Like all manicures, you will want to ensure you have a strong nail base for the dip powder, especially if you aren’t using gels or acrylic.

Improve the health and strength of your nails by keeping them clean, cuticle care, moisturizing your nails, using a nail strengthener, and eating a nutritious, balanced diet.

The right tools are an investment, and you’ll want to start with the necessities, including cuticle trimmers, files, and nail clippers.

For a dip manicure, you’ll need builder powder, base polish, top coat polish, nail activator, and colored dip powder. You might even spend less than you would at a salon.

You’ll want color options when it comes to dip manicures, and the good news is that most brands sell their colors in sets, so you’ll have plenty to choose from.

Finding your favorite brand will take time, and not all are created equal. Once you’ve found one you like, stick with it because it’s easier to be accustomed to one brand.

Before working with your nail plate, you must prep your cuticles. First, you’ll need the right tools, like a cuticle trimmer, cuticle pusher, cuticle oil, and cuticle remover.

Start by rubbing alcohol across your nail plate to remove dirt or debris, then moisturize your nails by soaking them in water or applying a cuticle remover.

Once they’re soft, push back your cuticles, and use a cuticle trimmer to remove any rogue nail pieces or skin hanging off your cuticles.

File your nails first to ensure they are in the basic shape you want. However, striving for perfection is unnecessary because you’ll file them again after the powder.

Next, take care of the top of your nail. Since they are naturally smooth, we need them to have some texture for a dip manicure so the powder has something to adhere to.