Dip powder nails have so many wonderful attributes that many people choose them. The main reason is that dip powder nails last longer than other manicure methods. Even UV gel. Dip powder polish is a mixture of nail-safe resin, which acts as an adhesive and fine colored pigments to create a manicure that can last up to four weeks with proper care. Powder dipped nails consist of multiple layers of resin and fine powder. This can make it difficult to remove at home, especially since it is an epoxy-like manicure. There are several safe methods to remove the dip powder at home, without damaging your natural nails.
The Baggy Method
SNS Nails has shown us the safest way to remove dip powder. The “Baggy Method” is what SNS Nails calls it.
- Use a nail file with between 80-100 grit to remove any embellishments or decorations.
- Cut each nail to the length you want. These nails are very thick so you may need to use a large clipper or a professional nail trimmer.
- To make the bag, you will need a Ziploc, cotton wool and pure acetone. The pieces of wool will be bigger, measuring about 5 by 3 inches. They won’t be the smaller cotton balls. Add a generous amount of acetone into the cotton wool.
- Fill a bowl or bin with warm water. Place the bag into the bin filled with warm water, and let the temperature of the acetone rise.
- Place your fingertips in the bag after the temperature increases to dissolve the dip. Move your fingers all around the wool in order to speed up the process. It takes 5-7 minutes. You will see a nail that is clean, without any residue or dip.
- Finish by lightly buffing each nail, then wiping it clean using a sterile rubbing alcohol wipe.
This video made by SNS shows how it is done.
Wrap Method
It is possible to remove all of the dip powder without soaking. Although it’s not as easy or effective, this method will still work.
File down the top
You will first take your file, and gently buff the top layer down, letting the grains of the file break down the powder. All you need is a simple back-and-forth motion. Continue doing this until your nail looks covered with fine white dust. You will know that the top layer is gone when you see this.
Wrap Nails in Acetone
Acetone is necessary for nail care, so it’s impossible to avoid. You will not need to scrub your nails with towelettes because you have already filed them down. Place a ball of pure acetone soaked on each nail and leave it there for a few moments. Repeat the process for each nail, until they are all dissolved.
To finish the edges, use a touch-up.
You may find that even after removing all of your dip powder you still have some powder on the edge. It is not uncommon for this to happen, as the adhesive used to apply powder is very strong. It may be necessary to repeat this process until you are able to clean the edges of your nails from the gummy, broken-down substance.
The Final Step is Important for Both Methods
The last step is potentially the most important. The acetone soak and the filing will dehydrate your nails and skin, not to mention all the wear and tear that you already put on your hands. Use hand creams or oils after your manicure.
This article suggests the least harmful way to remove the powder. If you try to forcefully remove the old manicure or pick it off, you will risk damaging your nails and leaving them brittle. It may take several months for your nails to grow back.
