If you notice an issue, apply a small dot of glue as a touch-up before you start your day. Note the date when you applied your press-ons, so you know when it might be time to remove them. After 2 or 3 weeks you should take them off as they’ll have started to grow out.

Bring a nail buffer so that you can buff down the surface of your nail plate before reattachment. Consider also carrying a travel-sized nail polish remover pad. You can use this to wipe off any glue that remains before reapplying the nail.

Keeping your cuticles moisturized will also help prevent hangnails. [4] X Expert Source Mia RubieNail Artist Expert Interview. 23 April 2020. You can also moisturize your hands with lotion to keep your skin soft and supple, and to better show off your nails.

Avoid swimming and soaking in a hot tub or bath. [5] X Research source Wear gloves when washing dishes to prevent the warm water from dissolving the nail glue. [6] X Research source

Whether you’re getting dressed, using your keys, or lifting objects, use slow and deliberate hand movements. [7] X Research source Don’t exert your fake nails to the impact of a keyboard or smartphone. Type with the pads of your fingers instead. [8] X Research source

Don’t peel or pop the fake nails off. This can peel away the top layer of your nails, leaving them dry and brittle. [10] X Expert Source Mia RubieNail Artist Expert Interview. 23 April 2020.

A cheap set of nails that’s well cared for will last longer than a more expensive set if you don’t maintain it properly.

Place a tape measure or ruler across the widest part of your nail to gauge the width. The nail size is often printed on the back of the nail. Once you find the right sizes for each fingernail, write them down or make a note in your phone for future reference![12] X Research source

Shorter press-ons can be just as stylish as long, pointy talons. They’ll be more durable and practical for everyday wear. You’re less likely to risk having a short fake nail pop off when you do your laundry, for instance. But it’s easy to get a long nail caught on something, especially if you’re not used to having long nails.

Square-tipped nails can be easily re-shaped and rounded out, whereas oval nails can’t be reshaped or squared off as easily. [14] X Research source Steer clear of pointed nail shapes like stiletto, coffin, and almond press-ons. The sharp tips can more easily catch on things and you’ll risk dislodging a nail. Pointed nail tips also require more length, but this will shorten the lifespan of your press-ons.

If you’re new to the process of applying fake nails, select a glue with a slower setting time so that you can make last-minute adjustments. [16] X Research source If you’re skilled at applying fake nails, consider a quick-dry formula.

Nail polish remover will dry out your nails a little, but that will actually help the glue for the new nails stick better. If you wash your hands after removing the old polish, dry them thoroughly and spray a dehydrator spray on your nails before applying any nail glue.

To stay organized, line up all the nails on a table, keeping them in order for both your right and left hands.

Follow up by buffing down jagged edges with an emery board.

The clear strip of skin should be pressed back at the nail fold, rather than extending far across your nail plate. Don’t apply cuticle oil at this stage as it can interfere with nail glue.

Don’t use a harsh nail file or emery board, since this can damage your nails.

For the smoothest finish, use a nail file that’s about 180 grit. If it’s too rough, you could end up with ragged edges on your nails. [19] X Expert Source Mia RubieNail Artist Expert Interview. 23 April 2020. If it seems like you need to do a lot of filing and shaping to customize the nails, consider looking for another style or brand that provides a better fit right out of the box. [20] X Research source

Within the inside of the press-on, apply the dot of glue where your natural nail will sit. Try not to get any glue on the tips where the fake nail will extend past your natural nail.

Work quickly if you’ve chosen a quick-dry glue. Or, if you’ve opted for a slower-setting formula, make any necessary adjustments and then leave your finger alone to prevent accidentally nudging the fake nail out of alignment.

Finish your entire hand and then move onto the next one. Refrain from touching anything (including your phone!) while the glue is setting. You can set up a TV show or some music before applying the first nail so you don’t feel tempted to mess with the controls.

You can use an acrylic hardener or a gel hardener topcoat with a drying lamp to make your fake nails even more durable.