How to Remove Press-On Nails Safely?
When
Handmade Press on Nails Meets Nightmare
"That moment when your Instagram-worthy Coquette nails turn into sticky little enemies...
💅 Your natural nails: Peeling like a sunburned tourist
💔 Your $35 custom set: Snapped like a glowstick at Coachella
The Cold Hard Facts:
- 58% of press-on damage occurs during removal (2024 Nail Tech Survey)
- 3 most common adhesives causing meltdowns:
1️⃣ Adhesive Tabs (aka "Sticky Tabs")
2️⃣ Nail Glue
3️⃣ Solid Gel
PSA: Your nail shape choice (almond nails? coffin nails?) doesn't matter if you butcher the removal!
Method 1: How to Removing Adhesive Tabs & Nail Glue
Tools Needed:
- Orange wood stick
- Nail buffer
- A bowl & warm water
- Dish soap & olive oil
- Alcohol wipes
- Acetone pads (Gentle Formula)
- Cuticle oil
Step-by-Step Guide:
1️⃣ Prep the Soak
Fill a bowl with warm water, add 1 tablespoon of dish soap and 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
Tip: The olive oil helps protect your cuticles while breaking down adhesive.
2️⃣ Soak & Soften
Submerge your nails for 10 minutes. Gently wiggle your fingertips underwater to loosen the press-ons.
For Long Nails: Clip the tips first if you don’t plan to reuse them.
3️⃣ Lift with Care
Use the orange wood stick to slowly pry up the edges.
🚫 Avoid: Metal tools or forceful pulling to prevent nail layers from tearing.
4️⃣ Tackle Residue
- On Natural Nails: Gently buff residue with a nail buffer.
- On Skin: Press acetone-soaked cotton pads on sticky areas for 3 minutes, then wipe clean.
5️⃣ Nail Aftercare
Apply a nourishing Cuticle oil to hydrate.
6️⃣ Prep for Reuse
Clean press-on backs with alcohol wipes and store in an case.
Method 2: How to Remove Solid Gel Adhesive for Press on Nails
Tools Needed:
- 75% isopropyl alcohol (Spray Bottle)
- Orange wood stick
- Fine-grit nail file
- Cuticle oil
Step-by-Step Guide:
1️⃣ Alcohol Application
Spray alcohol along the nail edges and let sit for 3-5 minutes to dissolve the bond.
2️⃣ Gentle Separation
Slide the orange wood stick under the press-on, rocking it side-to-side.
If Stuck: Reapply alcohol and wait 2 more minutes—patience prevents damage!
3️⃣ Buff Away Residue
Lightly file remaining gel from your natural nails using a buffer.
4️⃣ Clean the Press-Ons
Spray alcohol on the press-on’s underside and gently scrape off leftover gel.
5️⃣ Post-Removal Care
Massage Cuticle Oil into nails to restore moisture.
6️⃣ Storage Tips
Disinfect press-ons with alcohol wipes and store in a case
Press on Nails Long Lasting Kits
Part 3: What the best glue for press on nails? How to choose press on nails glue?
Adhesive Type | Best For | Shop Now |
---|---|---|
Adhesive Tabs | Short nails + 7-day wear | Shop now |
Nail Glue | 14-day wear | Shop now |
Solid Gel | (Semi) Transparent nails + 30-day wear | Shop now |
Conclusion: Nail Breakups Shouldn’t Hurt
"Whether you're rocking coffin-shaped custom nails or dainty Coquette nails, smart removal means:
✅ No more "peely" shame
✅ More $$$ saved
✅ Eternal nail glory
Grab our Press On Nails Kit and Press on Nails Starter Kit, make every set last 3x longer!"