I Ditched My $100 Salon Manicures for Olive & June’s New At-Home Dip Nail Kit
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Every three weeks, like clockwork, I spend roughly an hour and a half at my local nail salon getting my hard gel manicure touched up. And while my nail tech does a wonderful job, carving out time in my already packed schedule and coughing up nearly $100 per appointment has me wondering whether I could achieve the same flawless results at home. So, when I caught wind of Olive & June 's latest launch, a DIY dip powder manicure system promising up to 21 days of wear, I was more than intrigued.
Shop the Editor-Loved Nail System
The nail care brand, beloved for its easy-to-use at-home manicure and pedicure systems, expanded its lineup with the new Dip Mani System, launching today, October 22. Designed to deliver long-lasting results without a UV lamp or electric nail drill , it sounded almost too good to be true. As a beauty writer, I'm no stranger to the seemingly endless DIY manicure options on the market, from UV-cured gel polishes to increasingly convincing press-ons . Still, as someone who takes her natural nails very seriously (I've spent ages growing out my long, witchy claws), I was particularly interested in finding an alternative that would help preserve their length and strength.
Olive & June
So, when I got the chance to try Olive & June's new system ahead of its launch, I decided to skip my next salon appointment and see whether it really was as effortless as it sounded. Much to my surprise, I quickly got the hang of the application process in the hopes of achieving a glossy , salon-worthy manicure, all from the comfort of my couch while catching up on my favorite TV shows. Ahead, I share my candid thoughts and a step-by-step look at how the system works to help you decide whether it's worth canceling your next salon appointment, too.
Olive & June
The Dip Mani System
Upon opening the kit, I was greeted with everything I needed to achieve a perfect dip manicure at home. Instead of traditional acrylic, the system uses plant-based powders derived from cellulose and starch, which harden with the help of an activator liquid. Thanks to the powder's ultra-fine texture, it's also much easier to work with, file, and refine for a smooth, even finish. Below, take a closer look at everything included in the kit.*
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*Pictured with three shades for illustrative purposes. The kit comes with one color for $75 or six colors for $100.
The Application Process
As a complete newbie to DIY dip manicures, I was initially worried that the application process might be a little too ambitious for my beginner skill set. But I'm happy to report that it's incredibly straightforward. As long as you apply thin, even coats, you won't need excessive buffing afterward to get a smooth finish. I opted for the gorgeous Cockatoo, a blush pink shade with a glossy finish.
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Of course, my biggest concern was tackling my non-dominant hand, which has always been my downfall when attempting an at-home manicure. Thanks to the forgiving application process and the ability to file away any imperfections afterward, I found it just as easy as working on my dominant hand.
The Results
I truly couldn't be more pleased with my results from the Dip Mani System. The dip powder gave my natural nails an added layer of strength and durability, which was exactly what I'd been hoping for. Also, can we take a moment to appreciate just how dreamy the color is? The finish is beautifully smooth, with no excess product build-up around my cuticles, while the top coat delivers an ultra-glossy, glass-like shine.
Laura Tarafa
Granted, my first attempt wasn't entirely flawless, but I have a feeling that with a little more practice, I'll be perfecting my technique in no time. Of course, durability is a major factor to consider for any manicure . I can confirm that mine held up beautifully against the demands of my hectic schedule, from typing away at my keyboard all day to washing dishes, hitting the gym, and everything in between. The removal process is surprisingly straightforward, too; after filing away most of the product, the remaining dip powder comes off easily with an acetone soak.
So, if you've also been contemplating a break from hard gel or acrylic, consider this my endorsement. The kit starts at $75 with one color included, or you can upgrade to six shades for $100. You can also choose from 19 individual colors, priced at $12 each. With the cost breaking down to as little as $3 per manicure, it's a pretty convincing alternative to shelling out for that nail appointment every few weeks, if you ask me.
Olive & June One Color Dip Mani System
Olive & June Six Color Dip Mani System
Olive & June Moody & Bold Dip Powder Set
Olive & June Favorite Shades Dip Powder Set
Olive & June Soft & Neutrals Dip Powder Set
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, commerce writer Laura Tarafa personally tested Olive & June's Dip Mani System.
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