How to Apply

How to Apply Your Pressed Sets

Watch our application video below to see exactly how to apply your press on nails. Then follow our detailed step by step guide and handy tips to achieve the best fit, longest wear and a flawless finish.

Easy Application in 4 Steps

1. Prep Your Nails

Good prep is the secret to long lasting press on nails.

  • Wash your hands and make sure your nails are completely dry.
  • Trim and file your natural nails so they don't extend past the press on nails.
  • Gently buff the surface of each nail to remove shine. This helps the adhesive grip better.
  • Push back your cuticles using the included wooden cuticle stick.
  • Wipe each nail thoroughly with the included alcohol pad to remove any oils, dust or residue.

Pro Tip: Don't soak your hands or apply hand cream before application. Dry, oil free nails give the strongest hold.

2. Choose Your Size

Finding the right size makes your nails look natural and helps them stay on longer.

  • Lay out all of the nail sizes before you begin.
  • Choose a nail that fits comfortably from sidewall to sidewall without overlapping onto your skin.
  • If you're between two sizes, choose the slightly smaller one for the most natural finish.
  • Arrange the nails in order before applying to make the process even easier.

Pro Tip: Taking an extra minute to size your nails properly can make a huge difference to both comfort and wear time.

3. Apply & Press

Choose the application method that suits your lifestyle.

Shorter Wear (up to 1 week)

Perfect for weekends away, special occasions or when you love changing your nails often.

  • Apply an adhesive tab to your natural nail.
  • Remove the protective backing.
  • Align the press on nail with your cuticle and press down firmly for 10–15 seconds.

Longer Wear (up to 3 weeks)

Ideal if you want maximum hold for everyday wear.

  • Apply an even layer of glue to your natural nail.
  • For extra durability, you can also add a small amount of glue to the back of the press on nail.
  • Align the nail carefully at the cuticle before pressing down.
  • Hold firmly for 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond.

Pro Tips

  • Less glue is more, using too much can cause it to overflow around the edges.
  • Apply one nail at a time.
  • Once the nail touches the glue, avoid moving or sliding it.

4. Style & Go

You're all done!

  • File or reshape your nails if you'd like to personalise the length or shape.
  • Avoid water, hot showers and heavy hand washing for at least 1–2 hours after application to allow the adhesive to fully cure.
  • Treat your new nails like salon nails and enjoy your fresh manicure.

Pro Tip: Our press on nails are reusable when removed carefully, making them a beautiful and affordable alternative to salon nails.

Handy Tips for the Best Wear

  • Apply your nails before bed so the adhesive has several hours to fully set.
  • Avoid using hand cream or cuticle oil before application.
  • Always prep your natural nails thoroughly, even if they look clean.
  • If one nail feels loose, remove it, clean off the old adhesive and reapply with fresh glue.
  • Never force your nails off. Soak them in warm, soapy water with a little oil and gently lift them to help protect your natural nails.