What is the best nail powder brand?

When I need a DIY alternative to a great manicure, dip powder nail kits are my go-to. If you're not familiar, dip powder manicures utilize finely milled powders, top coats, base coats, and adhesives that last longer than gel manicures and are just as durable as acrylics—without the damage. The term "dip" comes from the act of dipping your nails in the powder after applying a base coat to create the long-lasting color.

Dip powder is a manicure preference that's become widely popular in salons and is now available to all us with at-home dip powder kits. Yes, they do require a bit of reading, patience, and trial and error, but I believe in you! Plus, most of the dip powder kits on the market are wildly inexpensive—I'm talking $30 and under—and come with several shades that last up to three weeks each. Do the math, and one kit is the equivalent cost of one salon manicure.

The biggest selling point with a dip powder manicure is that no UV or LED light is needed, so the time it takes to dry your nails is cut in half. Skill-wise, the only thing you need to perfect a dip manicure is a steady hold (or a friend who can help with your non-dominant hand). When it came to finding the best dip powder nail kits, we focused on user reviews, editors' own testings, and of course, making sure the products are user-friendly with maximum color. Our favorites, ahead.

How To Use a Dip Powder Nail Kit

• Apply the base coat to freshly buffed nails.
• Dip your nails one by one into the pigmented nail powder container of your choice. Be sure to coat the nail evenly with the product.
• Tap away or brush away the excess pigmented powder between each application for a smooth and even coat.
• Repeat the dipping process on each nail for two rounds before coating your nails with a clear dip powder for more even layers.
• Using the activator polish, apply a generous coat and let it settle for 2-4 minutes.
• After your nails dry, buff and gently file for a smooth finish.
• Apply another coat of activator, and wait for 2-4 minutes again.
• Once your nails are dry, seal the deal with the top coat and follow up with your favorite cuticle oil.

How to Remove Dip Powder Nails

This part is simple as well: Soak each nail in an acetone-based remover, unless the kit specifically mentions another method. The best way to do this is to take a cotton ball, soak it in the acetone, wrap the cotton around your nails, and seal it with a layer of aluminum foil around each finger. After 15-20 minutes the polish will begin to peel off for easy removal. If you’re still confused, we’ve got you covered with our intensive guide on how to remove dip nails.

Our Favorite Dip Powder Nail Kits

The Salon Pick

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OPI Dipping Powder Perfection: Essentials Combo

This is among the pricier options on this list—you'll also have to buy the powder shade you want separately—but you get a ton of bang for your buck with this kit. OPI, also known as the OG of gorgeous at-home nails, includes a dipping top coat, a dipping activator, and dipping top coat with this pretty set.

For Simplicity

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Kiss Nails False Nails Salon Dip Set

This is the most basic of all basic starter kits to make the process easier than ever. For just $12, you'll get all the essentials for a natural looking nail that'll last up to two weeks and come off in a quick soak. KISS also provides a handy, very detailed instruction guide to walk you through every single step.

For a No-Chip Solution

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Red Carpet Manicure Color Dip Starter Kit

Fact: Chipping a nail is not cute. This brand guarantees you won't have to deal with that for up to 21 days and this shiny neutral hue comes with a helluva lot of tools for just $35: a base coat, top coat, activator, brush softener, groom buffer, 20 nail wipes, sticks, and 10 remover foils.

For Easiest Application

AN+ERIN founder Erin Robertson considers herself a “moody fashion scientist." After winning the 15th season of Project Runway, Robertson expanded her fashion line with her own dip powder brand. The brand's straightforward kit and instructions offer three stunning shades that complement every skin tone and are neutral enough to pair with most outfits. 

For Glitz Vibes

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Modelones 6 Colors Dip Powder Nail Kit Starter

For those who love all things that sparkle and shine, this starter dip kit keep us in mind, with glitter dip colors that aren’t chunky and apply smoothly for a glitzy vibe. The best part? There are two extra brush caps in case you end up with a stiff brush or one already covered in random colors. 

For Extra Supplies

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If you’re fully invested in the “at-home dip application” life, then you’ll want to have spare polishes on hand for curing your nails. The color powder will probably last you longer than the different step sealants, so a handy kit like this one from Gelish will make sure you’re not left high and dry with half-done nails. 

For Skilled and Steady

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ASP Quick Dip Starter Kit

If you've accepted the reality that at-home dip nail kits are a bit of work, the 692 reviews on this handy little kit should be affirming. Contained within is a nail primer, base and top gel, two dip colors, gel activator, and a dipping bowl. Hot tip: Invest in a heavy grit file to create a grippy base before beginning.

For Beginners

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Aikker Acrylic Dipping Powder Nail Starter Kit

This starter kit is a cost-friendly option for beginners. It includes eight pretty pastels for spring vibes, four glues, and one recycling tray for the dipping powder. According to rave reviews in the comments section, these shades are incredibly long-lasting and the kit is super simple to use so you'll feel like a pro in no time.

For a Non-Toxic Manicure

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Azure Beauty Dip Powder Nails Color

Acquire the perfect at-home manicure without the harsh chemicals or scent. This dip powder set comes with 10 easy-to-apply nail colors for a long-lasting glossy manicure.

For Fortification

Avva Nail Dip Powder Starter Kit

Dip manicures needn't leave your nailbeds desiccated and thinned. These powders are enriched with both calcium and vitamin E, which means you actually strengthen over the course of wearing them. Shout out to the four muted neutrals, and the more than 350 five-star reviews.

For Vegans

The Nailboo kits not only have an excellent name, but they're also entirely vegan and cruelty free. What looks like a rather ornate collection of items is actually a comprehensive and easy-to-use kit for truly creating dip manis at home. Also? You build your own set and choose your own colors from more than 50 options, so you aren't stuck with shades you'd never use.

For Nail Strengthening

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Dipwell Dip Powder Nail Kit

The beauty of this kit is its nail-strengthening capabilities. Dipwell's dip powder system is free of questionable chemicals and is formulated with powerhouse ingredients like calcium to build up weak nail beds over time.

For High Shine

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Latorice Dipping Powder Nail Art 5 Colors Collection

Non-toxic, all-natural nail products, like Latorice's formula filled with vitamin E and calcium, not only keep the health of your nails in tip-top shape they also lengthen the look of your nails overtime. If shine-blinding nails are your vibe, you'll appreciate this gel powder, which was made for a long-lasting shiny wear with a lightweight texture that'll make you forget your nails are even painted.

For Fast Drying

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GH Dip Dip Powder Nail Kit

Raise you hand if drying your nails always feels like an eternity? Same, same. Enter the fast-drying dipping kit of your dreams: this powder, which comes in six classic colors, dries in 30 seconds flat, which means there's little to no room for error. You're welcome.

Best for Beginners

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Rosalind Dip Powder Nail Starter Kit

Whether you're looking for a classic red, toned-down neutral, or glitter nails, this set has the shade for you. Aside from that, if you're an acrylic-wearer, it's worth reiterating that you may want to give your nails a break and try dip powders instead because they cause less damage and are just as durable—this formula lasts up to two to three weeks and dries fast, no UV lamp necessary.

For Cheerfulness

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Cuccio Pro Polish Dip System Neons Kit Collection

The brand says it best: dip powder nails give you the wearability of a gel and the durability of an acrylic. And this kit goes out to the rainbow nail-lovers who are imagining brighter days ahead. Dress up your nails with eight vibrant shades to suit every mood.

For Red Nail Obsessives

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Honey Joy Fine Dipping Powder Kit

If red is your color, you just met your match. From deep bordeaux to cherry red, this set spans the spectrum of the cult classic color, which wouldn't be complete without a glitter nail because why not?

For a Professional-Grade Manicure

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Color Club 21 Day Classic Serendipity Starter Kit for Nail Dip Powder

This brand was originally created for salon professionals and with this at-home kit you now have the freedom to bring the salon to the comfort of your own couch, for only $20. A major steal for long-lasting nails.

What is the best brand of nail dip powder?

What brand of dip powder Do salons use?

What kind of powder do nail salons use?

Are all nail dip powders the same?