Press-on nails are a fun and versatile way to achieve a quick manicure on the go or to switch up looks from the the weekday to the weekend.  Getting glammed up is always exciting but having a nail pop off at brunch is not-so-cute.  Here are 5 easy application tips to make sure that your press-on manicure stays pressed!

1. MAKE SURE CUTICLES ARE PROPERLY PUSHED

Nail prep is key to having your manicure last and cuticle prep is the very first step.  Push cuticles off of the nail bed with a cuticle pusher - sometimes called an "orange stick."  This will allow the artificial nail to fit comfortably on the nail bed creating a tight seal.

2. FILE AND LIGHTLY BUFF NAILS

File your natural nails to the appropriate length so they are not "peeking" out under your press-ons. Then lightly buff the surface of your nail to create a rough base for maximum hold.

3. HANDS AND NAILS SHOULD BE CLEAN AND OIL-FREE

Wash hands thoroughly before applying your press-on nails.  Pay special attention to the cuticle area, making sure it is free of any dust or loose skin.  After washing, dehydrate your natural nails with an alcohol-based prep pad or nail polish remover.  Allow nails to completely dry before applying your adhesive of choice.

4. CHOOSE THE RIGHT ADHESIVE FOR YOUR WEAR TIME

Adhesive choice is extremely important for your expected wear time.  Double stick adhesive tabs are recommended for short stints - 1 to 2 days max. Keep in mind that they are NOT recommended if you plan on being hard on your hands.  REMINDER - your nails are not tools so please be gentle with them.  Nail glue is recommended for longer wear times and when applied correctly can last up to 2 weeks or more.  We personally like taking our nails off around the 14 day period and reapplying.  This is a good practice for your natural nail health and reduces the chances of moisture being trapped under your press on nails for extended periods of time.  Also, when choosing nail glues, we really like brush on nail glues as they are easy to apply and goes on in a nice even layer without any air pockets.

5. KEEP HANDS AND NAILS "MOISTURE-FREE" FOR AN HOUR AFTER APPLICATION

Okay, so this is extremely important especially when using the double stick adhesive tabs.  DO NOT GET YOUR NAILS WET! The adhesive needs time to set to maximum "stickiness" and introducing water, lotions or oils to the nail area will inhibit that process resulting in your nails popping off and in some cases sliding off without you noticing - resulting in your nail being lost - and we don't want that.  Press-on nails can be reapplied very easily, but you have to have the nail to reapply so it's important that if a nail does fall off that you are able to locate it for future use. So again, don't get your nails wet after applying your press-ons.  Make sure your hands are clean and dry before applying then just chill and clickety clack clack away!