Foolproof Ways To Remove Dip Nails At Home

So, you've decided on dip powder nails because you don't have to worry about them chipping like regular polish and gels. This method utilizes a mix of powder pigment and sealing bonds to get a vivid look that can withstand daily wear and tear and won't have you heading back to the nail salon in only a few days. According to Allure, you could actually get up to five weeks out of a single application! Plus, unlike its gel-based competitor, dip nails do not require UV curing. They harden naturally when exposed to air, so you won't have to worry about wearing SPF when getting your manicure.

About a month after getting dip powder nails, your new nail growth will show, and you'll have two options: Get a fill-in or remove the dip nails. If you're not your own manicurist, you'll want to visit the salon for a re-do. But if you're ready to remove them altogether, you can skip the charge and remove your dip nails at home.

Due to the thickness of dip nails, they take longer to remove as opposed to gel or regular polish. Luckily, there are some easy ways to remove them as you lounge at home. For the first method, you will need acetone, foil, cotton balls, and a nail file. Glamour recommends a 180-grit file for the most efficient removal. Use your nail file to thin down the hardened dip powder until it is a thin layer. Cut your foil into pieces slightly larger than your fingertips. Next, soak your cotton balls in the acetone and apply one to each fingernail, securing it with the foil. Leave the cotton balls on for 15 minutes before removing them. You can repeat the process if any dip powder remains — just be sure to wipe off the excess before rewrapping.

There is no need to worry if you don't have foil or cotton balls. You could also try soaking your dip nails in acetone for 20 minutes. Before your nails soak, file off as much of the top layer as possible. After the soak, wipe your nails clean. Resoak your nails if any dip powder remains.

Once the dip powder is gone, there is still work to do. Acetone soaks can be harsh on your nails. It removes the polish but strips layers of your nails over time, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Your cuticles can also be sensitive to the acetone and become irritated. You will want to give your nails a break from gels and dip powders every three to four months. Your nails can still enjoy regular polish for the time being. The goal, however, is to strengthen the nails, so avoid anything but the most basic manicure in the meantime.

After you remove your dip nails, it will help to let your nails dry. Filing and buffing your nails before adding a nail hardener and cuticle oil is a helpful practice. Cuticle oil will help to encourage nail growth and protect your nail beds along with the surrounding skin from abrasions.