How to Apply Press-On Nails for Perfect Results: The Ultimate Guide

Mano con Press on nails occhio di gatto rosa

Have you always dreamed of a perfect manicure in 10 minutes, but are worried that fake nails will come off after an hour or ruin your natural nails?
It is the most common doubt of those who approach the world of Press On Nails .

The truth is that modern press-on nails (especially handmade gel ones like Lunae Nails ) have nothing to do with the old plastic nails of the past.

Our secret? We only use professional, high-hold Sticky Tabs .
When applied correctly, they guarantee a secure and flawless hold for days, protecting the health of your natural nail and allowing you to reuse the set as many times as you want .

The secret is not to "glue more", but to prepare the nail properly.
In this guide, I'll reveal my professional tricks for a bombproof application.

Why use stickers? 🛡️

Unlike liquid glue (which often damages the nail and prevents the reuse of press-on nails), adhesives are the most modern and safest choice.
They create a protective cushion between your nail and the false nail.

  • Benefit 1: Zero damage upon removal. Your nails underneath will remain healthy and strong.
  • Advantage 2: Press-ons stay clean and reusable .
  • Advantage 3: Flexible hold (if you hit something, the adhesive absorbs the impact instead of breaking the nail).

What you need to apply press-on nails (The Essentials Kit)

Before you begin, make sure you have everything on hand. If you purchased a Lunae Nails set, you'll find everything already included in the box:

  • Your press-on nails are the right size.
  • A cuticle pusher.
  • A mini file or buffer.
  • Alcohol wipes.
  • Professional stickers (Sticky Tabs).

STEP 1: Preparation (Don't skip this step!) 🛑

Ninety percent of people who lose a nail after a few hours have failed to do this step. Natural nails must be clean and free of oil for the adhesive to adhere.

  1. Push back your cuticles: Use the stick to gently push back your cuticles. This creates space and makes your nails look more natural.
  2. Buff: Using a file or buffer, lightly scrape the entire surface of your natural nail. You don't want to hurt yourself; you just want to remove the shiny surface layer.
  3. Degrease: This is essential. Wipe all your nails with the alcohol wipe to remove dust and, most importantly, the skin's natural oils. Pro tip: After degreasing, don't touch your nails with your fingers again , or you'll transfer the skin's oils back!

STEP 2: The Perfect Application ✨

Here's how to apply the Sticky Tabs so they don't move an inch:

  1. Choose your size: Peel the sticker off the backing, choosing the size that covers most of your natural nail (but without touching the cuticles or skin).
  2. Apply to natural nail: Place the sticker on your nail and rub well to ensure it adheres, eliminating any air bubbles.
  3. The Heat Trick: Pro Tip: Before removing the protective plastic film, rub the adhesive with your finger to warm it slightly. The heat activates the glue and makes it incredibly strong!
  4. Apply the Tip: Remove the film, hold the false nail close to the cuticle (at a 45-degree angle) and gently push under the cuticle for a natural effect.
  5. Press hard: Lower the nail and press firmly for 20-30 seconds , focusing on all sides. The heat from the pressure will set everything.

CLICK HERE FOR THE TUTORIAL WITH MINI-VIDEO

3 Golden Rules to Make Your Press-On Nails Last Longer🔒

Now that you've got them, how do we protect them?

  1. The Water Rule: Avoid water (showering, washing dishes, washing hands) for at least 2 hours after application. The adhesive needs time to set. The best time to apply them? The night before bed!
  2. Use your fingertips: Don't use your nails as tools to open cans or packages. Use your fingertips or knuckles.
  3. Hot Water: Sticky Tabs don't tolerate prolonged boiling water. If you take a long hot bath or wash dishes, wear gloves!

And to remove them?

Don't worry, there's no need to tear them off!
With Sticky Tabs, removing them is a relaxing experience. All you need is a bowl of warm water, soap, and a little oil (even olive oil or cuticle oil).
Soak your hands for 5-10 minutes: the warm water softens the adhesive and the oil makes it slide off smoothly without trauma.

Want to see exactly how? Scroll down to the second part of the page!
👉 [Watch the safe removal tutorial here]

Now that you know how to apply press-on nails like a pro, all that's left is to choose your next look.
Check out our Best Seller collection and get ready to shine!

👉 [GO TO THE SHOP]

Lunae Nails

Frequently Asked Questions

  • With proper application of the included adhesives, our press-ons can last up to a week

    However, the duration can vary depending on lifestyle and the length of the nail applied: the longer they are, the greater the risk of accidental lifting.

  • Yes, if applied with the provided stickers and removed carefully, you can reuse them multiple times.

  • We ship our products throughout Europe.

    Please note that shipping rates may vary by region and will be calculated at checkout.

  • Each product includes a detailed guide to measurements, length selection, and the most suitable fit. We recommend consulting the Size Guide section on each product page.

  • Each Lunae Nails set includes:

    • The press-on nail set
    • 4 sheets of stickers
    • 1 file
    • 1 cuticle stick
    • 1 heart-shaped buffer
    • 2 alcohol wipes
  • For hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns or refunds for personal reasons, such as changes of mind or requests for different sizes/styles.

    However, in accordance with the Right of Withdrawal (Art. 9 Directive 2011/83/EU) , you can return the products within 14 days of receipt, provided they meet the criteria indicated in the Return and Exchange Policy section.

Handmade

Handcrafted with care

Reusable

You apply them in a flash, remove them easily and use them again

Delicate

Safe and gentle, zero stress for your nails

Long Lasting

Up to three weeks with adhesive stickers