Professional Tips: Making Your Press-On Nails Last
Press-on nails have become a popular choice for those who want beauty nails at home without the hassle of frequent manicure stores visits. With the advancements in this industry, press-on nails have become more realistic and durable, making them a convenient and affordable option for achieving stunning nails. However, to ensure your press-on nails last as long as possible, proper application and maintenance are essential. In this ultimate guide, we will share some useful tips to make your press-on nails stay put and look flawless for an extended period of time. Let’s dive in!
How to prepare your nails for press-on nails?
The key to long-lasting press-on nails starts with proper preparation. Follow these steps to ensure your nails are ready for flawless press-on nail application:
- Keep your nails clean
In order to prepare your nails for applying press-on nails, you should clean them thoroughly. You can use a gentle nail polish remover to remove any oils, dirt, or residue from your natural nails. This step is crucial because it can help the press-on nails adhere better to your natural nails. Besides, after this step, you need to wait your nails completely dry before applying the press on nails.
- Trim and Shape Your Nails
Then you need to use a nail file to trim your nails to your desired length and shape. During this process, remember to avoid using a sawing motion with the nail file. It may cause your nails to peel or break. Therefore, just use gentle, sweeping motions in one direction to shape your nails.
- Push Back Your Cuticles
Gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or an orangewood stick. This will create a clean and even surface for the press-on nails to adhere to.
- Buff Your Nails
Use a nail buffer to lightly buff the surface of your natural nails. This will help the press-on nails adhere better and create a smooth surface for the nail glue to bond to.
- Cleanse Your Nails Again
After buffing, cleanse your nails once again with a gentle nail polish remover to remove any dust or debris from the buffing process. This will ensure a clean surface for the press-on nails to adhere to.
Press-On Nail Application Techniques
Proper application techniques are crucial for ensuring your press on nails stay in place for an extended period of time. Follow these tips for flawless press-on nail application:
- Choose the Right Size
Before applying the press-on nails, lay them out on a flat surface and choose the right size for each of your natural nails. It’s important to select the instant nails that fit your natural nails properly. This is because nails that are too big or too small can cause discomfort and may not adhere properly.
- Apply Nail Glue Correctly
Apply a small amount of nail glue onto your natural nail, starting from the cuticle area and extending towards the tip. Be careful not to apply too much glue, as it can cause the press-on nail to lift or become uneven. Avoid getting glue on your skin or cuticles, as it can cause irritation.
- Press-On Nail Placement
Carefully press the press-on nail onto your natural nail, aligning it with the cuticle and sidewalls. Apply gentle pressure and hold the nail in place for a few seconds to allow the glue to bond properly. Make sure the press-on nail is centered and properly adhered to your natural nail.
- File and Shape
Once the press-on nails are applied, use a nail file to shape and smooth the edges for a seamless blend between the press-on nails and your natural nails. File the press-on nails in one direction, avoiding a sawing motion, to prevent them from lifting or peeling.
- Seal the Edges
To ensure extra durability, apply a thin layer of clear top coat or nail glue along the edges of the press-on nails to seal them. This will help prevent water, dirt, and other substances from seeping underneath the press-on nails and causing them to lift or chip.
Maintenance Tips for making press-on nails last longer
Taking proper care of your press-on nails is essential to make them last for a longer period of time. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your press on nails looking flawless:
- Avoid Excessive Water Exposure
Water can weaken the bond between the press on nails and your natural nails, causing them to lift or peel. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, such as soaking in hot water, swimming, or doing dishes without gloves. If your press-on nails do come into contact with water, gently pat them dry with a soft towel afterwards.
- Be Gentle with Your Nails
Avoid using your press-on nails as tools to open cans, scratch, or perform other tasks that may cause stress or damage to them. Be gentle when using your hands and avoid activities that may causethem to chip or lift.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, acetone-based nail polish removers, and strong solvents, can weaken the bond of press on nails. In addition, you should use mild, non-acetone nail polish removers or gentle cleansers when cleaning your nails. And then avoid exposing your press on nails to harsh chemicals as much as possible.
- Do Regular Touch-ups
Press on nails may require occasional touch-ups to keep them looking fresh and intact. If a press-on nail does lift or chip, gently remove it using a nail file or cuticle pusher, clean your natural nail, and reapply a new press-on nail using the proper application techniques mentioned above.
- Moisturize Your Cuticles
Keeping your cuticles moisturized can help prevent them from drying out and lifting, which can affect the longevity of your press on nails. Apply cuticle oil or a moisturizing cuticle cream regularly to keep your cuticles soft and healthy.
Conclusion
With the right techniques and maintenance, you can enjoy long-lasting, flawless press on nails that look like they were done at a salon. Follow the pro tips mentioned in this article for proper preparation, application, and maintenance of your press on nails to ensure they stay in place and look stunning for an extended period of time. Say goodbye to frequent touch-ups and hello to beautiful, durable press on nails that will keep your nails looking on-point for any occasion.
