How to Apply Press-On Nails

Follow these 7 simple steps for the perfect application

Step 1: Clean, dry hands

  • Remove all polish (regular/gel/dip). Nails should be bare and matte.
  • Wash 30s with non-moisturizing soap; rinse well.
  • Dry fully with lint-free towel.
  • Optional: Wipe with 70%+ isopropyl; air-dry 10–15s.
  • No lotions/oils 30 min before application.
  • Remove rings for cleaner application.

Pro tips: Wait 15–20 min if you just showered. Peeling nails? Skip soaks, use alcohol wipe. Avoid hand sanitizer.

Quick check: Surface looks matte, feels squeaky, completely dry.

Step 2: Size everything first (yes, all 10)

  • Match sidewall to sidewall. Between sizes? Go smaller and file edges lightly.
  • Align cuticle curve. Top edge mirrors your natural curve—no gaps.
  • Check angle. Sit level, not tilted at the tip.
  • Note size codes on underside for easy reorders.
  • Stage all 10 in order before starting.

Pro tips: Asymmetry is normal. Keep a "maybe" pile. Test two sizes if needed.

Quick check: Each piece hugs cuticle, meets sidewalls, no overhang.

Step 3: Buff + file (lightly)

  • Buff with fine buffer. 3–5 strokes until matte.
  • Shape free edge with file. Even edges = better hold.
  • File in one direction only.
  • Stay off cuticles and sidewalls.
  • Dust off with alcohol pad—no water.

Pro tips: Buff only ridges if needed. Nails peel? Go lighter.

Quick check: Surface matte. Edges smooth. No dust.

Step 4: Push back cuticles (gently)

  • Apply non-oily cuticle remover 30–60s if needed; wipe off.
  • Hold pusher at 30–45°. Light pressure only.
  • Start center, sweep to sidewalls.
  • Don't cut live cuticles.
  • Wipe with alcohol pad after.

Pro tips: Silicone pushers for sensitive cuticles. Save oil for later.

Quick check: Cuticle line clean. Zero skin on nail plate.

Step 5: Glue (thin, even, edge to edge)

  • Swipe with alcohol pad; air-dry 10–15s.
  • 1–3 days: glue natural nail only. 7–14 days: glue both nails.
  • Thin, even coat—lightly shiny, not puddled.
  • Stay 1mm from cuticles; cover to free edge.
  • Cap bottle between fingers.
  • Wipe skin immediately if glue touches it.

Quick check: Nails lightly glossy, no glue on skin.

Step 6: Place, press, hold (30 seconds each)

  • Start pinky to index on each hand; thumbs last.
  • 45° angle. Anchor cuticle edge first, rock down to tip.
  • Center before committing.
  • Press firmly: center, sidewalls, tip. Hold 30s.
  • Pinch side edges for 3–5s while holding.
  • Wipe squeeze-out gently with alcohol.
  • Fix bubbles/crooked within 3–5s or start over.

Pro tips: Rest hand on table for leverage. Cold room? Hold 35–45s.

Quick check: Cuticle hugs curve. No glue on skin or bubbles.

Step 7: Set, shape, celebrate

  • Let glue set 5–10 min before using hands.
  • Refine tips with file (optional).
  • Avoid water for at least 2 hours.
  • No oils for at least 4 hours.
  • If one lifts: buff, swipe alcohol, reglue, press 30s.

Pro tips: Keep glue in bag. Use finger pads for typing. Gloves first day for gym/chores.

Quick check: Edges smooth. No water/oil for 2 hours. Done!