Dip nails really are very straight forward. Its basically just a process of paint, dip, file, finish. However, every once in a while, you may have a hiccup. It’s ok…we’ll help. And once you get the hang of it? Easy peasy.
PROBLEM:
My nails lift at the cuticles.
SOLUTION:
Nails lift at the edges if the basecoat is applied too close to the cuticles. Make sure to only apply basecoat a hair’s breadth away from the cuticles.
PROBLEM:
My finish is lumpy.
SOLUTION:
Make sure to dust off excess dip powder in between each basecoat application. Some even like to use a toothbrush to brush off the excess powder (but make sure the basecoat is all the way dry). File well and rinse hands before applying last layer of activator and then the topcoat.
PROBLEM:
My nails are chipping.
SOLUTION:
Dip nails are SO hard and resilient that they are *almost* chip proof…except if you neglect to cap your edges! Make sure to cap your corners and edges with your last coat of basecoat.
PROBLEM:
My liquids and/or brushes are gummy or hard.
SOLUTION:
Liquids turn gummy or hard when they are contaminated with dip powder or other liquids (like acetone, alcohol, or activator). Make sure you wipe your brush on a paper towel in between each nail to avoid gumminess. Wait at least until 2 minutes after applying activator to apply topcoat, as activator will turn your brush/liquid hard.
PROBLEM:
My bottle is stuck shut.
SOLUTION:
Soak in warm water for 5 minutes and carefully proceed with opening. To prevent your bottles from getting stuck in the future, wipe bottle opening/neck after each manicure and do not wipe your brushes on the bottle neck.