What are the pros and cons of press on nails?

Pros: A quick and easy at-home manicure. Get instantly beautiful nails with no wait times. There’s room for more personalization between the artist and the client. Cons: Room for error with application. If the nail application is not watertight, moisture can accumulate underneath the false nail. Over time, these pools create the perfect environment for fungus and bacteria to thrive in. Following the instructions is necessary to get the most out of your press on nails.

Can press on nails damage my real nails?

With correct application and wear, press on nails are about as damaging to your real nails as getting Gel-X or acrylic extensions. It depends on the preparation of the natural nail, so if you’re being too rough with your file, buffer, or drill, wearing any press ons will damage your nails. However, if you treat your nails carefully during prep, using light pressure to remove cuticle and firm circular motions to lift dead skin from the nail plate, you’ll get the longest wear out of your press ons. Wearing a length that is too long for your lifestyle can also inadvertently damage your nails. If you aren’t used to wearing long lengths, you’re more likely to suffer impact damage to your fingers and nails, getting them caught in things or hitting them on things. Peeling off your press on nails will also damage your real nails.

Are press on nails reusable?

It is not generally recommended to reuse your press ons because there is concern for bacteria, but hypothetically, you could sanitize, dry, and reapply them if you do it properly. It is never recommended to pry off your press on nail. If your nails are lifting and you want to remove them, use cuticle oil and Dawn dish soap mixed with warm water for 25 minutes. Use an orange wood stick to lift the nail a little bit at a time. If it doesn’t feel like it’s pulling away with ease, you may need to soak in Acetone for removal.

Why do my press on nails hurt?

Press on nails will hurt when the nail tip is either the wrong size, the wrong apex height, or both. To properly fit the nail, ensure there is the smallest gap between your natural nail and the press on. It should fit sidewall to sidewall easily, with minimal pressure.

Alternatively, it is possible to develop an allergic contact dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis reaction to the adhesive used to adhere your press ons. If you are experiencing redness, itchiness, soreness, throbbing, or hives, remove them immediately. In these cases you should consult a doctor for an acrylates panel.