Image: MomJunction Design Team
When words can’t suffice how we feel, our hands do the talking with gestures, and keeping them beautifully manicured definitely leaves a lasting impression. Powder-dipped nails are the new rage as they save money, time, and effort, and are also extremely easy to apply if you have the right kit.
Simone de Vlaming, a beauty expert and beauty blogger, says, “I prefer using powder-dipped nail polishes over regular nail polishes and gels as they are incredibly chip-resistant and do not need UV or LED lamps to cure them. Also, powder-dipped manicures are safer and healthier for the nails and nail bed in the long run.”
Even a single chipped nail can totally change how your hands look. Hence, dip powder nail kits are a real game changer, especially since the home version is so convenient, easily available, and affordable. Hopefully, our reviews of some expert-recommended dip powder nail kits will help you pick out the best and get glossy, fabulous, and beautifully manicured nails.
Top Picks
15 Best Dip Powder Nail Kits In 2024
1. Best Salon-Style Finish: Kiss Salon Dip Powder Nail Kit
The Kiss salon dip powder nail kit offers a mess-free and convenient way to achieve salon-quality nails at home. This nail-strengthening manicure kit features a brush-on gel that doesn’t require UV/LED light to cure and harden and dip powder, which helps protect and nourish the nails. The set also includes an activator, 20 white nail tips, 20 natural nail tips, a dip tray, a sponge, a nail file, and a manicure stick, making it the perfect beginner kit for acrylic manicures at home.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Matte finish
- Chip-resistant color
- Gentle on the nails
- Odor-less formula
- Affordable price
Cons
- Does not include instructions
- May take time to apply
"If you have thin nails, this kit is a winner. It's simple to use, sturdy, and outlasts several home treatments I've tried. With the help of this kit, my nails look healthier, and its frustration-free process transforms a mundane task into an enjoyable one!"
2. Best Vegan: DipWell Dip Powder Starter Nail Kit
DipWell’s dip powder nail kit is an easy-to-use and convenient acrylic powder and gel resin dip for strengthening and protecting the nails. The set includes a bonder, base, activator, sealer, brush softener, filers, cuticle pusher, and three C-12 dip powder jars. This generously sized kit does not require UV or LED lamps and helps do up to 30 sets of nails in just a few minutes. Additionally, they can be removed in less than 15 minutes, allowing you to experiment with different styles.
Pros
- Can be used as a starter system for elegant French manicures
- Formulated without harmful chemicals
- Lasts almost six weeks without chipping
- Prevents discoloration
- Vegan-friendly
- Infused with calcium
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might dry if not capped properly
- May cause a slight burning sensation
"As a beginner, I found this kit very handy, providing me with a beautiful finish to my naturally weak nails. The application process is pretty straightforward and being devoid of harmful chemicals, it also reduces breakage."
3. Best Non-Toxic: RC Red Carpet Manicure Dip Nail Color
The RC Red Carpet Manicure dip powder kit features a unique formula that enables you to easily achieve high-quality manicures from the comfort of your home. The expert-recommended kit contains six different colors, including a shimmer powder, that can be used individually or mixed to create custom shades. Additionally, the kit includes three mixing spatulas and four mixing jars with labels for convenient storage. The non-toxic and formaldehyde-free formula is easy to apply and provides a non-damaging manicure.
Pros
- Odorless and non-irritating
- Quick manicure in less than 20 minutes
- Doe not require UV light
- Long-lasting
- Chip-, peel-, and split-free manicure
Cons
- Some custom-mixed colors may turn out murky
- Colors may not mix evenly
Trivia| Preview | Best Vegan  | Best Long-Lasting  |
|---|---|---|
| Product Name | DipWell Dip Powder Starter Nail Kit | Wakaniya Dip Powder Nail Kit |
| Longevity | Lasts three to six weeks without chipping | Lasts more than 21+ days |
| Application | No UV/LED lamp required | No UV/LED lamp required |
| Formulation | Formulated without harsh chemicals | Healthy and natural formula |
| Adhesion | Strong adhesion to prevent lifting | Strong adhesion |
| Dimensions | 9.5 x 7.5 x 2in | 7.64 x 7.44 x 1.57in |
| Amazon Ratings | 4.1 | 4.1 |
| Amazon Reviews | 1,389 | 1,690 |
| Buy Now | Check Price | Check Price |
4. Best Long-Lasting: Wakaniya Dip Powder Nail Kit
The Wakaniya nail dip powder kit comes in a gift box with eight jars of colored nail powders, an activator, top coat, brush saver, nail file, brush, wood stick, four replacement brushes, and ten nail remover wraps, making it the perfect starter kit. Of the eight jars, four are classic colored powders, and four are glitter dipping powders with mesmerizing shimmer, which gives you a chance to try out your creative streak with nail art. It’s made of natural and healthy ingredients, and the extra fine powders can be absorbed easily by the base gel. They have a shiny finish and do not require a UV lamp for curing. Watch this review video detailing a reviewer’s experience with testing and using the product.
Pros
- Skin-friendly
- No monomers required to activate
- Mildly fragrant
- Lasts over 21 days
Cons
- Brushes may harden if not used correctly
- May be a little challenging for beginners
"The jars may seem small, but they are durable and serve their purpose. I only wish the activator and base coat were sold in larger quantities, but the variety of the dip colors and glitter make the kit and the entire experience worth it."
5. Best Vitamin-Enriched: Kiara Sky French Starter Kit
The Kiara Sky French starter kit offers a lightweight, long-lasting solution for stronger nails. The kit features white and pink color dip powders that are free of harsh chemicals and don’t damage the nail bed. This all-inclusive, 12-piece dip powder nail kit helps create elegant, quick, and easy manicures, and the formula is enriched with vitamins and calcium to strengthen the nails. Moreover, the formula provides a glossy and flawless finish that lasts up to 28 days.
Pros
- Does not chip and discolor
- Includes a nail oil to prevent damage to natural nails
- Does not require UV light for curing
- Easy to use
- Assorted colors
- Provides visible results
Cons
- May have a strong odor
- Does not include files or buffers
"I found Kiara Sky to be a reliable at-home dip powder manicure product. Although the brush tends to harden at times, I've managed to work around it. The kit is quite user-friendly, and I love that the finish stays for at least three weeks."
6. Best Easy-To-Apply: Lavender Violets 20 Pcs Dip Powder Nail Kit
Lavender Violets dip powder nail kit offers a palette of multiple bright shades to enhance the look of your nails from the comfort of your home. The kit includes a base, activator, top coat and brush saver, and classic and glitter-colored powder, to cater to diverse preferences. The color powders are finely milled, enabling them to get absorbed into the base coat. Additionally, the formula is tested to provide a smooth finish with no bubbles, eliminating the need for LED or UV lamps. With this kit, you can easily get swoon-worthy salon-like nails by following a simple three-step process.
Pros
- Dries in just 30 seconds
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Provides a glossy finish
- Free of toxins
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
- Some might find the containers small
"I was slightly intimidated by this kit when I started using it since I had no idea how it worked. However, watching some tutorials and a lot of practice helped me get the hang of it. I applied a thin base coat before dipping, then added the activator and got a smooth finish easily."
Quick tip7. Best Environmentally Friendly: Saviland Dipping Powder Gel Liquids Set
This professional-grade full dip powder liquid is resistant to chipping and cracking and keeps your nails shiny for up to three to four weeks. Its breathable formula ensures that it causes no damage to the nail bed. Easy to apply with its smooth brush, it takes approximately 30% less time than acrylics, and it also dries very fast. This product uses environmentally-friendly, non-toxic, natural ingredients, and mineral pigments. It has a mild smell and protects your hands and nails. For salon-quality nails, try this product that comes with a base coat, a top coat, an activator, a brush saver, a nail file, a wooden cuticle pusher, two replacement brushes, and dip gel to get that glossy nail finish.
Pros
- Does not need UV/ LED lamp to dry
- Skin-friendly
- Comes with a gift box
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Dip bottle may be smaller than expected
- Activator may take time to dry
"I adore this product's compatibility with varying dip powders and its minimal odor. The top coat may take longer than usual to dry, but despite this, it's a promising product that's easy to use and gives impressive results."
8. Best Starter Kit: Gellen Dip Powder Nail Starter Kit – Ocean Sky
One of the best nail dip powder starter kits, this one has a series of ivory, blue, aquamarine, and teal colors that remind you of the ocean. These six cool-toned colors come in 15-gram jars and are suitable for manicure for everyday wear. Made with safe and non-toxic ingredients, it’s safe to use, doesn’t damage the nail bed, and has a mild odor. It’s resistant to cracking and chipping and lasts for up to two weeks. It dries super fast in about ten seconds. Apart from the six dipping colors, this starter kit comes with a base coat, activator, top coat, brush saver, dust brush, and nail file.
Pros
- Does not peel
- Opaque and pigmented
- Water-resistant
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Brushes may harden if not stored properly
- Base coat may be thicker than expected
9. Best Breathable Colors: Beetles Gel Polish Dip Powder Nail Kit
The Beetles nail dip powder kit comes with six dipping powders, a base and top coat, an activator, a brush saver, a nail brush, a nail file, and a cuticle pusher. The colors range from snow white, nude gray, brown, burgundy red, silver glitter, and champagne gold, giving you a good variety. This product is free of toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, and lead to name a few. The professional-grade manicure kit provides a chip-free manicure and helps you grow stronger and healthier nails. This high-quality product is long-lasting and stays with no chipping, peeling, or cracking for up to three weeks. The colors are breathable, lightweight, look natural, and are just what you need for gorgeous nails.
Pros
- Fine texture
- Easily activated with glazes
- Thin base coat for smooth application
- Natural ingredients
- Affordable option
Cons
- Top coat may be a little gummy
- Base coat may have a strong scent
"This product takes some time to work. I had to be very patient with the whole process. But I love the results and finish, so it's worth it. Also, the colors, I must say, are eye-catching."
Do remember10. Best Daily Wear: Drizzle Beauty Royal Dip Powder Nail Starter Kit
The rich collection of vibrant jewel colors in dark, pastel, and neutral tones will give you a royal feel. It features 12 colored nail powders along with a dust brush, cuticle trimmer, cuticle pusher, and two professional nail files, facilitating manicures for all skill levels. These bold yet wearable colors are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients, have only a mild smell, and are a reasonable and more healthy alternative to getting your nails done at a salon. It offers visible results and flawless nails for up to three weeks without cracking or chipping. These dip powders have a lightweight, ultra-shiny, and natural finish. Although they have a thinner texture, they are as strong as acrylic and, in fact, hold out better than acrylic and gel polishes in daily wear. Unlike acrylic, this dipping nail powder does require monomers to activate.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Suitable for daily wear
- Fast-drying
- Easy to use
Cons
- May not include top coat, base coat, and activator
- May take time to remove
"I am impressed by this kit's durability and longevity. Once I do my nails, I stay worry-free for at least two weeks. The whole process may be a bit time-consuming; however, the colors are radiant and striking. I recommend this kit to all those who are adept at nail art."
11. Best Crack-Free: Revel Nail Dip Powders French Manicure Kit – Fabulous In French
The scientifically formulated Revel french manicure with dipping powders is quick and easy to apply and comes in beautiful, soft colors. The innovative technology of this kit was engineered by professionals in the beauty industry and gives you everything you want from a manicure. As the ingredients are non-toxic, it causes no damage to your nails or nail bed. It’s extremely long-lasting and gives you three to five weeks of chip-free and crack-free wear. The professional-grade kit contains a pro base, activator, and finish gel, along with the four dipping powders to achieve a manicure with superior visible results. It offers the benefits of both acrylic and gel, with double the convenience and half the cost. The expert-recommended kit is available in matte, glitter, and sheer, and cream finish, making it a nail beauty essential.
Pros
- Outlasts gel manicured nails
- Odor-free
- Has calcium and vitamin E
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May take time to dry
- Brushes may detach from the caps
"I love this Revel nail kit. Its dip powders, base coat, and activator work great. Although the top coat has a strong odor, I like that it's user-friendly, doesn't require curing, and can be used with extensions."
12. Best Affordable: NewMe Glam Dip Powder Nail Kit
The NewMe kit comes with six trendy colors that complement every occasion, and features all-inclusive manicure tools you need to get started. The chic colors include nude, pink, mauve, gray, plum, and glitter white, and the set also features a bond, base coat, activator, and top coat. The best part is that the high-quality nail products take less than 30 minutes to create a manicure that lasts for two to three weeks. This dipping powder nail kit can be used over 30+ times and provides a manicure with salon finish, making it a cost-effective and time-saving solution. It makes a wonderful gift for loved ones and works just as well on stick-on nails as natural nails.
Pros
- Strengthens natural nails
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Beginner-friendly
- Does not require UV/ LED exposure for drying
Cons
- May be thicker than expected
- Instructions may be a little difficult to follow
"Being a sports enthusiast and a busy mother, my nails often suffer. I took a leap of faith on this dip powder, and I'm glad I did. It gives a salon-like finish without having to step out! It's quite durable, doesn't clump, and is easy to use, even for someone like me who isn't a nail expert. Not to mention, it features a beautiful color range."
13. Best Color Clarity: Gelish Acrylic Powder Nail Color Dip Kit
The Gelish acrylic powder nail color dip kit offers a unique formula with superior color clarity and shine. The scientifically formulated dip powders are easy to apply and don’t require a UV or LED nail drying lamp to cure. The kit includes three dip powders in different colors, a nail surface cleaner, 100 lint-free wipes, two replacement caps, two replacement brushes, a base coat, a top coat, an activator, and a prep formula. It helps create a glossy long-wearing manicure that can last up to two weeks.
Pros
- Fast drying time
- Non-sensitizing base coat
- Quick 30-minute application
- Top coat enriched with vitamins A and E
Cons
- Base coat may become thick after frequent use
- Top coat may be a bit streaky
"This gel kit gives me long-lasting and salon-like results. The kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions, making the application process even more delightful."
14. Best Summer Colors: Beetles Gel Polish Dip Powder Nail Kit
Get a salon-style professional manicure with this high-quality and expert-recommended nail kit that includes pastel and beautiful neon colors. The trendy polish colors are ideal for a manicure for special occasions— be it spring or summer. It includes four dip powder liquids and a nail brush for easy application. The colors might feel lightweight and thin, but they stay firm on your nails. This celebrity-favorite dip powder kit is made of safe ingredients, activated with glazes, and has no need for monomers.
Pros
- Long-lasting shine
- Provides a natural shiny finish
- Low odor
- Toxin-free
- Does not require UV LED curing
- Quick-drying and easy to apply
Cons
- Some may find the base coat thick
- May not be easy to remove
"After having tried several nail kits, I have finally settled on this one, as it is user-friendly and provides results that last for 2-3 weeks. I'd recommend this for beginners too."
15. Best Chip-Resistant: TP Nails Care Gel Powder Dip System
TP Nails Care powder dip system is a gel-based nail kit that provides fancy nails. This nail treatment and repair kit includes a nail prep, a gel activator dusting brush, a nail file, a buffer, a crystal gel powder base, and three dip colors — neon yellow, baby pink glitter, and blue. The smooth formula does not harm your natural nails and provides a chip-resistant coating that needs no treatment with UV or LED lamps. Additionally, the non-toxic powders of this nail care and color system give your nails a professional, salon-worthy appearance that lasts two to three weeks.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Includes an instructional manual
- MMA-free and non-toxic formula
- Odorless
Cons
- Paint might run thick at times
- May not be quick-drying
"My experience with this nail kit has been nothing less than satisfactory. The longevity and strength are its strong points. The formula is not prone to drying or becoming tacky."
How To Choose The Right Dip Powder Nail Kit?
Here are a few points to keep in your checklist so that you know what to look for while choosing a kit.
- Bonder and activator: A non-acid primer, otherwise known as a bonder, is essential in a dip powder nail kit as it’s a crucial step for prepping your nails so that the powder can be applied properly. In the same way, an activator is a must in the kit as it turns the powder into a glossy lacquer.
- Variety of colors: Ideally, your dip powder nail grooming and styling kit should have a good assortment of colored powders that are non-toxic so that you have more options to play around with and have value for money.
- Ingredients: Do check the label and ensure the dip powders or manicure supplies do not contain any toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, parabens, phthalates, or harmful dyes. They should also preferably be cruelty-free, odor-free, and their texture should be very fine and not grainy.
- Accessories: The dip powder nail kit you plan to buy should be a complete manicure set that includes an activator, base coat, top gel, and a brush saver. In addition, a brush to dust off the excess powder, a nail file, a nail buff, and a
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are powder-dipped nails better than gel?
Dip powder nails are long-lasting; in fact, they are twice as long-lasting as gel manicures. And unlike gel polish, they do not require UV light to cure them, which means you are saved from UV exposure and don’t have to go through the hassle of storing a bulky nail lamp.
2. How do I apply dip powder nail polish at home?
Clean your nails, push back the cuticles, file, and buff your nails so that there are no uneven ridges causing uneven coating. Apply a base coat and dip your nails into a pot of pigmented powder. Then, tap or brush off any excess powder and repeat the process for an even coat. Paint on a clear activator polish which turns the powder into a glossy lacquer and bonds it onto the nail. Once it dries, you can apply a clear coat of polish as a top coat.
3. Will any dip powder work with any kit?
Because the technology for binding the powder and liquid components is usually the same, one brand’s dip powder generally works with another brand’s liquids.
4. Can I get a fill on powder-dipped nails?
Yes, you can get a fill on the newly grown area of powder-dipped nails. To get them correctly, firstly, file the newly grown area of your powder-dipped nails. Push back your cuticles with the cuticle pusher, cut the extra cuticles, and apply cuticle oil to them. Next, Follow the usual procedure of powder-dipping in the overgrown area. Blend the old and new dips with the help of a nail buffer. Wipe your nails, then apply a second coat of activator and let it dry. Lastly, apply a clear coat of polish and let it dry again.
5. Are dip powder nail kits safe?
Yes, dip powder nail kits are safe to use. However, frequent use can be harmful to your nails because people generally use acetone to remove them, which can dehydrate your nails. Therefore, it is best to leave your nails bare for at least a week before the next application.
6. Can bacteria grow in dip powder?
Yes, bacteria can grow in dip powder if you dip dirty nails in it. Therefore, always clean your nails properly before dipping them in the dip water.
7. How long should I wait to remove my powder-dipped nails?
You should wait for your powder-dipped nails to start to chip themselves, which is after three to four weeks, before removing them.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a seasoned writer and reviewer who likes to help her readers find the best of all things related to beauty, fashion, and personal care. In this article, she reviews and lists the best dip powder nail kits that are easy to apply and will leave you with a long-lasting manicure right at home. She keeps up-to-date with the latest trends in her favorite categories so she can provide her readers a seamless shopping experience.
Dip powder nails are gaining a lot of popularity in recent times. It is an easy, quick, and cost-effective option for manicures done in salons. Pick one from our curated list of the best dip powder nail kits. These dip powder nail kits are made of highly pigmented polymers. You need not worry about them damaging your nails or nail beds, as they last for a long time without chipping or flaking. Also, don’t forget to check out the nail colors and contents of the kit before finalizing the one for yourself.
Infographic: How To Apply Dip Powder Nail Polish Perfectly?
In recent years, dip powder nail polish has gained popularity, but the application requires more preparation and steps than liquid enamels. Check out the infographic below for instructions on applying the powder nail polish. It also includes how to prepare the nails for the application to help you get the perfect finish.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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