Press-on Nails: What Are They, and What Are Their Advantages and Disadvantages?

Press-on nails are simple to apply and allow you to wear different manicure styles in a short time. You don't need any professional help to apply them.

Most women have worn fake nails at one time or another. However, not everyone is familiar with the new press-on nails. This improved presentation changes the look of the manicure without needing to spend hours in the salon.

The ease of application and the wide range of designs are just some of the merits of these evolved nails. But when it comes to highlighting a leading feature of the press system, the “removable” feature really stands out.

Through social networks, many content creators have demonstrated how easy press-on nails are to put, adapt to your outfits, and take off. As with any procedure, your nail health isn’t at risk and you will have magazine-quality hands as long as you put on the fake nails properly.

What are press-on nails?

Press-on nails adhere to your nails by pressing them onto the base. You only need to press the nail for a few seconds to attach it. No air should accumulate between the natural and false nails. They require suitable glue, as well as preparing the nails in advance so that they are perfect. This reduces the risk of them falling off.

The method is ideal for changing the manicure model in a matter of minutes. They allow different designs and styles without working directly on the original nail.

The manufacture of these accessories is with acrylic resin. You can buy them in packs, and there are even reusable varieties. Press-on nails are not expensive and it’s possible to find offers that include glue and a protective enamel.

How to put on press-on nails

There’s one key point to putting on adhesive nails; it has to do with the correct size selection. Check that each of the nails corresponds to the actual dimensions of your nails. Most brands list the pieces so you know which ones are right for you.

With the right package, the next step is application. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clean the area: Residue and dirt on your nails hinder the adhesion of the nail tips. Usually, a pack of press-on nails comes with cleaning wipes. Otherwise, alcohol or nail polish remover works.
2. Condition your nails: After grooming, dry the nails and condition the cuticle. This step prolongs the manicure.
3. Adhere the press-on nails: Press-on nail kits come with their own glue or double-sided adhesive. If it’s glue, apply it with a brush in the same way you would paint the nail. Adhesives are recommended if you change them frequently.
4. Align and press on the nail: To fix the piece in place, it’s advisable to wait a few seconds from the moment you put the glue. Align and press another few seconds to ensure the fixation.

The advantages and disadvantages of press-on nails

Press-on nails represent a solution for those who prefer to do their hands at home who aren’t experts in manicures and who don’t like to spend a lot of time with acrylic designs. Other advantages and disadvantages are discussed below:

The pros of press-on nails

• There’s no need to wait for them to dry: Once you press them on, you can start painting with the polish of your choice, without waiting hours for the glue to dry. This is how you speed up the time spent grooming your nails.
• Gel and polygel designs work on press-on nails: Designs such as gel nails can be done on these nails, just as you would apply them on natural nails. Glitter, decals, and embossing are allowed. Simply follow nail art tutorials and get amazing results.
• There’s a wide variety of designs and polish: You’ll find an infinite number of models of false nails in terms of color and decoration, to create looks for day or night that range from simple to more daring. You can adjust them in rectangular, claw, or almond shape.
• You can change your look whenever you like: You can even change your nails depending on your outfit. This is one of the great advantages of press-on nails, because if you wish, you can have a different manicure every day.
• They last as long as you want: This can be seen as an advantage or a disadvantage. Depending on how long you want to wear them, they can last up to 4 weeks. The time is determined by the glue, the care, the brand, and the purpose for which you mounted these nails. If they get wet, they don’t last as long.

The cons of press-on nails

• They may impact the growth of the nail: There is the probability of damaging the natural development of the nails when you wear too many press-on nails or don’t use them properly. The Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology mentions fragility, white lines, and other lesions as consequences.
• Exposure to chemicals: The composition of nail glues often releases pungent fragrances that are sometimes harmful to health. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that the production of artificial nails uses sensitive substances linked to allergies, asthma, and dermatitis.
• Risk of infection: This is also the case with any artificial nail system. Incorrect maintenance and improper placement could lead to fungus. It usually occurs if there’s a gap between the two nails, which allows moisture to pass through. The Mayo Clinic explains that if the fungal infection is deep, there’s a greater risk of discoloration, thickening, and decay.

Caring for your nails after using press-on nails

To make artificial nails last as long as you like, make sure to avoid unnecessary pressure by opening cans and scratching the skin. It’s also a good idea to soak them in cold water, as hot water and soap will wear away the adhesive faster.

As for aftercare, when you remove the press-on nails, moisturize your natural nails with polishes containing vitamin E. Argan, myrrh and lavender oils strengthen the nails, stimulate their growth, and help them to regenerate.

So, what about you? Have you used these nails? Are you going to try out this trend?