Press-on nails are a DIY manicure staple that saves money and time. However, some people struggle to keep press-on nails from popping off quickly. To help you out, we've got simple tips to make your press-on nails last longer.
💡There are currently 3 methods for applying press-on nails:
- Jelly glue
- Quick-dry glue
- Peel-off gel (newest technology)
We will go through these 3 methods later. But first, let's break down applying press-on nails into 2 parts:
cleaning the nail surface + applying the press-on nails.
🛁 Part 1: Cleaning the nail surface
1. Remove the dead skin around the edge of your nails. The edge is where the press-on nail sticks, and if you don't remove the dead skin, the press-on nail can come loose and look unattractive.
2. Gently file the surface of your nails and the inside of the press-on nail to help the glue stick better. The edges around your nails are the most prone to lifting.
If your natural nail is thin, only file the edges. Filing vertically causes the least damage to your natural nail, but if it's too thin, you can skip filing your natural nail and only file the inside of the press-on nail.
3. Use an alcohol swab to clean your nails of dust and oil. Dust and oil can also cause the press-on nail to not stick well.
💅 Part 2: Applying the press-on nails
Use Jelly glue (1-2 days)
1. Choose a jelly glue slightly smaller than your nail size. Press the jelly glue from the center towards the edges, covering the entire nail surface. Apply more glue in the center and less around the edges. The thinner the glue, the stronger the press-on nail will adhere.
2. Press the press-on nail onto the jelly glue at a 45-degree angle, pushing downward and backward to avoid any gaps between the press-on nail and your natural nail. Press the press-on nail from the center towards the edges to remove any air bubbles.
3. You can use a hair dryer to heat up the jelly glue to increase its stickiness and make it easier to spread.
Use Quick-dry glue (15-20 days)
1. Apply a small amount of glue to the bottom third of the press-on nail several times.
2. Hold the press-on nail vertically and spread the glue evenly onto the nail surface.
3. Press the press-on nail onto your natural nail from the bottom and hold for at least 10 seconds.
4. Avoid getting your nails wet for 1-2 hours after application.
Use Peel-off gel (10-15 days, clear/semi-clear nails only)
1. Scoop out some peel-off gel using the base of the press-on nail.
3. Use a small stick to remove any excess gel.
4. Cure under a UV lamp for 60-90 seconds.
✏️ Quick summary
- First, a nice prep is a MUST!
- Second, lasting time depends on the methods you use to apply: Quick-dry glue (15-20 days) > Peel-off gel (10-15 days, only for clear/semi-clear press-on nails) > Jelly glue (1-2 days)
Other things to keep in mind
- Easy to apply: Quick-dry glue > Jelly glue > Peel-off gel
- Damage to your nails: Jelly glue < Peel-off gel < Quick-dry glue
- Press-on nails can be used again: Jelly glue > Quick-dry glue = Peel-off gel
❤️ Our advice
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If you want your press-on nails to last longer than 2 days, go for the quick-dry glue.
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If you just need a quick mani for a party/event, Jelly glue may be just enough.
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If you want healthier way to do and can reuse your press-on nails in the future, Jelly glue is also your first choice.
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If your press-on nails are clear or semi-clear, try the peel-off gel!