To extend the life of your press on nails and keep them looking fresh, proper maintenance is essential. With the right care, your press on nails can last up to two weeks, making them brilliant value for money compared to salon visits.
Daily Care
Treat your press on nails gently during daily activities. Wear gloves when cleaning or doing dishes, and try to use the pads of your fingers rather than your nails when typing or texting. Apply cuticle oil daily to keep the area around your nails healthy and moisturised.
Damage Prevention
Avoid using your nails as tools – no opening cans or scratching off stickers. Be particularly careful during the first 24 hours after application, as this is when the bond is still strengthening. If you notice any lifting, address it immediately with a tiny drop of nail glue.
Touch-Up Tips
If a press on nail starts to lift at the edges, clean the area with alcohol and reapply a small amount of glue. For minor chips in the design, a bit of matching nail polish can work wonders. Keep a small repair kit handy for quick fixes on the go.
Safe Removal Process
When it's time to change your look or remove your press on nails, it's important to do so safely to protect your natural nails. Rushing this process can damage your nail bed, so patience is definitely key here.
Soaking Method
Soak your nails in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to soften the adhesive. This gentler method is kinder to your natural nails and makes removal much easier. You can also add a few drops of cuticle oil to the water for extra nourishment.
Acetone-Free Removal
If soaking alone doesn't work, use an acetone-free nail polish remover. Soak cotton pads in the remover and place them on each nail, then wrap with foil and wait 10 minutes. The press on nails should slide off easily without force.
Post-Removal Care
After removal, give your natural nails some TLC. Apply cuticle oil and a nourishing nail treatment to restore moisture and strength. Consider giving your nails a break between applications to prevent any potential damage or weakening.
Common Issues and Solutions
Even with careful application, you might encounter some challenges with your press on nails. Don't worry – most issues have simple solutions, and with practice, you'll become a press on nail pro.
Edge Lifting
If you notice edges starting to lift, it's usually due to moisture getting underneath or insufficient preparation. Clean the lifted area, apply a tiny amount of glue, and press down firmly. Prevention is better than cure, so make sure your natural nails are completely clean and dry before application.
Premature Popping
Press on nails that pop off entirely are usually the result of incorrect sizing or inadequate surface preparation. Make sure you're using the right size and that your natural nails are properly buffed and cleaned before reapplication.