nails that last.