Product Pictures by Scratchu Official (Available at www.scratchu.store)
Who is a nail-girlie here too! I absolutely love getting creative with my nails and trying out new designs. There’s something about having perfectly polished nails that boosts my confidence and makes me feel empowered. It’s like when you nail your makeup or put together the perfect outfit—it just gives you that extra spark!
Over time, regularly doing my nails started to weaken my nail plates, leaving them thinner and more fragile. That’s when I discovered the magic of press-on nails, and let me tell you—it was a total game changer! Once I got the hang of it, I fell in love with the convenience and how quickly I could switch up my nail look. In just minutes, I can style my nails to perfectly match my outfit, occasion, or mood. And the best part? They’re reusable! (Though, a quick disclaimer: the reusability depends on how you apply and remove them!) Be sure to check out my other post "How to Gently Remove & Reuse Your Press-On Nails", where I share a detailed guide on how to properly remove and clean your press-on nails. This step is key to keeping them in top condition for reuse!
Most press-on nails come with a handy tool kit, and Scratch Official’s kit includes everything you need for a perfect, reusable application:
2 Alcohol Wipes
2 Sets of Sticky Gel Tabs
1 Cuticle Pusher
1 Mini Nail File
Image visual displaying tool kit (Image credits: Scratchu Official)
These essentials are all you need to get started! Now, let’s jump into my guide, where I’ll share not only the step-by-step process but also my personal tips, thoughts, and favourite hacks I’ve learned along the way!
The Ultimate Press-On Nails Application Guide
Step 1: Clipping your Nails
Prepping your nails before application is super important! From my experience, cutting your natural nails as short as possible helps press-ons last the longest. But if you're like me and love switching up your nail designs regularly, you don’t need to go overboard with trimming. Just make sure your natural nails are shorter than the press-ons (obviously!). Check out the image below for a better visual!
Image visual displaying the length of natural nails (Image credits: Scratchu Official)
Step 2: Pushing back the cuticles
Gently use a cuticle pusher to push back your cuticles on each finger—this helps create more surface area for a better fit and a more natural look. That said, I usually skip this step myself because I don't find it necessary. Plus, I prefer not to mess with my cuticles too much, other than applying cuticle oil to keep them and my nails moisturized!
Step 3: File Your Nail Plates
Gently file the surface of your nails to create a rough texture—this helps the adhesive bond better, ensuring a more secure fit between your natural nails and the press-ons. Just make sure to file in one direction to avoid damaging your nail plates!
Pro Tip: If you’re not planning to wear the nails for too long, feel free to skip this step. Even without it, your press-ons should still last around 2-3 days as long as you're not doing anything too intense with your hands!
Image visual of nail filing (Image credits: Scratchu Official)
Step 4: Clean off all dust residue
Use the provided alcohol wipes to clean off any dust or residue from your nails, then let them air dry. This step is key to making sure there’s nothing left on your nails that could mess with the adhesive of your press-ons!
Step 5: Stick on the Gel Tabs
Select the gel tab that best fits your nail size, making sure to leave a small gap between the tab and your cuticles. As you press it on, the excess gel will naturally fill in that space, giving you a smooth and seamless look. Check out the image below for a better visual guide!
Image Visuals displaying gel tab positioning on nail plate (Image credits: Scratchu Official)
Pro Tip: If your natural nail plates are flatter than the curve of the press-ons, try applying two layers of sticky gel tabs! This will help fill the gap between your natural nails and the press-ons, giving you a stronger, longer-lasting hold.
Step 6: Apply Heat
Here’s a little hack for you! After sticking the gel tabs onto each nail, use a hairdryer on low heat to gently warm them up. This softens the tabs, boosting their adhesiveness. Once they’re slightly warmed, remove the protective plastic layer, and you’re all set to apply the press-on nails!
Step 7: Application of Press-Ons
Apply the press-on nails at a 45-degree angle, starting with a small gap away from the edge of the gel tab. This technique helps spread the gel tab evenly, filling the gap near the cuticles. (refer to the image below for better reference)
Image visual demonstrating the angle of application (Image credits: Scratchu Official)
Next, apply pressure and gently push the nail toward the cuticle area, pressing firmly for 10-15 seconds. For more translucent designs, make sure to press a little harder to smooth out the gel tabs and avoid any air pockets.
Check out the video below for a visual guide!
Press-on Nails Application Video (Video credits: Scratchu Official)
Pro Tip: Please do Step 6 & 7 one nail at a time to ensure the gel tabs are still warm when the press-on nails are being applied.
Lastly, please avoid contact with water for the next 2-3 hours!
Crystal Fairy Series by Scratchu Official (Available at www.scratchu.store)
And there you have it—the ultimate guide to applying press-on nails like a pro! With these tips, tricks, and hacks, you’ll be able to rock flawless, salon-worthy nails in no time. Whether you're looking for long-lasting wear or a quick style change, press-ons are the perfect way to switch up your look with ease. Ready to get started? Shop your next set at www.scratchu.store and explore a range of stylish designs. Now, go ahead and get creative with your nails and enjoy that fresh manicure confidence!
Signing off with Love ♥
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