How to Apply Press On Nails

Press on Nails are the fastest manicure to apply and the method(s) below make sure that you can get your new look without damaging your natural nails too!

You Will Need:

  • Your choice of sticky tabs or nail glue
  • An orangewood stick (or other cuticle pusher)
  • A nail file
  • A buffing block
  • An alcohol wipe

How to Apply Using Nail Glue:

  1. Start by washing your hands and making sure they are fully dry.
  2. Using your orangewood stick, gently push back your cuticles.
  3. Use the buffing block to gently buff over the surface of your natural nails, just enough to remove the shine from your nails. Optionally you can shape your natural nails with a nail file here too.
  4. Use an alcohol wipe to wipe over the nails, sanitising the nails and removing any dust and residue from buffing.
  5. One nail at a time, apply a thin layer of glue to your natural nail and to the back of the press on nail.
  6. Line up the press on nail with your cuticle at a 45 degree angle then slowly place it down evenly on the nail, ensuring the nail is straight. Be careful not to touch any glue and clean up any excess that may have spilled from the cuticles or sidewalls (this is an indication that you have used too much glue and you can use less for the next finger(s)).
  7. Firmly press and hold the nail for 20-30 seconds.
  8. Repeat this process for all 10 nails then you are done!

How to Apply Using Sticky Tabs:

  1. Start by washing your hands and making sure they are fully dry
  2. Using your orangewood stick, gently push back your cuticles.
  3. Use the buffing block to gently buff over the surface of your natural nails, just enough to remove the shine from your nails. Optionally you can shape your natural nails with a nail file here too.
  4. Use an alcohol wipe to wipe over the nails, sanitising the nails and removing any dust and residue from buffing.
  5. Select the sticky tabs that best measure up with your natural nail beds and stick them on your nails.
  6. Do the next steps one finger at a time. Remove the plastic covering from the sticky tabs. You may find this easier if you rub your finger over the tab for a few seconds to loosen the adhesive.
  7. Line up the press on nail with your cuticle at a 45 degree angle then slowly place it down evenly on the nail, ensuring the nail is straight.
  8. Firmly press down on the nail and hold for 20-30 seconds.
  9. Repeat this process for all 10 nails, then you are done!

Application Tips:

For best results you should always apply press on nails to clean nails, free of any enhancements like leftover polish or gel etc.

Nail glue usually lasts longer than sticky tabs, for longevity I recommend using nail glue.

Applying the press on nails from pinky to thumb tends to be the easiest (so pinky, pinky, ring finger, ring finger and so on) as it keeps your thumbs and index fingers free the longest.

The best time of day to apply press on nails is right before bed. This is because you're then less likely to be getting your nails wet while the glue is still drying and setting into place!

For longevity I recommend avoiding soaking your hands or wearing gloves when you wash dishes etc. Avoid using your nails as tools for things like opening packages or drinks cans.

It is NEVER recommended to apply any of my press on nails with anything other than sticky tabs or nail glue. UV glue will NOT cure properly under my nails!
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