In the modern nail fashion industry, press-on nails are a boon. From everyday wear to special occasions, press-ons can be your go-to nail accessory if you want to uplift how your hands and fingers look. And they are so versatile – it’s a manicure in a box! You can easily fit your press-on nails kit in your handbag and get your manicure done on the go in minutes!
So of course, most of you might have thought of carrying your press-ons for that vacation or your cousin’s wedding or your bestie’s bachelorette, haven’t you? Well until and unless y’all are road-tripping or using adhesive glue tabs, you’re good. But if you plan to bring press-on nails on a plane, we suggest you rethink your choice.
No, we aren’t saying press-on nails are altogether disallowed on flights. However, there are many airline regulations and guidelines when it comes to carrying products like nail polishes, acrylic nails, and liquid glues.
So let’s get into the details of carrying press-on nails on a plane.
Can You Bring Press-On Nails on a Plane?
Essentially, press-on nails are pre-designed and ready-to-wear artificial nails that you can adhere to your nails using liquid nail glue or adhesive tabs. If you are a fashion-conscious traveler and love keeping your nails freshly groomed for all occasions, of course, you cannot take your professional manicurist everywhere with you! For such situations, press-ons are a quick and convenient alternative to fake nail extensions. Not only are they easy on the pocket but you can also learn to apply, remove, and reuse them which can help DIY your at-home or on-the-go manicures in minutes.
However, as we talk about carrying your press-ons with you on the go, the question is can you bring press-on nails on a plane? Well, it cannot be a one-word answer. Though the rules and regulations set by TSA do not explicitly prohibit you from carrying press-on nails on your flights, you still need to follow certain guidelines when it comes to packing and carrying certain crucial items like nail tools and glues.
If you are planning to use sticky tabs for temporarily wearing your fake nails, you may very well carry the kit, as is, in your bag. But if you wish to use liquid glue rather than adhesive tabs, let us brief you in this detailed guide on how you’re supposed to do that.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Rules
Press-on nails themselves are just fake nail tips made of plastic or acrylic. You can bring them in your check-in bags or your hand-carry bags just like any other plastic item. But the main concern lies in nail glues and sharp nail tools like an orangewood stick. Now, you will need all these things in your press-on nails manicure kit but the TSA has specific rules for these products and objects.
The TSA has laid out the ‘3-1-1 rule’ when it comes to the transportation of liquids, gels, and aerosols. And, nail glues, both liquid and adhesive tabs, fall under this category. Hence, you need to follow the TSA rules for when you’re bringing press-on nails on a plane.
Carry-On vs. Checked Bags
The 3-1-1 liquids rule states that if you are carrying liquids, gels, or aerosols in carry-ons, you should have 3 ounces or less product per travel container, all packed in 1 quart-sized clear plastic ziplock bag, and there should be 1 such bag per passenger. You have to follow these guidelines for bringing your nail glues or adhesive tabs in your carry-on luggage and must present this zip lock bag separately during the security checking process. However, avoid carrying any sharp manicure tools like nail clippers in your carry-on bag as these aren’t allowed too.
Contrarily, if you plan to keep your press-on nail kit in your checked luggage, you can do so for higher quantities of glues, nail polishes, and removers as well, since there are no specific size limitations to this. All you need to do is ensure all the items are properly sealed to prevent any leaks or spills. Similarly, carefully pack your nail tools like nail files and cuticle pushers in your check-in bag to carry your entire kit together.
Types of Nail Glue and Flammability
Even when we say that you can carry liquid glues and removers in your checked luggage due to relaxed rules, there are certain regulations laid out by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pertaining to hazardous materials. And we all know that these chemicals are inflammable and some of them might not be permitted on the flights.
So, it is best to read the product label for any hazardous warnings and place them carefully to prevent spilling. Opt for nail glues containing cyanoacrylate which is a non-flammable chemical and check the labels properly to determine if your nail glue is flammable or not. Generally, super glues and other strong adhesive liquids are flammable whereas household glues and most nail glues including adhesive tabs are non-flammable.
Precautionary Measures for Carrying Press-On Nails on a Flight
No one wants to get stuck in security checks when traveling. So, it is better to be safe than sorry and increase awareness regarding the precautionary measures to be followed for carrying press-on nails on a flight.
1) First things first, it is not a good idea to do your press-ons literally ‘on the flight’. Don’t plan to carry liquid glues and a press-ons kit in your handbag to get your manicure done on the plane. It may be risky if you drop your glue bottle on another passenger or on the interiors of the airplane. Besides, your application will also not be flawless if there is any unexpected turbulence.
2) Wrap the nail glue, nail polishes, removers, etc. in protective material such as bubble wrap to prevent spills or breakage due to handling during transit.
3) Always pack your fake nail tips, manicure tools, and glues in a separate ziplock bag and pack them in your checked luggage to avoid last-minute hassles. Don’t give the authorities a chance to take away your beauty essentials claiming them under sharp objects of flammables.
4) Check specific airline regulations for hazardous materials to confirm nail glue is not on their restricted list by any chance.
5) For extra safety, if possible, opt for using adhesive tabs instead of liquid glues when wearing them temporarily while traveling. This way, even if you happen to pop your press-on nail off, you won’t require filing and fixing your natural nails immediately. Besides you don’t have to worry about all the hassle of carrying liquids and flammables.
Wrap-Up
Navigating the world of air travel with your beloved press-on nails can be a breeze with the right knowledge. Understanding the TSA guidelines and best practices for packing your nail essentials ensures that your travel plans stay on point, without any unexpected hiccups at security. Remember, preparation is key: pack your press-on nails in your check-in bag, secure them properly, and be ready to explain their purpose if needed. By following these tips, you can jet-set with confidence, knowing your nails will look fabulous from takeoff to landing.
So, whether you’re off on a weekend getaway or a well-deserved vacation, your press-on nails can be the perfect travel companion. Safe travels and happy nail styling!
