A quick manicure in 10 minutes? Press-on nails are easy to apply and a relatively affordable option if you want beautiful, long nails without a trip to the salon. Over the years, their quality and staying power have improved dramatically, which is why they’re more and more popular. Soft Gel nails from Wink Beauty are currently our best-selling products!What sets them apart isn’t just their quality and gorgeous shapes – each set also includes 30 nails in 15 sizes and everything you need for your manicure.The key to a flawless manicure is proper nail prep, a precise fit and correct application. Here’s how to do it like a pro.
How to prep your nails for press-on nail application
- Prepping your natural nails: Before applying press-on nails, trim and file your natural nails and buff the nail plate so it’s matte. Removing polish, oils and dirt is key, because the glue or special adhesive tabs will stick much better to a well-prepped surface.
- Cleansing and degreasing: Wash your hands with soap and wipe your nails with alcohol to remove any leftover oils or dust. This step helps the press-on nails adhere better and prevents air bubbles. Wait until your hands and nail plates are completely dry!
- Sizing your nails: Before you start gluing, choose the right press-on nail size for each finger. If a nail is slightly too big, file down its sides for a better fit.
Applying press-on nails
- Applying the glue: Apply glue to your natural nail plate and to the cuticle-side third of the press-on nail. For longer wear, we recommend three drops of glue – one in the middle and one at each side of the nail. Then place the nail and press it down for about 30 seconds.
- Avoid water: Avoid contact with water for the first few hours after application. Going forward, wear gloves when washing dishes to keep your nails from lifting too early.
- Care and protection: Apply cuticle oil or hand cream to your finished manicure. If you notice a nail starting to “let go” somewhere, it’s better to reapply it than to let water get underneath!
How to make press-on nails last longer
Good nail prep and proper application are the key to longer-lasting press-on nails. Choosing shorter nail styles can also help prevent accidental lifting. We recommend using the high-quality glue included in the set, which holds your nails more securely. Try to be gentle with your hands while wearing your nails – for example, let someone else in your household open that soda can 🙂 Avoid contact between your hands and nails and harsh chemicals – wearing gloves when cleaning is a good idea!Remember: if you notice a nail lifting and a gap forming, it’s best to take it off and reapply it!How to safely remove press-on nails
- Soaking in soapy water with oil: Gently soaking your nails in warm, soapy water for about 15 minutes is a proven way to loosen the glue and remove the nails more easily. Press your nails against the bottom of the bowl to create a gap between your natural nail plate and the press-on nail. Avoid acetone, which can weaken and dry out your natural nails.
- Using a cuticle stick: After soaking, gently lift the edges of the nail with a wooden cuticle stick to slowly ease it off your natural nail plate. If the nails are still holding firmly, repeat the soaking.
- An alternative to glue – adhesive tabs: If you want easier removal, consider using special adhesive tabs, which come off more easily and don’t damage the nail plate. Once you peel them off, the nail is ready to be reused or stored for later. You can wear nails on adhesive tabs for 1–4 days, although some of our customers manage to wear them for up to a week.