How to Remove Dip Powder Nails at Home, According to Manicurists

Whether we're doing a simple monotone mani or a full set of extravagant nail art, getting our nails done is always a treat. Luckily for us, we also have plenty of options. We can opt for regular lacquer, gel, acrylics, or dip powder nails. While they each serve their purpose, we're here to talk about the latter. Or rather, we're here to talk about how to remove dip-powder nails at home.

Also known as SNS nails (aka, signature nail system), dip powder nails have become increasingly popular over the past few years as they offer long-lasting color without sacrificing your natural nail health. They typically last about two to three weeks, and while going into the salon for professional removal is always an option, the idea of being able to do it at home is also very appealing. As with gel removal and fake nail removal, though, it's important to do so correctly to avoid damaging or breaking your natural nails.

So, we tapped three professional nail experts to tell us how to remove dip powder nails at home the right way. Below, find a step-by-step guide with photos, a list of all the tools you'll need to have with you, and more.

How to Remove Dip Powder Nails at Home

Tools:

• Nail file
• Acetone
• Cotton balls or pads
• Foil
• Gel removal tool / stainless steel cuticle pusher
• Small bowl (optional)

Step 1: File Down the Top Layer of Dip Powder

Similar to gel and acrylic DIY removal, Terrell says the best way to remove dip powder is by buffing off the top layer to better allow the acetone to penetrate and dissolve. For the best results, use a nail file/emery board and buff in a back-and-forth, then side-to-side motion. Do this until you see the top layer of your dip powder is fully covered with fine white dust.

Step 2: Wrap Nails in Acetone-Soaked Foils

Acetone is a must for removal, but save yourself the time and effort of rubbing your nails raw with a plain, soaked cotton ball. Instead, try nail foil wraps that already have a patch of cotton adhered to the inside. (Or, cut up foil you already have and use an acetone-soaked cotton ball inside the wrap, instead.) You'll want to completely drench the cotton ball or patch with pure acetone, then wrap the foil tightly around your nail (making sure that the acetone-soaked cotton is directly on top of your buffed nail). This will help the acetone sink into the powder, effectively dissolving its bond to the nail. Wrap each nail and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Repeat Acetone Soak as Needed

Once you peel off the foil, Terrell says that most of the powder should rub right off. “Dip powder uses a cyanoacrylate, a nail glue that is more sensitive to solvents, so it removes easier than gel manicures,” she explains. However, according to nail expert Evelyn Lim, if the powder was applied thick, you may have to repeat the acetone-soaked foil wraps a second time. "Also, depending on the formula of the dip powder, it may break down to a gummy consistency that can be rubbed off, or it may crumble," she warns. If the dip powder isn't falling off of the nail easily after the first pass, soak your nails in the foil wraps for another 10 minutes.

Step 4: Carefully Scrape Away Remnants

Once the dip powder has begun to dissolve, lift off the remaining product by gently pushing it off the nail. Here, Lim recommends using either a wood stick or a cuticle pusher to remove any remaining product, then using a nail buffer. Rinse and repeat until all signs of dip powder are gone and your nails look clean and healthy.

Step 5: Add Finishing Care Products

Once your nails are completely free of any traces of dip powder, you're done! Just keep in mind that professional nail treatments like dip powder and acetone-based removers can be damaging to the nails and surrounding skin, so you should finish off with an expert-approved nail strengthener and cuticle oil.

Aftercare

Taking time off in between dip powder applications is crucial to the overall health of your nails. Once you’ve removed all traces of your dip powder manicure, you might want to jump right into your next Insta-worthy nail look—but hold your horses. Terrell suggests a week-long break between applications, and a two-week break every three applications. And, of course, take longer, more frequent breaks if your nails feel particularly brittle after removal.

During your dip powder rest period, it's important to use products like nail strengtheners and cuticle oil. Consider giving your nails some TLC with Dr. Dana’s Nail Renewal System ($30). The three-step system incorporates a series of exfoliation and hydration that promises to smooth, strengthen, and moisturize nails while simultaneously delivering a healthy shine. Dunne says that another option is to sub in a nail strengthener—we like Ella + Mila's Nail Strengthener First Aid Kiss ($10.50) instead of polish for your next manicure. “Clients should also apply cuticle oil to the nails daily to keep nails and cuticles hydrated,” Terrell advises.

Can You Remove Dip Powder Without Acetone?

While there are some DIY dip powder removal methods that don't require acetone, they really aren't recommended by manicurists or dermatologists. Tutorials that suggest soaking your nails in scalding hot water or a mix of vinegar and baking soda aren't going to be as effective as acetone and are more likely to cause irritation to the nail and surrounding skin.

Final Takeaway

While most experts would encourage you to reserve services like dip powder removals to the professionals, it doesn't mean that it's impossible to do on your own. By carefully following the steps outlined above, you can safely remove your dip powder without inflicting damage on your natural nails. Avoid using natural remedies and alternatives, and stick to an acetone-based removal followed by proper aftercare for the best results.

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