Press on, Gel X, artificial nails... What's your thing?

Have you ever wondered if press-on nails are for you? Are they safe to use? What are they, really?

Press-on nails are a safe and gentle alternative to traditional artificial nails and Gel X nails - as long as they are used correctly. They are also a more eco-friendly option because they can be reused!

PRESS ON NAILS

Press-on nails are ready-made artificial nails that are attached to your own nail with nail glue or nail stickers. The advantage of press-on nails is that they are easy to apply and remove at home! Another advantage of handmade press-on nails is that they can be used over and over again, unlike store-bought artificial nails or construction nails. They are also often a more budget-friendly option.

The advantage of press-on nails is that there is no need to visit a nail technician, drill and file your own natural nail, use a UV/LED light, and there is no long-term commitment, as they can be removed at any time. You can even change your nails daily with nail stickers to match your every outfit and mood. Removing press-on nails is therefore easy, quick, and gentle, as long as the removal is done according to the instructions using oil and warm water.

Like everything, press-on nails have their downsides. Nail glue can irritate your skin or nail bed if you are sensitive. Most glues are cyanoacrylate, which can be very allergenic. That is why I recommend doing a test with nail glue before attaching your nails with glue. If glue is not for you, try attaching with nail stickers. They can be used for 1-3 days. I have personally kept them for up to 5 days when I was looking for the best nail tapes for KYIORA nails.

Removing nails too roughly, such as by tearing, can damage natural nails. In the worst case, the nail can split or thin out if the nails are forcibly torn off. Gently removing the nails with warm water and oil does not take long.

If the nails are not applied correctly and air bubbles remain between the nails, moisture will accumulate between the natural nail and the Press-on nail. Moisture between the nails is always a risk of infection, known as "green nail" (pseudomonas). It is therefore very important to follow the application and removal instructions that come with the nails.

It is often said that because nails do not "breathe", you can wear textured/Gel X/Press-on nails all the time. However, constantly covering your nails can weaken the condition of the nail plate, which is why I recommend wearing Press-on nails for a maximum of two to three weeks. Some people wear them even longer, but the adhesive bond weakens over time, which can increase the risk of infection. This is a good thing to keep in mind. It is also a good idea to take "nail breathing moments" from time to time, giving your own nails a rest.

If you have an important event coming up that requires your nails to be in good condition, you can consider attaching your Press-on nails with nail stickers for a day or two.

NAIL EXTENSIONS / GEL-X

The great thing about artificial nails and Gel X nails is that they last for weeks with proper use. So they are really suitable for an active lifestyle where you don't want to change your nails. You have to be careful with these nails too, as they can break or even come off.

The downside of artificial nails and Gel X nails is the filing of the natural nail to build the artificial nail or attach the Gel X nail. Press-on nail prep also includes light nail buffering, which is part of the nail cleaning process. It does not actually file the nail.

UV/LED light is required to apply structural and Gel X nails, which can cause premature skin aging and increase the risk of cancer. The risk is very small, but it does exist. This is not the case with press-on nails unless the nail is applied with UV/LED gel glue. However, I do not recommend doing this yourself at home.

And just like with press-on nails, there is a risk of infection with these nails. Moisture can remain under the nail during the application process or the artificial nail can lift, causing moisture to enter the nail. The only problem with artificial nails is that the infection is only noticed during nail care, or in the worst case, after 6 weeks.

SUMMARY

TIPS FOR SAFE USE

• Choose a nail artist who makes high-quality nails, using high-quality materials
• Clean and dry your nails thoroughly before applying. If your nails are naturally very oily, consider using a nail dehydrator.
• Do not use Press-on nails for too long without a break. The recommended time is 2-3 weeks.
• Gently remove your Press-on nails using oil and warm water.
• If you notice redness, pain, itching or a greenish tint -> remove the nails immediately! Clean the nail and let the nail grow out. Pseudomonas will grow out with the nail.