Let’s be real—acrylic press-on nails are the ultimate beauty hack! Whether you’re heading to a party or date night, or just want to feel fabulous for no reason, these little lifesavers give you a salon-worthy manicure in minutes. But what if we told you there’s a way to keep those stunning nails looking fresh and fabulous for longer? Yep, it’s totally possible! With a little TLC, your PaintLab press-ons can stay flawless, giving you more time to show off your stunning manicure and less time worrying about chips or lifts.

1. Preparation Before Application

Before we even talk about glue, let’s make sure those natural nails are prepped and ready for their new makeover.

Clean and Dry Nails: First things first, start with a clean canvas. Grab a non-acetone nail polish remover and swipe away any old polish or oils. This step is crucial for a strong bond between your nails and the press-ons.

Buffing the Natural Nail: Lightly buffing your nails gives the press-ons something to grip onto. Plus, it helps remove any shiny spots that might cause the glue to slip.

Pushing Back Cuticles: Use a cuticle pusher to gently push back your cuticles. This not only makes your nails look longer and more polished but also prevents the press-ons from lifting.

Use of Dehydrator or Alcohol Wipe: For the ultimate prep, wipe your nails with an alcohol pad or nail dehydrator. This step zaps away any lingering oils, ensuring your press-ons stick like glue (literally!).

2. Proper Application Techniques

Here’s how to make sure they stick around for a while.

Choosing the Right Size: Fit is everything! Pick a size that matches your natural nail perfectly. Too big, and they’ll lift; too small, and you’ll be uncomfortable. Most kits come in multiple sizes, so take your time finding the right match.

Using the Right Glue: Quality matters when it comes to glue. Apply a thin, even layer of strong nail glue to both your natural nail and the back of the press-on. This double coating ensures they stay put!

Pressing Down Firmly: Once the glue is on, align the press-on nail with your cuticle and press down firmly. Hold it there for about 10-15 seconds to eliminate any air bubbles. No one wants a nail that pops off mid-conversation, right?

Avoiding Water for the First Hour: You’ve just done all that work—don’t ruin it now! Keep your nails dry for at least an hour after application to let the glue set properly. This means no washing dishes, no showers—just admire your fresh mani from a safe distance.

3. Daily Maintenance Tips

Now that your press-ons are looking fabulous, let’s keep them that way!

Moisturizing Cuticles: Dry cuticles can lead to lifting, so keep them hydrated with cuticle oil or cream. Plus, it keeps your hands looking soft and smooth.

Avoiding Excessive Water Exposure: Water is not your nails’ best friend. Wear gloves while washing dishes or cleaning, and try to limit long soaks in the bath or pool. The less water they’re exposed to, the longer they’ll last.

Gentle Handling: Your press-ons may look strong, but they’re not invincible! Avoid using your nails as tools—no prying open soda cans or scraping off labels. Treat them with care, and they’ll stay gorgeous longer.

Touch-Up with Glue: If you notice a little lift or gap, don’t panic! Simply add a tiny drop of glue under the edge and press down. Problem solved, and your nails are back to looking perfect.

4. Protecting Your Press-On Nails

You’ve worked hard to get your nails looking this good, so let’s protect them!

Applying a Top Coat: A quick swipe of a clear top coat adds an extra layer of protection and helps prevent chips. Plus, it gives your nails that extra shine!

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of acetone-based products and other harsh chemicals. These can weaken the glue and cause your nails to lift. Stick to non-acetone removers for any touch-ups.

File and Shape: Keep a nail file handy for any rough edges. If you notice a snag, gently file it down with PaintLab’s Glass Mani Kit to prevent it from catching on anything and potentially lifting. The glass file in the kit provides precise shaping and smooths out any imperfections, ensuring your press-ons stay in tip-top shape.

5. When It’s Time to Remove

All good things must come to an end, but let’s make sure you do it the right way!

Knowing When to Remove: If your press-ons start to lift or feel loose, it might be time to take them off. Don’t force it; otherwise, you could damage your natural nails.

Safe Removal Techniques: Soak your nails in warm, soapy water or use PaintLab’s Press-on Pop Off Remover for about 10-15 minutes. This will soften the adhesive, making it easier to gently lift the press-ons without causing any damage. For added ease, use PaintLab’s Nail Clips to keep the remover in place, ensuring the glue or adhesive tab softens evenly.

Post-Removal Nail Care: Once the press-ons are off, give your natural nails some love! Buff them lightly, apply cuticle oil, and finish with a hydrating hand cream to keep your nails and hands looking their best.

With these tips and tricks, your acrylic press-on nails can stay flawless and fabulous for days. So go ahead, flaunt those nails, and let them shine! And remember, the key to a long-lasting manicure is a little prep, a lot of care, and knowing when to give your nails a break.