There’s a nearly paralyzing amount of choice at the nail salon, and it all starts with the base. Between traditional lacquer, acrylic, gel, and dip powder, there are a lot of options! If you’re looking for a manicure that lasts up to a month (yes, a month) and allows you to create unique designs, you may want to try dip powder.
The name comes from the process of applying the manicure, where you lay a clear base coat, dip your nails into fine acrylic powder, and repeat to fill and seal. While gel uses a polish that needs to be cured under a special light and acrylics are created with a concoction of liquids and powders, dip nails simply need to be submerged into the colored powder; omitting the lengthening curing process, says and Nailboo creator Rachel Maloof.
Plus, there are so many design options to choose from when venturing into the world of dip powder. Thanks to the seemingly endless colors and tools that are available, it’s easy to get creative and experiment with new patterns, shapes, and styles. From colorful ombrés and French tips to 3D nail art and more—the creativity is limitless.
Not convinced? Read on, below, for dip powder nail ideas.
Fun French
Give the iconic French mani style a modern twist by adding a pop of color. Maloof achieved this look by applying a base to the entire nail and then using a dip tray to gently push the nail into the bright orange color. There’s no wrong way to rock a French, so apply the length of the color as far down the nail as you’d like! Then, sprinkle a lighter base color on top of the nail bed to create an even layer. epeat two to three times and ta-da! You’re all set.
Leopard Print
Want to take a walk on the wild side? Ask your manicurist to use a variety of colors to create a fun animal print design like this adorable leopard print mani.
Drip Nails
This drippy, trippy design is effortlessly chic and edgy, even when using bold colors. The white droplets are outlined by a more opaque version of the nail base, adding dimension to the look.
Color Block
Color block nails are inherently chic. Using a fun mix of colors, you can create this design over and over again without it feeling stale.
Squiggle Tips
Swirls and squiggles can be a fun take on dip powder designs. If you’re new to the world of manicures, try cutting out a strip of paper in the pattern you’re trying to emulate and apply the powder one section at a time—it’s easier than it looks!
Baby Boomer Nails
Baby boomer nails are the latest trend that is achieved by combining a gradient of beige and white to create a natural-looking ombré effect. A classy take on the tried-and-true ombré, this style will level-up any outfit, whether you’re going to a wedding or are inspecting the fruit at the farmers market.
Tweed Nails
With some sparkly dip powder, a few bottles of polish and a fine line brush, you can make tweed nails with ease. Layer horizontal and vertical lines in black and white over your shimmery base for a cozy and cute design.
Cotton Candy
Cotton Candy isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a great inspiration for manis, too! This look takes a simple white nail to the next level with an abstract design using soft pinks and baby blues.
Pretty Petals
Starting with a classic French tip, apply your yellow crescents using your favorite dip tray. Then, apply some clear base coat in the shape of flower petals and pour white powder over the top, says Maloof. If you’re looking for a bit of sparkle, apply rhinestones to the center of each flower to finish the look!
