These Dip-Powder Nail Kits Provide a Salon Effect Without the Bougie Price

These days, nothing is exclusively a salon-only treatment if you put your mind to it. The professional-level technique of the dipped-nail manicure is now totally doable at home by using a dip-powder nail kit. These inexpensive nail kits are the best DIY investment for saving some cash on expensive nail salon visits, plus they come in a plethora of shades to choose from — endless manicure creations? We'll sign up for that!

The Best Dip-Powder Nail Kits

Benefits and Limitations

So, what exactly are dip-powder nails? “They’re another method that is used to harden your natural nails or to add length just as you can with gel or acrylic,” says Syreeta Aaron, a manicurist and LeChat Nails educator. Dip-powder nails are typically done with a basic three- to five-step process — this, of course, does not include prep and polish. In our FAQ section below, we explain how to use and remove these dip-powder nail kits.

Dip-Powder Versus Gel Nails

The difference between gel polishes and dip-powder nails is their durability. “With gel polish, you may still experience some breakage on your natural nails versus with dip-powder. The durability is much better, saying that the product is much thicker, causing less breakage,” explains Aaron. However, she adds that gel builder and dip-powder are very similar. “The amount of product you use with the gel builder will depend on the thickness and strength of the nail.”

Dip-Powder Versus Press-On Nails

Press-on nails are a temporary nail enhancement that may last for just 2 to 3 days if not done properly or last up to a week if done correctly, meaning you clean off the nail plate of any dead skin and remove the oils. “One has to be very careful with press-ons because if there are any air pockets where the glue did not get onto the nail plate, fungus can easily occur,” says Aaron. “However, with dip-powder nails, you are sure to get full coverage eliminating the possibilities for fungus, and they last much longer.”

Ready to give it a go? Read on to discover the best dip-powder nail kits and essential accessories to kick-start your at-home nail salon! Each item was researched by our beauty editor, Nicole Saunders, who considered the overall value of the kits, including the price, the number of powder shades available, accessories included in each set, reviewer feedback, texture, and more.