How to prevent cracking in your dip powder nails

If you've struggled with your dip powder nails cracking, these tips may help!
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MK
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[@lauradomenico3264]

I love watching your videos. You make dipping look so easy. After a couple years of dipping and lots of cracks, I think I’ve found my happy place. I start off with clear on just the middle of the nail to give it some curve, then a full dip of clear, then two full dips of color, then a full dip of clear. Activate, file, and top it off with a gel top coat. I was using the dip top coat, but really prefer the gel on top. I can go three weeks and no cracks! I have also been using a small dotting tool for my cuticles after dipping, but just ordered a really pretty precision tool.

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad you found your routine!! 🙌🏻

[@cnesbit2]

Trying this!

[@madeinussr7551]

Hi thank you for the info. I do Mom's nails and no problem. I do mine and they have those long curvy cracks. I wonder if I have oily nails or they are too flimsy and thin that's why they bend and crack... I use revel so no clear powder step in it. I wonder if I should add it??...I feel like powder starts lifting if I put it on too thick .. any advice? I do the middle of the finger at first too. My gel polish doesn't stay on as long as it does on my mom's nails either. Lately I've been wearing gel polish for 10 days and been able to do powder for only a day ... Then the cracks. I feel defeated ...

[@priscillamaclean6074]

Omg, I love your cat! He's such a cutie!

[@MarlaKris]

Lol he’s a brat 😂

[@HealthyandLovingLife]

Boogie is so cute!!! He stole the show! 😻

[@MarlaKris]

Lol right?

[@ginettenichols7382]

Thank you for all information. By the way, your 4-legged assistant is very beautiful 😉

[@MarlaKris]

Hehe he says “I know” 🤣

[@bluexblondebaby]

I find when I’m sick I always come back to your videos for some comfort and escape. Thank you for sharing so many amazing tips 🙏💗

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad I can be that for you! I hope you feel better soon! 🙌🏻🫶❤️

[@BeyondPolish]

Just like all your feedback from the comments - Your videos are so helpful to so many people who want to learn dip! This is just amazing.

[@MarlaKris]

I so appreciate you!! Thank you 🫶💞

[@telluric943]

Your videos are so helpful. I started dipping again and I have a much better experience now than when I started. I only use revel for myself as I don't want to have a too big of a collection due to owning a lot of nail polish already but the dipping is fun. I can use coloured dips and of I get bored I just paint over with nail polish to change it up.

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad you’re enjoying it more now!! 🙌🏻❤️

[@telluric943]

Much more :9

[@madeinussr7551]

I also use revel. What do you do to prevent cracking? Revel says only two layers plus I do the apex but it cracks like crazy lately.

[@telluric943]

@@madeinussr7551 I don't have any cracking quite honestly

[@jennmccann5981]

Gel top coat girl right here!!! I recently decided to stop buying dip top. I bought a bottle of dip top two months ago. Used it once and went right back to gel. I also know that after a minute under the lamp, the gel is dry. No guess time like you do with dip top. Ok ok ok, I’ll get off my gel top coat rant but I could go on. Lol 😂😂😂

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so with you!! Rant on!

[@Rosie72066]

I just love it when the cat shows up

[@MarlaKris]

Lol he’s happy to hear it! ❤️

[@tracydipalma300]

Gorgeous color! So cute kitty came for a visit lol!

[@MarlaKris]

Lol right?! 😂

[@emilydecker9857]

This color mattified is perfection 😍

[@MarlaKris]

Right!! 😍

[@misslane9602]

I’ve been using Risen Legacy dip liquids and I love them. They’re super strong and I like the top coat shine. So far they’re the best I’ve used

[@kristipalin3171]

Loved the special guest today!

[@MarlaKris]

Me tooooo! 😂

[@vickywray7285]

Marla, I love that color with my whole entire ❤!!! Thanks for the informative video, I did pick up a couple things that may help my chipping. Stay warm!

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much, sweets! You too! 🫶

[@davidnormamendoza5206]

Good morning Marla 🤗. Love that modelones clear acrylic 🥰 aww he's so sweet ❤ great pointers thank you Marla

[@MarlaKris]

Hey sweetness!!! 💞

[@truth2731]

You videos are always helpful. I have just started dip powder nails and you videos explain how to do them very well and are not confusing as others or leave steps out because it assumed I know what the person is talking about.

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad! And thank you so much for your kindness 🫶❤️

[@debbiebifolck4291]

I love your videos. Always so helpful. Fortunately my nails don't crack its the opposite. Too bulky. I'm a work in progress. Just got an e-file for Christmas so that should help. Keep the videos coming!❤️❤️❤️

[@MarlaKris]

I have a filing video coming on Thursday that may help!! ❤️

[@Amandasplants]

Loved the kitty so much thanks for all the tips but the kitty was the best part

[@MarlaKris]

Lol he knows it too 😂

[@camillejefferson865]

You are in my head! I legit am about to do my nails and was saying in my head I need to make sure they don’t crack lol 😂

[@MarlaKris]

Lol im good like that 😉🫶💞

[@mom2dswm]

So very helpful!! Seeing a few cracks in my first attempt at dipping. Thank you for your knowledge. Will be doing things a little differently next attempt.

[@MarlaKris]

Please let me know how it goes for you next time! 💞

[@mom2dswm]

@@MarlaKris What a difference!!! They look so much better and thicker. I used my daughter's liquid gel polish & top coat. I am very impressed!! The nail salon has nothing on me! Lol

[@MarlaKris]

@@mom2dswm heck yeah!! That’s awesome! So glad this time turned out better! 🙌🏻💗

[@PurpliciousDipz]

So velvety and beautiful!!

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks GinnyBoo!!! 🫶💜

[@brittanybarnard9680]

I love that color! I need to check out that brand…love your cat 😻

[@laurenantia2522]

Kitty is so cute!!

[@MarlaKris]

He’s such a good boy 😻

[@candywilliams3734]

OMG I have a tuxedo cat his name is Charlie and he is 3 years old! So darn cute! Thanks for all the info on the dip nails!

[@MarlaKris]

Awwww boop Charlie for me!! 😻

[@kimberlyskinner8177]

😱I have never had dip crack but, good to know.💖. I hate the thick look,so mine are far from thick. Sitting here shocked that this has never happened.🤩😍😘💓

[@MarlaKris]

Lucky ducky!! 🤣 Happy Monday, sweetness! 🫶

[@lililazo2905]

How do you do your powder ?

[@gigigigi1159]

LOVE LOVE the color!!!

[@MarlaKris]

Me tooooo! 🥰

[@mslarlo]

Boogie said oh you're GONNA pet me!

[@MarlaKris]

😂

[@lindaharris7832]

Thank you this really helped me 😊

[@annamariasimon1437]

Szia nagyon szép lett körmöd.

[@SBDH1971]

Thank you so much, Marla! 😊

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome, love! ❤️❤️

[@Madnessmakes]

Love that color!!!💜

[@MarlaKris]

Me toooo!! 😍

[@jamieriley-jones6259]

I love this color 🎉

[@salincal]

Your cat is so smart! He wants a pedicure😂

[@MarlaKris]

If he’s only hold still 😂

[@sillyskittle341]

Allowing adorable cat cameo: Expert level unlocked

[@MarlaKris]

🤣😂😻

[@thenailtechfiles7935]

Omg I love your cat’s name!!!!! I call all my cats boogies!

[@patriciawhite4678]

Thank you 😊 I so needed this info tfs ❤

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome!! 🥰

[@mandab919]

Tfs! 💅🏾 Very helpful tips.

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you! 🫶

[@teresewilson5090]

Gorgeous

[@nellylavarreda3507]

Very pretty ❤

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you, lovebug! ❤️

[@jeannieg.8694]

Hysterical cat!

[@MarlaKris]

Right?! 😂

[@31StatusNailsandBeauty]

Thanks.

[@Mariza07]

Is this the same reason why my nails chip off on the tip of my nails ?

[@Wendymarino]

Love the cameo of Boggie😽😽😽😽😽

[@MarlaKris]

Brat cat lol

[@msjenaay7994]

Marla love your suggestions. So helpful for me. I am curious about the peel base. Do you put the peel base directly on your natural nail?

[@MarlaKris]

Yep! Or you can apply it over builder gel or even extensions!

[@msjenaay7994]

Thanks for responding. I have been binge watching your videos all day today. Having fun and learning too much! lol. You are so easy to listen to. I keep waiting for a live video. I don't want to miss a thing. Much love to you💕

[@amyrader630]

I love him!

[@MarlaKris]

Me toooooo 😻

[@aimeehodgin6359]

I am here for all of this! Going on a journey is always helpful when there is amazing information such as this! (Soooo cutie patootie..Kitty Kitty) Watching the liquid being painted on at 7:37 to that absolutely gorgeous color through the brushing powder off at 9:47 IS SATISFYING!!! I watched this part 3x!!! Hahaha! Have an awesome day Friend! ✌🏻 (I am lying...seeing the color transformation thru 10:32 too!!! I feel this color!)

[@MarlaKris]

🤣😂 you’re so freakin adorable! You always make my day 🫶❤️

[@halfpint1421]

They look awesome. I have a question when you use the gel top coat do you put the gel base coat in first then gel top coat or just activate them gel top coat.

[@MarlaKris]

I usually don’t activate them again after filing since I’m not doing a dip top. Gel base will help prevent the top from peeling but since I not wear nails very long, I usually skip that step ❤️

[@shantayebryant7283]

Hi can you make a list of best products to use for dip nails and gel. I had to get my nails done the second time after they cracked.

[@crystald3655]

Her Amazon store front has those all listed.

[@madeinussr7551]

Hi thank you for the info. I do Mom's nails and no problem. I do mine and they have those long curvy cracks. I wonder if I have oily nails or they are too flimsy and thin that's why they bend and crack... I use revel so no clear powder step in it. I wonder if I should add it??...I feel like powder starts lifting if I put it on too thick .. any advice? I do the middle of the finger at first too. My gel polish doesn't stay on as long as it does on my mom's nails either. Lately I've been wearing gel polish for 10 days and been able to do powder for only a day ... Then the cracks. I feel defeated .

[@beccageema]

Pretty! You caught my attention saying you do polygel now and then. I just started with polygel with the intention of it being my base for dips. Do you have videos on application? I’ve sculpted a set over my nails and I’ve used a nail tip as a form. Both ways I’m still on the struggle bus 😂and by the time I finish, dip is furthest thing from my mind 🤣🤦‍♀️

[@MarlaKris]

I haven’t built nails with polygel yet but i can definitely film something for you!

[@brandiloding7071]

Always so informative. Great vid. If you're using gel top, have you found that if you don't use a gel base on your dip first, the gel top will peel? That's what almost always happens to me if I don't use gel base first. Love your kitty. I have a 7 year old female tuxie that's is an attention wh**e as well and if I'm sitting down, her and her sister are both Velcro kitties.

[@MarlaKris]

Lol these brat cats So it super depends on the person, nail shape, and lifestyle but for me, I don’t get peeling. If you do, primer or gel base can def help prevent that 💞

[@madeinussr7551]

What is gel top coat? What brand to get? Ty

[@kays9275]

Hi Marla, I love watching your videos and have learnt a lot. I just have a question regarding the clear that you used. I noticed it is acrylic powder and wondered is it the same as using the clear dip powder? Does it not matter if you are mixing acrylic and dip? Just curious as I accidently bought some acrylic powder instead of dip powder. I know I'm late to the party so if Marla doesn't see this question and someone else can answer my question I would I really appreciate it. Thank you.

[@MarlaKris]

Hey love! Dip IS acrylic! Dip is usually more finely milled, but it’s acrylic. And you can use both with dip liquids, gel liquids, or monomer!

[@kays9275]

@@MarlaKris thank you so much for your quick response, I'm glad I can use what I have, and it isn't wasted :) Have a great day!

[@michellemsaylor]

Great color! It was bring your cat to work day!!

[@MarlaKris]

Lol yessss! 😂

[@bethhoneycutt8241]

I do 3 coats all the time and active even after buffing. Then a top coat. They still crack. Mainly on my right hand but that could just be because im hard on my hands. Any advice? They last and stay on just crack alot.

[@traviscmil1i]

Marla! I love your videos. Last night I was following along one of your videos and used an Azure dip from their jelly line(super natural looking), applied two layers filed by hand to reshape then used beetles foundation and 1 layer top coat clear gel and cured after both. My nails looked so good! Tonight I noticed the gel chipping at the tips… I made sure to “cap” as you mentioned in your video I followed. How can I fix this? Or do I have to remove and start over?

[@crystald3655]

If this happened to me I would buff the area lightly to even things out then recap to try to get them to look nice until I'm ready to remove them.

[@carosnailhub7500]

Hi! Which clear dip powder did you use? Loved your videos!

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you!! I use the modelones clear acrylic ❤️

[@MaddiGirl16]

How do I keep dip top coat brushes from hardening ?? I always have this issue

[@MarlaKris]

The best way to keep brushes from hardening is to not contaminate them. Is it your base or top that’s hardening?

[@aprilwong4935]

Hi. Just finished watching your detailed video. Love it! Question…there was a part after u file and before u gel top coat it, u wiped each finger. What product were u using to wipe your nails? And what was the purpose of that. TIA

[@MarlaKris]

So glad you loved it!! So, after filing, you can either wash your hands (no soap) or use alcohol to cleanse any dust off before top coat 🫶🏻

[@aprilwong4935]

Thank you so much for getting back to me. Much appreciated. I’m currently getting into dip powder. This is my second time with it and they keep CRACKING 😭😭😭😭. I’m about to give up with them. I took your advice and did 3 layers but still no avail. What other tip can you give me before I give up on dip powder. TIA

[@crystald3655]

​@@aprilwong4935Keep practicing with it trying different application techniques and maybe switch liquids if you can and see if that helps.

[@vitaelolaadams6745]

Is there a gel top coat that does not require uv light? I'm trying to avoid uv light radiation which is also why I am exploring the world of dip. I must say I was on the fence about it up until I went down the long tunnel of your vids! Now I'm a believer!

[@MarlaKris]

Welcome to the rabbit hole! So, all gel products require an LED/UV to cure but if you’re concerned with exposure, you can use dip top coat or regular polish top coat!

[@crystald3655]

You may want to look into an led only lamp. They can take a bit longer to cure the gel but are great if you're concerned about uv exposure.

[@jiotak9044]

Can I use the top cut that needs to be under the uv lamp?

[@crystald3655]

Yes you can use gel top coat if you want

[@Wendymarino]

Do you have builder gel on your natural nails.. I missed that

[@MarlaKris]

Yep! I have that video coming soon!

[@laurasrn5067]

This was helpful. I have the cracking issue with dip. I will definitely take all your tips into consideration next time I do dip, but I'm loving the pudding/solid gel polish lately. You didn't activate a second time after filing and buffing?

[@MarlaKris]

Nope bc I did a gel top coat. If I did a dip top, I would have done the 2nd activation.

[@laurasrn5067]

@Marla Kris would it hurt to do a second coat of activator when doing a gel top coat?

[@tabbyb3514]

@LauraS RN it probably won't hurt but its just mostly not necessary. From what I've heard the second activator process is only useful if using dip top coat because it helps make dip top coat shiner after all the filing versus a gel top coat is going to be shiny regardless because of its structure and need of UV light

[@lorriangus]

Hi, pretty kitty. ❤️ Where is your scrubby brush? 🤣 Did you use a gel base under the gel top? I guess it wouldn't be necessary if your nails were still rough from filling.

[@MarlaKris]

Hey girly!! I scrubbied off cam. No gel base and they lasted me a week with no chipping! Probs woulda lasted longer but I had to soak them off ☹️

[@lorriangus]

@@MarlaKris Cool! Thanks.

[@cynthiaarmisto6333]

Hi there.. im always trying to learn new things about my dip nails. I use nailboo. Ive been pretty happy with most of their products. Though find their colors to be too translucent. Ive recently had issues with cracking and lifting by the skin areas, or on the top corners of the nails. I always file them, scrape the cuticle back, etc. wipe down with no lint pad and alcohol. I’m hard on them - work at Home Depot. I did just try more thin layers which seem to partially help, but was wondering about the clear acrylic you suggested. Would that help more? Can you or do you recommend other colors by other companies that work well with the nailboo products?

[@MarlaKris]

Hey love! You can use any products you want! Powders and liquids are 100% mix and match. As far as other dip companies, I love azure, modelones, sassy mouth (that’s my fave small business) be sure to check the description box for links to other dip products and discount codes! As far as the cracking, I do think clear will help! Clear doesn’t contain pigment so it’s the strongest acrylic you can use. Try a coat of clear over top your colors and see how that holds up! 🫶🏻

[@suzytsaab388]

So I got the Azure dip kit from Amazon...worked great the first time but I noticed that after several uses, the top coat doesn't dry anymore it just stays tacky ,anyone else have this problem or know how to solve this?

[@MarlaKris]

It’s likely bc the activator evaporated the active ingredients. Make sure you’re keeping that bottle shut at all times!

[@briannabeynon4103]

Hi Marla, how would you rate the Kiara sky dip products?

[@MarlaKris]

They’re not bad products. Not my favorite tho

[@knitknack2285]

I’ve only had the modelones crack on me. Was thinking about trashing them. Or do you think if I just use a good dip liquid, they’ll work? Have a good day ❤

[@MarlaKris]

I think they’ll definitely work! Give them another shot! 🙌🏻❤️

[@knitknack2285]

@@MarlaKris ok, thanks 😊

[@TracyCampanella]

Good morning Marla and fellow Weirdos 💙 Marla, are you ok? Cats tend to cling if they sense we aren't ok, weather is bad, etc. I hope you are 😘 Hi kitty! I love cats 🐈 😻

[@MarlaKris]

I definitely had a cold and the weather was frigid lol so that’s probs why he’s been so clingy!

[@Rienie]

Which Peel off do you use? I tried UNT under the dip powder and I lose them within a day. And I have tried pink gellac (Dutch brand) and I can’t get them off, they break in tiny pieces. Or does the gel topcoat help with that?

[@MarlaKris]

I use UNT. The thing with peel base is that it’s not meant for longevity. It’s meant to remove quick and easy. But sealing the edges with top coat (be it dip or gel) can help get an extra day or two of wear!

[@Wendymarino]

Is the Adriada top coat thick or medium consistency?

[@MarlaKris]

It’s more of a medium thickness ❤️

[@debbiejones9797]

Marla, I have been dipping for a about six month and all of a sudden have been having issues with cracking and lift a few days to a week after dipping. I usually do 2 dips of color but will no try 3 dips using clear as the last dip. But what about lifting? I prep the nail with alcohol pads before starting but since I soak off with acetone and coconut oil I'm wondering if the coconut oil might be the problem even though I wash my hands after soak off and use the alcohol. Plus I've read you should not have your nails in water for at least an hour before dipping. Is there any recommendations you can provide to help with this issue. Would a dehydrator help. Perhaps you can do a video on this problem. Thanks

[@MarlaKris]

I will do a whole video on lifting but until then, I can recommend dehydrating the nails with 100% pure acetone instead of alcohol twice after you do your removal and prep. That might really help! ❤️

[@aprildegele1510]

Cat is such a cat! Love. Needs grooming ... has dandruff.

[@MarlaKris]

He was rolling around in my mail dust 😂

[@sarahlalas2574]

Hi Marla! My name is, Sarah and I live in Florida,as well. I call the weather here, Bipolar. Lol! Anyway, I watch your videos all the time. I am a long time nail a addict and have developed nail allergies. I have tried hema free, mma free etc. no luck, still have reaction. The only way I can do my nails is dip. Is there a regular top coat that has an awesome shine that you recommend?

[@MarlaKris]

Hey fellow Floridian!! Lol bipolar indeed! But I’m looking forward to storm season where I can depend on rain every day 😂 So if you wanna try a great dip top, I’d recommend the azure beauty. Absolutely love them! If you prefer to go the polish top route, I like the Sally Hansen diamond shine. 2 coats of that is beautiful over dip!

[@sarahlalas2574]

I’m bad at contaminating my dip top coats. So, I will try the Sally Hansen Diamond Shine. Thanks!

[@cyndiallgood4483]

What color and rip brand are you using please

[@MarlaKris]

Sassy Mouth “50 shades”. I have it linked in the description 💞

[@cyndiallgood4483]

@@MarlaKris Thank you. I really enjoy your videos. I have gotten some amazing tips.

[@madmir5327]

Kitty wants his nails dipped to😆

[@MarlaKris]

Lol (((hold still cat!)))

[@michellesanchez6510]

Aww. Kitty dandruff, just like my cat

[@bizarreluvmuffin96]

If I would have been able, I would have a thumbs up for the guest appearance 😻😹🐱*meow*

[@MarlaKris]

🤣😂 my shadow lol

[@Wendymarino]

Oh shiz 2nd coat….

[@airsignconnection]

Cats are so annoying even if they're not in the same room