Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (2024)

From acrylics to nail lacquer, gels, extensions, and dip powder, we have more options than ever for achieving long, beautiful nails that last. While this is excellent news for manicure enthusiasts, it also means that visiting the salon – or creating DIY nail art – is a bit more complicated than it used to be. Choosing the best manicure material will depend on how much time you want to spend applying nail art, your budget, and how long you want your nails to last, among other factors.

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between gel and dip powder nails, two of the most popular nail treatments of 2022/2023. Gel and dip powder nails are similar in that they combine the strength and durability of acrylics with the light-wearing versatility of nail polish (and unlike acrylics, they don’t require frequent salon visits to fill in new nail growth). There are, however, several important qualities that make each material unique:


1. Ease of application.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (1)

Image by @Dipping by Tony Huynh


Dip powder and gel nails are easy to apply at home, but the gel application process is slightly quicker and more beginner-friendly.

  • Gel nails are brushed on like nail polish and then cured with UV light.
  • For dip nails, on the other hand, the nails are primed, dipped in a pot of powder, and sealed with an air-drying topcoat. You can expect to spend 30-45 minutes applying a full set of gel nails and 45 minutes to an hour on dip powder nails.

2. Durability.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (2)

Image by @Dipping by Tony Huynh

Both gel and dip powder nails are highly durable, but dip powder nails tend to be more chip and scratch-resistant. On average, gel nails last two to three weeks and dip powder nails last two to four weeks, but these results can vary from person to person. Individuals with oily nail beds or chip-prone nails, for example, may have trouble getting a gel manicure to last for more than two weeks. If that describes you, dip powder nails are the superior option because they’re built up in layers, which enhances nail strength and creates a barrier against chipping.

Aside from practicing proper nail care, the most important factor in how long your gel or dip powder manicure lasts is the quality of the materials you’re using: Choosing a gel or dip powder with premium organic ingredients manufactured in North America, like the products at NuGenesis Nails, is the best way to avoid premature chipping, cracking, or peeling.

3. The removal process.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (3)

Image by @Dipping by Tony Huynh

Dip powder nails take a bit longer to remove than gels, but the removal process is gentler. Even the strongest dip powders readily dissolve when soaked in an appropriate solvent, like acetone, for 10-20 minutes. Gel nails are also removable with acetone, but many people can’t resist the temptation to pull or scrape off the gel, which makes nails soft or brittle over time.

4. Safety.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (4)

Image by @NuGenesis Nails

At NuGenesis, all of our dip powders are made for professional use and safe for everyone. Gels (and acrylics), while safe for most people, contain ingredients that can sometimes cause allergic reactions. If you’ve experienced an adverse reaction to manicure products in the past, we recommend using an all-natural dip powder instead of gels, acrylics, or nail varnish.

Likewise, some people don’t feel comfortable applying gels due to concerns about ultraviolet radiation. Though UV nail lamps are considered safe (when used as directed) by the FDA, it’s perfectly acceptable to choose dip powders over gels if you’re worried about UV exposure.

5. Nail's health.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (5)

Image by @NuGenesis Nails

Though dip powders are generally considered the gentlest option, both gels and dips can be used long-term without damaging your nails. Once again, choosing a high-quality product – and taking care of your nails properly – are the most important factors when it comes to nail health.

To keep your nails from getting dry or brittle, look for a dip powder or gel that contains nail-strengthening nutrients, like vitamin E and calcium. Keep your cuticles moisturized and always work slowly and carefully when removing your old manicure; never try to pull or peel off any variety of nail varnish!

6. Cost.

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (6)

Image by @NuGenesis Nails

Dip powder nails are a bit more expensive than gels up-front; however, this cost difference disappears when balanced against their longevity. A set of dip powder nails usually costs just $5-10 more than gels, so the difference is negligible if you plan to wear your manicure for as long as possible. If, on the other hand, you like to change your nail color frequently, gels are probably the most budget-friendly choice.


Dip Vs. Gel: You Decide!

With all the choices available today, there’s no right or wrong way to create the perfect manicure, provided that you're working with safe, trusted materials. NuGenesis carries a full range of stunning dip powders and gel and lacquer colors, so you can express yourself freely without worrying about nail chips, cracks, or exposure to chemicals.

Are you interested in learning more about dip powder nails? Check out the many benefits of nail dips, or get started with our simple how-to guide. Getting the perfect manicure for any occasion is easy with NuGenesis nails!

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose (2024)

FAQs

Dip Powder Nails vs Gel Nails – How to Choose? ›

So, if you're using your hands a lot, dip powder should be your go-to, as it's also more scratch-resistant than gel. In terms of looks, Smith says gel polish manicures have a natural look, while dip powder has a thicker application. Additionally, she says gel offers more shine and flexibility.

What is the healthiest nail option? ›

Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.

Why do my nails hurt after dip powder? ›

If your dip powder manicure is not done correctly, it can also cause your nails to feel weird. If the layers of powder and liquids are applied too thickly or unevenly, it can create an imbalance in pressure on your nail bed, leading to discomfort or numbness.

How often should you take a break from dip nails? ›

Dr. Lipner from AAD recommend taking a break every 3-4 weeks if you're using dip powder regularly.

What type of nails last the longest? ›

One of the biggest benefits of acrylic nails is that they are very durable. They can last up to six weeks without chipping or peeling, which is much longer than natural nails. Additionally, acrylic nails are less likely to break than natural nails, so they can be a good option for people who have weak or brittle nails.

Is dip powder healthier than gel? ›

Though dip powders are generally considered the gentlest option, both gels and dips can be used long-term without damaging your nails. Once again, choosing a high-quality product – and taking care of your nails properly – are the most important factors when it comes to nail health.

What nail technique is the least damaging? ›

Overall, Dip Powder Manicures are a great way to get a healthy manicure that will protect and strengthen your nails without causing any damage. Just like any nail treatment, you do have to make sure you properly remove it to keep your nails safe and healthy – Don't pick at your manicure!

What are the negatives of dip powder nails? ›

One of the biggest cons of dip nails is that they have a bulkier look than gel or regular manicures, since multiple layers of powder are added to your nails. But a skilled nail tech can file them down (especially underneath your nails) to reduce the thickness and make them feel a bit more natural.

Why are my nails so thin after dip? ›

Lipner says, “It's not dangerous to apply a dip powder every month. However, to remove these manicures, you need to put 100% acetone on your nails, which can damage your nails.” The acetone removes more than the nail color. “It peels off layers of nail and thins the nails over time,” says Dr.

Does dip mess up your nails? ›

Pros and Cons of Dip Nails

"Dip powders also tend to temporally dehydrate the nails." If you're already addicted to dip manicures, don't fret: there are no long-term effects. While Allen says that dip powders aren't necessarily healthier than other types of manicures, the products are not permanently damaging.

What color nails do guys find most attractive? ›

In a representative survey, the German Paint Institute found that men generally likeblue , but also likegray , black and brown . Both sexes like green about equally, while women are more likely to like red ,yellow ,beige and orange .

What is nail dip flu? ›

What is "Dip Flu?" "Dip Flu" is a reaction to the contents of Step 1 and Step 3 in a dip system liquid set. From our experience and observations, far less than 1% of our customers have experienced a "Dip Flu" reaction, so there is a very strong chance you will not be affected at all.

Why do my dip nails only last a week? ›

Someone who has nail beds that contain an excess amount of natural oils tend to have a more slippery base. This makes it hard for the dip powder to "grip on" and adhere to the nail properly. The second most common cause of lifting is getting product on the cuticle line.

What is the most attractive nail length? ›

Nails grown barely past your fingertips are the ideal length, says Fisher. They look feminine but won't stop you from, say, unzipping him or sexting. See what else guys really notice about your looks.

What is the healthiest fake nail option? ›

Unlike acrylic nails that use liquid monomer and polymer powder, gel nails cure under UV or LED light for 30-60 seconds. One of the main reasons gel nails are considered a healthier option is their flexibility. The gel formula allows the nails to bend and move more naturally, reducing the risk of breakage and chipping.

What is a Russian manicure? ›

The Russian nail method is a dry process of filing, cutting, and removing the cuticle with electric drill bits entirely for a clean look and feel. The Russian manicure can prevent the dry cracking of cuticles or hangnails, thus extending the longevity of the manicure.

What is the healthiest nail shape? ›

round nails are the most natural and easiest to wear of all of the nail shapes. they're easy to shape, low maintenance and, because they're entirely curved, they have no sharp edges or corners to snag on clothing or surfaces.

What is the new nail technique better than gel? ›

Polygel nails are stronger than gel nails and more flexible than acrylic nails, which makes them less likely to chip or break. “If someone is hard on their hands, it bounces back more easily instead of cracking,” says Kandalec.

Are press-on nails better than gel? ›

Press-on nails are a great alternative to more damaging options like gel polishes and acrylics. Though gel polishes and acrylics may last longer, the removal process for press-on nails is much easier on your nails, and since they only stay on for a couple of weeks, they are less likely to cause any issues.

What is the healthiest nail overlay? ›

Gel overlay nails are less harsh on your natural nails, using less chemicals than acrylic overlay nails. Thus, they preserve your nail health better. If you don't want your nails to look done up, gel overlay nails give you better results with a natural finish and they feel much lighter too.

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