Press-on nails have made a strong comeback, saving time and money for the DIYers and fashion enthusiasts. But, the real question is, how to keep press on nails longer? Today’s guide will unravel this mystery and provide you with tips and tricks to maximize the lifespan of your press-on nails.
Understanding Press On Nails
Press-on nails, also known as glue-on nails or false nails, are artificial nail enhancements made from acrylic resin. The variations in products are due to the different acrylic resins used by different manufacturers. They have several benefits over traditional manicures- affordability, time-efficiency, and variety in designs being the leading ones.
Most of these press-on nails come in kits, which usually include nail glue, a buffer, and the nails themselves. However, the contents may differ from one manufacturer to another.
Why Choose Press On Nails
Press-on nails have several advantages over traditional acrylic nails. These include:
- Affordability: A set costs anywhere from $9 to $30, depending on the manufacturer.
- Time efficiency: Once you’ve mastered the process, it takes just a few minutes to prepare your natural nails and apply the artificial ones.
- Variety: With options ranging from matte, shimmer, ombre, to chrome nails, you can flaunt multiple nail designs within a short period.
- Ease of removal: Press-on nails are easier to remove than acrylics and cause less damage to your nail beds.
- Reusability: With proper care, press-on nails can be reused, making them a sustainable choice.
Prepping Your Nails for Press On Application
One of the keys to making your press-on nails last as long as possible is to properly prepare your natural nails before application. Here’s how to do it:
1. Clean Your Nail Beds
Start by cleaning your nail beds with a product like acetone polish remover to remove excess oil and any leftover polish. If your nails are oily, this step is crucial to avoid premature chipping or popping off.
2. Buff Your Nails
After cleaning, give your natural nails a light buffing using a glass nail file or a sanding block. This creates texture for the nail adhesive to stick to and helps avoid air pockets that cause press-on nails to pop off quickly.
3. Cuticles Care
Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle stick and clip any overhangs. This ensures you have enough room to slide the press-on nails with ease and makes them look more natural.
Choosing the Right Press On Nails
The key to a long-lasting press-on nail application is choosing the right nails. Look for press-ons that are durable, provide a variety of sizes, and fit comfortably over your natural nails. Brands like BeeYourself Nails offer a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from.
The nail glue you use is also important. If your press-ons are popping off easily, consider swapping out the glue that came with the set. You want the glue to dry quickly, be water-resistant, and strong enough to grip onto your natural nails.
Once your natural nails are prepped and you’ve chosen your press-on nails, it’s time for the application process. Here are some tips to get it right:
1. Size the Nails Correctly
Make sure the press-on nails fit closely to your natural nails. If the press-ons are too small or too long, they’ll pop off more easily. A well-fitting press-on follows the width and curve of your natural nails.
2. Apply the Glue Correctly
When it comes to applying the glue, less is more. All you need is a drop or two down the center of your natural nail, and once you press the nail down on top, the glue will spread.
3. Press Down Firmly
Press down firmly on each nail after applying the glue. This ensures the press-on nail and glue bond together properly. Make sure to start at the pinky and end at your thumb for easier application.
4. Avoid Water
Avoid getting your press-on nails wet for at least a few hours after application. Water can weaken the glue and cause the nails to pop off more easily.
Maintaining Press On Nails for Longevity
To ensure your press-on manicure lasts as long as possible, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Regular Touch-Ups
Give your press-ons some attention at least once to twice a week. Check to see if any areas need a glue touch-up or a good filing.
2. Apply Top Coat
Applying a top coat over your press-ons makes them more durable and shinier, while also protecting them against scratches.
3. Keep Nails Dry
Avoid getting your nails wet, especially in the first few hours after application. Water can weaken the glue, causing the nails to pop off.
4. Moisturize Cuticles
Don’t skip out on moisturizing your cuticles daily so they stay soft and healthy. This can also help the press-on nails last longer.
When it comes to removing press-on nails, never pull or force them off as this can damage your natural nails. Here are some safe removal methods:
1. Acetone Method
Place your hands in a bowl of warm acetone for about 10 minutes. The false nails should come off or become weak enough for you to pluck them out effortlessly.
2. Cuticle Oil Method
Apply a few drops of cuticle oil in the space between your natural nail and the false nail and give it some time to loosen the adhesive. Then, gently remove the press-ons.
3. Buffer Method
You can also use a buffer to file away the press-on nails when every other method fails. Just be careful not to damage your natural nails.
4. Soak in Warm Soapy Water
Soaking your nails in warm soapy water can help to remove the press-on nails without harming your natural nails. Allow it to soak for up to 20 minutes or as long as required.
Conclusion
Press-on nails are a great way to experiment with different nail designs and styles without the commitment or cost of a salon manicure. With the right preparation, application, and maintenance, you can make your press-on nails last longer and enjoy your beautiful manicure for weeks!
Let your creativity take flight and have fun experimenting with different nail designs and colors. Remember, practice makes perfect. With time, you’ll become a pro at applying and maintaining your press-ons, and your friends might just start asking you for nail advice!