We have all been there before. You just got those new press on nails and you forgot to pack a back up glue. Your manicure looks amazing, but you don't know how long they will really last. How great would it be to have press on nails that last for days, seems too good to be true? Well, I've found the answer!
If you love press on nails, you know how important it is to have a strong glue. That's why before I started my business, I spent 3 months researching the best adhesives for keeping your manicure looking great for days or weeks.
Choosing the right nail glue for your press-ons can seem tricky, but with our guide you'll be able to find the one that works for you.
If you want your press on nails to stay on for a long time, I recommend one of these three glues.
Once you’ve cut your nails and chose your press-on nail design, you’re ready to finish them off with a coat of glue. Because this is the most important part of the whole process, it’s worth taking your time to find the right one for you—don’t just grab the cheapest one you see! No matter which brand or type of glue you choose, there are some things that every good press-on nail glue should have in common:
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It needs to be strong and long-lasting. You won’t want to go through this whole process only for your nails to fall off after a couple days.
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It needs to dry clear and glossy. After all, if it dries dull, what difference does it make that it came in that cute bottle?
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It needs to work on all types of surfaces. If your nails aren’t quite lining up at first, being able to flex the glue makes getting them straight much easier.
Below are the glues I recommend for your press-on nails in order of strength and durability.
1. Nailene Ultra Quick Nail Glue
For a glue that costs less than $3, Nailene Ultra Quick Nail Glue gets rave reviews. It comes in a white tube and is made of cyanoacrylate and contains an ingredient called ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate. This means it’s both fast-drying and super strong. It has a drying time of less than 10 seconds, though you should give each nail some time to dry before putting pressure on it or using your hands for something else.
This glue is often used by people who have trouble keeping other glues in place, especially those whose nails are on the shorter side or those with sweating palms. The only caveat is that this glue can be difficult to remove from your natural nails—if you need it removed, soak them in acetone for 5-10 minutes before attempting removal.
2. L.A. COLORS Rapid Dry Super Nail Glue
An excellent glue for press on nails, L. A. COLORS Rapid Dry Super Nail Glue is a fantastic value: the 1/4 oz bottle costs about $3. To use this glue, apply a small dot of the product to the underside of your press on and then gently press it into place on your natural nail. Hold it in place for 15-20 seconds. This glue forms an immediate bond with the nails and dries crystal clear -- plus, it's strong enough that you won't need to worry about your manicure peeling off in just a few hours!
If you're looking for a great alternative to super glue, this is a good choice -- but keep in mind that it may not be as effective as the glues made specifically for artificial nails (though I think it comes pretty close).
3. Kiss Maximum Speed Nail Glue
Kiss Maximum Speed Nail Glue is a great product and it works very well. It's just hard to find in stores. You can buy it on Amazon, but it'll cost more. This stuff dries and lasts fast! It’s pretty pricey compared to other glues sold at the drugstore, but it's definitely worth the money!
This glue is very sticky! If you have any kind of skin sensitivity, this nail glue won't burn your skin like acetone-based glues do (the ones that come with press-on nails).
And, as a bonus, there isn’t a strong odor like some other nail glues.
Of the three glue brands, my favorite is L.A. COLORS!
It's thin and doesn't ruin your nails. While each of these glues are different, they're all useful in different ways.
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of the different options available to you when purchasing a glue for your nails. Overall, I think that the best choice depends on what exactly you need from a glue. If you're looking for something quick and painless, then go with Kiss Maximum Speed Nail Glue. If you're more concerned about practicality, effectiveness, and results, then Nailene Ultra Quick Nail Glue is right up your alley (pun intended). Finally, if appearance is your main priority (which it can be with these nails!), then L. A. COLORS Rapid Dry Super Nail Glue is the way to go—but make sure it's subtle enough that no one notices!
I hope the information in this article has been helpful. I want to do my best to inform other people about this stuff because I know how frustrating it is to use crappy glue with your press on nails, and how expensive it can be at times. So please share this with others and let them know.
