How To Remove Press on Nails

The Safest Way to Remove Press-On Nails 

Nails are a great way to express yourself, providing an opportunity to showcase your mood or personality. Some people enjoy the look of long, claw nails, while others prefer a short, low-maintenance style. But what if you don’t have a specific shape that calls your name? For those who love to experiment, press-on nails are a cheaper, more accessible alternative, saving you the time and money you would otherwise spend on a salon appointment every three weeks.

Due to the accessibility and variety of press-on nails, the beauty industry has seen a growing demand for them over recent years. Made of acrylic resin, press-ons are artificial nails that closely resemble a salon-grade manicure. In addition, they are far safer for your natural nails than acrylics or gel polish, allowing you to take control of your nail health once and for all. 

Another benefit of press-ons? They require a simple application process: a tiny dollop of glue on the tip of your natural nail should do the trick. However, learning to remove them properly is crucial if you want to maintain the integrity of your natural nails. We’ve researched the best techniques, so you don’t have to. Simply follow the instructions below to safely remove your press-ons, then share it with your friends so that they can experience the benefits of this easy, effortless, and affordable nail trend without reservations.

Step 1: Choose the Right Glue

This step occurs before the removal process. Prior to applying your press-ons, make sure you have a quality nail glue that guarantees a smooth removal process. Make sure it contains anti-fungal properties to keep bacteria from accumulating, maintaining the health of your natural nails.

Step 2: Soak Your Nails 

Take a glass bowl, fill it with warm water, soapy water and dip your fingers in for about fifteen minutes or until the glue weakens and your press-ons begin to loosen. At this point, gently pull them off or let them fall on their own. If you find after fifteen minutes, they still won’t budge, dip them in acetone-based nail polish remover. Using this method is a quicker way of removing your nails but keep in mind it is extremely drying to your skin and it can damage your press on nail. 

Whatever you do, don’t rip off the press-ons! Doing so will inevitably damage your natural nails and strip their protective layers. Instead, just park yourself in front of the TV as you soak your fingers, and let the water work its magic.

Step 3: Hydrate Cuticles with Oil

You’ve come a long way to keep your nails in tip-top shape. If you want them to remain healthy, you’ll want to show them some extra care at this point in the removal process. Once you’ve removed your press-on nails, you may notice your natural cuticles are looking a bit dry due to the glue you used during application. No need to worry! Simply take your favorite cuticle oil and massage it over your nails to hydrate and revitalize them. Not only is this step important to your nails’ health and appearance, but it will also allow for a seamless application next time you want to give yourself another press-on manicure - which we guarantee will be very soon!