When the time comes for the next mani-pedi, you have lots of exciting options to pick from. There are dip nails, acrylics, natural nails, gels, and more, and knowing which nail style is right for your needs can be a little overwhelming.
10PM Curfew is here to help. Our social media experts have their ears on the ground on the latest trends in fashion and makeup, and there’s one style you won’t want to miss — press-on nails. Whether you’re just trying to save on your beauty routine or you love a look that only takes a few minutes, this is the nail trend that’s sweeping our FYP, and we’re sharing a closer look at our Olive and June press-on favs.
What Are the Benefits of Using Press-On Nails?
Taking care of your nails is essential, and the health of your nails can have a big impact on your overall health and wellness. That’s why people with sensitive skin and nails may want to steer clear of the more invasive or permanent applications, like gels. If you’re looking to protect your nails while reducing the impact of beauty styles, press-ons might just be the way to go. Explore the many benefits of adding press-on nails to your routine.
You Have Options
Your next manicure should really feel like your own, and with press-on nails, it can. It used to be that press-ons were a one-size-fits-all style, but not anymore. Just look at the line-up of colors and styles available at Olive and June, like metallic swirl, full floral, and neon rainbow jelly. You can create a standout and exciting style with press-on nails that give you confidence and joy all day long.
They’re Affordable
Let’s face it, manicures can be expensive. And since a lot of the more involved mani processes don’t necessarily last — hello, touch-ups — you may find yourself spending a lot more than you planned just to keep your nails looking clean. Not so with press-ons. Most press-on kits from Olive and June cost about $10, which means you’ll have an artsy, long-lasting look that doesn’t break the bank.
They Don’t Damage the Nail
Cracking or stripping nails can be painful and irritating, and many of the more involved manicure styles can weaken the nail over time. Press-on nails take the National Park approach — leave no trace. Since they don’t require the use of heat or harsh chemicals, they can be easily removed and won’t cause any kind of lasting damage to the nail or surrounding bed. A great look that keeps your nails healthy? Now that’s something we can get behind.
They Can Last for Weeks
You’re busy living your that it-girl life, and you don’t want to have to worry about going info touch-ups all the time. With press-on nails, you’ll have a cute and lasting look that serves you for up to two weeks at a time. You may want to consider swapping out the kit glue with something stronger to really get that hold, but press-on nails are a great way to save and mark one thing off your to-do list.
They’re Quick to Apply
You also don’t have to worry about spending too much time at the salon when it comes to your press-ons. They go on in less time than it takes to watch a full episode of Gossip Girl (oxox, Upper East Side), and you can easily fix and adjust them as needed. Getting the looks you love shouldn’t take time away from work and play, and with the colorful press-on nails from Olive and June, it doesn’t.
How To Get the Perfect Press-On Nail Look
Once you’ve committed to your press-on nails, there are a few simple steps you want to take to make sure they go on smoothly and last for as long as possible. Get the perfect look with your favorite Olive and June styles today.
Pick the Right Style
With Olive and June, you have so many different options to pick from. Their sizes range from extra, extra short, to extra short, to short, to medium, to long. For shape options, you have squoval, round, oval, and almond, and you can pick between solid colors and designs, as well. On your press-on nail journey, there are many ways to express your personal style.
Set Up Your Nails
It may be tempting to dive right in, but you want to lay all your nails out first. The kits typically come with around 42 different nail options, with two of each size, and it’s worth it to take the time to find the best shape and size for your specific nail. Lay them out in the order you’re going to apply them and make certain that the nail you have for each hand match.
Push Back Your Cuticles
When you glue your nails on, the more surface area, the better. (Especially for us short-nail girlies! Or extra, extra-short nail girlies). That’s why prep is so important. Begin by pushing your cuticles back carefully so you have as much space as possible for applying the nail.
Clean Your Nails
You then want to clean the surface of the nail. Dust and oils can make it difficult for the glue to stick and may mean that your nails fall off prematurely. Rubbing alcohol is the best way to get rid of all the debris that might be lingering on the surface of the nail, so take a pad or cotton swab and gently run it over each nail. Then make sure the nail dries completely before moving on to the next step.
Apply the Glue
Getting the glue right can be a little tricky, but don’t worry. You actually don’t need as much glue as you think, and if your nails are already all laid out, it’s simply a matter of dabbing the glue into place.
If you’re trying to get that extra firm hold, you may be able to tab glue on both the press-on nail and your natural nail but be careful not to overdo it. You don’t want the glue to leak out onto your fingers. It’s best to apply the glue to the base of the press-on and the tip of your natural nail, or to apply the glue right in the center, depending on size.
Press the Nail in Place
Obviously, we want our nails to stay in place for as long as possible. Give it that extra hold by pressing down on the nail for at least 30-60 seconds — where do you think it got its name? Make sure to press evenly so the glue is spread around and the nail adheres tightly.
Trim and Style
If your nail is a single color, or there is no design at the top, you have the option of trimming and filing it. Cute nails are one thing, but we’re all about the functionality of the look as well, and there’s no benefit to cutting your typing or texting time in half. Use the same trimming and styling nail tools that you already have at home to get a finished product that looks cool and works for your lifestyle needs.
You do want to take care when cutting your nails, as the material can be quite strong. If you press down too hard, the nail might crack, so take your time to style and shape the nails carefully.
Embrace the Next Beauty Trend with 10PM Curfew
Whether you’re all about the nails, you love eyeliner looks, or you can’t wait to delve into the world of maximalism makeup trends, 10PM Curfew is here for you. We’re excited to follow the feeds and posts of some of the top content creators in the beauty sphere and to pass those secrets and details back onto you.
And one look we just can’t get enough of us is the press-on nail. It’s affordable, low impact on the surface of the nail, and easy to customize to fit your style and personal preferences. Plus, applying press-on nails couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is prep the surface carefully and make sure you’ve got the right nails lined up to fit your natural nail beds. Over time, it gets easier and easier to pick out the perfect size and to make sure it’s applied properly for maximum staying power.
Press-on nails are a great option for busy people — people just like you — and with so many different options and styles to pick from, it’s easy to fall in love from the first drop of glue. Begin developing your nail and beauty routine with 10PM Curfew today.
Sources:
Fingernails: Do's and don'ts for healthy nails | Mayo Clinic
How to repair damaged nails for good | Harper's Bazaar
What Causes Brittle Nails and How To Treat Them | Cleveland Clinic