Have you tried press-on nails?
What are press-on nails?
Like many trends, this manicure technique comes straight from the US and has taken over TikTok and social media, winning over beauty lovers looking for flawless nails and instant nail art. Press-on nails are stick-on false nails you can apply at home – not to be confused with gel extensions or salon-applied tips. Everything’s already sorted: choose your shape (almond, square, stiletto…), length, shade or nail art design – all bang on trend. All that’s left to do is apply them – easy-peasy, even for beginners. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a salon-worthy manicure with zero tools or technical skills required.
(@sally_hansen)
How do they work?
The good news? Press-on nails are super quick and easy to apply! No salon tools or skills required – just follow a few simple steps for a flawless result:
- Prep your natural nails properly – a key step to ensure long-lasting wear.
- Clean each nail with a gentle nail cleanser, often included in kits as cleansing wipes.
- Gently push back your cuticles with a softener and cuticle pusher to clear the nail surface.
- Buff lightly with a fine prep file to enhance adhesion.
- Apply a protective base coat – the secret to a smooth, lasting manicure.
There are two ways to apply press-on nails:
- Pre-glued gel pads: also called adhesive patches, these double-sided stickers come in different sizes and are a breeze to apply. Often included in kits, they’re gentler on natural nails, ideal if you want to avoid glue. With a wear time of 3 to 4 days, they’re perfect for a weekend event or party.
- Glue-on application: a bit more precise but offers a longer-lasting hold – up to two weeks. A better option for day-to-day wear and a more natural finish.
Removing them? That’s one of the biggest perks: it’s just as quick as applying them. Soak your fingertips in warm water for a few minutes to soften the adhesive. If there’s any residue left, gently remove it with an orange stick or cuticle pusher soaked in an acetone-free remover. We love this commitment-free approach – total freedom!
Pros and cons of press-on nails
✅ The pros
- Flawless nails made easy: the ultimate speedy solution, no base coat or top coat required. Unlike classic extensions, which require drying time to ensure proper adhesion, press-on nails are a time-saver. Just align, press, and done! Application and removal are both a breeze. Perfect for a last-minute event or night out – zero stress, maximum glam!
- Instant length and pro styling: whether your nails are short, bitten, soft or break easily, press-ons guarantee a perfect finish. You can mix and match shapes and lengths, from natural to bold. With endless colours and designs to choose from – think minimalist nail art, French tips, glazed donut nails, cherry nails, glass nails – switch up your look as often as you like.
- Reusable nails: just give them a good clean after removing and that’s it – you can wear them again, as long as you handle them with care. This makes press-ons a smart and sustainable choice – not only are they budget-friendly, but they help you cut down on single-use products, all while keeping your nails looking fabulous.
(@sally_hansen)
❌ The cons
- Pre-shaped nails: press-on nails come in pre-defined shapes that might not match your natural nail curve. If the fit’s not right, they can feel uncomfortable or lift off. That’s why it’s important to choose a shape that suits your nail anatomy for better hold and a more natural look.
- Plastic-like finish: some brands go overboard on the shine, which can look overly synthetic. This is often the downside of less clean formulations. For a more natural result, opt for quality press-ons made from certified materials.
- Potential nail damage: incorrect application or harsh removal can weaken your natural nails. Avoid glues with questionable ingredients and don’t rip them off like a bandage – especially if your nails are already fragile or prone to breakage. This could lead to painful lifting of the nail plate.
Press-on nails vs Green™ nail polish: the ultimate showdown
⏱️ Fastest to apply
🟣 Press-on nails: takes just 5 to 10 minutes – a dream when you’re in a rush or getting ready on the fly.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: allow around 30 minutes for a full manicure, including:
- nail prep
- Green™ Base Coat
- two coats of Green™ colour
- a layer of Sunshine Top Coat
Each layer dries naturally without a UV lamp. Speed things up with a few drops of Quick-Dry Drops. Read more about the Green™ System here.
✨ Best finish
🟣 Press-on nails: the result is smooth and even, even on short or damaged nails. Just keep in mind that poorly fitted tips can look fake and may even weaken delicate nails.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: unlike press-ons, what you see is what you get. If your nails are damaged, the finish may not be flawless. That’s why it’s essential to prep and care for your natural nails before applying your polish. But the payoff? A more authentic, radiant result with rich colour and brilliant shine – just the way we like it!
📆 Best staying power
🟣 Press-on nails: they’ll stay on for 3 to 4 days with gel pads, up to 2 weeks with quality glue and a good fit.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: expect 7 days of wear with the right prep – perfect for a long-lasting manicure that’s still kind to your nails.
💚 Most nail-friendly
🟣 Press-on nails: If your nails are soft or already weakened, removal can cause damage. Avoid strong glues with harsh ingredients – go for gentle gel pads instead.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: made with ingredients like potato, corn, and manioc, and free from controversial substances, Green™ polish is the top choice for anyone wanting to care for their nails – and the planet! With a vegan, bio-based formula (up to 83%), this polish combines lasting wear with gentle removal. No need for acetone or filing: simply wipe off with Oil-based Remover and you're good to go – all in under a minute!
🎨 Biggest colour & style range
🟣 Press-on nails: available in a huge variety of colours, shapes, and nail art styles – from classic round to sharp stiletto, from minimal French to full-on glam with glitter, chrome, or intricate patterns. You name it, it exists!
🟢 Green™ nail polish: whether you're into barely-there nudes or show-stopping reds, sparkles or pearls, choose from over 90 shades to suit your mood or the season. Perfect for those who love switching up their manicure game.
🔁 Most reusable
🟣 Press-on nails: yes, if you clean and store them carefully, you can reapply them several times.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: with just one bottle, you get dozens of manicures – making it perfect for at-home routines and much more cost-effective over time.
💸 Most budget-friendly
🟣 Press-on nails: while generally affordable, good-quality sets cost a bit more. They're great for occasional use, but repeated wear can add up.
🟢 Green™ nail polish: your bottle lasts for ages, making it the most cost-effective long-term option compared to press-ons or salon gel nails.
So, what’s the verdict? The choice between press-on nails and classic polish really depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a fun, trendy, effortless look, press-ons are a great quick fix. But if you’re after a timeless, natural-looking manicure that supports nail health, Green™ polish is your best bet. So, which will it be for your next mani?
