The reason maintenance and aftercare is so important for dip powder nails is that they may actually be damaging the nail by staying on for so long. As Julie Kandalec, creative director at Paint Box Nails in New York City, told Today, "I understand the allure of a manicure that will last three weeks ... but anything on your nails for that amount of time can cause some problems. Make sure you maintain them well!" she added.

In general, dip powder manicures are just as safe as gel and acrylic manicures. However, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at The Mount Sinai Hospital, warns that they could be more damaging for some than others. "I would be cautious with these manicures if you already have dry or brittle nails or suffer from conditions like psoriasis, which can cause thickening of the nails," he told Today.