For years I have accepted the fact that I had to choose between spending $75 at the nail salon every month or deal with my press on nails popping off at the most inopportune moments. Well, I am so glad to tell you that's no longer the case. Gone are the days of keeping nail glue with you everywhere you go.
And let's be honest... the nail industry doesn't really feel like a service industry anymore. Aside from the cost, part of the reason I searched for a do-it-yourself alternative is because I got tired of walking out of the salon frustrated. Getting my nails done felt like a chore rather than a treat.
And while I loved my press on nails, I did not love dealing with when they popped off after a couple of days. But, I am here share the solution to that issue - a solution I wish I had years ago.
Gel cure your press on nails. They will stay on for weeks.
Step 1
Swap out the nail glue that comes with your press ons for gel-curing nail glue. I use the Beetles brand from Amazon, and its amazing.
step 2
Brush the gel-curing nail glue onto your natural nails and Cure for 60 seconds under a UV lamp. This preps your nails to bond to the press on nail and helps to avoid bubbles during the application. Again, I got this lamp from Amazon and love it!
Step 3
Apply a small glob of the gel-curing nail glue to the base of the press on. Then, starting with the base, apply the nail and hold down.
Step 4
Now, this next step is the most important. While you are still holding down the nail, place your finger under the UV lamp for about 10-20 seconds. This will hold the nail in place while you do the rest of your fingers.
Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until all of your nails are in place.
Step 5
Once all your press ons have been applied, place your entire hand under the UV lamp and cure for 60 seconds.
Step 6 (optional)
Add a gel-curing top coat and cure for an additional 60 seconds for extra shine!
And that's it! Your brand-new manicure will stay for weeks. The entire process takes me about 20 minutes - which is a lifesaver when I need my nails done in a pinch.
important note
The base of the press on must be at least somewhat transparent. If it's not, the UV lamp won't be able to cure the glue through the solid colored nail. Here are some of my favorite press ons from Amazon. I also have had some luck finding good ones at Target, TJ Maxx, and Ulta!