Are Press-On Toenails The Secret To At-Home Pedicures?

Almost nothing sets the tone for a pampering session like a pedicure. It’s a smart way to blend your self-care and beauty routines into one. The best part is, even if you’re unable to make it to the salon, you can bring this salon service to your home with press-on toenails.

The press-on toenails trend is all about giving you a professional-quality pedicure without the fuss. In fact, plenty of YouTubers have recently made the switch from traditional pedicures to press-on toenails and are encouraging their subscribers to do the same. All you need are the right application tips and tools to bring a press-on toenail pedicure to life. Below, follow along as we share the 4-1-1 on press-on toenails, and you can decide if they’re right for you.

WHAT ARE PRESS-ON TOENAILS?

As you may have guessed, press-on toenails are a spin-off of the traditional press-on nails trend. Like press-ons for your fingernails, they are artificial nails, but in this case, they are shaped to match the shape and size of your toenails. You can pick from a variety of designs, finishes, and nail art designs to complement your style. The thought may seem a bit wacky, but the results are worth it.

ARE PRESS-ON TOENAILS BAD FOR YOUR NAILS?

Press-on toenails should be on your radar since they are completely safe for your nails. There is no need to worry about ruining or damaging your toenails when you practice the right application and removal methods.

HOW MUCH DO PRESS-ON TOENAILS COST?

Press-on toenails typically cost anywhere between $8 to $15 for a set. It’s a unique alternative to pedicures and toenail polish for anyone looking to cut down on their beauty budget without sacrificing on style.

HOW TO USE PRESS-ON TOENAILS

Achieving the perfect press-on toenail pedicure is a breeze. Follow along with our step-by-step tutorial to become a pro.

STEP #1: REMOVE OLD NAIL POLISH

Before you reach for your press-on toenail kit, you’ll need to make sure that your toenails are clean. Set the stage by removing any old nail polish.

STEP #2: BUFF AND FILE YOUR NAILS

Now it’s time to shape your toenails to perfection. Grab your toenail clippers and give your nails an even trim. Next, reach for a nail file and shape your nails for a nice and smooth finish. It’s best to keep your toenails on the shorter side so your press-on nails can go the distance. Short nails will reduce the risk of breakage since it’s not so easy for them to get caught on various objects.

STEP #3: SOAK YOUR NAILS

Place your feet in a basin of warm water for two to three minutes to give your nails a quick soak. Grab an orange stick and push your cuticles out of the way to clean things up, then apply a bit of cuticle oil at the base of your nails. Follow up with a hydrating foot cream or lotion, applying it onto damp skin to help seal-in hydration.

STEP #4: SELECT THE RIGHT SIZE NAILS

Once your cuticles have absorbed the oil, you can get started with applying your press-on toenails. All press-on sets come with nails of various sizes. Size each nail to match your natural nails for the perfect fit. Place the rest of the nails you won’t be using out of the way.

STEP #5: APPLY YOUR GLUE

Reach for the nail glue that comes in the packaging and apply a small dot to the tip of your toenail and right below the cuticle. Using too much glue can ruin your press-on nails and shorten the life of your pedicure. Play it safe and only use a tiny amount.

Editor’s note: If you’re not a fan of using nail glue, there is another option: press-on adhesive strips. Most press-on kits come equipped with both nail glue and adhesive strips; follow the instructions listed on the packaging for your desired results. Keep in mind, press-on nails typically last longer with glue, but either option will adhere the press-ons.

STEP #6: PRESS YOUR NAILS ON

Place your press-on toenail on top of your natural nail and press down firmly for one to two minutes. Release and your nails should be perfectly snug. Repeat until you have a full set of press-on toenails.

BONUS STEP: FILE THE PRESS-ON TOENAILS

If you think that they’re too long, you can file down your press-on toenails. Be sure to use a nail file with a higher grit for desired results. You can also use your file to switch up your nail shape if you prefer something different. Of course, there aren’t quite as many options for toenails as there are for your fingernails.

HOW DO YOU REMOVE PRESS-ON TOENAILS

Press-on toenails will eventually run their course, and you need to know how to properly remove them. Here are two ways to take them off.

1. HOT WATER SOAK

There’s no rule that says you have to use harsh products to remove your press-on toenails. You can actually keep things simple and remove your set with warm water and baby oil. It’s a gentle option that works to give your nails a touch of TLC in the process. Start by filling a basin with warm water and add a few drops of baby oil. Place your feet in the mixture and allow your toenails to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Once the nails are loose, you can gently peel off each press-on toenail. You may need to repeat the process for another 10 minutes if your nails don’t budge.

2. ACETONE SOAK

An acetone soak is a great way to remove press-on toenails. Some people find that this technique works a bit faster than the traditional hot water soak. You can also clip your press-on toenails to speed things up. Kick things off by pouring an acetone-based nail polish remover into a basin. Place your feet in the basin, and let your toenails soak for 20 minutes.

Once time is up, check to see if your nails have lifted off of your nail bed. If so, gently peel off the press-on nails. If your press-on toenails are still intact, continue to soak your nails for an additional five minutes, then try the removal process again.

HOW LONG DO PRESS-ON TOENAILS LAST?

Now that you know a little more about press-on toenails, you may be wondering how long they actually last. Press-on toenails can last up to three weeks when applied correctly. They can last just as long or even longer than traditional pedicures as long as you take proper care of them.

Next: How Long Does It Take for Your Nails to Grow?