There are various perks to getting dip powder nailsbut perhaps probably the most appealing one is how they last more than most other polishes, even the one you love gel. Dip powder polish — also often known as dip or SNS, a well-liked brand — uses a mixture of nail resin (much like a glue) and coloured acrylic powder to create a durable manicure that may last three to 5 weeks, if properly cared for.

“Dip manicures contain a special resin-type glue that hardens to seal in the colour,” says cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson. “Acrylics are a mix of powder and adhesive that could be molded and shaped, then applied to the nail, where they dry to set. These are great for individuals who want to elongate or change the form of their nails.” Given the strong adhesive, Robinson adds, dip is taken into account the strongest and tends to last more.

The downside? Because dip nails consist of several layers of resin and powder, they create a thick manicure that’s not exactly easy to remove, especially should you’re doing it at home by yourself. Rest assured, though, should you cannot get to a salon for skilled removal, there is a strategy to safely remove dip powder nails at home without wrecking your natural nails. Here’s the best way to do it, in keeping with experts.

• Syreeta Aaron is a nail artist and LeChat Nails educator in Montgomery, Alabama.
• Ashlie Johnson is a nail artist based in Los Angeles.
• Amy Lee is a nail artist based in Los Angeles.
• Rita Remark is a nail artist and Essie global lead educator based in Recent York City.
• Ron Robinson is a cosmetic chemist and founding father of BeautyStat Cosmetics based in Recent York City.
• Monserrat Rodriguez is a nail artist and the owner of Shears and Laque nail salon in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

What is the difference between dip powder and gel?

Dip powder and gel are different in some ways, and that is essential to know for secure removal. “The foremost difference is application and strength,” says Rita Remarknail artist and Essie global lead educator. “Gel is applied wet with a brush and cured under an LED or UV lamp. Dip powder is applied by layering acrylic powders over a delicate nail adhesive.”

A dip powder manicure is a stronger and harder nail coating, so it tends to last more on softer, weaker nails. But that also means it will probably be a bit tougher to remove at home. Gel is somewhat more flexible, Remark explains. Robinson agrees, and says dip a “very strong adhesive” that is trickier to take off whenever you’re not in a salon.

What tools are needed for dip powder removal?

Should you’ve ever removed your gel manicure at home (or given yourself a DIY manicure), you may be acquainted with the list of tools needed to get off this stubborn polish: