Press-On Nails are convenient and stylish, and they can save you the expensive costs of salon manicures. They seem to be a blessing for those who are lazy! However, many people encounter problems when wearing them—such as the nails falling off within a few days, thinning of the natural nails, or even lifting at the edges after application. In fact, the problems may lie in the way you apply them!
Today, we will uncover the 8 most common mistakes about Press-On Nails. From cleaning the nail surface to removing the nails, we will help you avoid all the pitfalls to ensure that your manicure is strong, durable, and non-damaging to your natural nails! Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, pay attention to these details; otherwise, even the most expensive Press-On Nails will be useless!
❌ Mistake 1: Applying press-on nails without cleaning the nails
Problem: Oils, dust, or residual skincare products on the nails can cause the adhesive or glue to fail to bond properly, leading to easy detachment.
Many people neglect the most basic step when applying Press-On Nails—cleaning the nails! They assume that as long as the fake nail fit well and there is enough glue, they will stick firmly. However, the nails start to loosen within half a day and may even fall off entirely. The surface of the nails naturally has a layer of oil and keratin. Residues from daily hand creams, skincare products, and even sweat can form a “barrier” that prevents the glue from adhering tightly.
Correct approach:
✅ Thoroughly clean the nail surface with an alcohol swab to remove oils.
✅ Gently file the nail surface with a nail file to remove the smooth layer (not mandatory, but recommended). Be careful not to over-file, as it can damage your natural nails!
❌ Mistake 2: Skipping trimming or filing the nail surface
Problem: If the nail surface is too smooth or uneven, the glue cannot bond firmly.
Many people skip the step of trimming and filing the nail surface when applying Press-On Nails, thinking that enough glue will ensure a strong bond. As a result, the fake nail either do not stick tightly or the edges easily get water under them and lift, or even fall off entirely! The natural nail surface has a smooth protective layer (keratin layer), and if you apply the fake nail directly, the glue cannot penetrate and form a strong bond. The edges of the nails may have irregular shapes, and if not filed, the fake nail cannot fit perfectly.
Correct approach:
✅ Trim the nail length (if the natural nails are too long), cutting them to be flush with or slightly shorter than the nail bed to prevent the natural nails from pushing against the nail pieces and causing detachment.
✅ Gently file the nail surface with a nail file to increase adhesion. Be careful not to over-file to avoid damaging your natural nails.
❌ Mistake 3: Choosing the wrong size and forcing a fit
Problem:
Fake nail too small: The edges do not fit properly, making it easy to catch on hair or fall off.
Fake nail too large: They can press against the nail bed, potentially causing nail breakage or pain.
Correct approach:
✅ Measure the width of your nails and choose the closest size (preferably slightly smaller rather than larger).
✅ If the fake nail are a bit too large, use a file to narrow the sides.
❌ Mistake 4: Applying too much or too little glue
Problem:
Too much glue: It overflows onto the skin, is difficult to clean, and may cause irritation.
Too little glue: The bond is not strong enough, and the nail pieces are prone to falling off.
Correct approach:
✅ Apply glue to the base of the nail piece (about 1/3 of the way up), and press gently for 10 seconds.
✅ Use a toothpick or cotton swab to clean up any excess glue.
❌ Mistake 5: Touching water or doing work immediately after application
Problem: When the glue has not fully cured, touching water or applying force can cause the fake nail to shift or fall off.
Correct approach:
✅ Wait at least 1-2 hours after application before touching water (especially when washing dishes or taking a shower).
✅ Avoid using your nails to pry open hard objects (such as cans or peeling things).
❌ Mistake 6: Removing the fake nails violently by tearing them off
Problem: Forcing the nails off can take away the top layer of your natural nails, leading to thinning, layering, or breaking of the nails.
Correct approach:
✅ For adhesive-tab nails: Soak in warm water for 10 minutes, then gently lift the edges to remove.
✅ For glue-on nails: Soak the edges in acetone (nail remover), then use a wooden stick to push them off.
❌ Mistake 7: Reusing uncleaned fake nail
Problem: Residual old glue or dirt on the back of the fake nail can affect the bonding strength of a second application and can also breed bacteria.
Correct approach:
✅ Clean the back of the fake nail with an alcohol swab after removal.
✅ Nails applied with glue are generally not reusable, while those with adhesive tabs can be reused 2-3 times.
❌ Mistake 8: Ignoring the “rest period” for your nails
Problem: Wearing Press-On Nails continuously for a long time can lead to oxygen deprivation, brittleness, or yellowing of the nails.
Correct approach:
✅ After wearing for 1-2 weeks, let your nails rest for 3-5 days.
✅ During the rest period, apply nail nutrition oil (such as OPI Nail Envy) to nourish your nails.
You have now mastered the 8 major mistakes about Press-On Nails, from cleaning the nail surface to scientifically removing the nails, from choosing the right size to giving your nails a rest period—every step is related to the durability, comfort, and health of your nails. A manicure should be an enjoyable experience, not a burden. By mastering these skills, you can easily achieve salon-level manicure results while keeping your nails strong and healthy!
