Can You Put Press-On Nails Over Nail Polish?
If you love getting your nails done but don’t always have the time or money for professional manicures, you may have wondered if you can apply press-on nails over your existing nail polish. The quick answer is yes, you typically can apply press-on nails over nail polish, but the nail polish and application process can impact how long the press-ons last.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about applying press-on nails over polish, from prep work to removal. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of application over polish and tips for making press-ons last longer, no matter what’s underneath.
Can You Put Press-On Nails Over Nail Polish?
Yes, with some preparation
The short answer is yes, you can apply press-on nails over existing nail polish. However, there are a few things you’ll need to do first to ensure they adhere properly and last.
First, you’ll want to make sure the nail polish is completely dry and cured. Trying to apply press-ons over wet polish will likely result in a mess. Give the polish at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, to fully dry and harden before adding press-ons.
You’ll also want to gently buff and roughen the surface of the polished nail so there is something for the glue to grip. Use a fine-grit nail file or buffer to lightly scratch up the surface – this creates micro-abrasions for the glue to seep into and hold onto.
Be very gentle though, you don’t want to actually remove the polish, just scuff it up a bit.
It’s also advisable to wipe the polished nails with a bit of rubbing alcohol before gluing on the press-ons. This removes any residual oil or lotion that could interfere with adhesion. Let the alcohol dry completely before applying the press-ons.
When gluing on the press-ons, use a strong nail glue like Kiss Maximum Speed Nail Glue or Brush-On Nail Rescue Glue. Apply a thin, even layer of glue to the underside of the press-on nail, being careful not to get glue on the surrounding skin. Hold firmly for 30-60 seconds to allow it to set.
Pros and cons to consider
Putting press-ons over polish can be a quick, easy way to get an instant manicure without removing your existing lacquer. However, there are some potential drawbacks:
Pros:
- Saves time – no need to remove and redo polish
- Protects your natural nails – avoids damage from repeat polish removal
- Allows you to switch up nail looks often
Cons:
- May not adhere as strongly or last as long
- Extra buffing/filing could thin out polish
- Press-ons could peel off polish when removed
Prep Work for Press-On Application
Remove oil and dirt from nails
Before applying press-on nails over existing nail polish, it’s important to start with a clean nail surface. Use nail polish remover or pure acetone to thoroughly remove any dirt, oil, or debris from the natural nails. You want the surface to be squeaky clean so the press-ons adhere properly.
An oil-free nail surface helps the glue stick better.
File nails into the right shape
The next step is filing and shaping the natural nails, which provides the perfect foundation for press-on application. Use a nail file to gently shape the nails and remove any roughness or uneven edges. File the nails into a uniform shape – square, oval, or squoval work best for press-ons.
This allows the fake nails to sit flush against the natural nail. Resist the urge to cut or trim the nails, as filing leaves a smoother surface.
Use a dehydrator/prep liquid
After filing, use a dehydrator or nail prep liquid (like Sally Hansen’s Cuticle Eraser + Super Bond) to remove any moisture and oils from the natural nails. These products prime the nails for better adhesion. Apply the liquid across the entire nail and let it dry completely.
The nails need to be squeaky clean and bone dry. This helps the press-ons stick like glue.
Consider removing some of the polish
If the existing nail polish on the natural nails is thick or layered, consider gently removing some of it with nail polish remover and a cotton ball. You don’t need to take all the polish off, but removing a few layers can allow better adhesive contact between the press-on and natural nail.
Just be careful not to scrub too hard. Another option is to rough up the surface of the polish with a nail file so the glue can grip better.
By prepping the natural nails properly – cleaning, filing, dehydrating, and potentially thinning the polish – you create the optimal surface for press-on application. Taking these important steps allows the press-ons to adhere securely and comfortably over your existing nail lacquer.
Applying the Press-Ons Over Polish
Size and fit each nail properly
When applying press-on nails over existing nail polish, it is crucial to take the time to properly size and customize the fit of each artificial nail. Use a nail file to gently shape the edges and tips so they hug the natural nail bed without any overhang or gaps.
This helps create a tight seal for the strongest bond and most natural looking enhancement.
Be sure to follow the sizing chart provided with the press-ons and choose options suited for your nail length and width. Press-ons that are too large or misaligned make removal harder and damage the real nail underneath over time. Taking an extra minute upfront prevents problems later.
Use plenty of glue for maximum adherence
Nail glue is the MVP when prepping press-ons to go over color-coated nails. Use generous amounts across the entirety of each false nail to fill in small gaps or ripples between the two surfaces. This helps compensate for the slippery base and provides added grip.
Let the glue become tacky and sticky before setting the acrylics in place, about 10-20 seconds. The stickier the glue, the better it will cling to polish and hold the press-ons in position. Avoid letting it become too dry or it will bond instantly with no adjustments possible.
Apply firm pressure when setting
After positioning a press-on where you want it atop your painted nail, press down firmly starting at the base and working outward to the tip and sides. Maintaining pressure for 15-30 seconds allows maximum transfer between the glue and colored lacquer base.
Slowly sliding your finger out helps set the seal.
Use a blunt tool like a cuticle pusher to press along the edge of the nail if needed, sealing down any lifted corners thoroughly. Repeat this bonding process with each nail, being careful not to bump the set ones out of place when working on neighboring digits.
Check for gaps where you see the underlying nail polish peeking through before the glue dries. Use an extra dab of glue in those spots and reseal with focused pressure. This helps the press-ons blend seamlessly with your current manicure.
Tips for Making Press-Ons Last
Avoid water exposure
Getting your press-on nails wet can weaken the adhesive and cause them to pop off prematurely. When possible, try to avoid submerging your hands in water. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning. When showering or washing your hands, angle them to minimize water exposure or try to keep your hands out of the stream.
The less water your press-ons are exposed to, the longer they’ll likely last.
Use nail glue for quick repairs
Carrying a small bottle of nail glue in your purse is a great way to reattach a press-on nail that starts to lift or pop off. Just add a small dab of glue to the underside of the nail and press firmly back into place on your natural nail.
The glue provides a quick fix to get more wear time out of your press-ons. Some people even apply a thin layer of glue before initially applying press-ons to reinforce the adhesive. This can help prevent lift off and keep them secured longer.
Consider gel polish for extra durability
Applying a gel polish or gel top coat over your press-on nails can help seal in the design and provide a protective, glossy shield. Gel polish formulas tend to be more chip resistant than regular polish and provide an extra layer of strength over the press-on nails.
This helps prevent cracks or breaks in the design. According to nail care brand OPI, their GelColor formula can last up to 3 weeks on natural nails, so it could extend the wear time of press-ons as well. Just be sure to prep and apply it properly for best results.
Gel manicures do require some maintenance like soaking off periodically.
Removing Press-Ons Applied Over Polish
Taking off press-on nails that have been applied over nail polish can be tricky, but with some care and patience, you can remove them without damaging your natural nails or polish underneath. Follow these tips for safely taking off press-ons from polished nails:
Soak in acetone-free remover
First, soak a cotton ball with acetone-free nail polish remover (using acetone could wreck your manicure!) and hold it against the edge of the press-on, near the cuticle. Let it sit for 30-60 seconds to allow the glue to soften.
An acetone-free remover like Zoya Remove+ is gentle enough for regular polish and won’t destroy your lovingly painted nails.
Gently roll off from cuticle to tip
Next, starting at the cuticle area, gently roll the press-on nail towards the free edge, slowly peeling it off as you go. Take care not to rip it off quickly or forcefully, as this can pull off layers of your natural nail or polish underneath. Patience pays off!
File away excess glue residue
After removing the press-ons, you may have a bit of dried glue leftover on your nails. Take a nail file and gently scrub this away, being careful not to file too hard or you could scratch your polish. An extra-gentle file like Glassbox Crystal files are perfect for this.
And voila! With some TLC your pretty polish should be intact, and your nails ready for the next fab look. Removing glue residue properly ensures your nails stay healthy and strong for your next press-on application! Now go rock your bare nails or paint something new – the options are endless!
Conclusion
While press-ons can definitely be applied over nail polish, taking some time to properly prepare the nails first and using the right application and removal techniques will help them last as long as possible.
With a quality glue and proper sizing, press-ons over color can be a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to get a pretty manicure that lasts.
