How to Properly Apply Glue-On Nails

When opting out of paying more to get your nails done at a salon, applying glue-on nails yourself can be a money saver. Yet, making sure that the application is smooth is key to getting that professional manicure look. Here are some key tips based on experience on applying glue-on nails so that they don't look like you did it yourself!

Glue-on nails are sold at most mass-merchandise stores, drugstores, and beauty supply stores. Brands such as Nailene, Broadway, and Fing'rs are just a few of the popular brands. The fun part about Glue-on nails is that you can play around with different shades, styles, and themes, and you can choose the "stick-on" kinds for short-time wear, or the "glue-on" kinds for longer wear. When selecting glue-on nails make sure to check the nail length. Most brands carry more of the medium length nails. If you have smaller hands like me, you definitely should consider getting shorter length to complement your fingers. Try pairing your nails against the screen of the box where you can view the nail designs to see which design and length suits your best. Another thing to check for is if the nail pack comes with nail glue. If you happen to select a nail shade that is more translucent, you might want to obtain nail glue that is more pinkish in color to better match your skin.

Prior to applying the nails, make sure you lay out all the nails in a line. Most kits come with extra shapes so select the ones that matches your finger nail shape best. Make sure your nails are clean before application too. Start with your right or left hand pinky nail. Pick up the glue-on nail you have selected for your pinky nail, flip it over to the non-print side and apply glue, very lightly in the center of the glue-on nail. Use the tip of the applicator to spread the glue out a bit more. Take the nail and clasp it on to your own nail and press firmly down, squeezing your own nail against the glue-on nail for at least twenty seconds. If glue squelches out on the sides, you've put too much and it will leave white marks on your surrounding skin and on the glue-on nail itself. If you want the nail to stay on long as possible, prior to applying the glue-on nail to your own nail, lightly apply some of the nail glue to your own nail, and then press the glue-on nail on to your own. Do this with the rest of the your nails.

The key is to do it quickly so that the glue doesn't dry up, but slow enough to ensure that the glue-on nail will stay. If applied properly, glue-on nails will look professionally done and give your hands a neater appearance. Glue-on nails can last up to 7 days, but most start becoming loose after 4-5 days. If you feel that your glue-on nails are becoming loose sooner than you would like, use a small nail glue pen to apply some glue between the open spots of the glue-on nail and your actual nail. This should help the nails stay on for another couple of days or so.

After a couple of applications, you'll eventually get the hang of it. Glue-on nails coast around $4-$5 and come in a array of themes and designs that reflect your style. Why pay more for something you can do yourself and still look equally as good?