To apply press-on nails, you’ll need to prep your nails and hands, shape the nail, then stick it on with glue or adhesive tabs. Here’s a full breakdown, courtesy of nail artist Julie Kandalec:
- Trim or file your natural nails shorter so the tips adhere better and don’t show before you apply your press-ons.
- Wash your hands with soap and water, remove all nail polish, lightly buff your nails with a buffer, then prep your nails with 91 percent isopropyl alcohol.
- Match the press-on nail to your nail bed size and curvature. Be sure the nail doesn’t have to be pressed down to fit, or it can pop off prematurely.
- Shape each nail to fit on all sides of your nail bed with a nail file (this is very important if you want a long-lasting set).
- Cover your entire nail with glue or an adhesive tab, working with one nail at a time.
- Align the press-on nail along the cuticle line, apply at a downward angle from the cuticle, and press down firmly for 20 to 30 seconds. If any glue seeps from the sides, remove it right away with a cuticle stick.
But if you wanna make them last even longer, follow this tip: “Clean your nails with 91 percent alcohol before applying your press-ons to dehydrate your nail beds, which will help the glue adhere better.” Then, drip on a generous amount of nail glue so that the glue is evenly distributed across your whole nail when you press it on. Trust me/us—it really works
