Dip powder nails using gel - Is this actually polygel? 🤔

Hey weirdos! Ive had so many questions recently about dip with gel vs. dip with resin (dip liquids) so I figured I'd put together a video on why this is my go-to system for my nails. Hope this is helpful!
Hugs and kisses,
MK
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**I am not a nail tech. Just a DIYer with a passion for all things nails. These are only my opinions and what works best for me.**

[@BagznBirdz]

I've been doing gel polish + dip for 1,5 years and I love this method. Apex + 2 full layers is my magic number and I file it before I add the top coat. It's really easy to remove - I just file down to the last layer and use gel polish remover gel.

[@MarlaKris]

That’s perfect!! 🙌🏻

[@kimberlygoodman4913]

Do you use an efile? I love gel with dip powder but removal has been impossible!

[@BagznBirdz]

@@kimberlygoodman4913 yes! I have the MelodySusie efile. It's worth every penny. 👍

[@margaretpadilla3219]

What kind of Gel base can I use?

[@BagznBirdz]

@@margaretpadilla3219 any gel polish base and top coat that hardens with UV. I use Elixir as it's easiest to get in my country, but Revel and others have good ones too.

[@DIYNailsBySt]

Coming back in to say I did my mani Monday morning using these tips. I had previously never done the bond as a “base” between filing and top coat. My nails are still beautiful with zero peeling or chipping. I totes understand now why the top coat peeled before. I love these options. I took a long break from dipping because of dip flu but, it’s so therapeutic for me, and I need it for my mental health (so hard to explain). So, thank you so much, again, for always being there for us in ways you may not realize you are there for us. Love you, Marla!!!

[@MarlaKris]

This makes my whole heart smile!! So glad you’re able to get some good “me time”.. it’s so important! And thank you for sharing this with me!! Love you right back, sweets!! 💞

[@allidavs661]

I have been using the gel base method for a couple Manis now and OMG I love it! They come out so smooth and so easy to file. I love that they don't come out super thick too. Thank you for introducing me to this method! 💚

[@MarlaKris]

Yes!!! 🙌🏻 you’re so welcome! ❤️

[@dianehedricks7860]

Gel dip gal here! I was getting horrible “dip flu”! I love the way gels perform and I also feel the dip process is so much faster. Love this video!

[@MarlaKris]

Yass!! Yay! No more congestion!! ❤️

[@iwujifamilyvlogs7738]

Yes! I’m on my second dip flu! 🥲🥲 4 days of torture! Watching a ton of gel methods for my next set! Great vid

[@kimberlygoodman4913]

How do you remove it? I can never get mine off!

[@dianehedricks7860]

@@kimberlygoodman4913 I use peelbase.

[@pearlspetals5542]

@@kimberlygoodman4913I use an e file.

[@sharynpriewe2259]

This is the best video I think you did yet on using dip powder with gels, thanks!! I’ve been using gel liquids for about a year or more now and love it! Just started using peel off base too and it’s saving my nails from getting wrecked from soaking off. Love you’re nail length too, you’re lucky you have long nail beds. Mine are short so I have to grow mine a tad longer. One question, has anyone gotten dip flu when using gels, maybe from the powders? They do have a strong odor too.

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you!! So you could have allergies (the sinus kind) to anything.. it could very well be the dust either from the powder or from filing, but I doubt the gels are causing a reaction on their own

[@candyce6233]

May try wearing a mask while dipping/filing.

[@tabbyb3514]

So glad Marla makes these videos because I honestly thought I was going to be able to tolerate dip liquids but boy was I wrong..🙄😢 I absolutely cannot tolerate revel dip liquids at all, especially the base.. I feel SICK when I use it, and my eyes starts burning immediately upon opening revel's probase sadly ordering this revel kit from Amazon it said its non refundable So I guess this means I need to use the dip powder with gel liquids Thank you Marla so much 💖

[@MarlaKris]

Dip flu is REAL! I’m sorry you had such a bad reaction but there ARE options! 🙌🏻

[@pearlspetals5542]

I developed the dip flu and never again will I use dip liquids. I have no problem with gel liquids and dip powder. Also it’s less nerve racking. Cause I can take my time before I cure if I have to fuss with a nail. Last forever and so strong.

[@Simmy647]

Did my nails using your method four weeks later still on just extremely grown out but no chips or peeling.Love this

[@sueperry9327]

I just started using this method, I’m very pleased!! I would suffer from dip flu and so was very reluctant when it came time to do a mani. So now it’s fun again!

[@DIYNailsBySt]

I love when you do these videos again, Marla!! It’s so easy to forget little steps. Thank you! I have my nails all prepped and ready for a gel/dip mani tomorrow!

[@SoulContrast]

I just ordered a soak off bowl that has a heating element to keep acetone warm for soak. I believe it’s called a WillowWash. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m excited to! I previously used the glass bowl, zip lock bag, and paper towel method.

[@mayahl1013]

I love your tips and tricks for applications. I can use gels (curable under UV/Led light) but I can't use dip liquids (base and top) because of the acrylate content. So this is my new go to for manis and I love it. tfs

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much! Glad you found a way to get yo dippies on. 💞

[@beckyrobinson4988]

Marla, your nails are beautiful. You explain everything so well.

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much! 💞

[@edithkreyer6154]

Just had my first gel dip powders mani and I love it! Agree with your statement. And also my lungs are grateful 😊

[@MarlaKris]

Lol yusssssss! 🙌🏻

[@Angel_ReDefined]

You have me completely hooked on this method. Love your mani and definitely loving the color on your ring finger. Beautiful.

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@trinettacruse5172]

Soo beautiful. Love love using the gel method thanks to you! ☺️ much quicker and definitely less filing! You also forgot to mention dip flu! I no longer have it! Thanks so much for sharing!!

[@MarlaKris]

Ya know I was gonna touch on dip flu but since I’ve never experienced it, I felt it wasn’t right to address it, but that’s a great point!! 💞

[@dottydarling01]

Gel method is by far my favorite! I generally prefer the flash cure/scrub method to the pour over (exception is some glitters). Especially for dark colors where the UV light doesn't penetrate as well. One experience filing partially cured gel/dip power was one too many, and I used the pour over (with extra cure time).

[@aerynea]

This is the comment I needed to find as I sit here with a failed black mani that would not cure!

[@aprilenglert8025]

what is the 'flash cure' method? and do you think an LED light instead of UV would penetrate better?

[@dottydarling01]

@@aprilenglert8025 Look up the scrub method. Marla certainly has at least one video using it. People originally used it for ombres. My lamp is LED, I always assumed the wavelength was in the UV spectra but maybe I was wrong.

[@peach7249]

I just started the gel method this year because dipwell came out with their own dip gel kit and I'm in love. With my job I break my dip nails every single time but because the gel doesn't get as hard I never break them 😍

[@MarlaKris]

That’s a great point!! The gel definitely keeps the nails more flexible 🙌🏻

[@jpeppriell1718]

I'm so glad you added the last bit about putting gel base and Primer beneath top coat. I've recently had a lot of peeling of my gel top coat, so I added base and it is still peeling in the corners of my shorties. I'll be adding gel Primer beneath my base and top gel coats! Thanks, Marla! Gorgeous mani, as usual!

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks sweets! Let me know how the primer works for you! ❤️

[@user-pv5fh8yd6v]

I suffer from dip flu like so many people out there and your video has proven that there is still hope and alternative options to highly health damaging products, so thank you. My question is, will any gel base work with dip powder or is there a specific curable gel I would need to use? So happy I found your videos. 💙

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad you found me tooo!!! You can use any gel base and any dip powder you want! Just don’t use clear/transparent dips, as they tend not to play well with any gel base ❤️

[@ZeeZee0023]

Happy New Year, Marla and everyone here! I just have to say I’ve been a “silent watcher” for quite sometime and I just adore you and your nail artistry! You have inspired me to get back on my nail game lol. I tried the dip with gel method before and for some reason it didn’t work so good. I just tried it again after watching this video multiple times lol and omg THANK YOU, MARLA! 😂 you’re a genius! I did it on my bare nails but will now be looking into builder gel to protect my natural nails! Thanks for all you do!

[@MarlaKris]

I’m so glad it worked well for you this time!! Yay!! 🥳 happy new year, sweets! ❤️

[@latishaw1474]

Happy Thursday Marla. I haven’t seen nail shenanigans in so long. I’ve been sick & just getting back to work but able to watch your video on my break. Loving this mani. So pretty yet so simple. Have a great rest of your day weirdo… 🥰

[@MarlaKris]

Aww no! I’m glad you’re getting back to work and feeling better!! Stay well, lovebug! 💞

[@kimberlyskinner8177]

Thank youuuuuu for the step by step refresher 🤩😍!! Love this Mani!!! 💖

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome!! Thanks lovie! ❤️

[@kimann7802]

Hi Marla ❤️ ever since I saw you do the dip over gel method before I have been doing it and I absolutely love it!! I still wear a mask to avoid any dust from filing. Very little to no filing is the best part of it all ❤️next to the finished look. Have a great day! Thank you for all you do. Love you 😘

[@MarlaKris]

Yusssss!! 🙌🏻 💞

[@kimann7802]

@@MarlaKris 💖💖💖

[@monykalynf3604]

I wear a mask for the file part too-I have asthma and if I don't i am ahweezing away pretty quick lol

[@caitycarignan1497]

I wish I had the patience to do my nails once or twice a week. I barely do it every couple weeks. It's literally a whole chore, a fun one but my living room ends up a full out salon mess and working tons of doubles etc I am too tired for that even once a week. I do poly gel and as u said, these babies stay on even when u want them off! It's relaxing watching you do yours, cheers!!

[@MarlaKris]

I so know that feeling!! I started on my bedroom floor!!

[@NailsBySue]

Don’t worry if your video is long Marla, they are so informative I’m glued to every minute. Thanks so much 😘

[@MarlaKris]

I appreciate you 🥰 thank you for this! 💞

[@michellemsaylor]

I've switched to gel and LOVE IT!!

[@MarlaKris]

Yay!!! 🙌🏻

[@glendaunzicker4262]

I’ve been using gel base to build my Apex 3 layers, 3 layers same color. I’m finding my allergies cannot take any of the liquids. I don’t know what to do! I’ve had acrylic and dips on since the seventies, I can’t figure why I’m allergic after all this time. I really thought the base was going to work great, and it does for building the nail, but the liquids really effect me. 😢 Oh, thank for the tip, placing hands upside down so the liquids level and not flood the cuticles. I have my best mani because of your tip. 😊

[@darkeyedfran]

Igel liquids are incredible! I am also obsessed with their diamond sculpture gel 😍

[@MarlaKris]

I haven’t tried the sculpture gel yet!

[@colleennichol1710]

Great video Marla very informative. Love the colour combination you used. 💙

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much, sweets! 💞

[@jeanniepagano2481]

Love your explanation!

[@kwildernurse]

Me too! I love doing my nails 1 or 2 times a week. ❤

[@amandakane6211]

Hey Marla! Can you do a video with chunky glitter and how you would do that with the gel method? I always learn so much from you. Thanks for sharing your expertise!

[@MarlaKris]

I can do another! I’ll link the one I did a while ago kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5-siJ94etZ-esU

[@jackieruskey7721]

Love your videos you detail everything out so well!

[@MarlaKris]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@melissas9543]

Morning! Can you do a video from start to finish including doing your overlay. :)

[@MarlaKris]

I sure can! All gel liquids?

[@melissas9543]

@@MarlaKris yea! I’ve switched to gel and loving it. So much easier.

[@monykalynf3604]

LOVE the mani!! have the blue on my nails right now, along with dark sparkly blue accent nails. Think this mani may be my next one as so wintery but clean (if that makes sense lol)

[@MarlaKris]

Makes total sense!! Go for it!! ❤️

[@josbows22]

I just need to slow down & concentrate on how much I'm putting of the gel base. Ps- always jealous of your long nail beds!

[@MarlaKris]

Less is more!! Lol I grew them myself 🥰

[@kaythompson8721]

PRETTY!! This one would also look good with a matte top coat.

[@MarlaKris]

Totally would! Thanks love! 💞

[@kayymariee92]

That’s it! I’m doing my nails tonight lol great video 💛

[@Priscilla721000]

Well this helps me a lot on the gel liquids. I tried it & it did not turn out right. Thank you Marla!

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome, love! 💕

[@sueketron4349]

in essence the same thing, yet different from polygel. Polygel is part hard gel, which can not be soaked off, unlike soft gel, which is used in the video, thus, can be soaked off, unlike polygel. Great video

[@MarlaKris]

Yep you’re right! Same but different lol tho I have seen people soak off polygel. I’ve done it myself. It’s a long process, but doable! ❤️

[@Madnessmakes]

Hey Marla, such a pretty mani! I love these colors.💜

[@carolgarcia275]

I love your videos, you always give so much helpful information. My next mani I’m going to try using gel again. You always make it look so easy and I really need my mani’s to be easy especially when it comes to filling. Also I checked out Great Lakes Dips because I had never heard of them before and I found that they sell HEMMA Free Gel Base & No Wipe Top Coat. (I noticed a lot of nail companies don’t have this product.). Thank you for all your help.💞♾

[@MarlaKris]

That’s outstanding!! Good to know for the future. Thanks for that! You’re so welcome, love 💞

[@SuzieRox]

Idk if anyone has mentioned it yet but LED curing lamps still emit uv radiation and therefore you should still use protection if you are doing nails often!

[@lynneshmakoff9726]

I have tried every brand of hypoallergic gel bases and I'm allergic to all of them... I went back to dip liquids and learned how to prevent Dip Flu... I love gel polish but can't use any brand at all... I'm now airbrushing my nails with acrylic paint... Hi Ms Marla ❤

[@MarlaKris]

Ooh!! Yeah with the airbrush! I still need to play around with that! 💞

[@lynneshmakoff9726]

@@MarlaKris Changing my color today, got my new airbrush and compressor, oh and more paint...

[@iwujifamilyvlogs7738]

What has worked for you in preventing dip flu?

[@_the.productive.planner_]

Hi Marla. I am so happy that you explained why you gel to do your dip powder as I notice recently that’s all you’ve been using. Ofc I had to try it as well. 😂 I tested it out on 2 of my nails which I have on right now without peel base. My issue is always removal - how easy it is to be removed. I don’t like suing acetone so will try it with the e-file and update ya. But thanks again for this video.

[@MarlaKris]

Lol yay!! Yep you’ll wanna file down as much as possible without hitting nail and then soak the rest or you can try peel base, but those won’t last very long. Maybe a few days max

[@KristinWhitehead]

I haven't tried the gel method with dipping, however my last mani, I stuck my dip top on the back burner after doing gel top. I love that I cure and I'm done...no doing the "test touch" to see if my dip top is dry.

[@MarlaKris]

YES!! 🙌🏻

[@jenedge5579]

Hey Marla. The real reason gel has a tacky layer is because any gel that is in contact with air will not cure. So that layer is uncurled gel that needs to be carefully wiped. Carefully so you don’t wipe it onto your skin and increase the chances of future allergies developing. Take care and love your content. ♥️♥️ not quite sure of how the no wipe works, probably a hybrid of gel and something else.

[@MarlaKris]

Yep that’s a great point that I should have touched on - that tacky layer can definitely contribute to allergies. Thanks! 💞

[@tracidevette7]

Thank you for sharing. I came with to try this method

[@kaywren73]

Holy Smokes, this could be a game changer for me! I struggle with my Builder Gel; even though I meticulously prep my nails, get no gel on my skin or cuticles, use a bonder under my base gel, they will, eventually, lift. The max wear I get out of builder gel is one week before lifting and half the nail pops off taking a layer of the nail plate with it. 😕 I've heard body chemistry affects how well nail products will adhere to you. Dip nails were like a miracle, since the base is essentially glue, they never, ever lifted. Hoping the addition of powder will decrease my lifting problem. Any suggestions-?

[@MarlaKris]

Have you tried using a primer under your gel? Gently file the shine off your nail, cuticle prep of course, then a dehydrator, then primer, then gel base, THEN builder gel. That’s my usually routine.

[@missyl3119]

@@MarlaKris Do you then put your peel base directly on the builder gel?

[@mandicoleman7433]

Luv these colors together ❤

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks lovie!!💞

[@kristystephens4642]

You have totally sold me on using gel with dip! I finally started using this method and it was so easy! My nails look so much better than they ever did with dip liquids. I was worried about removal so I used my peel base and it was so easy! Now on to builder gel 😁 thank you for such helpful videos.

[@MarlaKris]

Yay!! You’re so welcome, darlin! 💞

[@laurawarnock7959]

Hi Marla, I’m new to your video tutorials but they are super helpful to newbies, like myself. I’ve tried the UV gels (I bought the Aimeili full kit). While they last forever on my toes, I found they peeled off my fingers. So then I tried polygels, because they made it look so easy but I found it very challenging. Now I’m trying powder dips (Dipwell) I’ve done three manicures. The first lasted almost three weeks ( which is what I’m looking for), but I found the base to be very thick which resulted in rippling and a lot of filing. I switched base to one that is much thinner, required very little filing but started lifted from the cuticle in three days. I’ve done a lot of reading and feel that I’m doing a good prep (removing cuticles, buffing, using dehydrator and nail bond). I’m not even getting close to my cuticles and the kit has a base and finish powder powder that I’m using. The kit is great, except for base, that leaves me with nice thin but very strong nails. I’ve been getting professional dips and have never had a problem with lifting, so not sure I can blame my chemistry but as I mentioned, I’m very familiar with how to prep so not sure if it’s that. Do you think that using a builder gel will help with stronger adherence to my nail? It already takes me 30 minutes to remove the powder, using efile, regular file and then soaking in acetone. Will the builder gel make it tougher to remove, although if it lasts two weeks or more then I’m ok with that. If not, do you think it’s my products (I’ve heard many good things about ManiBoss) or in your experience, could,the gel and powder combination last longer? I know you don’t need this but I don’t switch up my colors too much and since it takes me about three hours to remove, prep and apply, I don’t want to be doing it too often. Sorry for the novel but I’m really determined to do this. I actually do a great job, if only it would last (so I guess I’m not doing that great a job, LOL 😆). Once I get the hang of it I will start doing art and have fun with it through your teaching! Thank you so, so much! Cheers!

[@MarlaKris]

Hey love! First, welcome to the family! I’m glad you’re here! Ok - nails. So your prep sounds good! I do have questions tho before you run out to buy new products… are you exposing your hands to water before you start your nails? I ask bc nails are like sponges and absorb water. Then, they expand. It takes about an hour for them to contract back and if you apply product to your nails during that time, that’s where lifting can be born. Also, you mentioned buffing the nails for prep. I’ve found that for a longer lasting mani, it’s better to use a soft file than a buffer, as the buffer makes the smooth. Gel doesn’t adhere well to a smooth surface so using a file (a 180 grit) would provide enough texture to hold the gel. Lastly, are you using a gel primer? That can really help. It basically acts as double sided tape between the nail and the gel.

[@laurawarnock7959]

@@MarlaKris thanks for getting back to me! You are the most dedicated DIYer ever! I’ve already got a wish list on Amazon from your store front! I do not wash my hands before as I had read not to. I soak them in acetone (and coconut oil for moisture…maybe that’s bad?). Then remove cuticles, buff with 180 but perhaps could rough up a bit more, and then wipe with alcohol and dehydrator. I use nailbond and then go to base. I have not used gel or gel prime. I do have Makaart gel prime, gel base and top coat from my poly gel kit. Perhaps I should try the gel, with gel prime to see if that lasts longer. Is it removed the same way as dip powder, file off shine and then remove in acetone? I have the pen Melody Susie efile but it’s not great for a lot of drilling down (although I don’t have carbide or ceramic bits). Thanks again, you’re very inspirational , and I love your narratives….”what”…giggle, giggle!, not to mention just a lovely person!

[@MarlaKris]

@@laurawarnock7959 ok definitely don’t use a primer if you’re not using gel base for your application. The coconut oil may be the culprit. But leave that step in! After you soak off, dehydrate the nail at least twice and really scrub the dehydrator into the nail and cuticle area. Then do all your prep work as usual. After that, dehydrate the nail 2 more times. Make sure you’re not touching the nail with your fingertips at any point, as that can transfer oils as well. Where is the lifting starting? Maybe it’s an application issue.. bulk near he cuticle or side walls can definitely cause a lift too. If you can, shoot me an email with pics of your mani. This may help me to further trouble shoot. Thank you for your kindness!! It truly means the world to me 💞

[@laurawarnock7959]

@@MarlaKris thanks for the tips Marla. I use a dehydrator from Sally Beauty. Is that the best or should I just use 100% rubbing alcohol? The lifting occurs only at the cuticle or base of the dip. I feel like my cuticles are clean and it separates from nail almost halfway (which makes it easy to drop some nail glue under it). I think I might try the gel technique, using the primer to see if that adheres better, along with your other prepping techniques. I’d include some photos but I’m. It sure how to do that in You Tube! 🙄 I think I’ll start calling you Dr. Marla 😂! I really appreciate your help. Have a fantastic weekend! ❤️

[@MarlaKris]

@@laurawarnock7959 lol you can always email me! [e-mail] Keep using the dehydrator - that’s perfect. Let me know how it goes with the gels! Happy weekend, lovebug! 💞

[@henhouseblossoms]

Great basic gel application tutorial!

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks darlin! 💞

[@JustNikkie_]

This video is very helpful thanks so much for so many great tips and tricks 😍💙💙💙

[@MarlaKris]

You’re very welcome, love! ❤️

[@jaimestl3609]

You can also just wear a quality sunscreen on your skin when using the UV lamp

[@sylviefarrell3515]

Hi Marla, you mentioned in your video that you use an LED Lamp. Would you mind sharing the lamp you are using. Many thanks.

[@MarlaKris]

Of course! I use the IGel beauty LED lite

[@1rhiebert]

I just want to confirm…(I’ve never done gel with dip before!)…you do the base, dip, cure…then base, dip, cure…then you can do another layer of base to do your clean up before the top coat?

[@MarlaKris]

Exactly!! Just make sure you’re dusting off all the excess powder after curing so you don’t gunk up your gel base coat 🫶🏻

[@1rhiebert]

@@MarlaKris thank you!

[@_jumpcy]

Good morningggg and happy Friday Eve 🤗 I wish iGel would hurry up with my order so I can try the gel process! It's only been 8 business days since I ordered but I'm so dang impatient 🤣

[@MarlaKris]

I super feel this! When you have your mind set on something, you need it yesterday! ❤️

[@match20x]

Im now in the world of diy gel nails because I dont like that my nail has to be filed down for japanese gel. And add in the $$$. But by goly so much to learn! I just want gel nail on my natural nails. I have to watch this vid again. 😆

[@MarlaKris]

Lol this is definitely extra! Best for those that have thin or weak nails. If you don’t need added strength of the acrylic, stick with just gel! ❤️

[@suseq949]

Beautiful nails and perfect dip powder manicure! Love the shape. I use Kiara Sky dip liquid but it is more gel like than other dip liquids .. Have you ever used it?

[@taloveme]

I have to thank you. I have been watching you for about a year. I have 2 draws full of dip powders, but i could never get it just right. I was tired of the liquids drying to fast or to slow. Then I invested in 2 draws full of polygels, because that must be easier right? Well they were a little easier but still not quite right. But I tried my dip powder the way you demonstrated in this video and I must say that this is the Best of both worlds. I love this method!!!!👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@MarlaKris]

Yay!!! So glad this worked well for you! And I have to say.. I’m proud of you. Woulda been easy to give up. Glad you hung with me!! ❤️

[@tammyscorner6]

Good morning Marla!

[@MarlaKris]

Good morning sunshine!! ❤️

[@LASartor]

I must be a bit of a klutz, but the intensity of the color varies on each nail. Is that due to the amount (thickness) of gel base I'm putting on each time? Sometimes the powder seems to be all unform and no wet spots, other times wet spots. I'm pretty careful, but 8 out 10 nails are different :)

[@MarlaKris]

Definitely sounds like the base may be slightly uneven. Maybe thicker on some nails and thinner on others.

[@sarahdossor296]

If you want it to last longer but want it to soak off easily use a base coat of light elegance q d base (quick detached base coat)

[@MarlaKris]

Ooh good to know! Thank you! 💞

[@EHMacDuckie]

Awesome video! You turned me onto Dipalicious builder gel & I’ve been loving it under my color! Any tips for ombrés w the gel/dip powder method?

[@MarlaKris]

Omg YES! I’ll link a video for you.. I think it’ll be helpful for ombré with gel liquids.. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m36pYYeBgr-sbqc

[@Jlharrell1981]

I had never thought about using a builder gel directly on my nails to protect them before doing any other routine but I am definitely going to have to watch some vids on how to do that and start using it moving forward. My natural nails are SO thin and it seems the more I do to them to make them grow out the thinner they get. You may have another video on this somewhere else (I'm binge watching!) but do you have a problem with the powder causing your gel brushes to change or get gummy/thick? I have had a couple of the brushes with the dip liquids become that way even though I try to make sure I'm brushing off all the excess powder. Thank you for your videos! I am loving them!

[@MarlaKris]

It can happen. I find the best way to prevent that from happening is 1- make sure you’re removing as much of the excess as possible. I like a stiff scrubbie brush for that and 2- if you need to wipe the gel brush on a paper towel, wipe it off! That’ll keep the brush abs the gel as clean as possible.

[@victoriastadnik9130]

THANK YOU for explaining not to use clear dip under gel, esp. over glitter. I’ve been wondering what I did wrong. I thought I HAD to encapsulate in clear powder for some reason, and then I did gel topcoat because I like the way it looks better and it looked terrible! Could not figure out what I did wrong.

[@MarlaKris]

I only know bc I’ve been there! Clear dip is the devil to gel liquids!!

[@Winterz54321]

⭐️ Big question! I’m bad about changing my polish at least once/week. If you didn’t have this channel and still wanted to change your color/nail once a week would you still choose dip powders? Or bc ease of removal just paint w regular old polish?? I get that the gloss and color and durability and that they look fantastic!! They really do!., but I’m wondering if this effort is “worth it” for a regular consumer who changes color weekly.. possibly twice a week? Thank you!! Your videos are mesmerizing

[@MarlaKris]

Great question!! Yep - I’d still choose dip powder. Mostly bc of the strength it gives my nails, which are naturally very thin.

[@glamnails4554]

Great video!!!

[@patty504]

Thanks. Sorry to bother, but what is your recommendation for minimum lamp wattage? I might try this combination due to "flu" that popped up with home manicures, and a finish that is not quite up to my expectations.

[@kathyl4692]

I have been reluctant to try this, idk why. Maybe because I have so many dip liquids from so many brands trying to find that perfect one. But I’m going to give it a try.. this video just sold me. Do you find that your dips change color? I thought that was an issue too.

[@MarlaKris]

I have had a few colors change on me but it may be more bc of the gel or the lamp. UV exposure tends to warp colors, so an LED would work better. The modelones gels I’ve been using haven’t changed any colors so far

[@shacoriebenjamin8928]

Love it.. this helps

[@lesabailey977]

I'm fairly new with the dip powders. I love your videos and have learned so much. When you use the gel liquids you don't have to use activator or did I miss that? Thanks for the great videos. You make it look so easy.

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks for watching! Nope - the gel lamp cures the gel the same way activator cures dip base! 💞

[@sravanthiselvarangam4920]

Firstly, thanks for all the videos! Learnt a lot from you 🙏🙏🙏. I really love this gel method. Only downside for me is gel top coat stains where as dip top coat does not. 😣. Can we do dip top coat on top of this method?

[@MarlaKris]

Yes!! So after you file and buff, activate and dip top as usual! 💞

[@MadMadi1997]

LOVE as always 😋😍

[@MarlaKris]

Thanks so much, girly! 💞

[@empraza5417]

Hello! Just stumbling upon your video! What builder polish do you use under everything? I, too, have thin and brittle nails. Also, what is the easy remove layer you add over the builder powder, but under the first layer that you add the powder to? I too like to change out my mani often, especially since I can't have crazy colors or glitter nails for work, but sometimes I like to have fun nails for a weekend or holiday!! Thanks!!

[@WWHT2024]

Great video and adorable mani Marla! I have done the gel method twice now, once with a light pink and once with a bright red. Both colors seemed more translucent and “cloudy/patchy” (I guess you would call it 🤷🏻‍♀️) versus when I use dip liquids. Do you have any solutions or suggestions for this problem? Is it just the brand of powder? Most of my colors are ones I’ve picked up at Sally’s. Thanks Marla, you’re awesome!

[@MarlaKris]

So the gel method is def going to be a thinner application so maybe an extra dip would remedy the issue! 💞

[@Ls10593]

I need your nail beds 😂🥰

[@themerz6982]

Ahh thanks. I've been having spotting issues lately. I've been encapsulating w/ clear. I have been having issues doing this method w/ the Anacrylics. Wonder if it is the same reason as w/ the clear? Could be my base? Anyway, great post. I always learn something.

[@MarlaKris]

Definitely could be the clear. Try skipping that step and see if it makes a difference!

[@sparkiekat7]

I love this combo you nailed it! I was also wondering what is the best way to apply nail tips glue does not work for my nails but I've seen you can also apply tips with Polly gel but I heard you say that is like impossible to remove so I'm kind Of wondering about that

[@MarlaKris]

Yeah polygel is very difficult to remove. I like using the full cover extensions with gel base. That’s my go-to! 💞

[@sparkiekat7]

@@MarlaKris oh, I have never tried that! A must try thank you

[@marciebrockett577]

Light Elegance is a great hema free gel, however you need a licence to order from them. It's my core line.

[@MarlaKris]

Not from the website I linked! No license required!

[@Jakey3209]

For me, because the dip method with dip liquids resulted in lifting after a week and I would have terrible dip flu, I have been using the dip with gel liquids method. The gel method has resulted in no lifting, no flu!!. (I do use a respirator/mask so that I don't breathe in the dip powder!) However, the color tends to yellow after a couple of days and not because I cure too long. I have ordered some "non-yellowing" gel topcoats to try. And, I see in one of the comments below that you stated the top coat by Moldelones doesn't seem to yellow as much. I have two questions for you....(1) Have you tried the non-yellowing gel top coats and what was your experience with them, and (2) if I used a builder gel as the top coat, would it be as shiny as gel, last as long, and not yellow? Thanks much. And love your videos!

[@MarlaKris]

Hey love! I haven’t tried any non-yellowing gels specifically but I’m happy to if you have any in mind! I find builder to definitely not be as glossy as top coat, sadly.

[@kerrydreyer1880]

Hi Marla! Love this mani. Why don't in ever use grey?? I must try this one. Thanks!

[@MarlaKris]

You def need to!!! 💞

[@michellemcdaniel209]

Yay pretty! Getting my beetles nails and dip powder...going for it this weekend! Any tips??

[@MarlaKris]

Ooh yay!! Yeah lol don’t cure anything until you’re happy with the way it’s placed bc once the tips are cured.. good luck moving them!

[@michellemcdaniel209]

@@MarlaKris thank you!! You are my hero!! 🤗

[@lorimaggart3719]

Do you wipe the base brush off before you put it back in the bottle after you've gone over the powder with it, even with it being cured and brushed off?

[@MarlaKris]

You can if you feel like you need to but gel doesn’t contaminate he same way dip liquids do. The only contamination you may find is pigment transfer or sometimes glitter

[@larami4763]

I was wondering this too!

[@katrinahendrey9826]

Does the gel cure properly under the very dark dip colours?

[@LASartor]

So here is what I think my technique should be. Prepare nail. Gel base coat. Sprinkle on dip powder (brush off excess?) Repeat until color reached. Cure. NOW, I’m sanding here, then applying gel top coat. Right, wrong? I really prefer this to dip liquids. Let me know if I have this order correct? THANKS ❤️

[@MarlaKris]

Almost right! Here are the steps: - prep nails - gel base - pour over powder - cure - dust excess - repeat base, powder, cure, dust until opaque. - encapsulate with gel base (cure) and gel top (cure) - file/buff - top coat - cure

[@JC-mh3ze]

I’m searching for the hyper allergenic gel you mentioned. You n Mentioned the links would be added

[@MarlaKris]

Just added them for you! ❤️

[@karennelson2779]

I am planning to buy a led light and start with gels because I am terrible at filing. I want to use builder gel to build an apex - so, after I cure that then I put on gel base, dip and cure then repeat? Dip second time, gel top coat and cure - is that right?

[@maureencarey9972]

I too find the gel liquid easier than dip liquids. Is there really any advantage to using dip liquids? Is the end result harder? Does the mani last longer? Just curious …

[@MarlaKris]

Not that I’ve seen, but companies claim the benefits are “no need for a LED/UV light”..

[@maureencarey9972]

@@MarlaKris Lol … I could see that ‘if’ the light was expensive 🤣. Thanks for your opinion. I thought maybe I was missing something 😊

[@MarlaKris]

@@maureencarey9972 they probably were at one point, ya know, like how expensive a DVD player was back in the late 90s, 😂

[@sondaysanguinetti506]

Newbie here. Are you using gel base and then dip then to light? Or gel base, dip, gel base, dip, activate? Sorry I really need the step by step. LOL Been wearing acrylics for 35+ years and cannot find a tech that will do them my way. They want to do them their way. So, I want to learn how to do my own dip nails but I will need tips. I like them long...................

[@MarlaKris]

You definitely need to cure each coat, so it’s gel base, dip, light. ❤️

[@tuffmutt2483]

Hi Marla my fav nail guru go to gal! in this video could one skip using the GEL TOP COAT since builder gel was used to encapsulate your dip powder color and.. when cured the sticky layer is removed with acetone resulting in the surface being rock hard so why would there be need to top coat that?.

[@MarlaKris]

So you could do this a few different ways.. if you don’t feel like you require much filing, you can cap with gel base or builder gel, cure, clean off the tack and file. Or.. if you need some filing, I’d suggest doing either a couple coats of base gel or builder gel and a top coat. Then, you don’t have to remove the tacky layer (unless your top coat needs to be cleansed) and file. Totally up to personal preference.

[@tuffmutt2483]

@@MarlaKris great advise per usual thank you Marla

[@x0xbutterflykissx0x]

Morning Marla, I have been enjoying watching your videos I found you here on KZbin a few weeks ago and have learned so much from you, I’d love to try dip powder myself and was wondering if using dip liquids vs gel liquids would be better for a beginner?

[@MarlaKris]

Hey sweets! Preemptive apology, this answer sucks, but I would try both and see which you prefer!

[@x0xbutterflykissx0x]

@@MarlaKris I will definitely try both, is there any brands to try for the dip liquids that doesn’t dry to quickly or to slowly?

[@MarlaKris]

@@x0xbutterflykissx0x I really liked Gigis custom dips liquids. Nice middle of the road dry time and viscosity. Also Great Lakes dip liquids. I’ll link the two here for you (not affiliated, just a fan) gigiscustomdips.ca/products/basic-liquid-set?_pos=2&_sid=b2f99b7a4&_ss=r greatlakesdips.com/search?q=liquid&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

[@x0xbutterflykissx0x]

@@MarlaKris I know I have heard of Gigi’s custom dips before so will definitely check them and the Great Lakes as well,

[@vero_niqi]

Love this! How do you clean up after curing the first layer? Brush or wipe (?) Thanks 😊

[@MarlaKris]

I use a stiff scrub brush, I find that removed the excess best!

[@DecodenBeauties]

Use sunscreen unless you want your hands to look older than they should be. 💕

[@MarlaKris]

Great tip!!

[@msjenaay7994]

Can i use dip liquids over builder gel? Am I understanding correctly that its not a good idea to use any clear powders with gel base? And does that include the acrylic powder. Sorry to bomb with questions....

[@MarlaKris]

You sure can! Not dumb at all. Gel and any clear dip/acrylic don’t play well

[@KellyMarshallCreativ]

Hello Marla, I'm JUST starting to do my nails at home. I like them to last a LONG time. I like the idea of gel and dip combined that you have in this video. BUT I only do French and like them to look as natural as possible. Clear with white tips. What is the closest I can get to that with this method? Before I invest in the set up I want to be as smart as possible. And I love the idea of the peel off layer for the health of my nails but I like them to last 3 weeks and don't know if that's possible. Thank you so much for your help, Kelly

[@MarlaKris]

You can always get white tip extensions and apply the builder gel over those!

[@KellyMarshallCreativ]

@@MarlaKris Hello again, thank you for the reply. I am confident in doing the white smile with dip powder but you said in this video that clear dip will be cloudy or splotchy with gel top coat. Have you figured out a way to get clear natural looking nails with gel top coat? THX

[@jade8568_VR]

I seriously need to learn to watch the most recent videos first 🤣 just when I buy a dip kit, I watch THIS video where you use the base coat instead🙄😂😂😂😂🤷🏼‍♀️

[@nataliemcinnis7109]

Morning Marla! Where did you get your precision tool? Like always your nails are on point!

[@MarlaKris]

Good morning, love! It should be linked in the description.. it’s from Gigis custom dips! 🥰

[@nataliemcinnis7109]

@@MarlaKris Thanks! I'm currently using a toothpick and it isn't very pretty lol!

[@quieta79]

1:57 Hi Marla!! So quick question, just so I’m clear, are you still curing after EVERY layer? I THINK you said that but I want to be sure. Thanks in advance 😊

[@MarlaKris]

Hey love! YES! Definitely cure after each layer. Otherwise it’s gonna be a smeary mess ❤️