Image Credits: Dashing Diva Instagram
As a perfectionist, I want my nails to look flawless, but I’m also clumsy and uncoordinated, making DIYing the perfect manicure at home a tricky proposition. After years of spilling nail polish all over my fingers and immediately reaching for a bottle of nail polish remover, I had my world rocked by discovering press-on nails.
RELATED: Acrylic or Gel Manicure? DIY Perfect Nails At Home
If you don’t already know, press-on nails (or glue-on nails) are artificial nails made of acrylic resin. Press-on nails come in a bunch of different colors, sizes, and designs so you can get the same look as a $50 salon manicure, when in reality you spent under $10 at Ulta and never even left your couch. What’s more, the best press-on nails support your nail health because they’re much less damaging than acrylics or gel polish.
Press-on nails are also a low-stakes way to play around with bold nail looks. Want to try out glittery tips or flower decals for just one night? Grab some press-on nails from brands like Dashing Diva and Kiss so you can experiment all you want.
How to Apply Press-on Nails at Home
Once you’re done, you can easily remove press-on nails by soaking your fingers in warm, soapy water, applying any of these cuticle oils, and peeling them off—or you could just dab on some nail polish remover, then slowly pull off the press-ons.
RELATED: This At-Home Manicure Kit Is Flying Off the Shelves – And It’s Earned Perfect Reviews
Because press-on nails are so versatile and easy to apply, they’re actually frequently spotted on the hands of A-listers like Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, and Blake Lively. After all, sometimes celebrities debut several outfit (and nail) changes in one night. Chrissy Teigen even took to Instagram to discuss how press-on nails “changed her life,” which is both relatable and inspiring. Below, discover the best press-on nails so you, too, can change your life—or at least have killer manicures 24/7.
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1 of 5 Image Credits: Ulta
Dashing Diva Magic Press Blush Hour Press-On Gel Nails
Yes, I’m that girl who had a pink princess-themed bedroom growing up and wore a tutu on the regular. These glittery pink nails deliver a heavy dose of childhood nostalgia and are perfect for channeling girly girl vibes.
2 of 5 Image Credits: Ulta
Dashing Diva Magic Press Gold Standard Press-On Gel Nails
For a chic soirée, scoop up a pack of press-on nails in black and gold with rhinestone detailing. The pack contains 30 gel nails so you get three high-quality manicures for just $9. There’s also a mini file, alcohol prep pad, and wooden stick for easy application and removal.
3 of 5 Image Credits: Ulta
Kiss Full of Roses ImPRESS Press-On Manicure
For splashy summertime shades, you can’t beat this collection of turquoise, yellow, and pastel green hues. The accent nails come in a pack of 30 with a prep pad, wood stick, and mini file to apply the press-ons in just a few minutes.
4 of 5 Image Credits: Ulta
Rebecca Minkoff x imPRESS Blue Haze Impress Nails
Bring a tropical vacation right to you with these cheery, powder blue press-ons. The adhesive has max holding power, and the nails are both smudge- and chip-proof.
5 of 5 Image Credits: Ulta
Rebecca Minkoff x imPRESS Ibiza Nights
Can you say “glamorous”? These press-ons are inspired by the fun-loving spirit and nightlife of Ibiza. The geometric designs glow in the dark, and the nails have a comfortable, secure feel.
