Here’s How to Do Chrome Dip Nails at Home
If you want to chrome dip nails, you are in luck. Not only are chrome nails stunning, they are surprisingly easy to do yourself! You can follow the tutorial below to recreate this manicure at home.
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watch video: chrome dip nails tutorial
Now, chances are you’ve heard this chrome nail art referred to as glazed donut nails – thank you, Hailey Bieber! No matter what you want to call it, there is no denying that trendy chrome nails are here to stay.
Once you learn this chrome nail technique, you’ll be able to create a wide variety of different nail styles for every season.
Products Needed for Chrome Dip Nails
To do chrome dip nails at home, you will need a few products.
Here’s What I Recommend:
- Chrome Dip Powder (for Glazed Nails) – This chrome powder kit includes the perfect color to create your standard glazed donut nails.
- Chrome Dip Powder (for Color Chrome) – If you love the bright color chrome or “mirror chrome” looks, this kit includes every color you could possibly need.
- No-Wipe Gel Top Coat – You will need a no-wipe gel top coat to create the chrome effect.
- SunUV Gel Lamp – Since you’re using gel polish, you will need a UV lamp to cure properly.
How to Chrome Dip Nails at Home
Step 1) Apply Dip Powder & Buff Nails Smooth
Before you begin to chrome, you will need to apply your dip powder first. Follow your usual dip powder application process to apply each layer. Then apply your activator and buff your nails smooth.
It’s important that you carefully buff your nails. Chrome nails can be unforgiving and easily show any imperfections.
Once your nails are free of any lumps and bumps, use a low-grit file to lightly rough the surface. This will allow the gel to adhere better to the nail.
Also, make sure you skip your second coat of activator before moving onto the next step.
Step 2) Apply Base Gel
This step is optional. However, to add extra “insurance” and ensure your chrome dip nails stay put, you can apply base gel to the entire nail.
Once you’ve applied base gel to each nail, fully cure using your UV lamp.
Step 3) Apply No Wipe Top Coat & Flash Cure
Using a no wipe top coat, apply to your entire nail.
Then place your nails under your UV lamp for a flash cure. This can vary between brands. However, 10-30 seconds is usually a safe bet.
Step 4) Apply Chrome Powder
Using an eyeshadow applicator, dip into the chrome powder and rub across the nail.
You’ll notice the gorgeous chrome taking effect!
Once you’ve chromed each nail, pop into your UV lamp for a full cure. When the curing is complete, use a brush to wipe away any excess powder.
Step 5) Apply Top Coat
Now that your gorgeous chrome effect is complete, it’s time to finish it off with a shiny top coat.
Apply your top coat to each nail. Be sure to cap the edges to avoid chips and peeling.
Then fully cure your nail under your UV light. When cured, rub some alcohol on each nail to remove the inhibition layer.
Now you are all done creating your chrome dip nails!
Summary
Chrome dip nails are an easy nail art option you can do at home. It does require a few extra supplies. However, the gorgeous results are so worth it!
The biggest thing to keep in mind is that your chrome powder will reveal imperfections. Take care to buff your nails thoroughly to remove any lumps and bumps.
More Nail Art Ideas
Glazed, frosty and gorgeous chrome dip nails aren’t the only fun nail art you can do with dip powder! Here are a few simple nail art designs you can try at home.
- Valentine’s Day Nail Art: learn how to create chrome hearts on your nails.
- How to Apply a Nail Sticker: this is the easiest nail art you can do at home!
- How to Do French Ombre Dip Powder Nails: if you’re ready for intermediate nail art, try this classic “baby boomer” french ombre manicure.
You can find all of the tutorials and nail art ideas you can do with dip nails here. For more fresh ideas, I’ve even shared inspiration for nail art ideas here on Pinterest.
Ready for More DIY Dip Nail Recommendations?
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