Dip Powder Problems!! And how to avoid them!

*NEW Facebook Group for the MK Mani Fam
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DISCLAIMER
I am NOT a nail professional. Just a DIYer with minimal knowledge of actual nail stuff. These are ONLY my opinions and while these products and techniques work for me, you may have different results.
Products Used
- Sparkle and co "latte-da"
sparkleandco.c...
- Sparkle and co "opal dreams" (secret manu)
sparkleandco.c...
- Triple vitamin base
amzn.to/2BTuvEW
- iGel E-file
www.igelbeauty...
- iGel diamond bit
www.igelbeauty...
- Cuticle Oil
candiskincare.com
My Amazon Faves (Storefront)
www.amazon.com...
SAVE $$
- Revel Nail (AFFILIATE) use code Marla10 at www.revelnail.com
- Modelones: AFFILIATE LINK modelones.com/... or use code Marla10
- Maniology AFFILIATE LINK www.maniology.... or use MARLAKRIS at checkout
- Nail Addict LA: Use code Marla2 for 30% off at www.nailaddict...
- Nail Addiption: Use code Marla10 at nailaddiption....
- iGel Beauty: Use code Marla15 at www.igelbeauty...
- Virgo and Gem: Use code Marla15 at virgoandgemnai...
- Sparkle & Co: Use code Marla15 at sparkleandco.com/ OR add Marla Kris to the referral box for an extra credit on your account when purchasing subscriptions!
- Revel Nails: Save 10% using this link - i.refs.cc/ewBDb...
- Peppi Gel i.refs.cc/w4PYi...
- Panda Dip: Use code Marla15 at pandadips.com/
- Candi Skin Care: Use code Marla at candiskincare....
- Dipalicious: Use code Marla15 at dipaliciousnai...
- Poshy Nail Decals: Use code Marla15 at poshynaildesig...
- HookedbyAB: Use code Marla at www.etsy.com/s...
My IG
Marlakris_dips
Paws and Claws Stories
[e-mail]
My Email
[e-mail]
If you'd like me to review or try YOUR products
PO Box 1662
Palm City, FL 34991
Edited with iMovie
Soundtrack provided by iMovie
Thank you SO much for watching!
FTC | Some links are affiliate links. Affiliate link purchases produce a small commission that allows me to continue creating content on KZbin. Products can be googled if you prefer to purchase without an affiliate link. Affiliations and sponsorships have no bearing on my opinions, as they will always be genuine and real.

[@Yolipink72]

I have watched a ton of videos trying to learn how to do dip glitter. This is the best video. My nails look great AND feel smooth AND didn’t take for ever!

[@nicolew7436]

Gurrrrll. You saved my cracked dipped nails with the very simple tip of stirring my powder. That did the trick. I had to subscribe. Thanks!

[@lauriquigley1550]

Coffee & Mani's, perfect start to the day.

[@smily1591]

That's what I'm doing too 😂 I feel so seen

[@sherrykaleibumgardner749]

I know I’ve said it before, but it warrants repeating; you have the most beautiful hands and nails. 😘 Aloha 🌺

[@cocobug360]

...Sooo, I can actually use a "gel" topcoat with Uv light over the Dip powder?? So excited, if this is so! I hate the dullness in the dip powder top coat! Thanks! These are by far the best video for DIY dip powder manis! You rock

[@Leah.Something]

One. Hundred. Percent. I can't handle a part matte, part gloss top coat that I usually get with my no-light top coats. Maybe I haven't bought the right one, but I have all kinds of UV/LED top coats! 🎉

[@k8tallison250]

Need this video! Thank you. My biggest problem is filing. I just suck at it. I also can't ombre no matter how many times I've tried 😂

[@MarlaKris]

Katherine Pietras I have a new ombré video coming VERY soon and I think it’ll help ya 😉

[@Sherrilynn27]

These are quite lovely for a neutral themed mani. I can't do anything to 'loud' in my profession and wear a suit and tie. This is fun and feminine, if a little understated. Bravo!

[@cindywengert4688]

The ledge! I feel like I get it on at least 2 of my nails every time. I know now what I was doing wrong 🤦🏼‍♀️ You teach me something every time! Thank you 🙏

[@genahebert4]

So glad u showed the patch job! I’ve had this problem while filing my sides

[@BearsLady]

Because of e-file “pretty color” envy and never having the guts to just order a random file from Amazon, I came on here to see what you use. Thanks to the iGel 60% off sale, I now have my first e-file on its way (not counting the crappy one I bought from F&M back in the early 90’s!) and too many colors of dip powder! Thank you for the great tips and videos. Natural nails only for me. Guess I’m still too scared of damaging my nails like in the salon in years past.

[@DefyAllLogic]

Thank you for mentioning this!

[@jennyjenjen_420]

It’s definitely worth investing in a good e-file. Saves time too

[@Delphy35z]

One issue I had this week when I did my first dip nails was I washed my hands just a little too soon after the top coat and my top coat on one nail turned whiteish and creased. I also had one that did that but just in one tiny spot. So I had to file all that off and try again.

[@plantlover9919]

Beautiful nails. I just grow my nails with regular nail polish. Brucci Polish was my go to now Sally Hassan. People I know use powder because manicures with it last longer. No chipping. As long as my nails don’t break, chipping I expect.

[@mjhenderson6308]

I learned more from this vid about what I'm doing right and figuring out what I've done wrong. Welcome to my life!

[@carlakinsman3894]

I've been lucky, I have not had any lifting or cracking but I am not a fan of Peel base. I always lose one peely within a day of application so I will glue it back on continuously until I decide to remove the mani. Then I have a hard time removing the other peelys and end of using the soak off method anyways LOL so i quit using my peely base.

[@Phuzzy_phoenix]

Thank you so much. I am new to dipping nails and my first attempt came out OK but with your tips I will improve.

[@CarolJoyable]

Just when I thought you couldn’t make an even more helpful video...you did! Gosh I think I’m getting much better but I learned more from this and you actually addressed an issue I have when using a particular brand (the hump/ridge at the nail tip). You are a wealth of knowledge and again I am grateful to have found your channel! 💜💜💜

[@PiNkSuGar9100]

I am just begining my dip manicure journey, I usually do my own gel nails. This was a very helpful video with great tips on problems that i have been having. I do have 2 questions tho 1)Can you mention in a video the issue people have with brushs hardening with both the base gel and the finishing top coat. 2) Which clear did you use and does it matter which one we use, as long as it is a clear? Thanks so much!

[@joseortiz-fw7by]

1 make sure the activator is 100% dry before top coating or your brush will harden! I wait about 2 minutes. Not sure about the base tho, I think maybe it just got exposed to the air too long. I use by genesis brand in the salon❤️ Hope this helps❤️

[@bronwyntaylor9214]

Just ordered ‘stuff’ to do my own nails at home so excited I can’t wait. Great video

[@lissettevega4616]

Ur gonna save so much money . U will get better w time I learned watching KZbin videos . Good luck

[@mrs.z1172]

Me too, is too expensive going to the salon I love it but my pocket is feeling it 😔

[@horrorgirl688]

Thank you...i have used acrylic and other types of nail kits and the bumps I'm getting using the dip is driving me crazy!!!!

[@horrorgirl688]

Ofcourse I attach tips and it's causing issues

[@priscillakinkade7019]

Great video! You could have titled it, " Priscilla sis, let's solve some of your issues!" Haha! I file off product all the time trying to get it smoothed out...so at least I can redo that. STILL have some lifting too...ugh...its a trial and error process. Thanks so much for this video!!! Have a great day!

[@MarlaKris]

Priscilla Kinkade 😂😂 it’s that sister telepathy! 🥰

[@mandyy3195]

Omg, I overfiled my dip earlier this week and fixed it just like you showed. I thought I was being lazy by doing that...lol!

[@JanaRussellNails]

Opal Dreams!!! 😍. I think I just ordered that along with several other secret menu colors. Goodbye No Buy July! 🤣

[@genahebert4]

Secret menu is my best friend

[@megannicolefoster]

What does secret menu mean?? Can a non subscriber buy it?

[@magdalenaklucznik9470]

Super cute mani and a ton of helpful info!! 😄👍 You rock Marla! 😘

[@icanthearyou3869]

Thank you for this video! You shape and contour your nails so well. They're beautiful! I never did the step debulking around the cuticle & sides! I love this tip!

[@pamelamorganelli7631]

Hi Marla Thanks for another helpful video. I was looking for the color you did on your middle finger. It is definitely not the opal dreams but it looks different from the latte-da on your other three fingers. It's very pretty. I'm a school teacher and I'm looking for subtle sparkle that's also neutral. Thank you!

[@MVPNaildesigns]

This was a very helpful video...thanks so much for this Marla we all struggle with one thing or another...lol...tysmfs...love ya chica💖💖💖

[@Ms2unique4u]

Thank you 🙏🏽 Thank You 🙏🏽 for all the great info in this video!! It’s nice to have videos dedicated to one specific type of issue.

[@stephanievandam6022]

I actually love these colors! Thanks again for the amazing advice!

[@MarlaKris]

You are so welcome! 🫶❤️

[@lindseyodaniel5424]

Glitters stress me out! Since I do my nails to relax I never use glitters. Might have to try now!!

[@genahebert4]

Love this mani! I always hear people say put clear dip before peel, but a lot of professionals always say not clear, but natural dip cuz it’s made for the natural nail and it has a lot more vitamins..

[@lisagirlwithspirit]

Thanks for all the tips. Luckily I haven't had lifting or breakage issues. I have plenty of others though! Lol I actually liked how your mani turned out, even the subtle colours.

[@mariarobes4187]

I really le the color combo. This video was so informative, always learn something new from your videos😉👍

[@laffloridaful]

I've never had cracking...never any lifting. And peel base...dont get me started.. 😝😝

[@kerrydreyer1880]

Another great video!! I just stink at filing so this was very helpful! Also in the beginning when you said Moi - from that point I was only hearing miss piggy’s voice and it was cracking me up! I’m weird I know 🤪🤣

[@MarlaKris]

Kerry Dreyer 😂😂😂😂

[@hayleeellis9237]

How do I avoid lumps/bumps when applying dip? I just recently started wiping one side of the dip base brush off on the inside of the bottle and keeping the other side "full" of liquid to use on my nail. Whether I dip, lay my powder in the powder, or pour over, it seems I always have lumps and bumps more toward my cuticle (even though i start the brush in the middle of the nail, drag it down toward the free edge, and fan it back up toward the cuticle) and its not flat and smooth

[@yvonnesharpe6943]

I love this manicure u make it look easy x

[@danielletapin2255]

Thank you that was great and beautiful, love the colors

[@kimluce6367]

Great info. I do get the ledge occasionally too. Mani looks pretty!

[@cathytarr4017]

I am a member on your fb group 🙌🤣, love your videos, very helpful.💜

[@MugiwaraSuponji]

normal nail varnish barely lasts 4 days on me but my dip kit should come today and im gonna nail prep so hard 😩👌 gna do a mani that will last like SEVEN days!!!! i swear it!!

[@MarlaKris]

Shannon Sabino you so got this! And I’m always here if you need help!

[@ff_burnsbrite5884]

My daughter has the same issue. Take her to a professional or do them at home... Gone in a few days. We dipped and she's only lost one and it's been over a week!!!! To be fair she smashed that finger and it shattered. She's also a lifeguard on the beach and is in the sun and ocean for hours a day.... So there is hope!!!!

[@melindamoore3447]

I actually loved the colors! Thanks for the video!

[@athinadillmann9234]

Thanks for this great video. I tried it the first time a couple days ago. A mess. I‘m gonna do it again on the weekend but I wanted to wait a bit because I screwed up my skin badly while filing. 😣

[@MarlaKris]

The first time I tried - I used nail polish base coat 😳 yours can’t be nearly as bad!

[@roselucht4583]

Thank you this is really good! You answered many questions I had

[@MarlaKris]

You’re so welcome, darlin! ❤️

[@meghanworkman6449]

Can I just say how jealous I am of your GORGEOUS nail beds! They're so long and narrow! Mine are short, stubby and bell-shaped. I need to get back into doing my nails so they'll at least look somewhat nicer lol.

[@jenlam75]

Hi Marla. I'm very new to dip powder and a new subscriber. I simply love your videos. They are helping me have the confidence to try it. Thank you so much!

[@MarlaKris]

Welcome to the family, love!! The pleasure is all mine! 💕

[@Pocketsnuggies]

Love the ring color. What’s on the middle finger please? Doesn’t say in notes. Thx. Love your channel.

[@bellanails9194]

Brilliant by the way with the peel coat polish idea👍

[@gablofaso]

This was a great tutorial....even for those of us who have been doing this for a while. Damned if I don't over file...nice to see you do too!! lol. So when is your next live???? Anxiously awaiting!!!! xoxo Gabrielle

[@MarlaKris]

gablofaso not this weekend but the following! 8/16 I believe. A Sunday brunch style live!

[@raquelr6127]

Love this mani and the colors!

[@tanithc.7707]

I love this color combo OMG

[@mayrabarrientos7150]

Just what I needed as a beginner 👍🏻👍🏻

[@juliechristie2105]

Hi, iv come across your videos and love the fact you dip. Have you tried nsi simplicity dip system, I use it and I find it's great because it goes into a lamp, and you can do all your hand at the same time, instead of one at a time, and it is so easy to buff to get it smooth. You can get it online. X

[@MarlaKris]

I will check it out! Thank you! 💕

[@nanaedokka]

your nails is soo perfect!!! ❤

[@Kimberly-uq9pl]

Wow that E-file looks like a LIFE CHANGER! ...I've been using a regular 'ol fashioned file to do all that work! 🤯 I've been wondering if using cuticle oil contributes to the dip nail lifting?? Thanks for the video!

[@MarlaKris]

If the product is adhered, oil shouldn’t cause lifting. Unless it’s coming from under/inside your nail (your natural body oil)

[@lizblack4003]

Marla, I love your basic video. I do have a question, though the applications that I have I have a one and three together and a two by itself so I have a topcoat and a basecoat together in one bottle and an activator number two in the separate bottle my question is I have a bottleof dip bond and I wondered is this the same as basecoat? It’s liquid dip bond is what it’s called because if it is the basecoat, then I can just eliminate putting the one and three together. Thank you, Liz.

[@MarlaKris]

Hey Liz! It’s impossible for me to say for certain because some companies refer to dip base as “bond” while others use that same term for a prep liquid (dehydrator). If it’s the same consistency as activator, it’s likely for prep. If it has the consistency or dip base, it’s probably that.

[@indypi214]

Hello, any tips for gritty powder even after activator and top coat? Thank you!

[@dawnsully88]

I use my buffing block before top coat and that helps

[@kellyfalk1790]

Do you recommend using a air filter and/or wearing a mask? Every time I do my nails I end up with what feels like a sinus infection. I’m pretty sure I inhale too much powder while filing.

[@MarlaKris]

Are you using dip liquids? That actually could be the culprit of your “dip flu” but i actually have a video coming including a dust collector! It really does a great job of sucking up all the dust. I own the melody susie - it’s linked in my amazon store! ❤️

[@andreiabekas2433]

Thank you for your video. So many awesome tips. I would like yo ask if you or anyone here ever had the problem of white spots in some colors? I've done many colors, and always with the same steps, techniques and products, but there are some colors lime gray or wine red that get white spots no matter what I do. And also the clear color. Do you know why? Thank you

[@Cornwall3]

Amazing video quality for iPhone. 👍🥰

[@cuteclawswithkelly5928]

Lots of great info! Thank you so much Marla!! 🥰

[@shannoncarter9261]

Loved this video because I keep experiencing lifting on my hands but not on other friends hands. Lol I had a thought. Could you try to do a nail extension with the clear polygel and not a tip? I know you repaired your nail with the polygel but I'd like to see it as a nail extension. I wanna try it out. But I'm not sure if you have to put the polygel on my whole nail or can just put it on like you would a tip and extend it? Idk just a thought

[@MarlaKris]

Shannon Carter stay tuned!! There’s another polygel vid coming mid month! And it’s a complete overlay and extension with paper forms. You can do either! Just as an extension or as a whole nail overlay.

[@pamgeron7064]

Great video! Thank you for doing this!

[@cathywellman4859]

Thank you this video learning new things always from you Marla 💅👏💯

[@AmberRileysLife]

Can you do a little clip in one of your upcoming videos that shows us your filming setup? I'm still struggling to get the right angle when filming my nails. I have different tripods, lighting, and filming camera + my phone. I've tried it all and I'm still struggling with the filming angles! Thanks Marla ♥

[@MarlaKris]

About That Mama Life I sure can! I’m prefilmed so wouldn’t e up for a few weeks but DM me and I’ll se ya some pics!

[@tammyslatten]

Thank you for another great video. Thank you Much 💜

[@fraumoep3852]

Thank you for this helpful video ♥️

[@Elevatedthreads]

My problem has been I apply base coat and when I dip chunks of powder stick to different places and some no dip sticks at all. I even bought a new base coat??

[@roselucht4583]

Thank you this has helped me so much!

[@ellyhouser1169]

Do you have a video on how to remove the dip to change colors? I’m so new to dipping.

[@doreendibiase]

My step 1 base coat is thick and stringy....anything I can do about that or do I need to throw it out?

[@anneykotzee]

Great tips thanks!! Can you please do a review of SNS nails? Trust your judgment on products🙂🙃🌸

[@MarlaKris]

Anney Kotzee it’s coming!!

[@eringolden266]

Talk to me about the peel off base. How does it work when you want to remove your nail?

[@debbiehill5827]

Was that clear acrylic or was it a clear dip powder? Love your videos!!!!

[@vanuza5356]

I love that glitter which one is it name brand!

[@MarlaKris]

That’s on the sparkle and co secret menu! There should be a link in the description box for ya! 💕

[@auntigingy8666]

You Can Not get Allergies form it sitting on your skin You Can Get An Allergic Reaction aka Chemical Burn from the acrylic chemical. If left on the skin it can irritate it enough to cause an issue.

[@cocobug360]

WHAT is the fabulous dark color on your other hand!

[@flawlessclawzz1219]

Thanks for this video. My issue is the top coat dries and it peels. I've done step by step and can't figure out why. Also when I file it looks terrible. Even if I cap in clear and buff it looks faded with spots...HELP ME

[@clmortenson]

I have the same problem with spots after filing! NEVER looks smooth or shiny and dark colors look faded/cloudy. If you find help with that problem, can you please let me know what helped?

[@TheBliac]

they look great! thank you!

[@heavensdevil2641]

What about the brush hardening? Despite using the brush cleaner. This problem ruined my nails today.

[@magdawnukowska1571]

Can I ask you what did you use after the vitamin base ?before you started applying colour?

[@theresacadet1507]

Hi love your videos, very informative. I do have a question. I keep messing up my bond brushes. I’ve bought 3 different sets and on first applications of each, my brush gunks up and can no longer be used...😣😣😣 can you offer any advise, I feel like I follow your proses but my brushed always get me stuck.... Help please!

[@johnnierichardson3289]

Exactly, me too! I am following each step and didnt have any issues with my Beetles dip set but today I just received a new double dip liquidsset and they gunked up and hardened on the first hand! Who wants to have to use new brushes every mani too? Looks like Double Dip is not for me. 🤔

[@tomjones2157]

Buy brush saver to clean the brush

[@cristinturner7458]

Am new to dip powder and your videos have helped me a ton! What is your favorite gel top coat? I don’t see it mentioned in that products used. Thank you!

[@MarlaKris]

I have a couple current faves: dipalicious, sparkle and co, and nail addict

[@betsyrios667]

Hi I’m new using dip powder I would like to know if I could use a dip base with any dipping powder.

[@britanyschamehorn1986]

Hi! You can use any brand of dip liquids with any brand of dip powder 😊

[@betsyrios667]

Thanks Britany

[@jasminekratzer117]

My nails can look grainy mainly around the cuticle area which I think you solve that question for me. Probably more of lifting that’s giving that look. But sometimes I get that grainy look in the center of my nail. Any suggestions?

[@laurenirinaga2219]

Does using a peel off base coat affect the longevity of the mani? Or does it simply just make it easier to remove?

[@sarahcolbaugh7195]

I love your brush 🤩

[@alisontopley594]

Love watching your videos tyfs ❤️💗

[@sunflower6434]

I’m new here, stumbled onto you video, love the amount of great tips you have given me, gonna give dipping a try...see you in the next video

[@gisellefalcon9892]

I have a question. I just started doing dip nails and I noticed that my nails look grainy. It feels soft because I filed them down and buffed but it still looks grainy. I am not sure what I am doing wrong 😔😩

[@danielaaburto1574]

I have the same issue!! Any tip for that?

[@saucy_ness]

Maybe try to brush after each dip with one of those stiff nail brushes, that works for me

[@cassybucceri276]

I want to start dipping my nails what would be a good like base and I guess activator? I don't have a lamp so I would be looking for something non gel. Tyia 😺💅

[@MarlaKris]

Definitely grab a starter kit from Virgo and gem if you can. Her liquids are super beginner friendly. I also love triple vitamin (on amazon) and IGel beauty.

[@cassybucceri276]

@@MarlaKris my sister in law got this starter kit from sally hansen I think and I was going to try with that. But I'm going to check out that other kit you mentioned and btw I forgot to say this is a great video 🐱

[@michellawong2557]

my dip cracks and chips off at the corner of the free edge, why is that?

[@jenarbios]

The color doesn't stay on after I dip. I use the soft brush and it all brushes off or it never stuck to begin with

[@MarlaKris]

Sounds like the base dried before you got into the powder. This is fixable! After you apply the base, let it dry instead of dipping. Then apply base again and dip. That first coat of base will slow down the dry time of the second. 💕

[@odettg9106]

What's a good brand for nail base step 2 I have try two brands and it's gets like clots even if I shake the bottle 😩..💅

[@hanhthucnguyen3388]

Hi Please can you let me know what is the second bottle? After the one like bond. Thanks a lot

[@denisecodorniu8932]

Maybe I missed it, but is chipping on the free edge the same as lifting? My free edge chips a lot lately 😢

[@EZontheeyes2]

Hi Marla, why do I get a cloudy, spotty top layer after I clear incapsulate? You can really tell on solid colors. I use Mia secret clear acrylic.

[@kristinowens899]

Great idea!! Thanks for this!! I need it haha!

[@queentee8588]

Didn’t see the overhead light you mentioned.

[@dezaraewalker]

The issue I have is that the topcoat will go dull during the dry time. Suggestions?

[@Babette1986]

I had that problem. Was using a very cheap topcoat that didn't sit well with the activator so I got a cloudy like look. Not good. Seriously this is a lot of work lol

[@camillebrown7206]

After you buff out your nail put another layer of activator on top and after it dries rise your nails off with only water so that when you apply the top coat the brush won't harden. I had this problem for a long time until I did this.

[@svetlanarowland2407]

Ladies, just order my first dip set, so trying to watch some videos and learn. I didn’t understand at the end of the video why Marla used uv lamp. I thought for dip powder you don’t need a lamp.

[@AlaysiaMarea]

Might’ve been the specific top coat

[@crystalfrisella372]

She used the lamp because she used gel top coat instead of dip top coat. The top coat that comes with dip powder should NOT require a lamp.