The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (2024)

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (1)

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No one talks about how expensive it is to upkeep beauty services. Shelling out hundreds of dollars each month for pricey nail extensions or investing in a UV nail lamp to do your gel mani at home can become quite exhausting, especially if your lifestyle leans on the busier side. You can rock your nails bare, but where's the fun in that, anyway? Press-on nails are the next best thing.

If the term "press-ons" immediately conjures images of sleepovers and drugstore French tips, rest assured that press-ons of today have evolved to rival the look of a salon-level nail set. From French manicures to bedazzled coffin-style tips, today’s offerings come in a range of elevated shapes and designs you’ll be eager to plop on and take selfies with. Heck, some are so sleek, they may even fool people into thinking they’re your actual claws—so as long as you prep your nails properly, that is.

“Definitely groom and clean your cuticles to ensure a seamless look,” advises Ann McFerran, CEO and co-founder of Glamnetic. “Also, making sure to pick press-on nails that are slightly smaller than your real nails will help with sizing.” Duly noted.

To bring you one step closer to a quick and flawless finish, we sifted through customer reviews to find the seven best press-on nails ahead. Additionally, we spoke with McFerran to get all her tips on how best to use them.

1

Best Toenail Press-Ons

Kiss imPRESS Short Pedicure Toe Press On Nails

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (2)

1

Best Toenail Press-Ons

Kiss imPRESS Short Pedicure Toe Press On Nails

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (3)Great assortment of colors to choose from
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (4)Will likely need to file to fit your toenail size

Fake nails on your toes can feel (and definitely sound) weird at first. However, Kiss's imPress nail collection makes the press-on experience quite comfortable. Skip the nail drying time and opt for these nails, which come in a slew of bold colors that look like you're fresh out of a salon for a fraction of the price. The nails are chip-proof and durable enough should you need to file them down to your perfect size.

Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars

An ELLE Editor says: “My aversion to toenail press-ons ended when imPress Short Pedicure nails landed on my desk. I popped one on as a joke but was quickly humbled—toenail press-ons are actually a game-changer. While it takes some getting used to, I love how convenient the nails are and how quickly I can go from having shabby toenails to a polished set with just a buffer, glue, and a little pressure.”— Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com Beauty Commerce Editor

2

Best for a Natural Look

KISS Salon Acrylic Natural

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (5)

2

Best for a Natural Look

KISS Salon Acrylic Natural

Now 11% Off

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (6)Long-lasting glue
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (7)Learning curve to reduce air bubbles

Mimic the look and feel of a fresh acrylic set without the hassle or lofty price tag. With 28 nails to choose from—in varying sizes to cater to a range of nail beds—this set from Kiss is super durable and long-lasting, so you won't need to worry about any popping off for at least two weeks. Even better, the nail length is similar to your natural nails, perfect for those who can't manage stiletto tips but want a more polished look. They melt off with acetone for a seamless removal process.

  • Included nails: 28 nails
  • Included tools: Nail glue, cuticle stick, buffer
  • Reusable: No

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An ELLE Editor says: “I make sure to stock up on the Kiss Salon Acrylic Natural nails for those in-between periods where I'm not ready for a new gel extension set, but I don't want to leave my nails bare. After sizing and applying each nail, I glue them down and then begin the polishing process. I love that I can swipe on my favorite gel nail polish, cure it with a UV lamp, and go about my day (a nail tech even performed a manicure on top of these nails) without disruption. They stay on for quite some time, so long as they're properly applied.”— NP

3

Mari by Marsai 24 Piece 24 Piece Press-On

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3

Mari by Marsai 24 Piece 24 Piece Press-On

Marsai Martin may be best known for her tv role as Diane Johnson on Black-ish, but she’s making her mark in the beautysphere as a nail girl. Her press-on sets range from minimalist shades to fun designs like this oval cut, checkered look dubbed Cookout Invite. Depending on the set, it comes with either nail glue or sticker adhesives for a reusable set.

Included nails: 24 nails

Included tools: Nail glue, cuticle stick, buffer, alcohol wipe pad

Reusable: Yes, if you use the adhesive stickers

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An ELLE Editor says: “Who knew I needed press-on nails from Marsai Martin? These are a pleasant surprise. I avoid press-ons because I’m obsessive about my natural nail bed, so I love the adhesive sticker option. The only downside is that you don’t know if you’ll get glue or stickers with your set. If you want adhesives for a short-term commitment, you’ll have to purchase them separately for $12.00, which brings the press-ons to salon prices.”— Danielle James, Digital Beauty Director

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4

Best Overall

Glamnetic Reusable Press-On Nails

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (9)

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (10)

4

Best Overall

Glamnetic Reusable Press-On Nails

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (11)Long-lasting
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (12)Can be hard to remove

These customer and ELLE-editor loved nails are easy to apply, stay on for around two weeks (three if you’re being careful!), and are easy to remove with zero damage to your nail bed. They come as a set of 24 tips in over 12 sizes to help you find a good fit. Not to mention, they’re available in dozens of colors and patterns to choose from, whether you prefer a classic pink or funky cow print.

  • Included nails: 24
  • Included tools: Nail glue, cuticle stick, double-sided nail tool
  • Reusable: Yes

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “From someone who was skeptical at first, I can honestly say I am shocked with these nails. I take daily showers, I use my hands for all types of things (I’m a teacher) and have accidentally hit my fingers on several objects and not one has fallen off in the week and a half I’ve had these on! Very pleased and will order again!”

5

Best Long Nails

Allkem Stiletto Press-on Nails

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (13)

5

Best Long Nails

Allkem Stiletto Press-on Nails

Now 20% Off

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (14)Easily customizable
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (15)May be too thin for wider nail beds

Don’t sleep on the press-on nail options on Amazon. If you gravitate towards a statement-making look, these top-rated stiletto nails are just the ticket. Backed by over 1,400 five-star reviews, they come in a range of bold finishes, including this cool holographic option. Plus, if you want to shorten them, customers mention you can easily file down the length to your liking.

  • Included nails: 20
  • Included tools: File, adhesive tabs
  • Reusable: Yes

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I am obsessed with these. Super professional, sturdy, trimmable. Got so many compliments on them. Will purchase again.”

6

Best For Nail Art

Chillhouse Checked Out Chill Tips

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6

Best For Nail Art

Chillhouse Checked Out Chill Tips

Now 67% Off

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (17)Cute designs
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (18)Can be hard to remove

For a Gen Z design, these professional-looking press-ons are best suited to the ultimate cool girl who matches her nails to her Pinterest board. With this set, you get 24 nails and the brand’s “non-damaging” nail glue, plus a dual-sided buffer, file, and cuticle stick to create a smooth canvas before application. According to shoppers, these are durable and simple to trim, if needed.

  • Included nails: 24
  • Included tools: Dual-sided buffer and file, cuticle stick, glue
  • Reusable: Yes

Chillhouse rating: 5/5 stars

A Chillhouse reviewer says: “I’m obsessed with Chillhouse. I’ve ordered countless press-ons and they are all so cute! I found they stay on for almost two weeks if you buff your nails before. They are a little long for me, but so easy to trim and file. Highly recommend.”

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7

Best For Damaged Nails

Dashing Diva Magic Press-On Nails

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (19)

7

Best For Damaged Nails

Dashing Diva Magic Press-On Nails

Pros
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (20)No glue needed
Cons
  • The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (21)Design may not suit everyone

If your nails are fragile and you’re scared of using nail glue, these come with a pressure-sensitive adhesive that helps the press-ons stay on without causing damage. The brand says these provide up to seven days of waterproof wear, but some customers note they’ve lasted on nails even longer. When you want to remove them, simply use the included wooden stick to lift the falsie away from your nail bed, then apply a drop of cuticle oil or polish remover to fully loosen the adhesive bond.

  • Included nails: 30 gel nails in 12 sizes
  • Included tools: Prep pad, nail file, wooden manicure stick
  • Reusable: No

Dashing Diva rating: 4/5 stars

A Dashing Diva reviewer says: “I love these nails! First of all, they hold up so well! I go horseback riding, brush the horse, and pick its hoofs all while wearing these. These nails normally stay on for me about one and a half to two weeks without me adding any glue. They are really easy to file down, too!”

What is the best way to apply press-ons?

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (22)

“The best way to apply press-on nails starts with prepping your nails,” says McFerran. “Push down on your cuticles and clean your natural nails with the alcohol pad in the kit. Then find press-on nails that fit your nail. Apply glue on both your nail and press and nails and apply.”

What’s the best way to remove press-ons?

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (23)

“The best way to remove your press-ons would be to soak your hands in warm water with oil and dish soap for 10 minutes,” says McFerran. “Then grab either your cuticle stick or use the edge of a press-on nail to gently pop off your the press-ons on your nails. Never force the nails to pop off because that can result in damage. If a press-on nail is being stubborn, soak for five more minutes before trying again.”

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How can people avoid damaging their natural nails when applying press-ons?

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (24)

“Making sure to follow the removal steps can help people avoid damage to your real nails,” says McFerran. “Also following up with cuticle oil and lotion to keep your hands hydrate will also help.”

Meet the Expert

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (25)

Ann McFerran is the CEO & co-founder of Glamnetic.

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands (2024)

FAQs

The 7 Best Press-On Nails That Will Make You Want to Talk With Your Hands? ›

Match the press-on nail to your nail bed size and curvature. Be sure the nail doesn't have to be pressed down to fit, or it can pop off prematurely. Shape each nail to fit on all sides of your nail bed with a nail file (this is very important if you want a long-lasting set).

How do I choose the best press-on nails? ›

Match the press-on nail to your nail bed size and curvature. Be sure the nail doesn't have to be pressed down to fit, or it can pop off prematurely. Shape each nail to fit on all sides of your nail bed with a nail file (this is very important if you want a long-lasting set).

How do you talk off press-on nails? ›

Apply a few drops of cuticle oil to the areas just under the press-on nails. Then, let the oil soak in for a few minutes. After a few minutes, try to rock the nails back and forth to see if they are loose enough to pull off. Don't try to force off the nail if it will not come off easily.

What fake nails are best? ›

Acrylic and gel nails are a classic choice for an evening out; they come in various shapes and colours to add extra oomph to your look while still looking sophisticated. Stiletto-shaped acrylics also create instant drama - perfect for more daring fashionistas.

What are the best fake nails that don't ruin your nails? ›

I found Olive & June's The Instant Mani Press-On Nails to be the best overall for their non-damaging application and removal and extensive size range that blows all other brands out of the water.

What type of press on nails last the longest? ›

Waterproof glue-down nails tend to hold up slightly longer than peel-and-stick nails. And if any of the nails fall off, you can just reattach them with another coat of glue.

Do press on nails pop off? ›

Press-on nails are a great way to give the illusion of longer, stronger nails. But if they're too small or too long, there's a greater chance they'll pop right off. They can also start to feel uncomfortable, look super clunky and cause damage to your natural nails.

Are Kiss press-on nails good? ›

Summary. Kiss is one of the leading brands for press-on nails and is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a fast, easy and stylish alternative to traditional salon manicures.

Which fake nails are the thinnest? ›

The thinnest nail enhancements are silk or fiberglass wraps which are not often done these days, though you can still find nail techs that do them if you ask around enough.

What is the healthiest fake nail? ›

Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.

What fake nails do salons use? ›

Acrylic nails are created by combining liquid acrylic and acrylic powders to form a hardened substance that fits over your natural nail. This nail salon alchemy is quite common and popular, and technicians require skills and techniques they've honed over years of practice to make your nails look exquisite.

Why are false nails not recommended? ›

While the nails aren't harmful, putting them on and taking them off can involve acids and other chemicals that could cause allergic reactions. Damage to artificial nails also can lead to fungal infections and other problems.

What makes fake nails last longer? ›

It's extremely important to moisturize your hands and especially your cuticles before a press-on nail application. This will ensure the press-on nails can firmly bond to your nail bed, which will make them last much longer. All it takes is some cuticle care and an application of cuticle oil or another moisturizer.

What is the difference between fake nails and press on nails? ›

Press-on nails are fake nails that can be applied at home as well as at a salon. They are quicker to apply, less permanent, and easier to remove than the other three types of fake nails.

What is the best bond for press on nails? ›

The Best Nail Glues for Press-on Nails in 2024
  • Best Overall. Tiphulan Nail Glue for Press-on Nails. ...
  • Most Durable Adhesion. Magic Armor Nail Glue for Press-on Nails. ...
  • Thickest Formula. Makartt Super Strong Nail Glue for Press-on Nails. ...
  • Best Ingredients. Makartt Nail Glue for Press-on Nails. ...
  • Most Durable.
Jan 29, 2024

Are press on nails better for your nails than acrylic? ›

They don't damage your real natural nails

Your natural nails are in better condition under press on nails, the glue won't damage your nail skin and they are healthier compared to acrylic nails.

Should I get short or long nails for press ons? ›

If you have painted nails, make sure to thoroughly remove any nail polish with acetone. From past experience, I've learned that cutting my nails as short as possible helps my press-ons adhere better. Next, it's important to push back your cuticles to remove any dead skin that would prevent your press-ons from sticking.

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