APPLY + REMOVE NAILS

Application kits come with every set and include: buffer block, mini nail file, cuticle stick, alcohol wipe, sticky tabs, and nail glue. 

1. TRIM + FILE

Remove any polish and trim your natural nails short with minimal length to interfere with where press on nail will fit. File your free edge smooth and short.

2. CUTICLE PREP

Soak your hands in warm water for a few minutes. Use wooden stick or a cuticle tool to scrape dead skin from surface of the nail plate and gently push back your cuticle folds.

The goal is to scrape the dead skin that grows over the surface of the entire nail plate, not just to push back the fold.

Investing in a bottle of cuticle remover fluid and a metal pusher tool are the most helpful tools in removing this layer and prepping nails for long lasting adhesion. 

3. BUFF + DEHYDRATE

Lightly buff the surface of each nail to remove shine, and wash your hands with dish soap to remove all oils. 

Wipe every nail thoroughly with an alcohol prep pad to remove dead skin and dust.

Avoid touching nail bed surface with your fingers, since any surface oil will affect how well glue bonds to the nails. 

 

CHOOSE ADHESIVE

ADHESIVE TABS: 1-3 days

Best for weekend wear, events, photoshoots, reusing nails often.

Strong sticky tabs will last longer if you avoid excessive hand washing or hot water exposure. 

NAIL GLUE: 1-3 weeks

Best for long term wear. Actual wear depends on nail prep and how your hands are used day to day.

Hot water and soap will loosen the glue bonds over time, so avoid picking at your nails after water exposure.

    APPLY NAILS

    Work one nail at a time, starting with pinky nail and thumbs for last. The more you do this, the easier it will be to get the hang of it.

    NAIL GLUE APPLICATION

    Apply a thin layer of glue over your natural nail, then add a small amount inside the press on nail. Wait 5-10 seconds until glue becomes tacky.

    Starting at the cuticle, place the nail at a slight downward angle and slowly press toward the free edge to push out any trapped air. Hold firmly for 15 - 30 seconds. 

       

    STICKY TAB APPLICATION

    Choose appropriate sized tab and apply to nail surface or to the inside of press on. Peel sticker backing and hold firmly against nail plate. 

    AFTER APPLICATION

    Best to apply nails at night before bed to allow glue to harden without any water or oil exposure. Avoid submerging hands in water for 1+ hours after applying nails. 

    Do not use cuticle oil immediately after application, and use rubber gloves when washing dishes. Never pick at your nails or use them as tools! 

    REMOVAL GUIDE

    Never force a nail off. If it hurts, it is not ready to come off!

    REMOVING STICKY TABS

    Wash or soak your hands in warm, soapy water until the tabs loosen. Gently lift each nail from the sides and peel away any remaining adhesive.

    REMOVING NAIL GLUE

    Fill a bowl with warm water, dish soap, and a few drops of skin safe oil: cuticle, olive, coconut, baby, etc.

    Soak for 5-10 minutes, then gently lift around the edges to let more water underneath the nail. Continue soaking until the glue releases naturally. Apply oil underneath the gap to loosen glue bonds and reheat water as needed. 

    Depending on the amount of glue used, this may take another 10–20 minutes. Be patient and only remove nails when they come off easily.

    Press on removal serums are a fantastic way to speed up the removal process while protecting the health of your nail plate and the press on nail. 

     

    REUSE NAILS

    Wipe the nails with alcohol and gently remove any leftover glue residue from the back using a buffer block, e-file, or press on removal serum.

    Store your nails back in their case for next time. With proper care, your GNAIL sets are made to be worn again and again!