How To Apply Your Press On Nails
an in depth written guide, with audio and video demonstrations, nail anatomy references, and extra tips for long-lasting nails!
In your nail kit you will find the following application tools:
- 1 nail file
- 1 nail buffer
- 1 tube of air dry glue
- 1 sheet of sticky tabs
- 5 alcohol wipes
- 1 wooden cuticle pusher (aka ‘orange stick’)
- 10 press on nails (36pc in Wearable Size Kit)
- info card for quick application instructions
step 1: ensure sizing is correct by placing each press on nail with no adhesive to the nail plate. if nails do not fit correctly, reach out immediately
step 2: thoroughly wash and dry hands/nails with warm soapy water and gently push back cuticles with orange stick, removing dead skin (cuticle) from the nail plate. do not apply any lotion/oil
step 3: use nail file to shape and smooth the free edge; jagged edges can be a cause of premature lifting. buff the shine off of the nail plate. the nail plate should be dull in appearance and slightly gritty in texture; avoid over filing as it can damage the health of the natural nail plate
step 4: clean and dehydrate the nail plate with alcohol wipes, clean the press on nails at the time as well; any oil, moisture, dust, or debris will impact the health of the natural nail
step 5: one finger at a time, apply 1-2 drops of glue to the inside of the press on nail. then apply 2-4 drops of glue to the natural nail (smaller nails require less glue, larger nails require more glue).
- keep your finger & the press on nail parallel to your workspace to avoid the wet glue from dripping
step 6: hold the press on at a 45॰ angle and use a steady swipe motion to evenly distribute the glue across the entire nail plate
step 7: using steady and gentle pressure, place the press on close to the cuticle area of the nail plate at a 45॰ angle. slowly lay it down towards the free edge to cover the entire nail plate and hold for 30 seconds
- starting at 45॰ helps ensure the glue evenly spreads between the natural nail and the press on nail while preventing air bubbles
- keep your pressure gentle, as too much pushing or squeezing can cause the wet glue to seep out from between the nails and reduce adhesion and longevity (and make a mess!)
nail anatomy reference
audio/video demonstration
tips and tricks
start by applying the press on nails to your non-dominant hand first
apply nails to the index fingers & thumbs last
avoid using nails as tools; they are accessories!
avoid all lotions/oils for at least 1 hour after application
avoid getting hands wet or using cleaning supplies for at least 1 hour after application
always gloves when possible during cleaning/dish washing
avoid picking or biting at the press on nails
avoid picking or biting at the nail folds/eponychium/cuticle
only use air-dry nail glue for press on sets, never glue that requires a UV light to cure (even when advertised as appropriate for press-ons). for more information on glue, see my Nail Anatomy & Health page
always remove your press on nails properly with a gentle and patient technique. prying, pulling, tearing, or biting is likely to cause pain/damage. see my How To Remove page for more information