Looking for tips on how to make press-on nails last longer?
Then read on my lovelies, because I’m about to share all my best tricks for making glue on nails last.
If you follow the advice in this post, your press-on nails will stay on as long as possible without popping off.
Let’s get right into it.
We’ll start by talking about the common reasons why glue on nails won’t stay on.
Hopefully, you’ll be able to identify your problem right away.
Why won’t my press-on nails stay on?
If your press-on nails refuse to stay on, it could be because you didn’t apply enough glue or didn’t cover the nail’s surface with the glue during application.
The problem could also be that you are using poor quality press-ons or the wrong size.
Longer false nails will not stay on as well because they tend to get caught on or bang against things which causes them to pop off.
If you don’t prepare well enough by buffing and pushing back cuticles, this can also cause a glue on manicure to come off too soon.
Another reason why they don’t stay on is that they were submerged in water for too long.
Or there could be too much oil on the nail plate.
Now that we know the most common reasons why they don’t stay on, let’s move on to the tips.
How to make press-on nails last
Here are my quick tips to help you make glue on nails last longer.
- Clean your nails thoroughly before applying the glue. Dirt and oils on your nails can weaken the bond of the glue.
- Roughen the surface of your natural nails with a file or sandpaper to give the glue something to grip onto.
- Apply a thin layer of glue to your nails, avoiding getting any on your skin.
- Hold the artificial nail firmly against your natural nail for at least 10-15 seconds, until the glue has started to set.
- Avoid exposing your nails to water or moisture for at least an hour after applying the glue, as this can weaken the bond.
- If you’re using a quick-drying glue, be extra careful not to move your nails around too much before the glue has set.
- To make your glue last even longer, consider using a glue activator or primer, which can help to strengthen the bond between the artificial nail and the natural nail.
Choose good quality press ons
Poor quality fake nails are thin and bendy.
They tend to come in kits that have crappy glue that doesn’t bond and instructions that are not easy to follow.
Good quality press-on nails are made of thicker, harder plastic.
They have a curved shape which helps them fit your natural nail better.
You can find good-quality press-on nails like these at beauty supply stores or online.
Check the reviews before you buy to make sure you’re getting a good product.
Get a high-quality nail glue
Sometimes, you get a set of good quality nails that come with glue that’s not so great.
If you’re going to be wearing falsies a lot, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality nail glue like this one.
Using good quality nail glue is important for how long your press-on nails will last because it directly affects the strength and durability of the bond between the artificial nail and your natural nail. Here are a few reasons why using a high-quality nail glue is important:
- Stronger Bond: Good quality nail glue is formulated to create a strong, long-lasting bond between the artificial nail and your natural nail. This means that your press-on nails are less likely to fall off or become detached, ensuring they last longer.
- Improved Flexibility: A high-quality nail glue should be flexible enough to withstand normal movements and activities, such as typing or washing dishes. This helps to prevent the artificial nail from breaking or cracking, which can cause the bond to weaken.
- Minimal Shrinking: Good quality glue should have minimal shrinkage when it dries, which means that there is less chance of the artificial nail lifting away from the natural nail. This can help to extend the life of your press-on nails.
- Non-Toxic Formula: High-quality nail glue should be non-toxic, safe for use on your skin, and free from harmful chemicals. This is important for your overall health and well-being, as well as for the health of your natural nails.
By using a good quality nail glue, you can ensure that your press-on nails last as long as possible, without the risk of them falling off or becoming damaged.
Check out this video that explains why buying good quality press on nail glue is important and also how to apply your press on nails properly if you want them to last 2 weeks.
Get the sizing right
This is where a lot of people go wrong.
If you want your nails to last as long as possible, you need to choose the right size, shape, and length.
Unfortunately, this does take a bit of work.
But don’t worry, most fake fingernail packs come in a variety of sizes, and with a little practice, you’ll be sizing like a pro.
Prepare your nails properly
Nail prep is super important if you want your artificial nails to last.
You need to make sure your natural nails are clean and free of any oils.
You also need to push back your cuticles so that the false nail can sit flush against your real nail.
Here are the key steps to follow:
Nail prep for glue on nails
- Wash your hands with antibacterial soap or dish soap and warm water to remove oil and prevent fungal infections.
- Buff your natural nails to create a rough surface for the fake nail to bond to. Use a 180 grit nail file or buffing tool.
- Wipe your nails with rubbing alcohol to remove oils, dust, and moisture before you start.
- Push your cuticles back with a cuticle pusher.
- Make sure your natural nails are dry (you can use a hairdryer on cool for 30 seconds).
- Now you are ready to apply.
Follow your press-on nails instructions
The instructions for applying fake nails can vary according to the product you’re using.
For example, the length of time you need to hold the nail down or the amount of glue may be slightly different.
Always follow the instructions that come with your nails to get the best results.
Take care of your nails
Perfect prep and application mean nothing if you don’t look after your nails once they’re done.
So here are some tips for how to take care of glue on nails.
- Don’t use your nails as tools. Be careful when opening cans or using keys.
- Don’t submerge them in water – avoid swimming, wear gloves if you’re doing dishes and keep showers brief.
- Use a scalp scrubber to help with washing your hair properly when you have your falsies on.
- Avoid nail polish removers, acetone, and other harsh chemicals. Acetone will remove polish and glue.
- Don’t apply cuticle oil until 24 hours have passed.
Use shorter press ons
My next tip to make your nails last longer is to go shorter.
If you have long nails, they are more likely to bend and break.
Shorter nails are also much easier to take care of and less likely to snag on things.
So if you want your press-on nails to last, go for a shorter length.
Use top coat on press on nails
A lot of people ask if they can use a topcoat nail polish on stick on nails.
The answer is yes, you can!
A top coat will not only make your nails look shiny and new but will also help to protect them from scratches.
It’s a good idea to apply a topcoat every few days to keep your nails looking good and help them last.
How do I keep my press-on nails from falling/popping off?
Even if you prep your nails perfectly and do everything right, sometimes your press-ons will still pop off.
You just have to accept that nails falling off is inevitable and be ready to fix it.
I know it’s super frustrating when your nails pop off.
It always seems to happen at the most inconvenient times!
I never go anywhere without nail glue, I put some in every jacket pocket and bag.
But to minimize popping, try doing the following:
- Be gentle with your nails – don’t use them to pick things up or open cans.
- Avoid getting your nails wet – take showers instead of baths and wear gloves when washing. dishes.
- Apply a topcoat every few days to help seal the edges and keep your nails from lifting.
- Try different types of glue – some people find that certain brands work better for them than others.
- Make sure you press firmly against the nail bed when applying.
How long do press-on nails last without glue?
If you are using stick on nails without glue, but rather with adhesive tabs, then your nails should last for at least 48 hours.
With proper care, these adhesive nails can last for up to 5 days.
Can you use nail glue with press-on nails
Yes, you can and should use nail glue with your fake nail set.
Make sure that the glue is made specifically for false nails and that it is not too old.
How to glue fake nails
The trick to gluing on your nail set successfully is to cover both the whole surface of your own nails and the underside of each fake nail.
Then hold it down firmly for a minimum of 30 seconds.
How to make press-on nails thicker
If your press-on nails are too thin, they may bend or break easily.
If you bought thin press-ons, unfortunately, there’s not much that you can do to make them thicker.
You could try gluing a second set on top of the first to make them more durable, or you could add a topcoat which will help a little.
My advice is to find a high-quality brand that is strong and thick and stay with that.
You can also use clear nail glue to add a little thickness.
Apply it thinly so that it blends in and then file down the edges so they are seamless.
How to make press-on nails harder
If you want to make your press on nails harder so they last longer, then you can try using a topcoat.
A top coat will not only make your nails look shiny and new but will also help to protect them from scratches.
It’s a good idea to apply a top coat every few days to keep your nails looking good and help them last.
How to keep press on nails from bending
If your press-on nails are bending, try applying a nail hardener.
You can also add a layer of gel topcoat and cure, this will help strengthen the nails and stop them from bending as much.
How to make press-on nails look good
You want your press-ons to look as good as salon nails right?
Here are a couple of Tricks to help you do that.
How to make press-on nails look like acrylics
If you want your press-on nails to look more like acrylic, first cut and file the artificial nails down into the desired shape.
Then, apply them as tips and fill in the bottom with builder gel, poly gel, or homemade corn starch and nail glue.
Voila! Press on acrylic nails!
How to make glue on nails look real
What makes fake nails look fake is the length and the sizing.
If you get the sizing right (the false nail should fit the widest point between your sidewalls) then the nail will automatically look more natural and realistic.
How to store press-on nails
The best way to store your press-on nails is in a plastic storage container.
You can find these at any store or online.
Just make sure that the container has a tight-fitting lid so that the press-on nail doesn’t dry out.
You can also put your press-on fingernails in a zip-top baggie.
Let’s wrap this up
So there you have it!
All my best tips and tricks for making your press-on nails stay on for up to two weeks.
No more trips to the nail salon!
I hope that you found this useful.
Thanks for reading!
Enjoy your long-lasting manicure!
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