Gather dip powder, base coat, activator, top coat, nail file, buffer, cuticle pusher, brush, alcohol or nail cleanser, and lint-free wipes
Wash hands and remove old polish
Push back cuticles and trim any excess skin
Shape nails with a file
Lightly buff the nail surface
Clean nails with alcohol or nail cleanser
Apply a thin layer of base coat to one nail
Dip the nail into the powder at a 45-degree angle
Tap off excess powder
Repeat base coat and dip for each nail
Apply a second layer of base coat and dip again if more thickness is needed
Brush off loose powder between layers
Apply activator to all nails
Let nails dry completely
File and buff nails to smooth the surface
Apply another coat of activator
Let nails dry again
Apply top coat in thin, even layers
Let the top coat dry fully
Clean up edges with a brush or acetone if needed
Moisturize cuticles after finishing