Press-on Nails Guide: Application & Removal

Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. Make sure to completely remove all dirt, grease, and sweat, as these can impair the adhesion of the press-ons. After applying your nails, you should avoid contact with water for at least 3 hours to allow the adhesive to dry properly.

Tip: If contact with water is unavoidable after application, you can briefly dry your nails with a hairdryer. The heat helps reactivate the adhesive and contributes to optimal durability.

• Gently push back cuticles and remove any loose skin. This creates a clean base for perfect adhesion.
• If you are unsure about a manicure or don't feel comfortable with it, you can also have your nails cared for beforehand at a nail salon.

Why this step is important:

The adhesive pads only adhere optimally to a clean, matte surface. Washing your hands alone won't completely remove grease and sweat.

Here's how to proceed:

Carefully and evenly roughen the nail surface with a file until it appears matte. Work without pressure—the goal is to clean and matte, not to thin the natural nail.

Good to know:

Each set includes a practical mini file (standard grit) – ideal for on the go.

Tip for particularly gentle care:

• For sensitive or thin natural nails (e.g. after modeling) or for all those who protect their nails and attach particular importance to care, we recommend our
  Beveled nano precision file . It's extra fine, gentle on the nail plate, and quickly creates the desired matte finish.
• Please do not use hand cream after this step. Residues of oils or lotions can significantly impair the adhesion of the adhesive pads.

Why this step is important:

Even after filing, fine dust particles, grease, or sweat residue may remain on the nail surface. These would significantly reduce the adhesion of the adhesive pads.

Here's how to proceed:

Rub each nail thoroughly with the enclosed alcohol wipe, making sure to also thoroughly clean the edges and base of the nail.

Good to know:

Each kit includes cleaning wipes so you can get started right away. Alternatively, you can use standard 70–75% isopropyl alcohol.

Tip:

• Do not use hand cream or oil-based products after this step, as residue may impair adhesion.
• We recommend cleaning with alcohol because it effectively degreases, but unlike acetone, it does not dry out or irritate the skin as much.

Why this step is important:

The right size is crucial for a natural look and long-lasting durability. A press-on that is too small can put pressure on the natural nail, while one that is too large extends over the skin, quickly looks unnatural, and often comes off faster.

Important:

Always choose the appropriate press-on size first, and only then the correct adhesive tab. Once an adhesive tab is already applied to the natural nail, it's not as easy or clean to try out different press-on sizes.

Here's how to proceed:

For each finger, choose the appropriate press-on by carefully placing it on your nail and checking if it mostly covers the nail. Ideally, it should cover almost entirely, but about 90% is perfectly sufficient. It's important that the side lines do not extend over the skin – a slight gap of 1-2 mm at the sides still looks very natural.

Good to know:

Each set contains various sizes, so you'll find the right fit for every hand. It's best to arrange all chosen nails in the correct order before applying them – this saves time during application.

Tip:

• If you're between two sizes, opt for the smaller one. The most important rule: the press-on must not extend over the skin.
• Slight pressure at the beginning is harmless and usually disappears after a few minutes. However, if you feel significant or persistent pressure, the size is too small and should not be used.

Why this step is important:

Only the right adhesive tab ensures that your press-on adheres optimally and lasts. A tab that is too small won't provide enough hold, while one that is too large will extend beyond the nail edge and collect dirt.

How to proceed:

For each finger, select an adhesive tab that is about 1–3 mm smaller than the press-on or leaves a 1–3 mm gap from the nail edges. This way, the tab remains invisible but provides maximum adhesion. Press it firmly and evenly onto your natural nail.

Good to know:

Each nail set contains two variations of adhesive tabs – one for shorter or smaller nail beds and one for full or longer nail beds. This ensures you find the perfect solution for every nail shape.

Tip:

If you are torn between two sizes, always choose the variant that does not extend beyond your natural nail.

For rather shorter nail beds, the smaller or shorter variant often fits better. For longer or fuller-looking nail beds, the longer variant often sits more harmoniously.

For longer wear, we recommend the variant that covers your nail bed as optimally as possible. For short wear, for example, for a day or a weekend, the slightly smaller variant can also be useful, as it holds securely but is often easier to remove later.

If an adhesive tab is a little too long, you can either carefully trim the excess with small nail scissors or fold it up onto the tab with your natural nail. Make sure not to touch the tab with your fingers if possible.

If some adhesive tab protrudes from under the press-on at the sides, you can carefully remove the excess after application with the pointed end of the manicure stick. This keeps the result cleaner and more hygienic.

Why this step is important:

For the adhesive pad to develop its full adhesive strength, it must sit evenly and without air bubbles on the natural nail. This is the only way to create a smooth surface for the press-on.

Here's how to proceed:

Place the selected adhesive pad in the center of the natural nail, ensuring it's approximately 1-2 mm from the proximal nail fold. It shouldn't extend directly to the base of the nail or the skin edge (you'll learn why this is important in Step 9). Then, press the pad firmly into place, smoothing from the center outward to prevent air from getting trapped. Make sure to press down the edges thoroughly, too.

Good to know:

The more evenly the adhesive pad is applied, the longer the press-on will last. Even light pressure with your finger is enough to securely hold the pad in place.

Tip:

Using a manicure stick, gently press the adhesive pad onto the edges of the nail. This ensures optimal adhesion and prevents gaps.

The protective film keeps the adhesive pad free from dust, dirt, and drying out. The pad is ready for use only after the film has been removed. Removing it too early can significantly reduce adhesion.

Here's how to proceed:

Carefully peel off the protective film immediately before applying the press-on. Avoid touching the adhesive pad so that it remains clean and grease-free.

Good to know:

Our adhesive pads are equipped with a small tab. This allows you to easily grip and peel off the protective film. If the film is still difficult to remove, you can use a manicure stick or the tip of another press-on to help.

Important:

Unused adhesive pads should preferably be stored in a sealed bag, can, or storage box. This protects them better from air, dust, and drying out. If they are left exposed for too long, the adhesive strength may decrease over time.

Tip:

Always prepare only the finger you want to apply the press-on to next. This way, no adhesive pads are unnecessarily exposed, and the adhesive strength is maintained.

Why this step is important:

Applying the press-on nail correctly is crucial for durability and a natural result. When applied correctly, the nail looks like your own and will stay comfortable for a long time.

Here's how to proceed:

In the previous step, you applied the adhesive pad so that it was approximately 1-2 mm from the base of the nail. Now hold the press-on at an angle of approximately 45° and place it so that the edge of the press-on directly meets and overlaps the edge of the adhesive pad. From there, slowly press the press-on down until it sits flush with the base of the nail. Secure it by first pressing along the center of the nail bed and then left and right toward the sides of the nail bed. This ensures that the press-on and adhesive pad are bonded together without any air bubbles.

Good to know:

The 45° angle is crucial: This is the only way the edge of the press-on nail sits flush with the base of the nail. If it's applied flat, the edge may stick up slightly – not only does this look messy but it's also more likely to get caught in the hair. With a little practice, this step becomes quick and reliable.

Tip:

Make sure the side lines of the press-on nail line up exactly with your natural nail. After just a few tries, you'll notice that this technique is very easy and delivers a flawless result.

Why this step is important:

When removing the press-ons from the display stick, a small edge or burr usually remains at the tip. If this isn't removed, it can be annoying or get caught when worn.

Here's how to proceed:

Gently file the tip of the press-on nail smooth with small, controlled movements. Work carefully and only along the edge—not on the surface of the nail. This will avoid scratching or dulling the design.

Good to know:

It's best to file at a slight 90° angle, directly across the tip. Avoid filing at an angle, as this can damage the surface of the press-on.

Tip:

Use a fine file (e.g., a glass or nano precision file) to gently smooth the edge. Just a few strokes are enough to achieve a clean, natural point.

Why this step is important:

After application, the adhesive pads need some time to fully bond to the natural nail. Contact with water during the first few hours can weaken the bond and shorten the wear time.

Here's how to proceed:

Avoid any direct contact with water for the first three hours after application—this includes washing your hands, showering, or prolonged rinsing. This ensures the adhesive pads cure optimally.

Good to know:

After this exposure time, the press-ons are reliably fixed and waterproof for everyday use – whether when washing hands, showering or swimming.

Tip:

If you do come into contact with water unexpectedly during the first few hours, briefly dry your nails with a hairdryer on a low setting. The heat will help the nails adhere and reactivate the adhesive.

Why this step is important:
A warm water bath with a little oil softens the adhesive pads and makes the press-ons flexible. This allows them to be removed more easily and gently later, without putting any strain on the natural nail.

Here's how to proceed:
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a skin-friendly oil of your choice—e.g., massage oil, body oil, baby oil, or olive oil. Soak your fingers in the water for about 10 minutes, gently moving them around to allow the heat and oil to work evenly. If the press-on doesn't lift easily afterward, simply add a little more oil or extend the soaking time.

Good to know:
The oil also nourishes the cuticles and prevents the nails from feeling dry or damaged.

Tip:

• If it fits into your daily routine, you can also combine the removal with a warm bath. Simply add a little bath oil – this way, you'll enjoy a relaxing spa experience while your nails gently soak in the warm water.
• The warmer the water (not hot!), the faster the adhesive pads will soften. If you still have trouble removing your nails afterward, simply soak them a little longer.

Why this step is important:
After soaking, the adhesive pads are softer and the press-on nails are easier to remove. Gently lifting with a manicure stick ensures the nail is gently removed—this way, your natural nails remain intact and the press-ons remain in good condition, allowing you to easily reuse them.

Here's how to proceed:
Place the manicure stick on the side of the press-on and gently pry it off, bit by bit. Slowly work your way along the side of the nail bed. Apply only light pressure and proceed patiently to avoid damaging either the natural nail or the press-on.

Good to know:
The more thoroughly the nails are soaked beforehand, the easier it will be to lift the press-on. If you feel resistance when lifting, it's better to soak them briefly again instead of using force.

Tip:

• If necessary, drip a little oil directly under the already slightly raised area - this will help the adhesive pad to come off more quickly and the press-on to gently detach from the natural nail.
  
• After removal: Wash both your hands and the press-ons with warm water and mild soap to completely remove any oil residue. Rinse thoroughly and let the press-ons air dry on a clean surface or pat them dry with a lint-free cloth. Optionally, you can quickly wipe the inside of the press-ons with a (preferably lint-free) cotton swab and a little isopropyl alcohol and let them air dry completely before storing them.

After removing press-ons, adhesive residue always remains on the natural nail. To make the surface smooth and clean again, this should be completely removed—this way, your nail is optimally prepared for the next application.

Here's how to proceed:
On healthy and smooth natural nails, the adhesive residue can usually be removed by gently rubbing it with your fingers – it will curl up on its own. If your nails were previously damaged or uneven, proceed in two steps: First, remove as much as possible by gently rubbing, then carefully smooth the remaining residue with a fine file.

Good to know:
Always work with a light touch—the goal is to clean the nail surface, not thin it out. This will keep your natural nail healthy and supple.

Tip:
Our beveled nano precision file is particularly gentle for removal. Its extra-fine structure reliably and gently removes adhesive residue without damaging the nail plate.

Even on the inside of the press-ons, residue from the adhesive pads remains after removal. If these aren't removed, the nails won't stick cleanly the next time. Thorough cleaning ensures your press-ons are hygienic, smooth, and ready to be reused.

Here's how to proceed:
Carefully lift the remaining adhesive with a manicure stick or the tip of another press-on and slowly roll it off. The residue can usually be removed in one piece. Be careful to work only on the inside, avoiding scratching the visible surface of the press-on.

Good to know:
The adhesive residue is easiest to remove if you clean the press-ons immediately after removing them. However, if they are left uncleaned for a longer period of time, the residue will dry out and adhere more firmly to the inside. In this case, a warm water and oil bath will help soften the residue, making it easier to remove. Therefore, we recommend always removing the adhesive residue from the press-ons immediately after removing them.

Tip:
If you plan to reuse the press-ons, you can also clean the inside with a cotton swab and a little isopropyl alcohol. This will remove any remaining residue and disinfect the nails at the same time.