make up remover towels

How to Make Press On Nails Last (up to 2 weeks)

Press on nails are a popular alternative to salon-manicured nails. They’re quick, easy, and more affordable than going to a salon. However, one major issue with press on nails is how long they last. 

If you’ve ever used press on nails, you know that they can be difficult to keep on for an extended period of time. Most people experience them falling off within a few days or even hours. 

Thankfully, there are several ways to keep press on nails from popping off, so you can enjoy your beautiful manicure for up to two weeks. Read ahead for expert advice on how to make press on nails last longer.

How to Apply a Press On Nail

Preparation

  • Clean and Dry Nails: Start with clean, dry, and oil-free natural nails. Remove any old nail polish or residue using nail polish remover.
  • Nail Prep: Gently push back your cuticles and file your natural nails to your desired length and shape. Use a buffer to create a slightly rough texture on the nail’s surface, which helps the press-on nails adhere better.

Application

  • Choose the Right Size: Select press-on nails that fit your natural nails perfectly. Avoid nails that are too large or too small, as they may not adhere well.
  • Glue Application: Apply a small drop of nail glue (included in most press-on nail kits) to the back of the press-on nail and another drop onto your natural nail. Use a gentle, even pressure to press the press-on nail onto your natural nail. Hold it in place for about 10-15 seconds to allow the glue to set.
  • Press Firmly: Ensure you press firmly along the entire surface of the press-on nail to remove any air bubbles and create a secure bond.

How to Make Press On Nails Last Longer

We consulted with several experts in the beauty industry to get their advice on how to make press on nails last. Here are some of their tips:

Prepare your nails properly

Begin by meticulously preparing your natural nails. Cleanse them to remove any dirt or oils, then buff and shape them to your desired length and shape. Ensure that there is no residual nail polish or residue left behind.

Use the right glue

Opt for a high-quality nail glue specifically designed for press-on nails. Using the right adhesive is crucial for secure and long-lasting attachment. Avoid substitutes like super glue or other adhesives, as they may harm your natural nails.

Apply the press-ons carefully

Apply the press-on nails with care, ensuring they fit snugly on your natural nails. Pay close attention to eliminate any air bubbles, pressing down firmly to achieve a secure bond.

Cre the glue properly

If the glue you use requires curing, diligently follow the instructions provided on the product label. Proper curing is essential for a strong and durable bond.

Avoid  Submerging in Water

After application, avoid exposing your nails to water for at least 24 hours. This period allows the glue to dry and set completely, enhancing the longevity of your press-ons. While press-on nails are water-resistant, it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to water. Wear gloves while doing dishes or during activities that involve soaking your hands.

Be gentle with your nails

Be mindful of your press-on nails in daily activities. Activities that may damage them, such as typing, washing dishes, or opening jars, should be approached with care. Using gloves while doing household chores can help protect your nails.

Apply a top coat

Applying a protective topcoat not only adds a glossy finish but also acts as a shield, safeguarding your press-on nails and extending their lifespan. It helps prevent chipping and enhances their overall durability.

Nourish with Cuticle Oil

Incorporate cuticle oil into your nail care routine. Regularly applying cuticle oil helps maintain the health and strength of your natural nails, which, in turn, contributes to the longevity of your press-on nails.

Steer Clear of Nail Polish Remover

Be cautious about using nail polish remover, as it can potentially harm the adhesive used for your press-on nails. Instead, opt for gentler methods of nail care that won’t compromise the glue and cause your press-ons to detach prematurely.

Regular Filing

To prevent chipping or breakage, make a habit of filing your press-on nails regularly. This maintains their shape and smooth edges, reducing the risk of wear and tear that can lead to shorter durability.

How to Remove Press On Nails Properly

Properly removing press-on nails is essential to avoid damaging your natural nails and to ensure a clean removal. Below’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove press on nails safely and effectively:

Materials Needed

  • Acetone-based nail polish remover
  • Cotton balls or pads
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden cuticle stick or orange stick
  • Nail buffer
  • Moisturizing nail and cuticle oil

Step-by-Step Removal

  • Choose a well-ventilated area with good lighting, and cover your work surface with a clean towel or paper towels to catch any spills.
  • If your press-on nails are long, you may want to trim them down to a manageable length using nail clippers.
  • Use a nail buffer to gently roughen the surface of each press-on nail. This helps the acetone penetrate the glue more effectively.
  • Pour some acetone-based nail polish remover into a small bowl. Soak cotton balls or pads in the acetone.
  • Take a soaked cotton ball or pad and place it over one of your press-on nails.
  • Wrap a small square of aluminum foil around the cotton ball to hold it in place. Repeat this process for all of your press-on nails. Allow the foil-wrapped nails to soak for about 10-15 minutes.
  • After soaking, carefully remove one of the foil wraps. The press-on nail should easily slide off. If it doesn’t, don’t force it. Soak for a few more minutes if needed.
  • Use a wooden cuticle stick or an orange stick to gently lift and push away any remaining press-on nail or glue from your natural nail. Be very gentle to avoid damaging your natural nails.
  • Continue removing the rest of the press-on nails one by one, following the same process.
  • After removing all the press-on nails, wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and warm water to remove any remaining acetone residue. Pat your nails and skin dry, then apply a moisturizing nail and cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails and cuticles.
  • Give your natural nails a break from press-ons and allow them to recover. Consider applying a strengthening nail treatment if needed to restore their strength and health.

FAQs

  1. How long do press on nails usually last? Press on nails typically last for up to two weeks, depending on how well they’re applied and how well you care for them.
  2. Can I shower with press on nails? Yes, you can. However, avoid keeping your hands submerged in water for too long, as this can weaken the adhesive.
  3. Can I reuse press on nails? Technically, you can, but it’s not recommended as they may not adhere as well the second time around.
  4. Do I need to use a base coat before applying press on nails? While it’s not necessary, using a base coat can help the press on nails adhere better to your natural nails.
  5. Can I paint over press on nails? Yes, you can. However, be sure to wait until the adhesive has fully set before painting over them.

Final Takeaway

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy your press on nails for much longer than before. Remember to clean your nails thoroughly, shape them properly, use high-quality press on nails, and take good care of them. With enough practice, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and long-lasting manicure in no time.

HOW TO REMOVE SHELLAC NAIL POLISH AT HOME

Shellac nail polish, known for its high durability and glossy finish, can pose a challenge when you want to change shellac nails with designs or take care of your nails. Fret not, in this article, we will guide you on how to remove the polish correctly and effectively to protect the health of your nails and the surrounding skin. If you’re unsure about the process, let’s explore simple yet effective steps to remove Shellac nail polish, ranging from natural methods to using professional nail care products. Read on!

WHAT ARE SHELLAC NAILS?

Shellac represents a line of nail products that combines features of both traditional nail polish and gel nails. Unlike regular polish, Shellac is applied directly to the nails and then cured under UV light, similar to gel nails. Removing Shellac typically involves using an acetone-based nail polish remover, but the drying effect of acetone on cuticles and skin can be a concern. Alternatively, you may opt for soaking your nails in a non-acetone nail polish remover to mitigate potential dryness and irritation.

TOOL KIT

  • Aluminum foil (cut into 10 pieces, each measuring 2 inches)
  • Paper towel (cut into 10 pieces, each measuring 1 inch)
  • 100% acetone (or nail polish remover with acetone)
  • Stainless steel cuticle pusher (or a wooden cuticle stick)
  • Nail file
  • Nail buffer
  • Nail strengthening polish
  • Cuticle oil (or coconut oil)

HOW TO REMOVE SHELLAC YOURSELF

STEP 1: PREPPING YOUR NAILS AND WORKSPACE

Cover your workstation, to protect it from nail polish remover

To prevent potential damage to surfaces, it’s advisable to use protective measures when working with even non-acetone nail polish remover. Lay down newspaper, towels, a trash bag, or any other suitable protective layer in your work area. In the event of a spill that permeates the covering, pause your work, promptly clean up the spill, and then replace the protective layer with fresh newspaper once the area is dry. Alternatively, glossy pages torn from a magazine can serve as an effective option for safeguarding your table or countertop. Choose a comfortable workspace, such as your desk or in front of the TV, as this process typically takes approximately 30 minutes.

Scuff the surface of your nails lightly with a coarse nail file

If you notice your natural nail becoming visible beneath the polish, it indicates that you’re filing too aggressively. Instead, lightly run the file across the nail surface a few times to remove the glossy finish. Although not mandatory, this step increases the surface area on your nails, facilitating better coverage by the polish remover and enhancing its dissolving effectiveness. Given that you’re using a less potent nail polish remover, incorporating this step can contribute to achieving more satisfactory results.

Coat the skin around your nails in cuticle oil

Even in the absence of acetone, nail polish removers have the potential to dehydrate your cuticles and the skin surrounding your nails. To mitigate this, apply cuticle oil using a cotton swab, massaging it onto the skin around your nails and the base where your cuticles grow. If cuticle oil isn’t available, opt for nourishing natural oils such as olive, almond, coconut, or jojoba oil. Alternatively, create a protective barrier on the skin around your nails by using petroleum jelly. This helps maintain moisture and safeguards your skin during the nail polish removal process.

Cut or tear 10 strips of aluminum foil to wrap around your fingers

Ensure the foil strips are sufficiently large to completely wrap around both your finger and the cotton ball, requiring one strip for each finger. Aluminum foil is easily tearable, allowing you to do this by hand, or if preferred, you can use scissors for a precise cut. Keep in mind that it’s advisable to make the strips a bit larger than initially estimated. You can always trim them down if they turn out to be too big, but you won’t be able to add more if they happen to be insufficient. Ideally, the strips should measure at least 2–3 square inches (13–19 cm²).

STEP 2: WRAPPING YOUR NAILS

Soak a cotton ball in acetone-free nail polish remover

Ensure the cotton ball is completely saturated with nail polish remover. If desired, you can tear or cut the cotton ball for a better fit on your nail, but ensure it remains large enough to cover the entire surface of the gel polish. Prepare one piece of cotton for each nail. There are two options for application: either directly apply the nail polish remover to the cotton ball from the bottle, or pour it into a small bowl and dip the cotton ball into the liquid. Additionally, you can choose to use acetone-free nail polish remover pads. If opting for pads, fold them in half or cut them to size to minimize contact between the remover and your skin. For optimal efficiency and to minimize exposure, it’s advisable to focus on one nail at a time, soaking only one cotton ball at a time.

Place the soaked cotton ball on one of your fingernails

Completely cover your nail with the cotton ball, applying a slight downward pressure to ensure it is firmly pressed against your nail. While you can start with any nail, it’s recommended to begin with the nails on your dominant hand. This approach facilitates the process, as once a nail is wrapped, you’ll need to switch hands. For example, if you are right-handed, it’s advisable to wrap your right hand first, allowing you to use your foil-tipped right hand to cover the nails on your left hand more conveniently.

Wrap the aluminum foil around the cotton ball and your fingertip

Position the flat side of the foil against the cotton ball, then wrap the aluminum foil around the sides of your finger and over the top. Press and pinch the aluminum foil together to create a sealed enclosure. Ensure a snug fit, as the foil must securely hold the cotton ball in place.

Repeat this process for each nail

As you proceed with wrapping your nails, the process may become a bit more intricate, requiring caution not to disrupt the foil already in place. Take your time, pay attention to each step, and don’t stress about achieving absolute perfection with the foil wrapping. Continue the process until you’ve successfully wrapped all ten of your fingernails with the cotton balls and aluminum foil.

Leave the foil in place for about 10 or 15 minutes

Allow the acetone-free nail polish remover sufficient time to soak into the nail. Once the designated time has elapsed, carefully remove the foil from the first wrapped nail and inspect the shellac. When it’s ready, you should observe the polish pulling away from the nail, and it might appear softened or gummy. If the polish isn’t detaching from the nail, rewrap your fingers and wait an additional 5 minutes before checking again.

STEP 3: SCRAPING AWAY THE POLISH

Remove the foil from the first finger when the polish is ready

Once the nail polish begins to peel up at the edges, you can proceed to remove the foil. It’s advisable to work on one nail at a time, eliminating the need to remove all the foil simultaneously. In case the nail polish remover starts causing discomfort to your skin, consider removing the foil from your nails. However, be aware that the shellac may become gummy or tacky as it dries, making it more challenging to remove. If this occurs, you may need to soak your nails again. Retain the foil, as you might have to re-wrap your nails if some of the polish remains stubbornly intact.

Use the cotton ball to wipe away as much of the polish as you can

Apply firm pressure on the cotton ball, wiping from the base of your nail up to the tip. If necessary, flip the cotton ball over and repeat the motion. Don’t be concerned if not all of the polish comes off; 1-2 swipes should be sufficient.

Scrape the remaining polish away with a wooden orange stick

An orange stick, also recognized as a cuticle pusher, is a petite wooden tool featuring an angled tip. Traditionally employed for pushing back the skin around your nails, it can also serve as an effective tool for shellac removal. Utilize the pointed tip of the stick to work under the polish, then gently lift the stick to peel the polish away from the nail. Given that wooden beauty tools can harbor bacteria, it’s recommended to use disposable orange sticks. Purchase them in packs and discard after each use to maintain hygiene. Never share orange sticks, as doing so increases the risk of infection. These tools are readily available at beauty or nail supply stores.

Re-soak your nail if there’s any polish that seems too hard

Avoid excessive scraping if the polish doesn’t come off easily, as it could potentially damage your nail bed. Instead, consider replacing the cotton ball on your nail, using a new one if needed, rewrapping your nail in foil, and waiting for an additional 5 minutes or so. It’s important to note that acetone-free nail polish remover is not as potent as its acetone-based counterpart, so in cases of particularly stubborn polish, be prepared to soak your nails for a longer duration to achieve effective removal.

Repeat the same process for each of your nails

After successfully removing the polish from one nail, you’ll gain a better understanding of the process. Unwrap the foil from each nail individually, then use a cotton ball to wipe away the polish and an orange stick to scrape away any residue. Progress to the next nail in this manner until you’ve completed the removal process for all of your nails.

Apply moisturizer to your nails when you’re finished

Non-acetone nail polish remover can potentially dry out your skin, and the scraping process may leave your nails feeling rough. Apply a thin coat of moisturizer, such as cuticle oil or hand cream, to the surface of your nails. If desired, you can also moisturize the skin around your nails.

CONCLUSION

Here is an enjoyable experience for you that can make the process of removing shellac nail polish easy at home. You can start with the basic steps outlined in the article. Hopefully, after reading our guide, you will have learned the necessary steps to easily change and remove nail polish at home without the need to spend time at a salon. 

FAQS

  1. What nail polish remover works on shellac?

Nail polish remover that contains acetone is typically effective for removing shellac. 

  1. Does removing shellac damage nails?

Yes, excessive or improper removal of shellac can potentially damage nails by causing dryness or thinning.

  1. Can baking soda remove shellac?

No,baking soda is not typically effective for removing shellac nail polish. Acetone-based removers are more commonly used for this purpose.