What Are Press-On Nails?

As the name states, press-on nails or glue on nails are artificial nails made from acrylic resin. Sometimes also called fake nails. Different manufacturers make use of different acrylic resins, leading to a slight difference in the products. Understanding what they are will help you to better appreciate the product and note the reasons why the steps that follow are important. 

Do Press-On Nails Have Any Benefits?

Press-on nails have a myriad of benefits over acrylic nails — part of the reason why they are becoming increasingly popular.

1. They are highly affordable. The price for a set can range from somewhere around $9 at the drugstore to about $40 depending on the manufacturer
2. Once you’ve mastered the art, it only takes a few minutes to prepare your natural nails and apply the artificial nails because there is no dry time
3. Removal is easier with press-ons versus acrylics, also less damaging to your nail beds
4. From matte to shimmer to ombre to chrome nails, the combination of low cost and variety makes it easier for you to flaunt multiple nail designs within a short period 
5. They are reusable

Steps on How to Apply a Press-On Nail

The healthier your natural nails, the longer your press-on nails are likely to last. Therefore, it is important to rev up your hand hygiene. Almost everything you’ll need will be included in the box because press on nails come as a kit The kit will usually have nail glue, buffer, and nails. The contents of the kit may differ as you move from one manufacturer to another. Some of the things you will need are as follows:

• Cuticle nipper
• Cuticle pusher
• Rubbing alcohol 
• Metal pusher
• Nail file
• Nail cutter
• Cuticle oil
• Glue 
• Press-on nails

1. Find your match 

You need to take out the false nails from the nail set and size them up on your fingers to find the ones that fit for each fingernail. Line them up on the table or surface in front of you in such a way that you can easily tell which of the falsies is going to go for each finger. 

Apparently, some of the press on nails may not perfectly fit some of your fingers. When this happens, simply use your buffer and file them to shape. You can also use the buffer to get them to a desirable length.

Preparing your fingernails involves washing them thoroughly and drying them on a clean towel. Get rid of any residual polish. Use a metal pusher to push back your cuticles. Follow this up with a cuticle nipper to clip any overhangs. 

Most of the tutorials will tell you to buff the surface of the nail. This will create a slightly coarse surface that helps the false nail better adhere to your natural nails; it is important to note that this may damage your finger over time. If you apply a coat and let it dry, you can slightly buff it to create a protective layer between your nail and the glue.

Lastly, make sure you apply the glue to both the nails and your finger. Once you place the falsie on your fingernail, press it down for 30 seconds to a minute so that it sticks properly. It is always a good idea to start with the pinkie and work your way up to the thumb—just for the sake of convenience.