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10 Dip Powder Nail Kits for a Shiny, Long-Lasting Mani

by Syden Abrenica
Syden Abrenica is an NYC-based creative with 5+ years of experience writing and editing for national magazines such as Family Circle, Good Housekeeping, Health, All You, and Harper's Bazaar.
Updated 06/10/20

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Nails have really upgraded over the last few years. From traditional polish to gel manicures to out-of-this-world nail art, expressing yourself through the tips of your fingers almost feels necessary now. These days, we're hardly the only ones obsessing over dip powder manicures. The name comes from its unique application—a base is applied onto a clean, dried nail, then dipped into a powder color of your choice. Several coats can be “dipped” and then coated with a glossy sealant. The best part: It lasts much longer than a gel manicure, feels stronger, and requires no curing time under LED or UV lights. Lucky for us, achieving this nail look is easy, thanks to at-home kits that are simple-to-use and affordable.

Below, find our favorite dip powder nail kits for use at home.

Best Overall: Red Carpet Manicure Dip Color Kit

red carpet manicure color dip starter kit

Courtesy of Walmart

This handy set gives you 21 days of vibrant wear. The included color is a gorgeous red called “Seductive Star," so this kit is perfect for special occasions (or every day). Also, if you’re prone to weak nails, reviewers say that this formula really lasts with no chipping.

Best Budget: BDSONG Dipping Powder Starter Kit

Dip powder can easily run you $50 a manicure, so seeing this kit at such an affordable price is nothing short of a miracle. It includes six shades, including a few glittery options, so we think this would be a great choice for the holidays. This formula is also easy to remove: simply soak each nail with an acetone-saturated cotton ball and remove polish with a cuticle tool.

Best Nude Colors: Nicole Diary Starting Kit

The colors in this set are perfect for those who typically love a nude look. What we like most about this kit is that it’s odor-free, provides a gel-like shine, and can easily be removed just like a gel manicure.

Best Red Colors: Honey Joy Dipping Powder Kits

Ideal for all-year-round, these red-toned shades really evoke each season. From the deep wine to the bright, eye-popping pink, you have your choice of color all depending on your mood. This formula is resistant to chipping and cracking (rejoice!) and is also non-damaging to the nail bed.

Best for Strong Nails: ZABB Dipping Powder Nail Kit

If your nails tend to be on the stronger side (yep, we’re giving you the envious side-eye), then this kit is made for you. The set includes six powdres, which is impressive considering the price. If you like to mix colors, one reviewer recommends mixing the powders before application (versus while you’re applying) for desired results.

Best for Travel: Nicole Diary Dip Nail Powder Kit

This dip powder formula is more durable than acrylic, and also less harmful for your nails. What we love most about it is the smaller size of the products—making this the set to tote around when you’re on vacation and are in desperate need of a good manicure.

Best Splurge: Kiara Sky Dipping Powder Starter Kit

Kiara Sky Dipping Powder Starter Kit

Courtesy of Kiara Sky

One of the better-known dip powder brands, this Kiara Sky kit is more on the expensive side, but absolutely worth the higher price tag. Included in the set are six liquids and five neutral-colored powders. Reviewers like using this kit for more natural-looking nails or for a French tip.

Best for Beginners: Nicole Diary Dip Nail Powder Starter Kit

This set makes it easy for a beginner to get started with dip powder manicures. The 39 piece kit gives you eight colors to choose from and everything you could need to get a perfect manicure.

Best for French Tips: Lavender Violets Dip Powder Nail Kit

The neutral pink and white powder work great together to create the classic French manicure look. Just make sure to apply the pink coats first—at least two—and then follow up with two coats of the white strip. One reviewer loves how light and smooth the powder is, making buffing at the end of application nonexistent.

Best Glossy Finish: Gelish Dip Color Kit

Some might think dip powders aren’t shiny—and they’re somewhat right. During application, each coat of powder definitely skews more matte, so it’s the top coat at the end that really counts. The one from this Gelish kit doesn’t disappoint. The top coat formula provides a super-shiny finish that is very similar to a gel mani, except this one is going to last much longer. Don’t forget to seal the edges of your nail to prevent chipping (these top coats will help).

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