Gel Nail Polish vs Dip Powder Manicure

featuring OPI

These days, a manicure has more options than a frozen yogurt bar. What used to be a simple choice between regular nail polish and acrylics is now made a bit more difficult with the addition of gel nail polish and dipping powder. So what is the difference between gel and dipping powder? Take a look at OPI's handy Gel Nail polish vs Dip Powder manicure guide.
 

Gel Nail Polish

 
If your client wants a speedy manicure with shiny nail color that lasts, gel manicures are the best choice. OPI Gel Color, available in 140+ iconic shades, is a thin brush-on formula, designed for high performance and a glossier finish than regular nail polish. It is perfect for those who love effects, nail art, and self-expression with color. Not only does it offer major shine, but there’s zero dry time. 
 

How to apply gel nail polish? OPI Gel Color is a three-part system that requires a gel base coat, your client's choice of GelColor, and a 100% gel topcoat that makes nails extra durable. Nails will be cured under an LED light for 30 seconds following each coat. The primary difference between a gel manicure and a regular manicure is curing - between each coat, you cure the color and set the gel polish with a special LED light. While some gel nail color formulas and curing lights are available for retail, OPI GelColor is available exclusively through nail salons and used by professionals.

Your clients can be sure that when choosing OPI at your salon, they will receive a stronger, longer-lasting gel manicure. And, OPI GelColor lasts up to 3 weeks if applied properly! How to remove gel nails? Removal is a simple soak-off!

What is a dip powder manicure?

 
If your client wants a durable and long-lasting nail, then introduce them to OPI Powder Perfection dipping powder. Not only will they get vibrant nail color that’s chip-free, but their nails will feel extra strong thanks to the formula for 2+ weeks of wear. Looking for a manicure that will stand up to popping open a can of sparkling water? Dip nails are the service to recommend.
 

How does dip nail powder work and how is it applied? Like the name says, you dip their fingers into color powder to achieve this look - it’s a simple brush, dip, tap application, and it doesn’t require light to cure. Dip nails are a unique application where the nail is dipped into a colored acrylic powder multiple times, then cured with an activator, and finished with a topcoat. You can also create French manicures and other fun nail art looks like ombre nails with dipping powders. How long does dip powder last on nails? OPI Powder Perfection provides added strength and durability for up to 2+ weeks of wear and shine.

Using OPI Powder Perfection can be easier and quicker to apply compared to traditional acrylic systems. One important tip: make sure you are using disposable dip trays, and not dipping client's nails into the jar to ensure a sanitary service for each client.

The best part of using dipping powders in your salon is that it is an odor-free acrylic system. Amazing! The end result is similar to a gel-like shine without the need to cure under a light. OPI Powder Perfection manicures are shade-matched in several iconic OPI shades so you can retail OPI Nail Lacquer as well. You can also create French manicures and other fun nail art looks with Dipping Powders.

OPI Powder Perfection is non-damaging when properly removed using a soak-off wrap removal technique.

So whether you use Gel Nail Polish or Dip Powder for your clients, you can be assured of using the highest quality professional products when you chose OPI. As the world leader in the professional nail care industry, OPI is known for exceptional formulas, fashionable colors and iconic names, with a focus on industry safety and innovation.

Techniques

OPI Gel Color

OPI Powder Perfection