Nail Care - Prep, Application, Removal & Reuse
This article will go over the process of preparing your natural nails and applying your new set of press-ons for maximum longevity; then, we will go over the safe removal of the press-ons for nail health, and how to prep for future use!
Materials:
Optional supplies marked with an asterisk*
nail clippers
cuticle pusher
cuticle remover*
acetone OR isopropyl alcohol (must be at least 70%+)
fine grit file (between 180-240 grit to avoid damaging the natural nail)
nail prep liquid* (e.g., primer, dehydrator, protein bond, etc.)
nail adhesive (sticky tabs or liquid glue)
cotton swabs*(preferably pointed)
PREPARATION
Once you collect your materials, it’s time to prepare your nails for a successful application!
Trim your natural nails by clipping straight across the free edge, just above the fingertip
Use a cuticle pusher to gently push back and remove the dead skin
We recommend using a cuticle remover to assist in this step (e.g., Sally Hansen, Blue Cross)
Wipe your nail plate down with acetone and/or alcohol (70%; 91%; 100%) to remove all oils from the nail surface
Buff and file natural nail plate with a fine grit file (180-240) to sand the surface gently & safely
Once filed, use alcohol and/or a prep liquid (primer, dehydrator, protein bond) to remove all moisture & oil from the nail surface
APPLICATION
Your custom set will come with the underside pre-buffed to best ensure security & longevity.
For the best results, follow these steps closely:
Make sure your press-ons are laid out in the right order, and check the fit of each one before applying
If a press-on is not the right fit, use a fine-grit file (180-240) to carefully shape it to your nail by filing down the side walls (we recommend sizing up when ordering standard sizing for this reason)
If using nail glue:
Apply nail glue in a thin layer across the nail plate, adding a small dot at the nail’s free edge
Allow the glue to become slightly tacky (approximately 5 seconds)
If using sticky tabs:
Select the tabs that fit your nail plates best and lay them out
Apply a tab 1-2 mm away from the cuticle, then use a hair dryer to warm the adhesive for about 30 seconds
Apply the nail extension at a 45° angle to prevent air bubbles between natural & artificial nail
Hold & press for at least 15 seconds
Use a cotton swab with acetone or isopropyl alcohol to clean any excess glue from your finger
Do not use/submerge in hot water for up to 4 hours after application
Now it’s time to enjoy your new manicure!
When done correctly, the application can last up to two weeks until removal and cleaning are needed.
REMOVAL
Want to switch out a set or need to pop them off?
Materials:
½ cup of hot water (within safe temperatures)
1 tablespoon of oil
tea tree oil (optional, do a patch test to check sensitivities)
wooden cuticle pusher
container to store your set after removal
Follow these steps & repeat if necessary to remove safely.
Warm up ½ cup of water to as hot as manageable and put it into a heat-safe bowl wide enough to soak your hands
Take a tablespoon of oil & mix into hot water
Add 3 drops of tea-tree oil into the bowl (only if non-irritating, optional)
Soak for at least 20-30 minutes
Wiggle a cuticle pusher gently between any lifting edges on the side walls and cuticle to assist in the removal of the free edge & nail plate
Soak & repeat again if needed
DO NOT RIP YOUR PRESS-ON NAILS OFF. They should come off without pain or damage to the natural nail, also helping preserve your bespoke set for future use!
REUSE
Materials:
cuticle pusher
small sanding pad
acetone OR isopropyl alcohol (70%+)
Once a set is removed, follow these steps to prep them for reuse in the future!
Remove any excess debris & glue from the previous wear by buffing or brushing the inside of the press-ons
Use a cuticle pusher with a sanding pad on the angled end to get into the nooks & crannies!
Wipe down and sanitize each press-on with isopropyl alcohol or acetone
Store your bespoke set for the next time!
