How to Apply Fake Nails

Fake nails used to be known for looking, well....fake, but today's false nails are not only natural looking, they can help grow and protect your own nails while you wear them. Since the latest fake nails are thin (like real nails), they prevent your natural nails from chipping, breaking, and splitting by acting as a barrier. You can buy them in one color and paint them another, or you can purchase a set of artificial French manicured nails. And if they're too long for your liking, you can cut and file them just like real nails. All you need is 10 minutes, a steady hand, and a keen eye to find the right size nail for each hand.

Step One

Remove the wooden cuticle stick, the glue, and all of the nails from the box. Take the time to sort through the artificial nails and figure out which size is right for each of your natural nails. There are small numbers on each fake nail that will guide you.

Step Two

Twist off the cap from the glue and place a small dot on one natural nail and the artificial nail you wish to apply to that nail. Swirl the glue around with the wooden cuticle stick so that it is even on both your natural and artificial nail. Then quickly apply the fake nail by pressing and holding it down on your natural nail for at least 10 seconds. The longer you hold the nail in place, the better the adhesion will be and the longer your fake nail will last.

Step Three

Repeat Step Two for all 10 nails.

Step Four

Cut and file the fake nails to your desired length and shape, or keep them as is if you like the shape and length. Wait at least one minute after applying your fake nails to do this to ensure the glue is thoroughly dry. If you're unhappy with the color, you can even polish your fake nails and apply stickers.

Removing Fake Nails

Most fake nails will pop off (without any pain or damage to your natural nail) within a week, but if they do not, you must remove them after 10 days. It is important not to pull the artificial nails off as this could damage the upper layer of your natural nail.

Instead, soak your nails in acetone nail polish remover until the fake nails become soft. Once they soften, you can slide the artificial nails off or wipe them with a cotton ball soaked with acetone nail polish remover. Be sure to remove the glue as well.

Another method of removal is to cut the fake nail until the seal from the glue breaks. Once the fake nails are removed, nourish your natural nail with Vitamin E oil and apply a clear base coat.

Tips

• If your fingers on both hands are about the same size, try to use the same number on the artificial nail for similar fingers (e.g. # 6 for both ring fingers).
• The lower the number, the more likely it will be used for larger fingers or the thumb. The higher numbers are for smaller fingers (e.g. the pinky).
• Ask for assistance from a friend or family member if you have trouble applying your own fake nails.

*To read more of Bobbi Leder's work on Associated Content, click here.