Press-on nails are quick, beautiful, and beginner-friendly — but to get the best results (and keep your natural nails healthy) it’s important to follow a simple before and after nail care routine.
At Poptipz, we want your nails to look gorgeous and stay strong, so here’s the complete guide to prepping your nails, caring for them after removal, and preventing any potential damage.

BEFORE: Nail Care Routine Before Applying Press-On Nails

Giving your nails the right prep ensures better adhesion, longer wear, and healthier nail beds.

1. Clean & Wash Your Hands

Start with clean, dry hands. Remove dust, oils, and lotion residue that could affect adhesion.

Tip: Avoid applying creams or oils at least 2–3 hours before using glue.

2. Push Back Cuticles (Don’t Cut!)

Use a gentle cuticle pusher to push back the skin at the base of your nail.
This:

• gives the press-on a smooth surface

• allows it to sit closer to the natural nail

• helps avoid lifting

3. Lightly Buff the Surface

Using a soft nail buffer, gently buff the top of each nail to remove shine.

This improves grip and makes your press-ons last longer.

4. Dehydrate the Nails

Use rubbing alcohol or a nail cleanser to wipe each nail.
This removes oils and ensures maximum adhesive strength.

5. Trim, Shape & Smooth

Shorter nails underneath prevent accidental bending. File any sharp edges.

Recommended shapes:

• round

• square-short

• natural oval

These shapes help the press-ons fit more securely.

6. Select the Perfect Nail Sizes

Before you start applying glue or tabs, match each nail tip to your natural nail size.

A perfect fit = no lifting = longer wear.

AFTER: Nail Care Routine After Removing Press-On Nails

Proper aftercare keeps your natural nails strong, hydrated, and ready for the next set!

1. Remove Gently — Never Pull Off

Avoid ripping, peeling, or popping them off by force.

Safer removal options:

• soak in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes

• use cuticle oil at the edges

• use a non-acetone remover for tabs

• use acetone only if necessary for stubborn glue

Let the glue soften naturally.

2. Buff Off Glue Residue

Use a gentle buffer to remove remaining glue.
Avoid scraping or picking — this can thin the nail surface.

3. Hydrate With Cuticle Oil

After press-ons, nails need moisture!

Cuticle oil helps with:

• repairing dryness

• strengthening nails

• improving flexibility to prevent breakage

Use twice a day for best results.

4. Apply a Nail Strengthening Serum or Hardener

Great for:

• thin nails

• peeling nails

• frequent press-on users

Ingredients to look for:

• keratin

• biotin

• calcium

• vitamin E

5. Moisturize Hands & Nails

Apply a hydrating, non-greasy hand cream after your nails are clean and dry.

6. Give Nails a Break (Sometimes)

If you wear press-ons back-to-back, give your nails 12–24 hours of resting time.

This helps them breathe and regain hydration.

Extra Tips for Maintaining Healthy Nails

✔ Avoid using nails as tools

Use the pads of your fingers instead.

✔ Wear gloves for chores

Detergents and long exposure to water weaken press-ons and natural nails.

✔ Keep your nails short underneath

Less bending → less breakage.

✔ Store press-ons properly for reuse

If you’re using reusable sets, remove glue carefully and store them clean.

By following a simple nail care routine before and after wearing press-on nails, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures without damaging your natural nails.
At Poptipz, we design high-quality press-ons that are safe, lightweight, and easy on your nails — as long as you treat them with a little love.

✨ Explore our latest press-on nail collection at poptipz