1. PREP YOUR NAILS
File & Buff
Shape your nails and gently buff the surface to remove shine. This helps the dip powder layers adhere smoothly.
Cuticle Care
Push back your cuticles to avoid lifting and get that clean, professional look.
2. FIRST LAYER: BUILD THE BASE
Base Coat
Apply a thin, even layer of Base Coat to the entire nail.
First Dip
Dip your nail into your dipping powder color of choice. Tap off excess and wait 10 seconds before brushing off the rest.
3. SECOND LAYER: CREATE THE APEX
Base Coat Again
Apply a second thin layer of Base Coat, this time focusing slightly more product in the center of the nail to start forming the apex.
Second Dip
Dip again into the powder. The added product in the center helps build strength and curve. Dust off the excess with a soft brush.
4. THIRD LAYER: LOCK IT IN
Final Base Coat
Apply your third and final Base Coat over the entire nail to seal the structure.
Final Dip
Dip one last time into your powder for full coverage and durability. Remove excess powder after 10 seconds.
5. SHAPE & REFINE
File & Buff
Shape your nail and refine the apex with a file. Buff the surface until smooth, focusing on blending the curve.
6. ACTIVATE & HARDEN
Activator Time
Apply Activator generously over the whole nail and let it dry for at least 2 minutes. This hardens all the layers and locks your apex in place.
7. FINAL TOUCH-UP
Optional Buffing
If needed, give your nails a final buff for an ultra-smooth finish.
Wipe Clean
Use a dry paper towel to wipe away any remaining Activator before applying your Top Coat.
8. SEAL WITH TOP COAT
Top Coat x2
Apply two coats of Top Coat, letting each one dry fully. This gives your dip powder apex a glossy, salon-level shine.
9. FINISH STRONG
Cuticle Oil
Massage Vitamin Oil into your cuticles to hydrate and finish the look.
Apex = Built to Last
With the Apex method, your dip powder nails have extra strength and structure that helps them last longer—perfect for anyone who wants durable, salon-quality results at home.
Pro Tip for the Qreators
Building an apex is ideal if you want your dip powder manicure to go the distance. It adds strength where your nails need it most, so your look stays fresh for weeks.