Dip powder manicures are incredibly popular right now, and we totally understand why. Besides for its simple application and zero drying time, it can last longer than other manicure methods on the market. With proper care, a dip powder manicure will last 2 weeks, and often longer. Because of its strength and durability, dip powder manicures need to be properly removed to avoid damage and breakage. When it’s time for a fresh manicure, it can be tempting to pick at or force off the old dip powder manicure, but by doing so you can actually peel off layers of your nail. This can cause damage to your nail beds, making your nails weak and brittle. It’s best to leave the removal to professionals, but sometimes you can’t wait, we get it. There are safe and effective methods you can use that won’t damage your nails, that you can do at home. Here are the safest methods to try.
The Baggy Method
This is the safest method to remove dip powder at home.
Things you’ll need:
- Nail file with 80-100 grit
- Nail clippers
- Ziploc Bag
- Cotton wool (5x3 inches)
- Pure acetone
- Bowl
- Warm water
- Buffing file (optional)
- Alcohol (optional)
- Remove any nail enhancements or embellishments from each nail with a nail file.
- Cut the nail to your desired length with nail clippers.
- Place cotton wool in the Ziploc bag and fill with an adequate amount of acetone to soak the wool.
- Fill a bowl with warm water. Place the Ziploc bag in the bowl, allowing the acetone to get warm.
- After the acetone gets warm enough, place your fingers into the bag and move your fingers around the wool to accelerate the removal process.
- After 5-7 minutes, remove your hands from the bag and your nails should be clean and free of any dip residue.
- For a finished look, lightly buff each nail then wipe clean with alcohol to remove any residual residue.
If you’d like to see how this method is done, watch the SNS tutorial of the Baggy Method here.
Wrap Method
This is an alternative method for removing dip powder at home. It’s not as effective as the Baggy Method but it does not require soaking fingers in acetone.
Things you’ll need:
- Nail file
- Cotton balls
- Pure acetone
- Aluminum foil or plastic wrap
- Buffing file (optional)
- Alcohol (optional)
- File down the top layer of dip powder with a nail file. Use a back and forth motion until the nail is covered in a fine with dust.
- Soak cotton balls in acetone, place on the nail, and then wrap with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- After 10 minutes, remove the wrapping and you should find the dip powder has been dissolved.
- If you find there is still residue around the edges, wipe them with cotton soaked in acetone until it is completely removed.
- After all the dip powder is removed, you may want to buff the nail to a smooth finish and wipe clean with alcohol.
After Care
While these methods are the safest way to remove dip powder at home, pure acetone can be incredibly dehydrating for the skin and nail beds. That’s why after care is so important after dip powder removal. Regularly apply cuticle oil and hand cream to ensure your hands and nails stay hydrated and moisturized. Here are the best tips to ensure your nails always stay healthy with regular manicures.
