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Your press-on nails are designed to be worn, loved, and enjoyed again and again. Whether you're wearing them for a special occasion or incorporating them into your everyday routine, a few simple habits can help preserve their appearance, protect your natural nails, and extend the life of your set.
With proper handling, cleaning, and storage, your press-ons may remain reusable for years.
1. Be Gentle With Your Nails
We like to view are press-on nails as “jewels” not “tools”. That said, we make them with durability in mind and should be strong enough for everyday activities. They are not, however, indestructible!
To prevent lifting, cracking, or accidental removal:
Avoid using your nails to open cans, peel stickers, or scrape surfaces.
Use the pads of your fingers rather than your nail tips when possible.
Be mindful when opening drawers, handling keys, or lifting heavy objects.
Avoid biting, picking, or pulling at your press-ons.
Handle raised embellishments and intricate nail art with extra care.
Our tip: Treat your nails like jewelry. They're meant to decorate your hands, not replace your tools.
2. Minimize Prolonged Water Exposure
Normal handwashing is perfectly fine, but prolonged exposure to water can weaken adhesives and increase the chance of lifting.
For better wear:
Wear protective gloves when washing dishes or cleaning.
Avoid prolonged soaking in baths, pools, and hot tubs.
Dry your hands thoroughly after washing.
Pay special attention to moisture around and underneath the nails.
Avoid applying press-ons immediately before swimming or bathing.
If water becomes trapped beneath a lifting nail, remove the nail safely rather than sealing moisture underneath it.
3. Protect Your Nails From Harsh Chemicals
Certain household products and solvents can damage nail finishes, weaken adhesive, or affect decorative elements.
Avoid direct contact with:
Acetone and strong nail polish removers will damage the nails.
Harsh cleaning solutions
Paint thinners and solvents
Abrasive cleaning products
Strong alcohol-based products on decorated surfaces
We recommend wearing gloves when cleaning or working with chemicals.
4. Care for Your Hands and Cuticles
Healthy, moisturized skin helps your fingers look their best!
Apply hand cream and cuticle oil regularly, especially between applications.
When wearing press-ons, apply moisturizing products primarily to the surrounding skin rather than deliberately working oil underneath the nail edges, where it can interfere with adhesion.
Before your next application, thoroughly remove oils and lotions from your natural nail plates.
Pro-tip: Pushing back your cuticles in the shower, or shortly after helps keep your cuticles nice and prepped for presson use!
5. Check for Lifting
Occasionally inspect your press-ons for loose edges.
If a nail starts to lift:
Avoid pulling or pressing it back down over trapped moisture.
Check whether the nail is partially detached.
Gently remove it using the appropriate removal method for your adhesive.
Clean and dry your natural nail.
Reapply only if both your natural nail and press-on are clean, dry, intact, and free from signs of infection.
Never force a loose press-on back into place over a wet nail.
6. Remove Your Nails Gently
Proper removal is one of the most important parts of maintaining reusable press-ons.
Never rip, pry, or forcibly peel a nail off.
The safest removal method depends on whether you've used adhesive tabs or nail glue. Adhesive tabs are generally easier to remove and can be a convenient option for frequent changes.
Nail glue may require a longer removal process and, in some cases, solvents that can affect the press-on design.
Always follow the adhesive manufacturer's removal instructions.
7. Clean and Store After Every Wear
After removal:
Carefully remove leftover adhesive using a method compatible with your nail material.
Clean away surface dirt and oils.
Allow each nail to dry completely.
Inspect for damage or loose decorations.
Return each nail to its designated place in a protective storage case.
Avoid stacking loose nails together, particularly if they feature textured or raised artwork.
Things to Avoid:
Using nails as tools
Pulling off attached press-ons
Prolonged water exposure
Excessive exposure to solvents
Storing nails while damp
Reapplying nails over irritated or damaged natural nails
Ignoring lifting or trapped moisture
Additional information
Can I shower with press-on nails?
Yes. You can definitely shower with your press-ons, once the adhesive drying period is over. However, prolonged exposure to hot water can weaken some adhesives. Dry your hands thoroughly afterward and monitor for lifting.
Can I wash my hands normally?
Absolutely. After your adhesive has fully set, wash away as cleanliness is very important. Just dry your hands carefully afterward.
Can I wear press-ons every day?
Yes! Many people can wear press-ons regularly when they are correctly fitted, applied, and removed. Monitor your natural nails and give them time to recover if you notice irritation, peeling, or damage.
How do I know when to remove my press-ons?
Remove them if they begin lifting significantly, become uncomfortable, trap moisture, or cause irritation. Never force removal.
Can my press-ons really last for years?
Yes, 100% We have nails that we created in the studio more than 3 yars ago that still shine the same.
With gentle use, proper cleaning, and protective storage, some high-quality sets can remain reusable for 3+ years. Actual longevity depends on the materials, finish, frequency of wear, and condition of each nail.A little everyday care makes a meaningful difference. By protecting your nails during wear, removing them gently, and storing them properly, you can enjoy your favorite designs for many applications.
Wear them beautifully. Care for them thoughtfully. Enjoy them again.
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Keep your favorite sets looking as fresh as you!
Cleaning your press-on nails after each use helps remove dirt, oils, and adhesive residue while preserving their appearance for future wear.
The key is to clean gently and choose products that won't damage the nail's finish, painted artwork, or embellishments.
What You'll Need
Mild liquid dish soap
Lukewarm water
A soft, clean cloth or microfiber towel
Cotton swabs
A soft nail brush (optional)
70% rubbing alcohol (optional, for compatible materials only)
A clean, dry towel
Your protective nail storage case
Step 1: Remove Your Nails Safely
Before cleaning, carefully remove your press-ons using the appropriate method for your adhesive.
Do not pull or pry them off.
Once removed, arrange them on a clean towel so you can inspect each nail individually.
Check for:
Remaining adhesive
Dirt or oil buildup
Loose decorative elements
Scratches or chips
Cracks or changes in shape
Step 2: Remove Leftover Adhesive
Adhesive residue should be removed before storing or reapplying your nails.
For adhesive tabs:
Gently lift the leftover adhesive from the underside of the press-on.
Slowly roll or peel it away without excessive force.
Use a soft cotton swab to remove small remaining pieces.
Avoid scraping aggressively against the nail.
For nail glue:
Dried nail glue may require specialized removal.
Only use a glue-removal method approved for your press-on material. Acetone and some glue removers can dissolve or damage reusable nails, finishes, and embellishments.
If residue cannot be removed safely, do not force it.
Step 3: Clean With Mild Dish Soap
For nails that tolerate water cleaning:
Add a small drop of mild dish soap to lukewarm water.
Dampen a soft cloth or cotton swab with the solution.
Gently wipe the underside and compatible exterior surfaces of each nail.
Pay attention to areas where oils or dirt accumulate.
Use a clean, lightly dampened cloth to remove soap residue.
Avoid soaking the nails, especially if they feature hand-painted details, glued-on charms, rhinestones, or other delicate embellishments.
For particularly intricate designs, clean around raised elements with a lightly dampened cotton swab instead of scrubbing directly over them.
Step 4: Use Rubbing Alcohol Carefully
Rubbing alcohol can help remove oils from certain nail surfaces, but it isn't safe for every finish.
If your press-ons are confirmed to be alcohol-compatible:
Apply a small amount of 70% rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab.
Gently wipe the undecorated underside.
Avoid prolonged contact and excessive rubbing.
Keep alcohol away from painted artwork, chrome effects, decals, and attached decorations unless compatibility has been confirmed.
Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely.
Important: Alcohol can dull, soften, or damage certain coatings and decorative finishes. Always follow the care instructions for your specific set.
Alcohol wiping is not a substitute for proper cleaning and does not guarantee complete disinfection.
Step 5: Dry Completely
Before storing:
Place each nail on a clean, dry towel.
Allow all surfaces to air-dry completely.
Check around decorative elements for trapped moisture.
Do not use a hair dryer or direct heat to speed up drying.
Avoid storing damp nails inside sealed containers.
Complete drying helps protect decorative elements and reduces moisture-related problems during storage.
Step 6: Inspect and Organize
Once dry, inspect each nail before returning it to its case.
Check that:
The design is intact.
The nail has not cracked.
Decorative pieces remain secure.
Adhesive residue has been adequately removed.
No moisture remains.
Organize the nails in their original order to make future applications easier.
What Not to Use
Avoid the following unless specifically approved for your nail materials:
Acetone
Household bleach
Abrasive scrubbers
Stiff brushes
Strong solvents
Excessive alcohol
Very hot water
These can damage the nail surface or decorative finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I clean my press-ons after every wear?
Yes. Gentle cleaning after removal helps keep nails free of residue and ready for storage.
Can I soak my press-ons in soapy water?
We recommend avoiding prolonged soaking, especially for nails with detailed artwork or embellishments.
Can I use rubbing alcohol on all my nails?
No. Alcohol compatibility depends on the nail material and finish. Use it only on surfaces confirmed to tolerate it.
Can I use dish soap to clean press-ons?
Yes, mild dish soap is suitable for many reusable press-on materials when used gently. Avoid prolonged water exposure and always dry thoroughly.
Can I reuse nails that still have glue on them?
Residual glue can interfere with proper fit and adhesion. Remove it using a compatible method before reapplying. If the nail cannot be cleaned without damage, it may no longer be suitable for reuse.
Final Thoughts
Clean nails are easier to maintain, store, and reuse. Gentle cleaning with mild soap, careful handling, and complete drying can help preserve your favorite sets.
A gentle clean today helps protect tomorrow's manicure.
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Removing your press-ons properly protects both your natural nails and your reusable nail art.
We never recommend ripping or forcing press-ons off, which can peel away layers of your natural nail, cause discomfort, and damage the press-on itself.
Your removal method should always depend on the type of adhesive used. We offer two adhesive methods:
Nail glue
Sticky tabs
Before You Begin
Identify whether your press-ons were applied using:
Sticky tabs
Nail glue
These adhesives behave differently and may require different removal methods.
Method 1: Removing Press-Ons Applied With Adhesive Tabs
Adhesive tabs are often a good choice for customers who enjoy switching designs frequently. We recommend this method for weekend events or nights out where you need to come correct.
What You'll Need
Lukewarm water
Mild liquid soap
A small amount of cuticle oil
A soft towel
A wooden manicure stick, which we provide in your kit.
Step 1: Soften the Adhesive
Place your fingertips in lukewarm, soapy water for approximately 10–15 minutes, or as directed by your adhesive manufacturer.
A small amount of cuticle oil around the nail edges may help loosen certain adhesive tabs.
Avoid prolonged soaking if your press-ons contain water-sensitive artwork or embellishments.
Step 2: Check for Loosening
Gently test whether the press-on has started to release.
Do not pull or lift forcefully.
If the nail remains firmly attached, continue following the adhesive manufacturer's recommended removal process.
Step 3: Gently Release the Nail
Once the adhesive has loosened, carefully separate the press-on from your natural nail.
If using a manicure stick, avoid pushing it underneath an area that is still firmly bonded.
Important: Stop immediately if you experience pain, resistance, or pulling.
Step 4: Remove Adhesive Residue
Gently roll or peel remaining adhesive tabs away from the press-on and natural nail.
Avoid scraping the natural nail plate.
Step 5: Moisturize
Wash and dry your hands, then apply cuticle oil and hand cream.
Inspect your natural nails for peeling, irritation, or damage before another application.
Method 2: Removing Press-Ons Applied With Nail Glue
Nail glue creates a stronger bond and can be more difficult to remove without damaging the press-on. .
Step 1: Grab a bowl and add warm water & dishsoap
Please be sure not to use boiling hot water as this can warp or damage your nails, and your skin.
Step 2: Soak for 10-15 minutes
See if the nail glue is breaking down and then gently start lifting the nail off from the corners.
If the bond remains strong, soak in warm water for longer and wait.
Step 3: Stop if Removal Is Difficult
If removal causes pain or the adhesive cannot be safely released, take a break or soak longer.
Preserving your natural nails is more important than saving a press-on.
After Removal
After your press-ons are off:
Inspect your natural nails.
Remove remaining adhesive gently.
Wash and dry your hands.
Apply cuticle oil and moisturizer.
Allow damaged or irritated nails to recover before reapplication.
Clean and dry reusable press-ons before storage.
Things to avoid:
Pulling nails off quickly: Can damage the natural nail plate.
Using sharp metal tools: May cause scratches, splitting, or injury.
Excessive soaking: May damage delicate reusable nail art.
Using acetone: Acetone will permanently damage the nails.
Immediately reapplying over damaged nails: May worsen existing irritation or injury.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are adhesive tabs easier to remove than nail glue?
Generally, yes. Adhesive tabs are often easier to remove and may be better suited for customers who frequently change their nails.
Can I reuse press-ons applied with nail glue?
Sometimes. Reusability depends on the glue, removal method, and condition of the nail afterward. Solvent-based removal can damage certain sets.
What if my press-on won't come off
Do not force it. Let the glue or dissolve naturally.
Should I take a break between applications?
Healthy natural nails don't necessarily require a fixed break between every application, but damaged, peeling, or irritated nails should be allowed to recover.
Is it normal for removal to hurt?
No. Pain or strong resistance is a sign to stop.
Never sacrifice your natural nails to save a press-on! We want you to be able to enjoy our art for as long as possible.
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Healthy nails begin with healthy cuticles.
Beautiful press-on nails start with the skin and natural nails underneath.
Your cuticles play an important role in protecting the area where new nail growth begins. Keeping this delicate area moisturized and healthy can help prevent dryness, irritation, and hangnails while making your manicure look neat and polished.
A consistent cuticle-care routine ensures your press-ons look great on your hands, but also makes preparing for your next press-on application easier.
Understanding Your Cuticles
The cuticle is a thin layer of nonliving tissue that adheres to the nail plate near its base. The surrounding living skin, including the proximal nail fold, helps protect the nail-growing area from irritation and infection.
This protective skin should never be aggressively cut, pulled, or pushed back. Cuticle care is about maintaining healthy skin, not removing as much tissue as possible.
What You'll Need
Cuticle oil
Gentle hand cream
Mild hand soap
A soft, clean towel
A fine-grit nail file
An optional soft manicure tool for gently removing loose, nonliving cuticle tissue
Step 1: Moisturize Daily
Cuticle oil helps condition the skin around your nails and reduce dryness.
To apply:
Start with clean, dry hands.
Place a small drop of cuticle oil around the base of each nail.
Gently massage the oil into the surrounding skin.
Allow it to absorb.
Follow with hand cream if desired.
You can apply cuticle oil once or twice daily, or whenever the skin feels dry.
Oils containing jojoba, vitamin E, or other skin-conditioning ingredients are common choices.
Step 2: Keep Your Hands Hydrated
Frequent handwashing, cold weather, and cleaning products can dry out the skin around your nails.
To help maintain hydration:
Apply hand cream after washing your hands.
Use gloves when cleaning or washing dishes.
Avoid unnecessarily harsh soaps.
Moisturize before bed.
Pay attention to dry or peeling skin around the fingertips.
Healthy, comfortable skin makes regular nail maintenance much easier.
Step 3: Be Gentle With Your Cuticles
Avoid cutting or aggressively pushing back the living skin at the base of your nails.
If you choose to tidy loose, nonliving cuticle tissue:
Wash your hands.
Allow the skin to soften naturally.
Use a clean, gentle manicure tool.
Remove only loose, nonliving tissue from the nail plate.
Stop if you experience pain or resistance.
Never force a tool underneath the nail fold. Cutting or injuring the protective skin can create openings for infection.
Step 4: Prevent and Manage Hangnails
Hangnails are small pieces of torn skin near the nail. They can develop when the surrounding skin becomes dry or irritated.
To help prevent them:
Moisturize consistently.
Avoid biting or picking at the skin.
Wear gloves during household chores.
Keep the surrounding skin protected from harsh chemicals.
If you develop a hangnail, don't pull it off. Instead:
Carefully trim only the loose, protruding piece of skin using clean nail clippers. Avoid cutting into healthy skin.
If the area becomes red, swollen, warm, increasingly painful, or develops pus, seek medical advice.
Step 5: Care for Cuticles Between Press-On Applications
After removing your press-ons, take a moment to check the condition of your natural nails and surrounding skin.
Look for:
Dryness
Peeling
Tenderness
Hangnails
Irritation
Nail surface damage
If everything looks healthy, continue your regular moisturizing routine.If your skin or nails are irritated, allow them to recover before applying another set.
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The secret to a beautiful press-on presentation starts before application.
Proper nail preparation is essential in achieving a comfortable, secure, and long-lasting press-on experience.
Taking a few extra minutes to clean, shape, and prepare your nails can help improve adhesion while protecting your natural nail plate.
What You'll Need
Mild hand soap
A clean, dry towel
A fine-grit nail file
A wooden cuticle stick
An alcohol-based nail prep pad
Your press-on nail set
Adhesive tabs or nail glue
A clean, well-lit workspace
Step 1: Start With Clean Hands
Wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. This helps remove dirt, lotions, oils, and other residue.
Dry your hands completely with a clean towel.
Important: Do not apply hand cream or cuticle oil immediately afterward. Oil, moisture, and residue can interfere with the adhesive bond between your natural nail and the press-on.
Step 2: Inspect Your Natural Nails
Before applying anything, examine your nails for signs of irritation or damage.
Check for:
Peeling or splitting
Tenderness
Redness or swelling
Nail separation
Unusual discoloration
Signs of infection
Do not apply press-ons over damaged, inflamed, or potentially infected nails.
Step 3: Trim and Shape Your Natural Nails
Short, neatly shaped natural nails often make it easier to achieve a comfortable fit.
To prepare:
Trim your natural nails if necessary.
Use a fine-grit nail file to smooth rough edges.
Shape the free edge so it doesn't interfere with the press-on.
Remove any loose filing dust.
Important: Avoid filing too aggressively or shortening your natural nails to the point of discomfort.
Our tip: Your natural nails don't have to be extremely short. They simply need to fit comfortably beneath your chosen press-on shape.
Step 4: Gently Prepare the Cuticle Area
Loose cuticle tissue on the nail plate may interfere with how the press-on sits.
To prepare this area:
Make sure your hands are clean.
Gently remove only loose, nonliving tissue from the nail plate if needed.
Avoid cutting or forcing back the living skin around the nail.
Stop if you experience pain or irritation.
A neat cuticle area can help the press-on sit more naturally.
Step 5: Choose the Correct Nail Sizes
Proper sizing is essential for comfort and adhesion. Each press-on should fit your natural nail from sidewall to sidewall without pressing into the surrounding skin.
To check the fit:
Place the press-on over your natural nail without adhesive.
Align it near the cuticle area.
Check that both sides fit comfortably.
Make sure the nail doesn't overlap your skin.
Check for excessive gaps or pressure.
If you're between sizes, select the larger nail only if it can be safely refined to fit without weakening the design or structure.
Do not force a nail that is too small onto your natural nail.
Why Sizing Matters
Too small: May pinch, feel uncomfortable, or lift because of poor contact.
Too large: May overlap the skin, interfere with proper adhesion, or cause premature lifting.
Correct fit: Sits comfortably on the nail plate without excessive pressure.
Step 6: Remove Surface Oils
After sizing your press-ons, prepare the natural nail surface.
Lightly buff the nail to remove shine and create a slight rough texture.
Use a lint-free alcohol prep pad.
Gently wipe each natural nail plate.
Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely.
Avoid touching the prepared nail surface with your fingers.
Important:
Avoid excessive filing or buffing of the natural nail plate. Thinning the nail can cause weakness and sensitivity.
Do not apply alcohol to broken or irritated skin.
Step 7: Choose Your Adhesive
We provide two options: Sticky Tabs & Glue.
Sticky Tabs: Often preferred for shorter wear periods and frequent design changes.
Benefits
Convenient application
Often easier removal
Can be suitable for reusing decorative press-ons
Considerations
May have a shorter wear time than glue
Can lift with moisture or improper preparation
Require a clean, dry nail surface
Nail Glue: Often selected for a stronger, longer-lasting bond.
Benefits
Can provide secure adhesion
Suitable for customers seeking longer wear
Considerations
Removal may be more difficult
Some removal methods can damage reusable press-ons
Improper use may irritate skin or damage natural nails
Always follow the instructions and safety precautions provided with your adhesive.
Step 8: Apply Your Press-Ons
Exact application methods vary by adhesive.
For most systems:
Match each press-on to the correct finger.
Apply the adhesive according to its instructions.
Position the press-on close to the cuticle without touching the skin.
Lower the press-on onto the natural nail.
Apply gentle, even pressure for the recommended amount of time.
Check that the nail feels secure and comfortable.
Important:
Avoid applying excessive glue or allowing adhesive to spread onto the surrounding skin.
Do not use nail glue on broken or irritated skin.
Step 9: Let the Adhesive Set
After application, follow the adhesive manufacturer's recommended setting time.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to water, oils, lotions, or pressure while the bond is setting.
Some adhesive systems require a longer water-free period than others.
Once the adhesive has fully set, you can return to your usual activities while practicing gentle nail care.
Common Application Mistakes
Skipping nail preparation: Can leave oils or residue that weaken adhesion.
Choosing the wrong size: Can cause discomfort or premature lifting.
Applying over damp nails: May reduce adhesion and contribute to trapped moisture.
Using too much glue: Can cause adhesive to spread onto the skin.
Over-buffing: Can weaken the natural nail plate.
Applying over damaged nails: Can worsen irritation or injury.
Touching the nail plate after cleaning: Can transfer oils back onto the prepared surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buff my nails before applying press-ons?
Very gently. Frequent or aggressive buffing can thin and damage natural nails.Should I use cuticle oil before application?
No. Save cuticle oil for your regular care routine and remove any surface oil before applying adhesive.Why do my press-ons fall off quickly?
Common causes include incorrect sizing, oily or damp nail plates, insufficient adhesive contact, and improper application.Should I use adhesive tabs or nail glue?
Choose based on your desired wear time, removal preferences, and the recommendations for your press-on set.Do press-ons damage natural nails?
Properly applied and gently removed press-ons can be worn without significant damage. However, aggressive removal, excessive buffing, adhesive misuse, and repeated application over damaged nails can cause problems.