How to Make Press-On Nails Last Longer? Nail Care Secrets
Press-on nails are a quick and budget-friendly way to enjoy a beautiful manicure. But for all their convenience, fake nails don't last forever. If you want to extend their lifetime for days or weeks, you need this guide. In it, we'll show you how to make press-on nails last longer.
How Long Do Press-on Nails Typically Last?
Press-ons usually last about a week if you use glue instead of adhesive tape to secure them. However, if you prep the nails and take care of them correctly, they can last up to three weeks. That’s about as long as a gel manicure.
What Are the Tricks to Make Fake Nails Last Longer?
Here are ten tips to make press-on nails stay put for weeks instead of days.
Choose Press-On Nails Used by Professionals
There are many press-on brands, including the drugstore favorite KISS to boutique and subscription services. But just because fake nails are expensive doesn't mean they are high-quality. Instead of relying on the price tag to decide, shop for the press-ons that professional manicurists use.
Get a Good Fit
Any set of press-ons you purchase will offer a variety of sizes for each nail to help you get the correct fit. If your nails are broader or narrower than the average person's, take that into account. At the time of writing, Olive & June had the most inclusive range of sizes. The best results come from fake nails that fit the natural curve of the nail bed from side to side.
Consider the Length
It's tempting to get ultra-long stilettos. But remember, if the fake nails are too long, they are more likely to pop off. Happily, most can be trimmed. (Keep an eye on the design to ensure you don't damage it). If you use your hands a lot, try medium to short lengths.
Use Glue, Not Stick-On Adhesive
Most packs of press-on nails include a small tube of glue and a type of double-sided tape. Skip the tape in favor of the glue if you want a long-lasting manicure. Nevertheless, if you only need the nails for a day or so, the tape makes them easy to remove.
KDS Nail Glue
Proper Nail Preparation Makes Press-On Nails Last Longer
You probably trim and file your nails, but do you also buff the shine from the surface? This is a helpful tip before applying any nail enhancement.
Pass a fine-grit buffer block or file over the nail bed in an X-shape. Use a light touch – you only need to rough up the surface a bit for the glue to stick better.
Moreover, pushing back the cuticles is crucial because you don't want to get glue or polish on the skin. This simple step will prevent lifting, as will cleansing. Be sure to remove the oil and debris from your natural nails with polish remover or rubbing alcohol and a lint-free wipe.
Use the Right Amount of Glue
It only takes a drop or two of glue in the center of the nail to secure each press-on. Alternatively, place one drop of glue on the back of the fake nail and one on the top of the natural nail. Clean off excess adhesive as soon as possible.
Work in This Order to Make Things Easier
Begin applying the press-on nails to your dominant hand, starting at the pinky. It may feel like you're working backward, but this trick ensures maximum mobility and control. Your dominant hand will have more ability to manage the new press-ons while you do the other hand.
Take Your Time
The glue needs up to 30 seconds per nail to dry. Check the instructions and hold each nail in place for as long as necessary. Hint: the adhesive will set faster in warm, dry environments. A fan might help but only use a blow dryer if it's on the lowest, cool setting. Hot air won’t help things go faster.
Come in at an Angle and Pinch the Sides
As you position the fake nail, don't come straight down. Instead, approach your fingertip at a 45° angle and make contact near the cuticle first. Lower the front part of the fake nail while pinching the sides to follow the curve of your natural nail. Then, apply plenty of pressure for at least 10 seconds. Watch our video that shows how to apply nail tips successfully.
Avoid Soaking in Water
Even if you’ve done meticulous nail preparation and double-glued the press-ons, they may still pop off if you swim. Anytime you soak in water, especially hot, soapy water, you run the risk of your nails popping off. Instead, wear gloves when washing the dishes and try not to submerge your hands for a long time in the bath. Also, steer clear of water for a few hours immediately after applying the fake nails.
Do Fake Nails Need a Top Coat?
Why would you need a top coat if the press-on nails are decorated? If you want them to look flawless for as long as possible, a clear top coat protects against scratches and chipping. Still, check the manufacturer's instructions to see if it's okay to paint the nails. Lacquer may need a new coat each week, but a gel top coat should last two to three weeks.
Cuticle Oil Helps a Press-On Nail Manicure Look Lovely for Longer
Keep up your regular nail care routine by applying cuticle oil morning and night. Keep an eye out for overgrown cuticles and hangnails.
Lavis Organic Cuticle Oil
Personalize Your Nails with Soft Gel Extensions
Press-on nails are convenient because they are already decorated. But you'll love soft gel nails if you want maximum customizability with minimum effort. They are available as tips or overlays in various lengths and styles.
Lavis Soft Gel Nail Extensions
What’s more, you only need a few tools to apply them:
- A nail lamp
- Gel base coat
- Protein bond and primer
- Gel top coat
- Soft gel tip adhesive
And you can even get everything in a kit!
LAVIS - Almond Short Nail Tips Kits
After you've applied them, you can paint them any way you want and add any enhancements you choose. They are lightweight, flexible, and durable.
A soft gel tip manicure will last longer than press-on nails and will resist popping off, but soaks off in minutes with acetone.
Conclusion
Now, you’re ready to extend the lifetime of your press-on nails! When you find a set you really love, you can enjoy them for as long as possible.
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