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Skip the salon and still get the perfect manicure in a few minutes with a faux nail kit. Years ago, they were only available in French manicure style, but thanks to the rise of “nailfluencers” on social media, press-on nails have made a major resurgence. Forget everything you think you know about stick-on’s, and think stiletto, almond, graphic designs and more.
If it’s been a while since you ventured into the world of press-on nails and you are thinking of the cheap ones from childhood, you are in for a big surprise. They’ve gotten a luxe upgrade for contemporary daily wear and are perfect for those days when you can’t make it to the nail bar on time. Happy DIY-ing!
Your natural nails are safer underneath a pair of press-ons
If you follow the correct application, press-on nails shouldn’t damage your natural nails. In fact, they are a safer option compared to gel or acrylic. Damage to nails results from harsh chemicals and techniques such as acetone or over buffing. Press-on nails don’t require excessive buffing; to remove, you only need to soak them in warm water for 15-20 minutes and they will loosen. Some kits might include a buffing step in the application process, and over time that can damage your nails. The solution to this is to apply a single coat of clear nail polish and let it dry. This creates a layer between your nail and the glue, and if you need to buff then it will be on the nail polish, not your natural nail.
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You can re-use them!
Yes, you can! They can last up to two weeks, and if removed properly, they can be reused. The key to making them last longer is proper care and preparation. This varies depending on whether you use glue or the adhesive gel tabs. Whether you want a flashy look just for the weekend or a long-lasting mani for the week, press-ons are your best bet.
How to care for press-on nails?
Just like a normal manicure, press-on nails, too, require care. There are certain things you shouldn’t do if you really want your press-on nails to last. Firstly, make sure to provide a solid base for your nails by moisturising your cuticles. Wear protective gloves when cleaning or handling hot water to avoid softening the adhesive gel tabs or glue. A top coat can be applied for extra protection from normal wear and tear.
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Tricks to make them last longer
1) Shorter nails last longer than longer lengths, there is less chance of them hooking on something then popping off accidentally.
2) For short term wear, use a few drops of glue. If you want to wear them for longer then cover your entire nail with glue.
3) Make your stick-on nails look natural by choosing the right shape for your nails and shape the tip using a nail file.
Be gentle when removing fake nails, do not rip them off as that will damage your natural nail. There are two safe methods you can use: the warm water and cuticle oil methods. Just soak cotton wool in cuticle oil, press over your nail for a few minutes and it will gently loosen up.
The Verdict
Press-on nails are a great way to get a salon-worthy look at an affordable price. They take less than 20 minutes to apply, which makes them convenient, and they come in a variety of colours; from lowkey nudes to bold pinks with glitter and art.
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