iGel Academy
Everything You Need to Know About DIY Press-On Nails

Press-On nails are pretty nostalgic since we're first introduced to them as part of our playdates and beauty makeovers in our childhood. Fortunately, it's not a thing in the past. If you're a nail lover who has tried it all from acrylic to gel polish nails, then you probably know how trendy Press-On nails are today.
Celebrities like Ariana Grande and Jennifer Lopez are big fans of false nails. They are innovative nail products that come in a kit. It's the perfect solution for people who are too busy to visit a nail salon but still want to have beautiful nails daily.
Some people buy ready-made Press-On while others buy customized Press-On nails from their favorite nail techs. Regardless, no one can deny how game-changing false nails are for beauty lovers. If you're a nail tech fond of DIY Press-On nails, whether for fun or business, then this blog is for you!
What are Press-On nails?
The 90's beauty trends are coming back not to haunt us but to make our lives easier and colorful, especially for nail enthusiasts. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Press-On nails, also known as glue-on or false nails, were extremely popular. Artificial acrylic nails are pre-made and ready to be applied; all the user has to do is attach them to their actual nails to complete the look.
Press-On nails are acrylic resin, gel, ABS plastic, or ABS plastic artificial nails painted. When it comes to Press-On nails, they are comparable to gel tip extensions from the nail salon, but they cover the entire nail bed instead of just the tip.
Press-On nails, use glue or adhesive tab for applications. They're ideal for special events, and you need to have beautifully designed nails instantly. Press-On nails can last two to four weeks, depending on the quality and usage.
Nail artists create a wide range of designs, and they come in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors when it comes to DIY Press-On nails.
Are Press-On nails bad for your nails?
Press-On nails do not affect your natural nails in any way. Since they don't contain harsh chemicals, Pro Gel tips are an excellent alternative. Remember to give your nails and skin a rest so they can recover.
How long do Press-On nails stay on?
You may keep it up for as long as you like; however, your body will continually renew your cells and nails. When your nails have grown for around two weeks, you may reuse them if you remove them carefully.
Press-On nails that utilize adhesive glue should last for approximately a week, while those that employ stickers may only last for three to five days. There are a few tricks to applying Press-On nails that can help you get the best results.
After using the Press-On nail products, avoid getting your hands wet for at least 2 hours after applying them. Manicures are best performed at night, right before you hit the hay since you're less active.
How to make your Press-On nails last longer:

- Avoid soaking your artificial nails in water
- Check for Press-On nails damage daily
- Make sure to moisturize your cuticles as much as you can
- Be prepared at all times with nail polish remover and adhesive.
- To avoid damaging a false nail, handle it with care.
How to reuse Press-On nails:
Cuticle oil and nail polish remover are all you'll need to reuse these beauties. The nail polish remover may also get rid of the Press-On acrylic. Another trick you can do is soak a Q-Tip (a pointed cotton bud) in acetone before using it.
Use a cotton ball to delicately remove the Press-On tip from one corner by pulling it out toward you. However, to be successful with this approach, you must be extremely patient. Do not remove them immediately since If you tug on your nails, you run the risk of breaking or chipping.
Benefits of using Press-On nails:
- Affordable
- Visually pleasing
- Time-saving
- Not harmful
- Easy-application
- Customized
How to prep for Press-On nails:
1. Find the correct size for your nails

Size your Pro Gel Tips per finger. As mentioned in our in-depth blog about our Pro Gel tips, each clear nail should fit without force just inside your cuticles. You can file the sides of the tips to make it fit better.
2. Place them on a nail holder

Place your tips on a nail holder or a safe place where you can work on the tips comfortably. You can use the holder to secure the tips firmly as you start prepping your nails or brainstorming for nail designs.
3. Be creative with your nail art

Let your creativity run wild when it comes to designing your DIY Press-On nails. Apply your chosen design with gel polish or Dip and Dap powder. Are you looking for something unique? You can try our Mood Gel Colors or LB Glow in the Dark Gel.
4. Use a Top Coat

Apply your Top Coat of choice. If you've yet decided between our different topcoats, we've attached a summary below.
- Original Gel Top Coat - This needs to be cured, then wiped with alcohol after its final curing.
- No Cleanse Gel Top Coat -This must be cured, but no wiping (cleansing) is necessary.
- iGel Matte Top Coat - This needs to be cured and does not require cleansing. However, we do recommend using the No Cleanse Top Coat before the Matte.
For the curing Time: LED (30 seconds), UV/LED (60-90 seconds), UV (2 minutes) depending on lamp wattage.
Steps on how to put on DIY Press- On nails:

What you'll need:
- Pro Gel Tips - The Pro Gel Tips are vital since they will serve as your canvas for your nail designs.
- Pro Gel Base or Pro Gel Base Pen - These nail products are used to adhesion your false nails.
- Gel Polish, Dip and Dap powder, Builder Gel, Sculpture Gel -When it comes to nail designs, you will need these nail products that will help your creativity run free.
- Nail Art Accessories: Gems, Stickers, Glitters, Glass Paper- Last but not least, we highly recommend nail accessories that will add more sparkle and shine to your nail design.
What you should do:
STEP 1. Prep your nails

You can start the prepping process by removing the oil from your nails to make the Press-On nails last longer than two weeks. The first thing you have to do is buff the top of your nail gently. Next, you have to use an alcohol remover or nail polish wipe to remove the dust or dirt from the buffing process.
STEP 2. Use our Pro Gel Tips System in three steps

- Use the Pro Gel Base Pen or Pro Gel Base.
- Stick your DIY Press-On to your natural nail, then cure.
- Leave the Press-On nails as-is or gently buff and file them to your preference.
Here are some helpful tips that will help you effectively use the Pro Gel Tips:
- You can measure out each nail for the right size of each Pro Gel tip.
- Don't forget to paint a thin coat of polish over them first. It'll come in handy when you start reusing the nails you've already removed.
- Top Coat is a must-have if your Press-On needs a little more shine and protection.
How to remove Press-On nails:

There are many ways to remove your DIY Press-On nails but avoid popping them off once you see your nails growing or lifting has occurred since they will damage your nails.
For Press-On nails that require glue, the first thing you can do is get a bowl. Boil some hot water, add a small portion of oil, lastly, add some cold water to soak your hands or nails for 5-10 minutes. After that, you can scrape off the Press-On nails using a cuticle pusher that comes along with the nail kit.
Another method you can do to remove Press-On nails is to keep your nails healthy even if you're using nail products heavily by placing cuticle oil on your nails and massage them. Then soak it off by adding essential oils that are good for your nails and skin for extra nourishment. Once you remove the Press-On nails and see that it's still in good condition, you can clean the back of the Press-On so you can still reuse it later on.
DIY Press-On nails are one of the hottest trends in the nail industry. Join our Facebook community! Let other iGel Beauties enlighten you about trendy nail designs and all things nails.