Nail art is a vehicle of self-expression, allowing wearers to sport bold colors, intricate designs, light-reflecting gems, and so much more. For a long time, nail art was only an option if you were willing to go the DIY route or drop a pretty penny at a salon. But over the past few years, next-level press-on nails have emerged as the perfect middle ground. They're affordable, easy to put on, and come in a staggering range of designs.

"Today's press-ons are a far cry from their predecessors," says expert Rachel James. "They are made with advanced materials that provide a more comfortable and secure fit. The adhesive technology has improved, ensuring that press-ons stay in place for longer periods. And my favorite change from the back-in-the-day press-ons is that the design options are incredibly diverse, ranging from classic solid colors to intricate patterns and nail art on all nail shapes and lengths."

In a few short minutes, press-ons can fully transform your look. Here, James and celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards break down how to apply press-ons step by step.

Meet the expert

How to Apply Press-On Nails

"A common mistake when applying press-ons is skipping out on nail prep, causing them not to adhere properly," says James. So be sure to follow all of the prep steps below to ensure a flawless manicure.

1. Prep the Cuticles

Your press-ons will look best (and last longer) when applied to well-groomed nails. Use a cuticle-pusher to press the cuticles back. To make the process smoother, start by applying a cuticle-removing cream. This softens the cuticles without saturating them (which can make them too soft and prone to damage). Feel free to gently trim the cuticles if you have any excess skin that could get in the way of adhesion.

2. File and Buff the Nails

"File and lightly buff natural nails to create a smooth canvas," says James. If your natural nails have some length and you're using a press-on with a narrow tip (like coffin or almond), make sure your natural nail tip isn't wider than that of the press-on.

3. Clean the Nails

"Prepping is key," says Edwards. "Always work on a clean dry nail surface. Apply an antiseptic to cleanse the nail prior to application." Reach for rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to swab away any debris and oil.

Now is also a great time to use the bathroom as you'll want to keep your nails dry for an hour after application!

4. Size the Press-Ons

"Size each of your nails with a press on, making sure that your natural nail is fully covered," says James.

5. Adhere the Press-Ons

There are two types of press-ons: Peel-and-stick and those that require glue. If you're using peel-and-stick press-ons, just peel off the adhesive backing, stick it on the nail, and press it down for 30 seconds.

Peel-and-Stick Nails

If you're using glue-on nails, start by applying a thin layer of adhesive to the nail. "Align the press-on with your natural nail, starting from the cuticle and pressing down toward the tip," says James. "Quickly remove any excess glue with a cotton swab or nail brush if needed." Then, press down on the nail and hold it in place.

Glue-On Nails

6. Keep Hands Dry

Once your nails are on, try to keep your hands dry for about an hour after application to ensure the adhesive can fully cure and set.

7. Enjoy!

With proper application, peel-and-stick press-ons can last up to a week and glue-on press-ons can last up to two weeks. Just be gentle with your nails (they're not tools!) and take care of them.

How to Remove Press-On Nails

"Ripping or popping your press-ons off will tear and weaken the nail," says James." The key to safely removing press-ons is softening the adhesive so the natural nails aren't damaged as the press-on is removed.

1. Trim the Press-Ons

"Cut the press-ons down to the length of your own natural nails," says Edwards.

2. Soften the Adhesive

"A common mistake in removal is not waiting the proper time for the [removal solution] to lift the nails," says Edwards. "People often pull the nails off and damage the natural nail. My tip is patience." There are three main ways to soften the adhesive:

1. Glue Remover: "Apply Glue Off ($6) around the edges of the press-on nail where it’s lifting," says Edwards. "Use the wood stick in the package to break away pieces of the nail. Repeat."
2. Acetone Soak: "Place acetone and mineral oil in a bowl and soak nails in five-minute increments," says Edwards. "Use a file and wood stick to lift the nails from your own nails."
3. Water Soak: "Soak nails in warm water, soap, and olive oil for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive," says James. "Gently lift the press-ons from the sides using a cuticle stick. If the press-ons don’t easily come off, re-soak. Avoid forcefully pulling them off to prevent damage to your natural nail."
   

3. Buff the Nail

"Use a nail buffer to gently remove any remaining adhesive residue," says James.

4. Nourish

Finish off by breathing some life back into your nails. "Apply cuticle oil to rehydrate your nails," says James.

Cuticle Oils