Imagine you had an amazing manicure and a set of gorgeous press-on nails for a few weeks and now it’s time to remove it all. You are already aware of applying and removing your press-ons correctly. But the sleek-looking and long-lasting mani has been backed by a strongly adhesive nail glue. Now you have to go through the nightmare of removing the glue residue from the nails without causing any damage and cracks. How do you do it? Fear no more! The Nails Girl is here to guide you with the correct ways to get nail glue off your nails effectively and safely without harming you.
What is Nail Glue?
Nail glues are strong adhesives used for at-home manicures and press-on nails. Similar to superglues in many ways, nail glue is designed to strongly hold the fake nails to the nail bed and to dry out quickly for the perfect mani. It is a handy tool for attaching press-on nails or nail enhancements or even for fixing and repairing cracked or broken nails to make them last longer.
Artificial nails can easily be attached to natural nails for that effortless look in minutes without visiting special salons or spending too much. But dealing with nail glue isn’t as effortless and quick as using it. It is sticky, messy, and uncomfortable to deal with especially when removing your fake nails.
Why Do You Need a Nail Glue?
Nail glues are commonly used to adhere nail tips, embellishments, press-on nails, etc. to natural nails. These have quick-drying properties and totally clear color making them ideal for nail enhancements, press-on nails, and other such needs. From sticking fake nails or nail enhancements in salons to adhering press-on nails to the nail bed for at-home manicures, nail glues have several applications when it comes to elongating your fingernails using artificial methods.
These are quick-drying, tack-free adhesives with a good bond strength required to hold the extension to the small nail surface along with harsh wear and tear due to everyday chores. You need a good-quality strong nail glue to hold your press-ons for at least two weeks while doing everyday activities without having to worry about your nails coming off.
How to Correctly Use a Nail Glue
To know how to remove nail glue from your nails effectively, you must first be aware of how to apply your nail extensions correctly. From prepping your nails to the exact spot for applying the glue, all these small steps are crucial and will decide how much effort you put in for scrapping the glue residue from the nail surface.
When it comes to nail glues, a little goes a long way – quite literally. When DIYing your manicure at home using press-on nails, be careful about the quantity and approach of putting the glue on the surface of your nails. Using just a drop or two with your press-ons makes them last for 3-4 weeks.
The key is to understand that applying nail glue properly will help you remove it safely and effectively when the time comes. Once you’re clear that your application is on point, refer the below guide to get rid of the glue residue without causing havoc to your nail bed or the surrounding skin,
How to Get Nail Glue Off Your Nails Safely & Effectively
After having your press-ons for about 3 weeks, you will realize that the glue will start to weaken its bond with the nail surface and the tips will start feeling less secure to your fingernails. This is when you should be ideally getting into the process of removing your extensions.
If you want to keep the manicure for less than a week, it is advisable to use adhesive tabs instead of liquid nail glues as they are easy to remove and do not hold the nail bed very strongly. Contrarily, if you have applied strong nail glue and it is holding the tips tightly to the nail, don’t be in a rush to get them off and let them grow out a little. This will give you some space to work surrounding the nail and will also weaken the bond of the nail glue which will make it easier to come off.
So your removal ideally begins at your application and you have to be smart enough to choose between the adhesive tools accordingly. Next, follow a series of steps to get rid of the glue residue from your fingernails:
1) Fill a huge bowl with warm water and add a few drops of baby oil to it. Soak your hands in this bowl and relax as if you would for a spa or a wet manicure. Let your nails soak in this mixture for about 10-15 minutes till you feel the glue losing its bond with the natural nails.
2) Next, have a small bowl of acetone ready and dip your fingernails in it. Soak them for just a few minutes and you’ll feel the glue getting even more diluted beneath your press-ons.
3) Using an orangewood stick, pry the press-on tip at the base of the nail from near the cuticle. This will be easier if the extensions have grown out a bit and you have space to work on them.
4) Be careful not to remove the press-on from the free edge of the nail as it may risk the natural nail bed getting pulled or tugged or even cause breakage.
5) After having the fake nail tips removed, again soak the glue in the warm water and oil mixture to make it softer for easy, safe, and effective removal.
6) Use a nail buffer to gently remove the glue residue from the nail without buffing the nail surface.
7) At the end of the process, keep the nails clean and moisturized for healthier and stronger growth.
Last Word
Whether you’re a fan of press-on nails or just enjoy occasional nail art, understanding the proper techniques can help prevent damage and keep your nails looking their best. Knowing how to safely and effectively remove nail glue from your nails is crucial for maintaining healthy and beautiful nails. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely remove nail glue residue and restore your nails to their natural beauty. Remember, patience and gentle care are key when dealing with nail glue. The next time you apply press-on nails, use a minimal amount of glue and make it easier on yourself when it’s time for removal. With these tips, you can say goodbye to stubborn glue residue.
