A full set takes about 10–15 minutes. Good prep is the secret to nails that last, so don't skip the first step. Always do a patch test before using glue or tabs for the first time (see product safety).
What you'll need
- Your nails, and nail glue or adhesive tabs
- A cuticle pusher or wooden stick, a nail file and a buffer
- An alcohol wipe or a cotton pad with rubbing alcohol
You'll find prep and removal kits with our accessories.
How to apply
- Start clean. Wash and dry your hands well. Remove any old polish, and don't apply lotion or oil beforehand.
- Push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher or wooden stick.
- Buff lightly. Buff the surface of each natural nail just enough to remove the shine. Don't over-file; a light buff helps the adhesive grip.
- Wipe with alcohol. Clean each nail with an alcohol wipe to remove oil and dust, and let it dry. From here on, try not to touch your nail surfaces.
- Size all ten first. Lay out a nail for every finger before gluing anything. Each one should cover your nail from side to side without touching the skin. If you're between sizes, choose the larger one and file the sides to fit.
- Add the adhesive.
- Glue: apply a thin layer to your natural nail and a small drop to the inside of the press-on. Too much glue will spill onto your skin.
- Tabs: peel a tab, press it onto your natural nail, smooth out any air bubbles, then peel off the top film.
- Press on at an angle. Hold the nail at about 45°, line it up with your cuticle, then lower it down towards the tip. Press firmly for 20–30 seconds, especially at the sides and the cuticle edge.
- Finish. File or shape the tips if you'd like them shorter or softer, and wipe away any stray glue.
- Give it time. Avoid water for 1–2 hours after applying, so the adhesive can set fully.
Make them last longer
- Wear gloves for washing dishes, cleaning or kneading atta.
- Use your finger pads, not your nail tips, to open cans, peel stickers or press buttons.
- Avoid long hot showers and swimming in the first 24 hours.
- If a nail lifts, remove it, clean both surfaces and re-apply. Don't just add more glue over the top, as that can trap water.
Glue or adhesive tabs?
| Compare | Nail glue | Adhesive tabs |
|---|---|---|
| How long it lasts | About 1–2 weeks, sometimes up to 3 | About 1–3 days |
| Reusability | Good, with a gentle soak-off and cleaning | Best. Nails come off easily and clean up quickly |
| Best for | Longer wear, holidays, weddings and extra-long lengths | First-timers, a single event, trying a new length, and switching looks often |
How to remove
- Soak. Fill a bowl with warm soapy water and add a few drops of cuticle oil. Soak your fingertips for 10–15 minutes.
- Lift gently. Slide a wooden cuticle stick under the side of the nail and lift slowly. If it resists, soak for another few minutes.
- Never rip or prise nails off. Forcing them takes layers of your natural nail with them.
- Aftercare. Buff away any leftover glue from your natural nails, then massage in cuticle oil or hand cream.
How to reuse your nails
- Buff or gently scrape the old glue or tab from the inside of each press-on.
- Wash, dry and put them back in their case, in order, so you can find each size quickly.
- Next time, repeat the prep and apply as above.