We all love press-on nails for their convenience, cute designs, and ability to give us salon-quality nails in a snap. But sometimes, they don’t always last as long or look as flawless as we want. Don’t worry! It’s usually down to a few common mistakes that are easy to fix. In this post, we’re breaking down the five most common press-on nail mistakes and how to avoid them for a perfect, long-lasting manicure.
One of the biggest mistakes is skipping the prep work. Your natural nails need to be clean and free of oils for the adhesive to bond well. If you skip this step, your press-ons may start popping off sooner than expected.
How to Avoid It:
Before applying your press-ons, clean your nails with alcohol wipes or acetone to remove any oils or old nail polish. Lightly buff your nails to create a slightly rough surface for the glue to grip onto.
Pro Tip: The better you prep, the longer your nails will stay on. This step is non-negotiable!
Choosing press-on nails that are too big or too small for your natural nails can lead to a less-than-perfect look and may cause the nails to lift or pop off more easily.
How to Avoid It:
Always take the time to find the best fit for each of your nails. The press-ons should cover the entire width of your nail bed without overlapping onto your skin. If they’re too big, gently file down the sides for a better fit.
Pro Tip: If you're between sizes, always size down! A slightly smaller nail will stick better than one that's too big.
When it comes to nail glue, more isn’t better. Too much glue can create a mess, cause the nails to lift, or even damage your natural nails during removal.
How to Avoid It:
Apply a small, even layer of glue on both your natural nail and the press-on for the strongest bond. A little glue goes a long way, and it’s easier to clean up if you don’t overdo it.
Pro Tip: If using adhesive tabs, press firmly and hold for 10-15 seconds to ensure the nail sticks properly. No need for glue overload!
We know you’re excited to show off your new nails, but if you don’t give the glue enough time to bond, your nails won’t last as long. Rushing this step can lead to lifting or nails popping off within days.
How to Avoid It:
Once you’ve applied the nails, hold each one down for about 10-15 seconds to ensure it’s bonded securely. Afterward, avoid getting your hands wet for at least an hour to let the glue fully set.
Pro Tip: If you want maximum hold, apply your nails before bed, so they have plenty of time to bond overnight!
Improper removal can cause damage to your natural nails, leaving them weak or peeling. It might be tempting to rip them off, but this can seriously harm your nails.
How to Avoid It:
The safest way to remove press-ons is by soaking your nails in warm soapy water for about 10 minutes. Then, gently lift the press-ons from the sides using a cuticle pusher. If they’re still not budging, try soaking them a little longer or using a bit of cuticle oil to loosen the glue.
Pro Tip: Patience is key! Take your time to avoid damaging your natural nails, so they’re ready for your next press-on set.
Applying press-on nails is super easy once you know the right steps and how to avoid these common mistakes. By prepping your nails, choosing the right size, and taking your time with glue application, you’ll enjoy a long-lasting, flawless mani every time. At Nurelli Nails, we want you to love every press-on experience—so follow these tips and nail your next look like a pro!
Ready to show off your perfect press-ons? Check out our latest collections at Nurelli Nails and find your next favorite set!
