Taking off your press-on nails should be just as easy as putting them on. But pull them off too quickly and you could peel away layers of your natural nail, leaving it thin, weak and sensitive.
The secret is patience and the right method. Here's how to remove press-on nails gently, keep your natural nails healthy and even save your set to wear again.
What You'll Need
- Press On Nail Glue Remover
- A wooden cuticle stick or cuticle pusher
- A small bowl of warm, soapy water (optional)
- A nail file to smooth your natural nails afterward
- Cuticle oil or hand cream
Step 1: Loosen the Edges
Apply glue remover around the edges and just under the tips of each press-on nail. This lets the remover reach the adhesive where it's holding on.
Step 2: Give It Time
Let the remover sit for a few minutes to soften the glue. If your nails are holding on tight, you can also soak your fingertips in warm, soapy water for 5 to 10 minutes to help loosen the bond even more.
Step 3: Gently Lift From the Side
Slide a cuticle stick under the side edge of the nail and gently lift. If you feel resistance, stop. Apply a little more remover, wait another minute or two, then try again. The nail should release with very little pressure.
Step 4: Clean Up Your Natural Nails
Once all your press-ons are off, gently buff away any leftover glue with your nail file. Wash your hands, then massage in cuticle oil or a rich hand cream to rehydrate your nails and skin.
What Not to Do
- Don't pull, pry or bite them off. This is the number one cause of damaged natural nails.
- Don't rush. A few extra minutes of soaking saves weeks of regrowth.
- Don't scrape aggressively at leftover glue. Gentle buffing is all you need.
How to Reuse Your Press-On Nails
Love your set? With careful removal, many press-ons can be worn again.
- Gently file or buff away dried glue from the underside of each nail.
- Rinse and let them dry completely.
- Store them in their original box so the sizes stay organized.
- Reapply with fresh glue following our application guide.
Give Your Nails a Breather
If your natural nails feel dry or thin, give them a day or two between sets. Keep them hydrated with cuticle oil and they'll be ready for your next look.
Ready for Your Next Set?
Stock up on the essentials with our Nail Necessities Kit, which has glue, glue remover and a nail file all in one, then find your next favorite look in our color and style collections.