False nails are back! Not so long ago, they were associated with tacky tips that looked fake and came in awful shapes. Today, in a refreshed version, they’re an alternative worth considering to ever more expensive salon visits – or for anyone who’d rather skip gel polish (hybrid) or gel manicures.
Modern press-on nails have natural-looking shapes and fit snugly to your cuticle line. This kind of manicure lasts up to 2 weeks. But what about their safety? Let’s find out!
Is press-on nail glue safe?
Press-on nails can be applied in two ways – with the glue included in the set or with dedicated double-sided adhesive tabs. (You’ll find both in every Wink Beauty pack.)
The first option gives you long-lasting results, so your manicure will stay on your nails for up to 2 weeks. The second option is perfect for you if you love changing colors or designs often – nails applied this way last from 3 to 7 days.
So what about the glue? Is it safe to use? Absolutely! It doesn’t contain any chemicals that would affect the condition of your nails. It’s very much the same story with the adhesive tabs designed for short-term wear of false nails.
Safe removal of press-on nails is key
Keep in mind, though, that a lot depends on you. It’s very important to pay close attention to how you remove your press-on nails. If you do it the right way, your natural nail plate will stay intact. How do you do it? There’s a very simple trick.
Soak your nails for 15 minutes in warm water with a little olive oil and soap. Then gently lift them from the cuticle side – they should start coming off without any trouble. If you meet resistance or start to feel pain, don’t force them off! That’s a very easy way to damage your natural nail plate. Soak your nails again for a few minutes and gently lift them with a wooden stick until the nail pops off painlessly.
If your nails are still stuck on like concrete, try the second option: soak a cotton pad in acetone and wrap your nails in aluminum foil. This method doesn’t only work for gel polish (hybrid) manicures. Keep in mind, though, that after this treatment your press-on nails won’t be reusable.
Is gluing on nails harmful?
You already know that glue made specifically for press-on nails doesn’t harm your nails. Its formula is designed to keep your manicure in place without affecting the condition of your natural nail plate.
Avoid using super glue, which isn’t meant for this purpose. We know perfectly well that every one of us has some at home, but it’s a very quick way to ruin your natural nails.
Back to applying press-on nails – precision is the key to success. Putting on your manicure usually takes no more than 10 minutes, but you can’t afford to be careless. Why? If water gets into the space between the false nail and your natural nail, it’s a very easy way for bacteria to grow. The same rule applies to any kind of manicure, by the way. Treating such infections often requires the right products and can take as long as several weeks. During that time, you can’t get any manicure done – including ones featuring false nails.
That’s why you should always make sure the edges of your press-on nails adhere well to your natural nail plate – whether you use glue or adhesive tabs. That way, water definitely won’t get in, and you’ll be able to enjoy a flawless manicure for weeks.
Remember, though, that applying and removing press-on nails properly is only half the battle. Taking care of your natural nails is just as important. After removing your manicure, make sure to moisturize and nourish your nail plate. Reach for nail and cuticle conditioners and oils. Use rich hand creams too, which will protect your nails from damage even better.