HOW TO APPLY

CLEAN & PREP

Once you've selected and prepared your press-on nails, the next crucial step is to care for your natural nails. A well-prepared foundation is key, as even the best application techniques won't hold up on poorly maintained nail beds.

CUTICLES

While dry cuticles might seem harmless, they can actually affect how well your press-on nails adhere to your natural nails.

To tackle this, use a cuticle remover, nippers, or a nail brush to gently exfoliate and remove any dead skin. Although you can handle this in one session, we recommend regular cuticle maintenance for the best results. Each Nailuxe press-on nail kit includes a gentle cuticle stick to push back your cuticles without damaging your nail bed.

CLIP

While we advise regular filing to avoid frequent clipping, sometimes cutting down your natural nails is necessary when applying certain shapes or lengths of press-on nails. The goal is to ensure your natural nails don’t peek out from beneath the press-ons, maintaining a natural appearance.

Carefully clip your nails to your preferred length (based on the chosen press-ons). Avoid going too short to prevent discomfort and potential pain.

FILE AND BUFF

Whether or not you clip your nails, filing is essential for both overall nail health and successful press-on application. It helps avoid any snagging.

Use the nail file included in your kit (blue side) and file your nails in one direction. This technique prevents snags and reduces the risk of nails breaking or cracking.

USE AN ALCOHOL PREP PAD

While acetone and alcohol-based products often get a bad reputation in nail care, they serve a purpose in prepping for press-on nails. Although regular hydration with cuticle and nail oils is crucial, these drying agents have their place.

Use a cotton pad to apply a small amount of alcohol to your nails, removing any oils or dirt that might hinder the glue’s effectiveness. We recommend keeping alcohol prep pads in your at-home nail care kit. This step is vital for achieving a firm bond between your natural nails and the press-ons.

While we advocate for natural nail health and regular hydration, a bit of alcohol or acetone can go a long way when used correctly during press-on application. Remember to rehydrate your nails between applications to maintain balance.

Prepping can feel tedious, which is why we suggest regular nail maintenance. This habit reduces prep time when you’re in a hurry. Avoid long periods without caring for your cuticles or filing your nails, as neglect can lead to brittleness and fragility.

APPLY THE GLUE

Apply a thin, even layer of glue to your nail bed, just like you would with a top coat or nail polish. Be sure to cover all corners to avoid a crooked application.

Alternatively, you can apply the glue directly to the back of the Nailuxe nail, focusing more on the base for better control and an even application.

One even layer is all you need! If you over-apply glue, wipe away the excess immediately. The glue dries quickly, so prompt action is essential. Following all previous steps correctly will lead to a successful application. Experiment with both glue application methods to see which works best for you.

PRO TIP: Applied too much glue? Wrap a small square of paper towel around one end of the cuticle stick from your kit and carefully wipe away any excess glue, especially from underneath your nail and around the cuticle where spills often occur.

For an even easier application, try our Brush On Nail Glue.

ALIGN YOUR PRESS-ON NAILS WITH YOUR NATURAL NAILS

Now it’s time to apply the nails! Work quickly so the glue doesn’t dry before you can place the press-on.

When applying, ensure your press-on nails are properly aligned with the bottom and sides of your natural nails. Practice this step beforehand to become efficient, as you don't want the glue to dry prematurely or have to remove a press-on after it's attached.

PRO TIP: Align the press-on nail as close to the cuticle line as possible. Then, apply at a 45-degree angle, using slow, controlled movements with even pressure. This helps avoid air pockets or bubbles under the nail.

Practice makes perfect. If you make a mistake, remove the nails carefully without forcing or pulling and try again. With a bit of practice, you'll soon be applying press-on nails like a pro!

HOLD

After applying, press down on the entire nail for about 15-20 seconds (or longer) to ensure a strong bond. This step is crucial for making your press-ons last longer and feel more comfortable. Avoiding this step could lead to your press-ons popping off prematurely.

PRO TIP: To maximize the lifespan of your press-ons, avoid water for at least two hours after application. The best time to apply press-ons is in the evening after a bath or shower when your cuticles are softer and easier to push back.