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The key information for beautiful press-on nails
If you are considering purchasing press-on nails, this is the post for you. It is always best to know more about what you are buying before you buy it, and that is why I created this guide.
Be ready to learn all about press-on nails, how to apply them, how to care for them, and receive some answers to frequently asked questions.Â
Let’s begin with learning some details about press on nails.
Table of Contents
What Are Press-on Nails?
If this is your first time hearing about press-on nails, you should know that they are pre-painted/designed nails that you can easily put on yourself.Â
These nails were created to give people salon-quality nails without going to the salon.
How are they created?
Before you learn how they are created, you should know there are two ways to create press-on nails.
1. Factory Made (Pre-made) Press On Nails
These nails are mass-produced using machines to print designs on false nail tips.
2. Handmade/Custom Press On Nails
A set of nails created by one nail artist using false nail tips and nail polish.Â
Both are great, but they solve different needs and wants. With handmade nails, you have a large variety of designs.
With that variety, your nails can stand out more. On the other hand, pre-made factory nails may not offer various types of designs, but they provide consistency throughout all designs.Â
Also, pricing is different, but sometimes that depends on the company you are buying from and if you are choosing to get custom-made nails.Â
Generally, pre-made nails are cheaper than handmade nails.
Benefits of press-on nails
At this point, you may have an idea why someone may benefit from using press on nails, but here is a list of reasons:
- Provides salon quality nails in the comfort of your home or wherever you choose to apply them
- Application times are usually no more than 30 minutes, which is a lot quicker than sitting in the salon for up to two hours
- Exposed to fewer chemicalsÂ
- Can easily wear different sets of nails
- Allows you to match your nails with your outfit more often
- Beginner-friendlyÂ
Overall, press on nails gives a person more time and accessible style options if they have purchased various sets.
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The 3 Ways You Can Apply Press On Nails
Now, that you have the backstory on press on nails, it’s time to learn some methods to apply to them.
Adhesives Tabs
This method of applying your press on nails is specifically for temporary use. They are expected to only last up to 6 hours or during an event.Â
Depending on how you prepped your nails and the stickiness of the tabs, they could last longer than that. I will soon publish a how-to guide on how to make this application last up to a week.
Using adhesive tabs is considered the easiest way to apply your press-on nails and is great for those who want to opt out of using a strong adhesive.
Nail Glue
All nail glue is not created equal, so depending on the glue you use, and how you prepped your nails and applied them, the nails should last around a week or more.Â
Using nail glue allows you not to worry too much about water, unlike adhesive tabs, since this method is intended to provide a stronger hold.
Applying press-on nails this way is not as easy as the previous method, but it is still beginner-friendly. It may require a few tries before you get it right, but after that, it is smooth sailing going forward.
Gel-X
Lastly, you can apply press-on nails using the Gel-X method. If you haven’t heard of this before, this is a way to apply false nail tips using a thick nail glue formula and a UV or LED lamp to cure the glue.Â
Applying your nails using this method will give you the longest-lasting application compared to the other two. If the application is done correctly, your press-on nails will stay on for 3-4 weeks.Â
The downside to this method is that it is not beginner-friendly, especially since the nails are pre-painted, making it a little hard to see your application.Â
Also, the removal process will require you to soak or drill off the nails, and you will not be able to reuse them.Â
The beauty of press-on nails is that you can decide how you want to apply your press-on nails.
After that, you need to learn how to maintain your press-ons.
Tips For Wearing Press-On Nails
1. Keep them clean
Over time, dirt and food can get stuck on and around your nails, so it is necessary to wash them with soap.
If you have longer nails, consider purchasing a nail brush.
Using a nail brush will help you get all the gunk that builds up under your nails, giving your nails a deep clean.Â
After each use, you will also want to remove any build-up glue or stickiness from the nails.
2. Avoid harsh chemicals
Cleaning products can be damaging to your nails, so it is always best to wear gloves for protection. Doing so will allow you to receive 2 to 3 uses out of your press-on nails.Â
3. Replace them regularly
Although your nails can last up to a month, depending on the method you choose to apply them, it is best to set aside time to replace them.Â
As time goes by, your natural nails will begin to grow, and then your press-on nails will shift upwards, leaving a gap between the nail and the cuticle.Â
That is when you end up with an overgrown manicure.
This can be dangerous for your natural nails if you run into something too hard, and it increases the likelihood of the press-on nails breaking.Â
So, remember to replace your nails, depending on how fast your natural nails grow. A rule of thumb is after 2 and a half weeks, it is time for a new set.
Have I piqued your interest in trying out press on nails? If so, we currently offer handmade press-on nails.Â
Our handmade nails come in:
- Shape: square or coffin
- Length: short, medium, and long
- Various colors
- Simple and complex designsÂ
FAQs Handmade Press On Nails
Q: How Do I Find My Press-On Size?
A: Some shops provide sizing kits to help you identify your fit depending on the nail shape and length.Â
If that is not available, then you would have to measure your nails and find your size according to their sizing guide. Here is our sizing guide if you need help finding your size.
Q: What If the Nails I Purchased Don’t Fit?
A: Depending on the company’s return policy and satisfaction policy, some may say they do not accept returns, while others are willing to swap the nails for a better fit.Â
If it is the second option you may have to pay for the new nail and shipping costs, but that is all determined by the owner.Â
Q: What Is The Process Time?
A: This can vary if the store already has the nail set painted and packaged or if it is a custom order.Â
Q: What Comes With My Order?
A: You can expect to receive a nail prep kit containing a buffer, file, cuticle pusher, and alcohol pad. Along with the kit, you could receive adhesive tabs and nail glue. Lastly, instructions on how to apply the nails.
Each brand is different, and what you will receive from one company may not be the same for another.Â
Q: How Many Nails Come In a Nail Set?
A: Typically, 10 nails per set, but you could come across handmade brands that offer more.
FAQs Pre-made Press On Nails
Q: What Comes With My Order?
A: Similar to handmade nails, you could receive a nail prep kit containing a buffer, file, cuticle pusher, and alcohol pad. Along with the kit, you could receive adhesive tabs and nail glue. Lastly, instructions on how to apply the nails.
Just remember each company is different, and some do not give the same things.
Q: How Many Nails Come In a Nail Set?
A: Usually 24 nails per package and they vary in size.
So, there is more you could learn about press on nails, and that starts with going into detail about how to apply them using each of the 3 methods above.Â
If you are interested, then join The Beautimore Newsletter to be informed when that post will be available.
When it comes to buying press-on nails, you can call yourself an expert on all things press-on nail-related. You know what they are, how they are made, the benefits of wearing them, how to apply the nails, and how to care for the press-on nails.Â
With your expert knowledge, you can use our catalog of press-on nails for extra research or to see the benefits for yourself.