How to Apply
Your press-ons come with an application kit, but what exactly do you do with it? Look no further! Instructions with accompanying pictures are just a quick scroll down.
- All orders include a thank you ticket with a QR code on the back that links to a resource page. This guide is accessible from that page, or in my Instagram bio link
- You can request pre-etching on your press-ons. The etching can help with retention for a longer-lasting wear
- Should you ever need a replacement application kit, I offer one in my shop. If you just need replacement glue, I also offer that separately!
If you learn better by watching videos, you can also check out the reel below!
Step One
Cuticles
Using the cuticle stick in the provided application kit, you’ll want to push back your cuticles. Use the angled edge to gently scrape the dead skin off your nail plate. This helps with application and retention.
For extra-natural finish, you may also use an e-file to prep, and/or cuticle scissors or nippers to trim the dead skin. However, I would only recommend this for folks who are experienced with these tools!
Step 2
File/Buff
Using the provided buffer block in your application kit, use the gentler side to create texture on your natural nail plate. This will remove any oils from your nails, and also create a surface for the glue to adhere to.
Generally speaking, shorter length natural nails work best for press-ons so you’re not chancing any lifting/separating from the tip itself. You can use the provided file to shorten your free edge length if you’d like.
Step 3
Clean & Prep
Using the provided cleansing pad, wipe off all dust from your natural nails.
Optional: If you have dehydrator/primer, you can apply them at this point. It can help folks with oilier skin (and therefore any leftover oil on the natural nail even after prepping) see better retention, but is entirely optional. Play around with prep methods and find what works best for you!
Step four
Glue Application
Check the fit of your press-ons one more time. The cuticle area should rest right up against your skin now that you’ve pushed them back. If they don’t, feel free to use the provided file to get that perfect fit.
Here’s what I do for long-term wear. If you prefer shorter wear times, play around with the amount of glue you use!
- Apply a perimeter of glue on your natural nail, circling the outer edge along your sidewall, cuticle area, and free edge
- Apply a pea-sized amount towards the bottom of the press-on
- Apply the press-on to your natural nail at an angle, starting at the cuticle and then pushing down towards the free-edge. This will ensure any air bubbles get pushed out, and create a seal with the glue you applied to your natural nail before this
- After the press-on is fully flush against your natural nail, press down for 30 seconds to 1 minute, alternating your position so all parts of your nail have pressure applied
If you have any downward growing nails, you may find this glue trick helpful for retention!
Step Four
Adhesive Tabs
If you prefer shorter-term wear, the adhesive tabs are your way to go! Test out different sizes to see what works best for you, but here’s some tips and tricks for tabs:
- After cleaning off your nail plate, apply either a tab that covers your entire nail plate for full adhesion to the tip – keeping in mind that this will elevate your press-ons. If this is your preferred method, let me know so we can size up accordingly
- You can also choose a tab that only fits in the center of your nail plate, allowing your press-ons to create a “seal” around the perimeter of your natural nail plate
- Tip: Heating up the adhesive tabs with a hair dryer can help them fit the curvature of your nails the most
After applying the tab, press firmly for 10-15 seconds, rotating the pressure to all parts of the adhesive tab. Afterwards, apply the press-on in the same cuticle down-and-outward motion to get full adhesion.
Step Five
Aftercare
- Avoid water or oils for up to an hour after application. This ensures the adhesive has time to dry/bond with your press-ons. Best time to apply press-ons is right before bed!
- Apply lotion and cuticle oil every day to hydrate and lock in moisture, maximizing nail health and ensuring best press-on wear
- Do not use your nails as tools! Don’t pick at things with your press-ons, don’t use excessive force; this will ensure your nail plate doesn’t endure trauma and that your press-ons will last a long time ๐ค It will also help prevent any chipping or damage to your top coat!