How to Apply and Remove Your Nails

The prep and application process is probably THE MOST important step when having press-on nails that will actually last! I always recommend 3 KEY aspects to prep!

Bare, Dry Natural Nails

Avoid any product on your nails before applying, making sure they are completely dried out. You don't want any natural oils or soap on your nails when you apply, as oily substances can eat away at your glue's adhesive properties, leading to less retention over time.

Trust me, your nails will last as long as mine do if you do this KEY step!

Always remember: Oils ruin application--Oils rule in removal!

Buffing/Filing

Buffing your natural nail is when you use a nail file to brush a light layer off in order to "scuff up" the surface for intentional microscopic ridges in the nail plate.

These microscopic ridges are important for your glue's adhesion, as they increase the surface area of retention and lead to a firmer hold on the false nail to your nail! Which means longer lasting!

All my press-on nails come pre-etched, which means you only need to file your natural nail down and apply! The underside of the false nail is all ready to go for first use!

In the case you are reusing a set of nails, you will want to buff or file away any excess glue on the underside of the press-on nail, as it re-opens the microscopic ridges to then reuse and apply like normal!

Avoid Water for 2-3 Hours (or more)

Once you apply your nails, make sure you don't come into contact with water for 2-3 hours. This does include showering, washing your hands, or even applying lotion.

Remember, oily things eat away at the glue, so you want to wait for the nails to be fully "set" before dipping them in anything. After this period of time, you are completely free to use them in everyday life.

Note: Long soaks in water or warm liquids will reduce the length of time the nails will adhere.

My #1 tip to applying press-ons THAT LAST is to apply them before bed. It ensures you don't contact water for longer than 3 hours, and you aren't using them to pick up things, open things, etc, which allows the glue to fully adhere without any extrinsic factors!

Application

  • Start by washing your hands and removing any nail polish on your nails.
  • File/buff the tops of your natural nails lightly to "scuff up" the surface for better adhesion (microscopic ridges).
  • Use an alcohol pad or acetone wipe to remove any residual oils on the nail plate.
  • Working one nail at a time, it is recommended to start applying nails to your dominant hand first (using your non-dominant hand). You are more comfortable with your dominant hand, so apply with your dominant hand last.
  • Apply a dollop of glue on your natural nail near the tip. Then, apply a drop of glue on the underside of the press-on nail, near the base.
  • Flip the nail over, and estimate with your eyes where you want to place it. Where it might look best (flush with cuticle or a little away).
  • Press firmly from the cuticle forward to adhere the base and tip tightly. Hold for 15-20 seconds per nail. The glue should seal between cuticle and tip.
  • Finish on all nails.
  • Avoid water contact for 2-3 hours after application (recommended to apply before bed).

Removal

  • Fill a cup or bowl that can fit both hands with hot water, liquid soap, and oil (cooking oil works, but cuticle oil works better).
  • Soak your fingers in the mixture for 10-15 minutes.
  • Gently lift near the side wall of your nail to pry the false nail from the natural nail. Be careful not to force the nails.
  • DO NOT rip off the nails that don't budge, simply soak the nails again in the mixture for another 5-10 minutes and try again until all nails come off.
  • Wait 30 mins to 1 hour before applying a new set of nails, making sure to remove all oils your nail might have soaked up during removal!