Is dip powder bad for your nails?

According to Totty, as long as dip manicures are applied and removed correctly, they are completely safe and not bad for your nails. “It’s extremely important to practice the application and follow the manufacturer’s instructions,” she says. “Patience while removing dip nails will give you the best results and healthy nails afterward.”

How do you remove dip powder nails?

When it comes to removing dip powder nails , do not pick at them or pull them off. (We know, it can be tempting, especially if they’re beginning to lift.) Instead, Totty recommends purchasing a soak-off solution designed specifically for dip powder. “The best and safest way to remove dip nails is to individually wrap them with the solution and wait for 10 to 15 minutes,” she says. “Any residue left on the nail can be easily buffed off.”

Can you fill dip powder nails?

It's possible to fill dip nails, though Totty says that opting for a fresh application is a much better option. “It’s possible to fill dip nails only if you use a clear or clear pink for a natural nail overlay,” she says. “However, that will not give you the best-lasting manicure because, over time, the resin base used with dip manicures will lose its integrity and lifting might occur. A fresh application will ensure you have a long-lasting result every time.”

How long do dip powder nails last?

According to Totty, the standard wear for a dip manicure is between 21 and 25 days, but how long yours will last depends solely on your nail growth speed and how rough you are on them. “For example, a bartender is lucky to get three weeks of wear, when an executive assistant who has less contact with water and other liquids daily will get a full four weeks before the nails completely grow out," she says.

What are the benefits of dip nails?

People tend to like dip powder nails because they typically last longer than regular nail polish and give a salon-quality look. At-home dip nails are especially convenient and inexpensive compared to getting your nails done in the salon.

The 12 Best Dip Powder Nail Kits of 2023

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—an adhesive base is applied onto a clean, dried nail, then dipped into a powder color, made of a highly pigmented polymer, 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. When applied correctly, a dip powder manicure can last for three to four weeks and can even add strength to your natural nails, says manicurist and salon owner Anastasia Totty. Lucky for us, achieving this nail look is easy, thanks to at-home kits that are simple-to-use and affordable.

To find the best dip powder nail kits on the market, we conducted hours of research—looking through hundreds of customer reviews and considering dozens of formulas. After consulting experts, we landed on these top-rated picks for a flawless manicure.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Nailboo Essentials Dip Kit at Nailboo.com

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Best Overall, Runner-Up:

Red Carpet Manicure Dip Color Kit at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Kiss Dip Color System Kit at Amazon

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Best Long-Lasting:

Le Chat Professional French Dip Kit at Lechatnails.com

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Best Red Colors:

Honey Joy Dipping Powder Kits at Amazon

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Best Splurge:

Kiara Sky Dipping Powder Starter Kit at Amazon

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Best for French Tips:

Dipwell Acrylic Dip System Starter Kit at Amazon

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Best for Beginners:

Revel Dip Powder Starter Kit at Revelnail.com

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Best Variety:

Saviland Dip Powder Nail Kit at Amazon

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Best Strengthening:

Gelish Xpress Dip Color Kit at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Byrdie?

4.8

Nailboo

View On Nailboo.com View On Sallybeauty.com

What We Like

Personal color selection
High-quality
Complete kit with all tools and products

What We Don't Like

Extra steps involved

This one-stop-shop comes with everything you need, even including helpful clips for removal. It does require a few extra steps, but that makes for an extremely impressive at-home manicure (or pedi, since this also works on toes) that is comparable to what you'd get in a salon. Plus, not only do you get four colors, you can choose exactly which colors those are, a major win in our book. The color selection overall is extensive, with solid and glitter options.

Reviewers loved that the application process was a breeze once they got a hang of it, and that they had a salon quality, long-lasting manicure for a fraction of the price. They also noted that the process was quicker and easier than getting their nails done by a professional.

Price at time of publish: $65

Shades: 4 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Ulta

What We Like

Affordable
Easy to use with minimal steps

What We Don't Like

Only one shade included

Affordable and easy to use, this simple kit gives you long-lasting, shiny color that lasts for up to 21 days. (Indeed, reviewers rave about the lack of chipping.) The kit comes with a classic red color included, though there are plenty of other colors that you can purchase separately.

Price at time of publish: $35

Shades: 1 included with kit | Dry Time: 30 seconds | Cruelty-Free: N/A

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Kissusa.com

What We Like

Affordable
Extremely user-friendly
Dries quickly

What We Don't Like

Not as high-quality as other options

“This affordable option is great for someone who wants to try out dip color without investing,” says nail artist Syreeta Aaron, a LeChat Nails Educator. (However, she does note that the results may not be quite up to par with what you’d get with other products.) Still, if you’re just looking to test the dip powder waters or aren’t concerned about the results lasting a super long time, this is a good option. You get one color included with the kit, a nude pink, though other colors are available.

Price at time of publish: $19

Shades: 1 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 5 to 10 minutes | Cruelty-Free: No

Le Chat

View On Lechatnails.com

What We Like

Pro-grade product
Includes a clear shade
Long-lasting

What We Don't Like

Only comes in natural colors

This professional-grade powder touts a whopping four weeks of wear, all while also imparting length and strength: benefits you get from acrylics nails (just without any of the damage effects afterward). It also feels very lightweight and natural on the nails and comes off easily, always a win.

Price at time of publish: $76

Shades: 4 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Affordable
Includes glitter shades

What We Don't Like

Small containers; hard to dip nails

Anyone who loves to rock red will appreciate that this kit comes with eight shades in a nice variety of red tones, from a classic, fire-engine red to a deep berry. (Three of them are also glittery, should you prefer a little extra shimmer.) It also comes off in just 10 minutes, and the application is super easy.

Price at time of publish: $20

Shades: 8 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry up to 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: N/A

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

High-quality
Nice range of colors
Comes with nourishing oil for cuticles

What We Don't like

No tools are included

Yes, this is on the pricier side, but it does come from one of the better-known, professional, dip powder brands. It’s an Amazon fan favorite, with reviewers raving about how easy it is to use and how incredible the results are. You get five colors plus all the accompanying products, including a bonder, base coat, protectant, topcoat, nourishing oil, and even a brush cleaner.

Price at time of publish: $100

Shades: 5 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry up to 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

4.8

Dipwell Easy Acrylic Dip System Starter Kit

Walmart

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dipwell.co

What We Like

Nice French mani colors
Clear powder preserves color vibrancy
Tools included

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note it can be difficult to use for beginners

In case you missed the memo, French manis are back—in a big way. This kit makes it easy to achieve French tips, with both a beautiful sheer pink that works great as a base and a crisp white for the tips (though FYI, the white also looks nice worn on its own). What’s most noteworthy about this option is the addition of a clear powder that gets applied in between the two colors, helping to protect the clarity and vibrancy of both colors. AKA, there’s no need to worry about yellowing. As a bonus, this is a great all-in-one kit that includes all the tools you'll need for a DIY manicure.

Price at time of publish: $55

Shades: 2 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry up to 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Revel Nail

View On Revelnail.com

What We Like

Personal color selection
Complete kit with all tools and products
Non-yellowing

What We Don't Like

Only one color included

Aaron says this is a good option for dip powder newbies, and while it’s not professional-grade, it is “good quality for a DIY option.” While it only comes with one shade of dipping powder, we like that you get the option to choose which shade that is. (And there are over 200 dip colors to choose from.) Plus, per the point of newbies, this comes with every possible tool and accessory you could need to master the dipping process, even cotton balls included.

Price at time of publish: $45

Shades: 1 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Multiple bright colors to choose from
Easy to use
Different colorways to choose from

What We Don't Like

Bonder not included with kit

If you're a one and done kind of person (when it comes to your nail kits at least), you'll love this pick from Saviland. Not only does each kit come with 20 colors to choose from, but there are also multiple palettes—so you're able to pick which fits your style the most. Reviewers loved how vibrant the shades were and that the polishes didn't chip (even after multiple weeks).

Price at time of publish: $26

Shades: 20 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 2 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Improves nail health
Easy to use
Long-lasting

What We Don't Like

Not many shades to choose from

You don't have to say goodbye to the perfect manicure if you have brittle or damaged nails with this kit. The color powders included are infused with biotin and calcium to strengthen the nails, all while adding color and shine. We love that it comes with everything you need—including a base coat, activator, and top coat—and it's simple to follow for beginners.

Price at time of publish: $65

Shades: 3 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 5 minutes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Beginner-friendly
Good value
Great color selection

What We Don't Like

Strong odor

A great nude look can be hard to nail, but this kit makes it easy. In eight trendy shades, including glossy solids and glitters, AZUREBEAUTY's Nude set includes everything you need to create neutral nails, including a bonder and activator and replacement brush and nail file.

Reviewers note that the products apply smoothly and evenly, and the products are generously sized for good value. Some users note using the products consists of trial and error, but overall the process was fairly easy once they got the hang of it.

Price at time of publish: $30

Shades: 8 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 1 minute | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Great value
Many colors included
Dries quickly

What We Don't Like

Packaging could be improved

When your goal is bright, shiny nails that garner compliments, reach for this inexpensive kit. The shine is unbeatable, and the glitter shades are bold and bright. With 12 shades to choose from including a clear/white glitter, you'll be set for a number of looks. The kit contains everything you'll need including activator and brush with replacement tips.

Price at time of publish: $12

Shades: 12 included with kit | Dry Time: Air-dry 30 seconds | Cruelty-Free: N/A

Final Verdict

The Nailboo Essentials Dip Kit is our pick for the best dip powder nail kit overall, a high-quality formula that comes with four colors that you can pick. DIY dip novices will appreciate that the Revel Dip Powder Starter Kit comes with every tool and accessory you could need to master the dipping process. The Dipwell Dip Nail Starter Kit-French Set is great if you love French tips, but if you prefer a bold red mani, check out the Honey Joy Dipping Powder Kit, which also boasts a very non-damaging formula.

Meet the Expert

Anastasia Totty is a manicurist and a LeChat Nails Educator. She is the salon owner of Artistique Nails in Saint Johns, Florida.
Nail artist Syreeta Aaron is a LeChat Nails Educator and brand ambassador.

What to Look For in a Dip Powder Nail Kit

A Bonder

Also known as a non-acid primer, you’ll definitely want a kit containing one of these as it’s an essential prep step that will ensure a good application, says Totty.

Activator

Similarly, you’ll also want to make sure your kit comes with an activator, a chemical that’s used to dry the dip base and greatly speeds up the process, Totty says. Look for a comprehensive kit that includes the bonder and activator to be sure you'll have everything you need.

Tools

You'll need a variety of tools to do dip nails at home, including a nail file for buffing and a brush to apply the product. Many kits on this list, including the AZUREBEAUTY Dip Powder Kit, contain replacement brushes as well.

A Variety of Colors

Totty suggests choosing a kit that comes with a variety of colored powders. Not only does this give you more options to play and experiment with different ideas, but it’s also a good way to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

FAQ

Is dip powder bad for your nails?

According to Totty, as long as dip manicures are applied and removed correctly, they are completely safe and not bad for your nails. “It’s extremely important to practice the application and follow the manufacturer’s instructions,” she says. “Patience while removing dip nails will give you the best results and healthy nails afterward.”
How do you remove dip powder nails?

When it comes to removing dip powder nails, do not pick at them or pull them off. (We know, it can be tempting, especially if they’re beginning to lift.) Instead, Totty recommends purchasing a soak-off solution designed specifically for dip powder. “The best and safest way to remove dip nails is to individually wrap them with the solution and wait for 10 to 15 minutes,” she says. “Any residue left on the nail can be easily buffed off.”
Can you fill dip powder nails?

It's possible to fill dip nails, though Totty says that opting for a fresh application is a much better option. “It’s possible to fill dip nails only if you use a clear or clear pink for a natural nail overlay,” she says. “However, that will not give you the best-lasting manicure because, over time, the resin base used with dip manicures will lose its integrity and lifting might occur. A fresh application will ensure you have a long-lasting result every time.”
How long do dip powder nails last?

According to Totty, the standard wear for a dip manicure is between 21 and 25 days, but how long yours will last depends solely on your nail growth speed and how rough you are on them. “For example, a bartender is lucky to get three weeks of wear, when an executive assistant who has less contact with water and other liquids daily will get a full four weeks before the nails completely grow out," she says.
What are the benefits of dip nails?

People tend to like dip powder nails because they typically last longer than regular nail polish and give a salon-quality look. At-home dip nails are especially convenient and inexpensive compared to getting your nails done in the salon.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. A manicure devotee, she admittedly prefers the professional route over the DIY options, so she relied on expert intel and tons of reviews and consumer input when researching this article.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any dip powder nail kits from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

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