Jennifer Tripucka 
Dazzle Dry manicures are becoming all the rage in the New York City Metro area — and slowly are making their way to Hoboken and Jersey City nail salons. If you haven’t heard of them, they are essentially a one- or (two-, if you get a good one!) week regular manicure that hardens a bit softer than gel, but harder than regular polish. The best part? Dazzle Dry doesn’t require UV light or soaking off, and because of that, is more gentle for your natural nail. It’s not available at every nail salon in Hoboken or Jersey City but we’re hopeful, and figured by sharing this we can help spread the good word. To get you started on your Dazzle Dry journey, we’ve rounded up a list of spots that currently have the manicure and pedicure Dazzle Dry option in Hoboken + Jersey City.
Have more to add to the list? Email [email protected] or DM us on Instagram @thehobokengirl
First Things First. What is Dazzle Dry?
Dazzle Dry is a nail polish that is a four-step system that lasts longer than polish (honestly, even the Essie long-lasting polish), dries quickly, and usually lasts 1.5-2 weeks of chip-free wear. Think: gel or dip that can be removed with nail polish remover, without the waiting to dry and chipping your nails in the process.
According to its website, Dazzle Dry air dries in five minutes, and no ultraviolet (UV) light or soaking off is needed. It’s honestly a game-changer, and we’re hoping more local spots provide it soon. (Nothing in it for us, besides nice nails.)
Read More: A Guide to Nail Salons in Hoboken + What You Need to Know
The Dangers of UV Lights
Very, very sorry to be the bad news bearers over here as we love a good gel or UV gel mani, but according to The Skin Cancer Foundation (TSCF), gel nail lamps are linked to premature aging and skin cancer.
The UV lamps used in nail salons to set and speed up gel manicures also emit low levels of radiation, primarily UVA rays. UV radiation-caused issues can include eye damage, immune system suppression, and other skin damage. The National Institute of Health (NIH) also did a study on UV nail lamps, concluding that more research needs to be done as the findings using a small 2009 sample study found melanoma is not an increased risk, noted that “Although, the limited literature reported on this topic is controversial and further studies on the potential carcinogenic risk of UV nail lamps are warranted. Therefore, it is recommended by experts to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen prior to gel manicures.”
To play it safe with gel manicures, TSCF recommends applying a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to your hands 20 minutes before your hands are exposed to UV light. However, even this precaution does not protect against subungual (under the nail) squamous cell carcinoma, a rare but potentially aggressive form of skin cancer. So either way, make sure you put that sunblock on.
But, if you’re looking for an alternative to gel or just sick of soaking off, you may want to consider Dazzle Dry (and no, this isn’t sponsored — we’re just really into it).
Nail Salons Locally That Carry Dazzle Dry
We’ve tried some Dazzle Dry locations, and are here to share the deets. Honestly, all are great picks — and have a decent selection of polishes. Prices below do not include tips and are all reported from the time we went in 2024 paying full price — subject to change as always.
Modern Nails | 728 Washington Street, Hoboken
Currently $27 for a DD Manicure
Newer to the Dazzle Dry scene, Modern Nails started carrying it and we’ve gone for manicures here a few times using DD. The first time, the technician seemed to not add the first layer of polish that was needed, so it peeled very quickly, but returning a second and third time, the nail salon did a great job. In fact, wearing it right now after 2.2 weeks, and still going strong!
^ Dazzle Dry from Modern Nails immediately after
^ Dazzle Dry from Modern Nails after 2+ weeks
Nailed It | 318 Madison Street, Hoboken
Currently $30 for a DD Manicure
We’ve tried Dazzle Dry here — and it’s been good. Our nail polish for Dazzle Dry lasted about 1.2-1.5 weeks without major chippage. Also, the pedicures are AMAZING! This is also a super cute, clean spot with cozy vibes, if you haven’t been. Worth a trip regardless.
See More: A Guide to the Best Nail Salons in Montclair
Suite Tee | 172 Newark Avenue Floor 3, Jersey City
Currently $40 for a DD Manicure
Tee Handley is such a gem, and her little Oasis off of the Newark Pedestrian Plaza is one of our favorites (not only for the nails, but waxing, sauna, and spray tans!). She and her staff have provided Dazzle Dry for a while now, and it’s a tried-and-true spot. These manicures usually last up to two weeks.
