While your trendy, dip powder manicure may look picture-perfect in photos, the reality is that your nails might be crying out for help. Dip manicures can leave your nails weak and brittle, whether due to the application or removal process. Celebrity nail expert Jin Soon Choi explains that professionals apply dip powders in thick layers, and the harsh chemicals can seep into the nail bed and dehydrate the nail. She says, "As a result, I often see clients at my salons with weak, brittle nails from overuse of dip powder, who are seeking to restore their nails' health and strength."
The removal process poses additional challenges. Due to its thickness, technicians often rely on nail drills for filing away dip powder rather than gentle soaking, which can damage the nail bed. Choi also warns that if shared dip powder containers are not properly sanitized, they can increase the risk of spreading bacteria or fungi among clients.
So, how can you treat nails if they've been damaged post-dip powder mani? Ahead, we asked a few manicurists to share their top tips for restoring nail health and strength after a dip manicure.
Meet the Experts
- Jin Soon Choi is an editorial manicurist and founder of the JINsoon Spas and JINsoon Nail Lacquer.
- Sonya Meesh is a celebrity nail artist with clients like Lupita Nyongo and Sasha Colby.
- Yoko Sakakura is a celebrity nail artist with clients like Olivia Rodrigo and Lana Del Rey.
- Julie Kandalec is a celebrity manicurist whose clients include Madelyn Cline, Anya Taylor Joy, and Emily Blunt.
01of 08
Remove Dip Powder Properly
Proper removal is essential if you're currently wearing dip powder. "Improper removal or peeling [the dip powder] off can cause lasting damage that takes four to five months to grow out," Meesh says. It's worth the salon visit."
Celebrity manicurist Yoko Sakakura adds, "Avoid harsh filing. Instead, soak your nails in acetone as instructed, or visit a skilled technician who uses gentle removal techniques to avoid unnecessary damage."
02of 08
Use the Right Nail File
When it comes to nail health, using the right nail file matters. "If [filed] carefully and safely, damage can be minimized and should not weaken your nails," Sakakura says.
Kandalec recommends using a fine-grit file to protect your nails. "A glass file, like one from Germanikure or a sapphire file, seals the edge of the nail and prevents micro tears that lead to snagging and breaking," she says. "When choosing file grits, go for a 400-grit file. Never use coarse grits below 180—they're too harsh and can cause damage. Also, avoid old-fashioned emery boards since their grits aren't regulated like modern files."
03of 08
Prioritize Cuticle Health
"Keeping your cuticles hydrated and pushed back encourages blood flow and prevents peeling of the nail plate, which can help your nails grow longer," Kandalec says.
You can treat your cuticles with a tailored oil, serum, or cream, but you should apply it daily regardless of the product. How you apply the formula also matters, according to our experts. "Most people apply cuticle oils [and treatments] to the tops of their nails, but applying it to the underside is just as important," Kandalec says. "This helps prevent the free edge from curling and reduces the risk of those painful tears—the ones that hurt the hyponychium, the delicate skin where the nail meets the fingertip."
04of 08
Consistently Exfoliate and Hydrate Your Nails
"Exfoliate your hands and cuticles to ensure oils and treatments absorb effectively—otherwise, you're just wasting product," Meesh says. She recommends Dr. Dana's Nail Renewal System, particularly the Glycolic Prep Pen and Deep Hydrating Gel-Oil.
"[The pen] creates the perfect canvas to absorb hydration," she says. "Follow it with Dr. Dana's Deep Hydrating Gel-Oil treatment for a moisture boost."
05of 08
Protect Your Hands
Applying and removing a dip powder manicure can weaken your nails, but daily wear and tear can have further adverse effects. Choi advises wearing gloves during household chores (like washing dishes or cleaning surfaces) or gardening to shield your nails from damage.
06of 08
Consider Supplements
Making lifestyle shifts, like introducing specific supplements into your routine (these are 7 Byrdie-approved hair, skin, and nail vitamins), can potentially help strengthen brittle nails. "Supplements with biotin, calcium, and keratin can enhance strength and promote growth," Choi says. As always, consult a medical professional before buying or taking new vitamins or supplements.
07of 08
Take a Three-Month Break From Dip Powder
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a total break from dip powder manicures. If your nails are splitting, breaking, or thinning, Meesh says this is a sign to skip dip powder for at least three months. "Dip powder or any nail enhancement can cause damage if not properly removed or treated," Meesh says. "Your nails have a finite number of layers, like a sheet of puff pastry. Once those layers are gone, they're gone until the nail fully grows back out. Think of it like the skin barrier on your face—you'd do everything to repair it. Treat your hands and nails the same way."
08of 08
Play Around With Press-On Nails
"If your nails are damaged, I'd recommend taking a break from enhancements until your nail bed fully grows out," Meesh emphasizes. "But if you can't go without nails, press-ons with adhesive tabs are a great alternative to glue. Removal is seamless, too. Coat your hands in oil and let it seep between the press-on and your nail to loosen the adhesive. It's a great way to treat your hands while safely lifting off the nails."
