Noah Sinclair
Press-on nails have made a major comeback, with TikTok users raving about a new application method: gel curing. This involves curing press-on nails under an LED or UV light, which provides better adhesion and extends the lifecycle of the nails by a few weeks. The process takes a bit more work and there are some safety concerns, such as the risk of infection or allergic reaction if the gel isn't cured correctly. Press-on nails are also more affordable than gel manicures, costing less than $20 per pack, and they come in various sizes and designs.
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of gel press-on nails
Press-on nails have made a major comeback, thanks in part to their popularity on TikTok. They are a quick and easy alternative to a salon manicure and are a more affordable option. Press-on nails are also safer for your natural nails than gels or acrylics, and they don't damage nails in the same way when removed.
However, the application and removal of gel-cured press-on nails can be more time-consuming and complicated. There are also some safety concerns with this method, including the risk of infection and allergic reaction if the gel isn't cured correctly. It's important to ensure that the gel is fully cured to avoid these risks. Additionally, the UV light used for curing can be a cause for concern, as it may contribute to photo-aging and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer with prolonged use.
Gel-cured press-on nails can last longer than traditional press-ons, with experts claiming they can stay on for up to three weeks. This method provides better adhesion, but it also requires more effort to remove the nails safely. Soaking glued-on nails in nail polish remover or warm soapy water is a gentler alternative to forcefully popping them off, which can damage the nail plate and bed.
While press-on nails come in various sizes and designs, finding the right fit for your nail beds can still be challenging. They may not be suitable for those who want a more natural-feeling option or those who lack the time and skill for application and removal.
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Application methods
The traditional application methods for press-on nails include glue tabs and nail glue. However, a recent viral TikTok video recommended a new method: gel curing. This method involves curing the press-on nails under a UV or LED lamp to make them last longer.
To apply gel-cured press-on nails, start by giving yourself a basic manicure by filing, trimming, and buffing your nails, and pushing back the cuticles. Then, use a nail file to etch the back of the press-on nail, where you would typically put the glue. Clean the press-on and your natural nail with alcohol or acetone.
Next, apply a builder gel to the press-on. Any formula will do, but some users recommend the Beetles Gel Nail Polish Builder Gel. Apply a nail bonder to the nail plate, then roll the press-on nail down, starting from the cuticle and pushing it flat. Press until all bubbles have been removed, and remove any excess gel from the skin.
Finally, cure the nail under the LED/UV light for 30 to 60 seconds. You will need to keep pressure on the nail to ensure it is properly and fully cured, and to prevent bubbles from appearing.
It is important to note that not all press-on nails may work with gel curing. The press-on must be sheer enough for the curing light to pass through and cure the gel. If the press-on is too opaque, the light may not penetrate, which could lead to potential contact allergies.
Another method for applying press-on nails is to use pre-glued nails. These are typically best for shorter wear times and are easy to remove. To remove, apply cuticle oil and gently rock the nail from side to side.
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Removal methods
Gel press-on nails are more challenging to remove than traditional press-on nails. It is not recommended to pop them off, as this can cause damage to the nail plate and nail bed. Instead, you can try the following methods:
- Soak your nails in pure acetone. This method can be time-consuming and may dry out your nails and the surrounding skin, leading to nail brittleness.
- Use a specialised nail glue remover.
- Buff the press-on nails until they are no longer shiny, then soak them in acetone.
- Soak your nails in warm soapy water. This method may not be effective if the glue is not water-soluble.
- Use a product like the jello jello kill base, which has a formula that dissolves the glue.
- Ease the press-on nails off with warm, soapy water and nail oil if they have been worn for five or more days.
- Use a nail polish remover, but this may take longer.
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Safety concerns
Press-on nails have made a comeback, with many people opting for this method of manicure over gel and acrylic nails. The primary reason for this is that press-on nails are considered to be safer than gel and acrylic nails.
However, there are some safety concerns with gel-cured press-on nails. Firstly, if there are gaps between the press-on nail and the natural nail, moisture can enter and lead to infections. This can occur even if the nail is properly prepared with alcohol before application. Secondly, if the gel is not cured correctly or completely, there is a risk of developing an allergic reaction like contact dermatitis when the gel comes into contact with the skin. This can cause swelling, pain, inflammation, and separation. This risk is heightened if the press-on nail is dark or opaque, as the UV light might not be able to penetrate and cure the gel. Thirdly, when removing gel-cured press-on nails, they cannot simply be popped off. Instead, they must be soaked in pure acetone, which can dry out the nail and surrounding skin, leading to brittleness. Furthermore, aggressively scraping to remove the press-ons can damage the nail, cuticle, and nail matrix, which is the nail's growth centre. Finally, the UV exposure involved in gel curing press-on nails is potentially damaging to health, as UV radiation from UV or LED lamps can cause skin wrinkling, age spots, and skin cancer with prolonged use.
While press-on nails are generally safer than gel and acrylic nails, it is important to be aware of these safety concerns when considering gel-cured press-on nails.
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Design options
Press-on nails have come a long way since their early days when they were considered cheap and childish, with few trendy design options. Now, they are a preferred salon alternative for a quick, easy, and on-trend manicure.
There are many design options to choose from, with countless brands offering their own variations. From simple and minimalist styles to more intricate and flashy designs, press-on nails can be found in almost any style imaginable. They are also available in a range of sizes and shapes to fit different nail beds.
For those who want a more natural look, there are press-on nails that closely resemble the shape and colour of natural nails. These can be painted over with regular nail polish, making them easy to remove. There are also pre-glued nails, which are best for shorter wear times and can be easily removed with cuticle oil and gentle rocking.
For those who want a more long-lasting option, gel-cured press-on nails are a popular choice. This method involves using a builder gel and curing the nails under an LED or UV light, providing better adhesion and longer wear. However, it is important to note that gel-cured press-on nails may not be suitable for dark or opaque colours as the light may not be able to penetrate and cure the gel properly, potentially leading to contact allergies.
Overall, the design options for press-on nails are vast and varied, allowing individuals to find their perfect match in terms of size, shape, colour, and style.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel press-on nails are press-on nails that are cured under an LED or UV light instead of being glued on.
To apply gel press-on nails, start by filing, trimming, and buffing your nails as usual. Next, etch the back of the press-on nail and clean it and your natural nail with alcohol or acetone. Apply the builder gel to the press-on and place it onto your natural nail. Finally, cure the nail under an LED/UV light for 30 to 120 seconds.
To remove gel press-on nails, soak your nails in pure acetone. Do not forcefully remove or pop them off as this can cause damage to the nail plate and nail bed.
There are some safety concerns with gel press-on nails. For example, if there are gaps between the press-on and your natural nail, moisture can enter and lead to infections. Additionally, if the gel isn't cured correctly, there is a risk of developing an allergic reaction.
