Press-on nails are a fabulous way to achieve a salon-quality manicure at home—quickly and affordably. Whether you're a newbie or just looking for some pro tips to extend the life of your nails, this tutorial has you covered! In this post, we’ll walk you through the best way to apply your press-ons for a flawless and long-lasting look.
Prepping your natural nails is the key to getting a flawless application that lasts. Start by cleaning your nails with an alcohol wipe or acetone to remove any oils or old polish. This ensures the adhesive will bond well to your nail.
Pro Tip: Buff your nails gently to create a slightly rough surface. This helps the glue stick better, making your press-ons last longer.
Use a nail file to shape your natural nails, making sure there are no sharp edges that could lift the press-ons. After filing, use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. This gives the press-ons a clean, smooth base and prevents lifting around the edges.
Pro Tip: Avoid trimming your cuticles too much, as it can lead to infections. Pushing them back will give you a more natural look without damaging your nails.
Next, lay out all the press-on nails and find the perfect fit for each of your natural nails. The press-ons should cover your entire nail without going over the edges. If a press-on nail is slightly too big, gently file down the sides for a better fit.
Pro Tip: If you’re between sizes, go smaller. A press-on that’s too big is more likely to lift or pop off.
Now for the fun part—applying the nails! You can choose between nail glue or adhesive tabs. Nail glue offers longer wear, while adhesive tabs are great for temporary looks.
For Glue: Apply a thin layer of glue to both your natural nail and the back of the press-on. This double application method will give you a stronger bond.
For Adhesive Tabs: Apply the tab directly to your nail, peel off the backing, and then press on the nail.
Pro Tip: When using glue, less is more! Too much glue can cause it to squish out the sides and make the nails look messy. A small drop spread evenly will do the trick.
Once the glue or tab is in place, position the press-on nail at the base of your cuticle and press down firmly. Hold the nail for 10-15 seconds to ensure it sticks properly.
Pro Tip: Apply your press-ons starting from the middle of the nail and press down toward the sides to ensure a tight, even fit. Avoid water and lotion for at least an hour after applying to let the glue fully bond.
After applying all your press-ons, you can file and shape the edges to your liking. Add a layer of clear top coat to the press-ons for extra shine and protection, especially around the edges to prevent lifting.
Pro Tip: A top coat isn’t necessary, but it can add extra longevity and make your nails look professionally polished!
Tip #1: Reapply glue after a few days if you notice any lifting. This quick fix can keep your nails looking fresh for over a week!
Tip #2: Avoid soaking your hands in water for too long, especially in the first 24 hours after application. Wearing gloves while doing dishes or cleaning will help your press-ons last even longer.
Tip #3: To safely remove your press-on nails without damaging your natural nails, soak them in warm soapy water for 10 minutes, then gently lift them from the sides using a cuticle pusher. Never rip them off!
And there you have it! Applying press-on nails can be easy, fun, and—best of all—completely customizable to fit your style. By following these steps and incorporating a few pro tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a flawless, long-lasting manicure every time.
Ready to try it out? Check out our latest collections at Nurelli Nails and find the perfect set to nail your look!
