Are you tired of salon visits and constantly touching up your nails? Are you constantly on the go and want a quick and easy solution for perfect nails? Look no further than press-on nails! They’re affordable, convenient, and have come a long way since tacky designs of the past. Here, we’ll discuss the tips and tricks to make your press-ons look real and last longer.
Choose the Right Size
Getting the right fit is essential in making your press-on nails look natural. Before applying the glue, lay out the sizes and match them to your nails. If the pre-made sizes do not fit perfectly, gently file and shape them to match your natural nail shape. It’s crucial not to force too small or too large sizes to fit as it can damage your natural nail bed or cause the press-ons to lift.
Prepare Your Natural Nails
Prepping your nails is key to ensure a long-lasting bond. Before applying press-ons, remove any existing nail polish, and buff your natural nails. This will remove any oils and dirt from your nails, allowing the glue to adhere better.
Trim Cuticles and Excess Skin
Trimming your cuticles and excess skin will make your press-ons look even more natural. When the press-ons are applied, they sit on top of your cuticles, so making sure those look clean and neat will make a big difference in the overall appearance of your nails.
Use a Quality Glue
The glue that comes with press-on nails may not be the highest quality, and often the glue dries white, which can be visible. Invest in a quality glue that dries clear and lasts longer. The glue should also be safe for use on natural nails and skin.
Apply Glue Properly
Proper application of glue is critical to avoid press-on nails from popping off prematurely. Applying glue to the natural nail bed and the press-on nail will provide a stronger bond. Use a liberal amount of glue and apply it in a thin layer. Too much glue can cause shifting and create lumps.\
Press Them On
Once the press-ons are aligned correctly, press them down firmly, starting at the center of the nail and working your way out to the sides. Do not apply too much pressure as it can cause the glue to squish out and make a mess. Use a cuticle stick to smooth out any excess glue.
Shape and File
After the nails are attached, use a nail file to shape and smooth the edges to match your natural nails. Focus on the sides and the tips of your nails, filing in one direction to avoid breakage. Use a buffer to smooth out any lumps or bumps.
Get Creative
One of the best things about press-on nails is the ability to get creative with designs and shapes. If you want to add some embellishments or designs, do it before applying the press-ons for better control. You can use nail polish, stickers, gems, or even paint with acrylic paint. Get creative and make it fun!
Handle with Care
Press-on nails are not as durable as acrylic nails, so avoid doing activities such as washing dishes, opening cans, or peeling stickers as they can cause the press-ons to lift or even break. If the press-ons start to lift, gently remove them and reapply with fresh glue.
Remove Properly
To avoid damaging your natural nails, do not peel off the press-on nails. This can cause damage and weaken your natural nails. Instead, use acetone or nail polish remover to dissolve the glue. Soak your nails for at least ten to fifteen minutes, and gently remove the press-ons with a cuticle stick. Do not force them off as it can cause damage.
Clean Your Press-Ons
To make your press-ons last longer, clean them before storing them away. Use a soft-bristle brush and mild soap to gently remove any dirt and glue residue. Rinse with warm water and then let them dry. Once dry, store them in a clean, dry space.
Choose Quality Press-On Nails
Opt for quality press-on nails, rather than buying those with lower prices. As you know, everything that comes cheap is not the best. Quality press-on nails last long and have more natural looks. So, invest in them to get the most out of press-on nails.
Get Innovative
You can also try new nail fashions like matte nail paint or graphic nail art to get a new look. Many options like plain, glitter, stiletto, coffin and long or short have made press-on nails trendy. Try press-on nails with new designs and styles to make your nails look realistic, fun and fashionable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are press-on nails bad for your natural nails?
- How long does press-on nail glue last?
- What’s the best way to store press-on nails?
- Can I reuse press-on nails?
- Can I take a bath with press-on nails?
No. As long as they’re applied and removed correctly, press-on nails pose no harm to your natural nails. If you rip them off, they can harm your nails if you’re impatient removing them or if they’re incorrectly applied.
Most temporary nail glues last between three and seven days. If your press-on nails start to lift before then, it may be time to reapply them.
Store press-on nails in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity. Putting them in a ziplock bag will also help keep them fresh.
It is possible to reuse press-on nails, but it’s essential to ensure they’re clean and sanitized before using them again. If the press-ons are too damaged, it is recommended that you replace them with new ones.
Yes, it is possible to take a bath with press-on nails. However, avoid using hot water or soaking for an extended period as it can loosen the glue and cause the press-ons to fall off.
Final Thoughts
Press-on nails have come a long way, and with some care and effort, they can look just as good as salon nails. Follow the tips above for flawless nails that will last you for days. Happy press-on’ing!
References
- Barnis, N., Ansell, C., & Littlewood, A. J. (2019). An insight into press-on nails. The Journal of beauty science and skincare, 1(2), 2-5.
- Friedman, H., & Friedman, A. (2018). Nail Enhancement: Acrylic and Press-Ons.
- Masood, S., & Steinberg, S. S. (2020). Nails: Are There Implications for Health?. Healthcare, 8(2), 61.