Whether you want to save money, time, or your nails, press-on nails are a great option. I was hesitant at first because I used them when I was little and they sucked, but then again, I was little… Anywho, I have been using some for the last few months and I have some tips and tricks for you. So here is your ultimate guide on how to make press on nails last longer!
Choose Quality Nails
There are so many different brands out there, but for me personally, I want an affordable option ($10-$20) for a set. I like pretty basic nails but there are some out there that you can customize and that are really dramatic.
I am just going to list ones that either I have tried or are within my price range that I would actually purchase. You also want the nail to be sturdy and made of good material so it can last as long as you want them on. And if you want to reuse them.
**Ensure there are at least 12 different sizes for each hand to get the closest to your actual nail size.
Marmalade – $14-29
They have different shapes and lengths and have basic colors and some fun designs.
Each set includes 24 nails of 12 different sizes, nail file, glue, manicure stick, guide, and removal tool. A good price for all that.
Static Nails – $14-16
Static Nails are my personal favorite. They have different lengths, shapes, colors, coverage, so many options!
Each set includes 24 nails in 12 sizes, glue, file, buffer.
**I did an entire blog post on Static Nails press on nails. Check it out here.
ChillHouse – $16-18
ChillHouse has more funky and fun prints than neutral colors. They only have rounded nails for the shape and aren’t really long but I wouldn’t call them short either…
Each set includes 24 nails in 12 sizes, glue, file/buffer, and cuticle stick.
Kiss & imPress Nails – $9
These are the most convenient because you can just pick them up at the drugstore. However, I don’t think they last as long. Maybe if you use better glue but these are best for events than long-wearing.
Update: I tried them and I don’t like the glue and I think the french tip ones I got is not the route to go. You can see the glue through the nail. They only lasted about 24 hours. My thumbs popped off trying to open a Hi-Chew wrapper
BUT tell me if I’m wrong! Do you like these nails better? Do they last longer than 2 days?
How To Apply Press on Nails
Prep Your Nails Right
Before you apply your press-on nails, you want to trim and clean your nails. I do a rough buff to help with some grip.
You will want to remove any access oil with nail polish remover or alcohol on a cotton round on your nail as well as the back of the press-on.
Hot Tip: Some people apply a top clear coat to their nails prior to buffing and apply the glue and nail to their real nails to help prevent damage. I haven’t tried this so I can’t say whether this works. Do what’s best for you and your nail situation.
Choose the Right Nail Size
This is pretty self-explanatory but make sure you take the time to find the press on nail that is as close to your natural nail size. If I have to, I will go with a little smaller nail only because I am too lazy to cut it and file it down.
Don’t choose a nail that is too big without trimming it down because that will make it easier to get caught on things and pop off.
Choose Your Glue
Depending on the purpose for your nails, you can choose glue or nail tabs aka double-sided tape.
If you only need them on for a day or you like to switch up your nails like your outfit, stick to nails tabs. Or if you really don’t want to soak off your nails, this might be the best option for you.
Now, if you want them to last longer, use nail glue. I’ve heard people using super glue but that can really ruin your nail and be hard to get off.
Best Glue For Press on Nails
Depending on the type of press-on nails your choose, they will come with their own nail glue. But it doesn’t hurt to have your own on hand especially if you reuse your nails a few times. But look for one with a brush applicator, it’s easier to apply and place where you want it.
Here are some that are highly recommended:
How To Glue
When applying the glue, apply mainly in the middle of the nail to leave the edges free so excess glue can spread and not get on your skin.
**If you don’t have a glue with a brush (like most kits) use one drop and spread it with the tip of glue around the nail, avoiding right next to the edges.
Apply some one the press-on but also on your real nail.
Wait about 5 seconds for it to get tacky.
Place near the cuticle and slide back the nail to make it look like it’s your real nail coming from the cuticle.
Press and hold the nail for 30 seconds.
If you get glue on your skin, try a glue remover like this. You can find it at Walmart as well. Only put the liquid on your skin and ‘scrap’ at the glue on the skin.
Finish off with a clear coat on your press-on nail to help the nail stay fresh looking for longer.
How To Remove Press on Nails
If you applied your nails with the tabs, you are good to pull them off but don’t force them!
If you need a little help, soak them in warm water or with some oil and push the nail down on the tip and slightly to the side.
With glue, for me, usually one pops off and at this point, it’s been a week so I just pull them off. I DO NOT recommend it! You can damage your natural nails, which I have done.
Instead, soak with warm water and some oil for about 10 minutes and they should be easy to remove.
You can do an acetone soak for 10-15 minutes, but it’s very drying and I find oil works just as well.
How Long Do Press on Nails Last
This depends on your prep and the type of application you use.
If you really take your time to remove oil, clean your nails, use glue, use enough glue, and are gentle with your nails, they can last about 2 weeks.
I personally prep really well, use glue but am pretty rough with my hands day today. IE open pistachios, wash the dishes without gloves, etc. And mine last a week until at least 1 pops off, but I just glue it back on and wear them for about another week-ish.
If you use double-sided nail tabs, they will probably only last a day or maybe 2 depending on gentle you are.
What do you prefer? Going in to get your nail done or an at-home mani?
XO, Annie
