Tired of your press-on nails popping off after just a few days? You’re not alone. Many people think it’s just the way it is, but we’re here to tell you it’s not! With the right technique, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting manicure that stays put for 2 weeks or more—all from the comfort of your home.
At Zeyuan, we design our nails for durability, but the secret to extreme wear is all in the application. Follow this professional step-by-step guide to unlock the full potential of your press-ons.
Why Do Press-On Nails Lift or Fall Off?
Understanding the enemy is the first step to victory! Nails lift due to:
Oils and Moisture: The natural oils on your nail plate prevent a strong bond.
Improper Sizing: If the nail is too big or too small, it can catch on things and lift.
Lack of Prep: Skipping the prep steps is the #1 reason for premature pop-offs.
What You’ll Need: Your Long-Last Kit
Your Z.Y press-on nail set
Nail clips or strong tape (for pressure while drying)
A nail file and buffer block
Rubbing alcohol or alcohol prep pads
A cuticle pusher (optional)
Your adhesive of choice: We recommend either:
Strong Nail Glue: For the absolute longest wear (2-3 weeks).
Jelly Tabs/Stickers: For a strong but less permanent hold (up to 2 weeks), perfect for those who like to change styles often. (Shop our Application Kits for everything you need)
The Ultimate Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Nails
Remove: Start with completely clean, bare nails. Remove any old polish or adhesive.
Shape & Buff: Gently push back your cuticles. Lightly buff the entire surface of your natural nail with a buffer block. This creates a slightly rough texture for the adhesive to grip onto. Don’t over-buff!
Dehydrate: This is the MOST CRUCIAL STEP. Take a cotton pad or alcohol wipe soaked in rubbing alcohol and thoroughly scrub each nail. This removes all invisible dust, oil, and moisture. Let them air dry completely.
Step 2: Size Up
Go through your Z.Y set and find the perfect size for each of your nails. The nail should sit snugly against your cuticle and sidewalls without overlapping the skin. If it’s slightly too big, you can gently file the sides down for a custom fit
Step 3: Apply the Adhesive
For Nail Glue:
Apply a small, pea-sized amount of glue to your natural nail. Pro Tip: Also apply a very thin layer to the back of the press-on nail, focusing on the cuticle area and sides.
Avoid over-gluing to prevent overflow and messy cleanup.
For Jelly Tabs:
Peel the tab off its backing and firmly press it onto your natural nail, ensuring no air bubbles.
Peel the top film off the tab.
Step 4: Press and Hold (The Right Way!)
Hold the press-on nail at a 45-degree angle against your cuticle.
Slide it down onto your nail, pressing firmly from cuticle to tip to squeeze out any air bubbles.
Apply firm, constant pressure for at least 30-60 seconds. Use a nail clip or strong tape to hold it in place while the glue fully sets. This ensures a deep, strong bond.
Step 5: The Final Seal
For an extra layer of protection and to seal the edges, apply a drop of nail glue along the seam where the press-on meets your cuticle and sidewalls. Gently brush it along the gap to create a waterproof seal. This prevents water from seeping underneath.
Step 6: Aftercare for Long-Lasting Wear
Avoid water for at least 1-2 hours after application. This means no showers, dishes, or swimming.
Wear gloves when doing chores involving chemicals or hot water.
Apply cuticle oil around the edges daily to keep your skin hydrated, but avoid getting it directly underneath the nail.
Be mindful of your nails! Don’t use them as tools to open cans or scrape things off surfaces.
Pro Tip: How to Remove Them Safely
To remove without damaging your natural nails after a long wear:
Soak your nails in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to loosen the adhesive.
Gently slide a cuticle pusher or orange wood stick underneath the nail to lift it off. Never force or pry them off!
Any leftover glue can be gently buffed away. Follow up with a nourishing cuticle oil
Ready for a Flawless, Long-Lasting Manicure?
You now have all the secrets the pros use. It might take a few extra minutes, but the result—a gorgeous, chip-free manicure that lasts for weeks—is absolutely worth it.
Shop our best-selling, durable press-on nails and professional-grade application kits below to get started on your 2-week manicure journey!
[SHOP THE LONG-LASTING COLLECTION] [BUY THE APPLICATION KIT]
Follow us on Instagram/@Z.Y NAIL SALON for more tips, tricks, and nailspiration!
#Z.YNails#PressOnNails #NailTutorial #LongLastingNails #DIYManicure
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