Press On Nails

What Are Press-On Nails?

While this largely depends on the brand you choose to move forward with, that many press-on nails are acrylic resin and ABS false nails that can be applied in minutes but have a near-perfect resemblance to a salon-quality acrylic mani. 

Beyond their high-quality appearance (so long as you use quality press-on, that is), they come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors, not to mention a range of budgets. Where some press-on nails can be snagged for just a few bucks.

How Do Press-On Nails Work?

Press-on nails typically come in a kit that includes the nails, a file, and nail glue. The nails themselves are usually divided into a container with multiple sizes for each nail so that you have a good chance of finding a press-on that perfectly matches your nail shape. And, if they’re a bit off, that’s where the file comes into play. 

Once you select your press-on, you make glue one of the nails, then put nails on your finger. It’s as simple as that. 

How Long Do They Last?

Again, this comes down to the quality of press-on you purchase, that a good application can last up to two weeks with proper care. “If the nails themselves are durable, you can reuse them too,” More glue equals longer wear. The cool part about press-on is that you actually can wear them for very short periods of time too!” So, whether you want flashy nails just for the weekend or you’re hoping for a longer-lasting mani, press-on might just be the answer to your prayers, especially those that come with adhesive tabs.

Are Press-On Nails Safe For Your Natural Nails?

Thank your lucky stars because press-on nails are one of the safest options for extensions in the book. 

“Compared to the alternative, acrylic extensions, press-on are a lot safer,”   “Damage to your nails comes in the form of erosive substances like acetone and in order to remove acrylic extensions, you have to soak your nails for at least 15 minutes—your nail beds are crying!” That in order for the acrylic polymer to stick, technicians have to buff your natural nail, making it paper-thin, which, as you can imagine, isn’t exactly good for your nails.

Static press-on nails don’t require any excessive buffing or soaking. “To remove [static] press-on, all you need to do is soak in warm soapy water for 15 minutes until they loosen naturally—no chemicals needed,”  However, other brands do require you to soak them off, but for a shorter period of time. You can take a small amount of nail polish remover around the edges of the press-on and slowly lift it off.