Press-on nails are a popular and convenient choice if you want to achieve beautiful nails without the hassle of going to the salon to get manicures or nail enhancements. With their easy application and stunning designs, press-ons have become a go-to option for many fashion-forward individuals.
However, nail lovers tend to face some questions when it comes to wearing press-on nails in water:
1) Can I shower with press-on nails?
2) How do I wash my hair with press-on nails?
3) Can I swim with press-on nails?
4) Can I wear press-on nails on a beach vacation?
The answer to the above questions is Yes! Press-on nails are waterproof and The Nails Girl is here to answer all your questions about press-ons and water exposure.
Overview of Press-On Nails
Press-on nails are pre-shaped and pre-designed fake nail tips that can be stuck to your natural nails using nail glue or adhesive tabs. They have many benefits as compared to salon manicures from being easy to use and affordable to having versatile design options and causing less damage to the natural nails than acrylic or gel enhancements.
The durability and longevity of press-on nails depend on certain factors including the quality of the fake nail tips, the type and quality of the adhesive used, and the process of application. If you are a pro in applying press-on nails, you may wear them for up to 4 weeks and if you are careful at removing and storing your press-ons, you can also reuse them.
Impact of Water on Press-On Nails
The impact of water on press-on nails depends on the quality of nails and adhesive used, time spent in water, and the type of water, i.e., tap water, salt water, soapy water, chlorinated water, etc. Water exposure mainly affects the adhesive bond of the nail glue used to stick the press-ons. Keeping your hands submerged in water for some time may affect the glue bond underneath the nail tip and can even lift the nail by seeping into the gaps making it pop off.
Most press-on nails are designed to be water-resistant and they can withstand brief exposure to water but when it comes to keeping the nails exposed to water for a longer duration or in hard water, you need to be extra careful. Though good-quality nail adhesives are strong and durable, they may not hold up well against prolonged exposure to water, especially chlorinated water from the pool or salt water from the beach.
How to Make Press-On Nails Waterproof?
To make the most out of your press-ons even when using them in or around water, you need to keep certain things in mind:
1) The most important factor is the adhesive you use. If you are using adhesive tabs, they won’t make your press-ons last in water because they don’t have a strong adhesive bond. Look for liquid glues that are better in terms of performance. Choose a strong, water-resistant glue that claims at least 2 weeks of wear.
2) Invest in quality press-on nails that claim to be made of waterproof materials as they are designed to hold up better in water.
3) It is best to avoid prolonged submersion in water if you have press-on nails on. You may choose to remove them beforehand if you plan to stay in the pool or beach for long.
4) It is better to opt for a shorter length of press-ons if you know about the prospective water exposure beforehand. Shorter nails won’t have spaces or gaps for the water to seep in thus protecting against lifting or popping off.
Tips for Showering with Press-Ons
Press-on nails and nail glues are designed to be them in everyday activities withstanding a certain amount of water exposure. However, you may pose them at risk if you shower for long hours or expose them to excessive heat or steam. Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken the adhesive bond causing the press-ons to lift or loosen or even fall off.
To increase the longevity of your press-ons even in regular showering, you need to keep certain tips in mind:
1) Minimize exposure to water as much as possible. Avoid submerging your hands in water and take shorter showers to protect the adhesive from weakening and maintain your press-ons.
2) Instead of overheating showers or steam baths, choose lukewarm water to avoid excessive heat and steam. Moisture from these won’t help your glue and may cause your nails to fall off.
3) Try using waterproof shower gloves as a barrier to protect your nails from getting in direct contact with water. This will prevent moisture formation underneath the press-ons.
Washing Hair with Press-Ons
Similar to showering, you can even wash your hair with press-ons but again you have to be careful to protect them from loosening. Besides following the above tips to reduce exposure to water and moisture, you need to be gentle and patient when washing your hair to let your nails stay on.
1) Plan your hair wash sessions. Avoid doing rigorous activities involving water exposure immediately after applying your press-ons. Wait for at least 2-3 hours for the glue to dry completely and become hard before washing your hair.
2) Talking about rigorous activities, don’t use your nails as a tool to scrub your scalp. Though you might like the sensation of raking your nails over your scalp, avoid doing it. This will harm both your scalp and your nails. You may also get your hair accidentally stuck under your nails which will again be painful and you may even rip off your press-on in this.
3) Similar to shorter showers, you should go for shorter sessions even with your hair wash. Soaking your press-ons in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes starts loosening the glue bond. So, avoid exposure to shampoos or hair masks for more than this time.
4) Avoid long, hot showers when washing your hair, and pat your nails dry as soon as you’re done to avoid moisture forming around the glue.
Tips for Swimming with Press-Ons
The answer is again yes, you can swim with press-on nails. You just have to be careful with the chlorinated water from the pool or the salt water from the beach. Hard water can cause more harm to your press-ons than regular tap water.
The high amount of chlorine in swimming pools can harm the press-on nails and reduce the wear time. The chemicals in the water can degrade the quality of the adhesive weakening the glue bond.
When it comes to beach vacations, the sea of course contains salt water which, similar to chlorinated water, can affect the longevity of your press-ons. Though it has less impact than chlorine, the salt in seawater can also cause the glue bonds to weaken and the press-ons to become loose. Besides, the water can also dry out your cuticles and the surrounding skin.
Here are some tips to prolong your press-ons wear even when you go swimming in the pool or the beach:
1) As usual, avoid over-exposure to water. Don’t stay underwater for too long. Don’t keep your hands submerged in water for prolonged periods. Go for a quick swim and then let your nails dry properly before you go back in.
2) If you want to stay in the pool or the beach for long, try wearing waterproof gloves to protect your nails from chlorine or other chemicals getting in direct contact.
3) To form an extra protective layer against hard water, apply cuticle oil or baby oil to your nails and the surrounding skin—also, lather hand cream or moisturizing lotion on your hands before taking a dip in the water. Apply them after coming out of the water as well to avoid dry and brittle nail beds.
4) When going to a pool or for a beach vacation, always carry your nail kit with glue and some extra fake nail tips for any last-minute mishaps. Even if your press-ons fall off, avoid exposing your nails to water with the glue residue as it may harm your natural nails. Also, always clean and dry your nails and fake tips before reapplying in case of emergencies.
Protective Measures and After-Care
If you are planning a beach holiday or foresee spending a good amount of time in the water, you can take certain protective measures to ensure your press-on nails become waterproof and last longer:
1) Buy Quality
Invest in good-quality press-on nails that promise to last longer in rigorous activities and chores involving water exposure. Also, look for glues that come with better adhesion and durability.
2) Apply Correctly
The first step to ensure a waterproof, long-lasting manicure is to apply the press-on nails correctly and efficiently. It is important to choose the right adhesive from among glue tabs and liquid nail glues.
3) Keep them Clean
Always rinse your hands and nails thoroughly with fresh water after exposing them to soapy water, salt water, or chlorinated water. Not just water, the gritty beach sand also affects the nails and the cuticles making them excessively dry.
4) Dry and Moisturize them
Ensure there is no water trapped between the press-ons and your natural nails to prevent the glue from weakening. Moisture can also cause fungal infections which can harm you further. Keep your nails and skin hydrated using cuticle oil around the nails and moisturizing lotion on your hands.
Wrapping Up
Press-on nails offer convenience and versatility and are designed to be waterproof. However, with some proactive measures and careful maintenance, you can enjoy water-related activities without compromising the longevity of your manicure. Remember, avoid prolonged exposure to water, especially hot water, as it can weaken the adhesive. Additionally, always dry your press-ons thoroughly after water exposure to prevent lifting. With these tips in mind, you can confidently rock your press-on nails whether you’re taking a refreshing shower, washing your hair, or enjoying a swim. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach, you can enjoy your vacation or daily routine with confidence. So, go ahead, dive in, and make a splash with your waterproof press-on nails!
