Many people worry that press-on nails might look unnatural or fake, but that’s only because they don’t know the right techniques. The truth is, with a little care and preparation, you can make your press-on nails look as flawless and natural as salon acrylics. Say goodbye to the “fake” stigma—here’s how to achieve a seamless, beautiful look right at home!
Check out our quick tutorial on how to make press-on nails look natural in this short video!
1. Buff Your Nails for a Vertically
The first step to natural-looking press-on nails is properly prepping your nails.
Start by buffing the surface of your natural nails. Make sure to buff vertically along the grain rather than against it. This preserves your nail health, reduces damage, and creates a smooth base for the press-ons.Buffing also removes oils and shine from the nail surface, which helps the adhesive stick better.
Skipping this step can result in press-ons lifting or falling off quickly.
2. Push Back Your Cuticles for a Seamless Fit
Next, focus on your cuticles.
Use the stick included in your press-on nail kit to gently push back your cuticles, or use the edge of the press-on nail itself. This step is painless and exposes more of your nail surface, allowing the press-ons to fit snugly and naturally.
Pro Tip: Be gentle during this step to avoid irritation or damage to the skin.
3. Clean Your Nails with an Alcohol Pad
Before applying the press-ons, clean your nails thoroughly with an alcohol pad. This removes dust, oils, and debris, ensuring the adhesive bonds securely.
Skipping this step can lead to gaps or air bubbles, making the nails look less natural. A clean nail surface is key to achieving a flawless application.
4. Choose the Right Adhesive Tabs or Glu
The right adhesive is essential for long-lasting, natural-looking press-ons. If you’re using adhesive tabs, always choose a size slightly larger than your nail for full coverage. You can trim the tabs to fit perfectly. Use the stick provided to press the adhesive tab onto your natural nail so it lies flat and secure.
When applying the adhesive tab, use the stick to gently press out any air bubbles. This ensures a smooth, even surface for better adhesion and a more natural look.
For a stronger hold, consider using nail glue. Glue provides a durable bond and works best for extended wear.
5. Apply Nails at the Right Angle
Proper application is the secret to achieving a salon-quality look. Leave a small 2mm gap near your cuticle when applying. Start by pressing the press-on nail at a 45-degree angle from the base of your nail, then press it down towards the cuticle.This technique ensures the press-ons align perfectly with your natural nail bed for a seamless, natural look.
Once applied, press the nail firmly for at least 10 seconds to eliminate any air bubbles.
6. Avoid Water for 3 Hours After Application
After applying your press-ons, avoid exposing them to water for at least 3 hours. Water can weaken the adhesive bond, causing the nails to lift. To strengthen the hold, use a hairdryer on a low setting to gently warm the nails after application.This helps the adhesive set even better.
Pro Tip: Apply your nails at night after a shower and keep them dry for at least 7 hours. By morning, they’ll feel incredibly secure.
7. Maintain and Care for Your Press-Ons
To keep your press-ons looking flawless, avoid using harsh chemicals and wear gloves when doing chores. Moisturize your cuticles regularly to maintain a polished and healthy appearance. With proper care, your press-ons can last up to two weeks while looking just as natural as the day you applied them.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can make your press-on nails look natural, stay secure, and feel like acrylics. Tottem’s 24-piece handmade press-on nail sets are designed to provide the perfect fit and elevate your nail game effortlessly.
Ready to try? Visit TottemNails.com and enjoy 10% off your first order. Achieve salon-quality nails at home today!
