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Our favorite set from Kiss lasted over a week, surviving laundry, dishwashing, and more Lash Brush
Getting your nails done is a luxury, but you don’t have to go to the salon for high-quality tips that would make a Kardashian look twice. Press-on nails bring the spa home to you, with a range of lengths, colors, and styles that are easy to apply, wear, and remove.
“It’s really about shape and style and what you’re looking for in art,” celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein tells PEOPLE. With her work donning the perfectly manicured hands of clients like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Gigi Hadid, Gerstein knows how the right set of nails can make or break a look. But when you’re on the go, a quick option is always preferable. “When you don’t have the time to sit for extravagant nail art (or the money), press-ons are a great option,” Gerstein says.
Our team tested nearly 20 of the most popular nail sets so you don’t have to, including an editor pick that appeared in the Sergio Hudson show at New York Fashion Week earlier this year.
Stayed securely attached, even while doing household tasks
Quick and easy to remove
Glue was a little messy during the application
The Static Nails press-on set proved to be a favorite for its simple application, whimsical design, and durability. Our team liked the natural and classy look of the nails, as well as the shape and size of each nail.
These nails earned a near-perfect score for application and overall look, meaning we thought the quality replicated what you’d find at a salon with the ease of home application. And these nails held their own even after testing was complete. We wore these nails for over a week, doing household tasks like laundry and washing the dishes, and only one nail popped off during that time.
To remove, we opted to peel them off — which took about 15 minutes. Our only complaint was the glue, which sometimes stuck on the top of the nail and made the application slightly messy (though simple to accomplish!).
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: Yes (up to 18 days or 6 times for shorter wear) | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Dual-sided file/buffer, glue
Lightweight feel and strong adhesive
Easy to prep and apply
Not reusable, so after they fall off, you can’t reapply
Earning a perfect score in every test we ran, the Dashing Diva nails are lightweight on your fingers but durable enough to last. These nails were easy to prep and had a strong adhesive that kept them in place. They didn’t falter after repeated hand-washing and lightly bending the edge of the nail to test the adhesive. We loved the look and felt they were comparable to salon-quality nails.
The only slight inconvenience is that these nails aren’t reusable, so once they fall off, they can’t simply be reapplied. However, the set comes with 30 nails in 12 sizes, a prep pad, a nail file, and a wooden manicure stick to help with the application. Given the price (and ease of replacement!), we think these nails are a solid choice for those on a budget who want salon-quality nails at a reasonable price.
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Shiny | Adhesive: Pre-glued adhesive nail tab | Included Tools: Prep pad, nail file, wooden stick
Large variety of shapes, colors, and lengths
Lasted about a week and a half
Comes with 28 nails and application tools
We've tested a range of press-on nails, but one our team particularly loves is the Kiss Bare but Better Nude Nails. We find a Kiss set will last about a week and a half, so you’ll get a good amount of use out of them before moving to your next look.
The Kiss brand also had a special spotlight at this year's New York Fashion Week where a custom set of nails was presented at the Sergio Hudson fashion show — a combination of the Voguish Fantasy Sculpted French Nails and Kiss Nail Rhinestones designed by celebrity nail artist Gina Edwards.
"I'm devoted to my glue-on nails, so as a DIY snob, I'm usually designing my own manicure before I go for a store-bought pack. However, there are a few brands that I'll gravitate towards if I need to fix up my nails in a pinch, and one happens to be Kiss. I love how professional these look on my nails — the hue fading into a transparent ombre near my nail bed to give the mani a seamless, acrylic-like look." —Alyssa Brascia, PEOPLE commerce writer
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: File, manicure stick, glue
Comes with grooming tools, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep everything organized
Nails are sturdy and made from recycled materials
For a little extra oomph on your nails, look to Olive & June The Press-On System. Going above a single set of nails, this kit provides high-quality press-on nails, a host of nail grooming tools and serums, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep it all organized. We loved the design and sheen of these nails, as well as the sturdy material, which is made from 94 percent post-consumer recycled materials.
With top scores in most of our tests, this set of nails survived the sink test and remained in place after our team washed their hands three times. We chose to soak our nails when we were ready to remove them, and the process took about 25 to 30 minutes.
The only hiccup was the glue involved in the application process — which created a bit of a mess. We only struggled to apply one out of 10 nails, and the others adhered easily.
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: Yes | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Pouch, glue, nail clipper, file, buffer, cuticle pusher, cuticle serum, nail strengthener, removal kit
Come in a variety of fun patterns and designs
Stayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water — and even after the shower
Standard size doesn’t fit as well as the custom
One of the trickiest parts of press-on nails is ensuring you don’t damage your nails in the process, and these nails from ManiMe ensure an easy application and removal. Despite being stick-ons, these nails hold up surprisingly well against water and everyday use. They stayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water. To remove them, you should soak them in hot, soapy water for about 10 minutes before peeling them off. Acetone works to remove any residue as well.
The only flaw we could find is when you buy the sample sizes, they are harder to apply for a perfect fit. While our testing team used the sample sizes, the custom option fits much more seamlessly. All you have to do is send in a photo of your nails and the press-ons are 3-D-printed to match. You can also modify the fit with nail clippers and seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies, some matte, some glossy | Adhesive: Pre-glued adhesive gel on each nail | Included Tools: Prep pad, nail file, wood stick
Come in whimsical designs and bold colors
Nails stayed in place during thorough hand washing
Easy to apply and have a seamless look
Not reusable, but the price reflects one-time use
With more than 30 different press-on nail designs in an assortment of bold and brilliant colors, PaintLab has a nail set for each taste preference. This nail set was easy to apply and received a perfect score in our strength of adhesive test. Despite the top-notch fusion, you can remove these nails by soaking them in warm, soapy water and using the included wooden nail stick to peel them off from the side.
While these nails are highly durable and you can enjoy them for a few weeks, they are not reusable. However, given the low price and wide availability, you can get another pair in no time at all.
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies, some matte, some glossy | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Dual-sided nail file and buffer, wooden cuticle stick, nail glue
Super easy to apply, since there’s no glue involved
Comes with extras, so you can get the right fit and have replacements on hand
Wide variety of colors and designs
For those looking for an assortment of color options, Kiss Impress has over 300 solid colors and designs to choose from, including a Taylor Swift red, ballet pink, and sophisticated navy. Thirty-three nails come in every set, so you can find the right fit for each of your nails. This set comes with an adhesive tab on each nail, so you simply peel off the backing and press the nail on.
“I used to get wild nail art on a regular basis, but I moved this year and haven’t yet found the perfect nail artist in my new state. Thankfully, these Kiss Impress nails are holding me over. They come in so many cute colors and designs (like this funky collab set and this sunset palette set), so my nails are still making a statement. Plus, they're incredibly easy to apply.” —Erin Johnson, PEOPLE associate editorial director
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors | Finish: Varies, some matte, some glossy | Adhesive: Pre-applied adhesive | Included Tools: Prep pad, nail file, manicure stick
Easy to apply and reapply
Stayed on for two weeks
Not the easiest to remove
Glue residue may get on your skin during application, but it comes off easily
Our team loved how easy these nails were to apply. You match up the sizes, apply glue to the press-on and your nail, and press down to secure the nail in place. Senior commerce editor Erika Reals says she normally leans away from acrylic/fake nails from a functional standpoint, but when she used Chillhouse Nails for a few trips last summer, she was taken by surprise. “Everything you need comes in the package: 24 press-ons, dual [nail] filer/buffer, cuticle stick, and nail glue,” says Reals.
During testing, we were impressed with how well these nails did when we washed our hands — not one nail came off during the sink test. It's common to get some nail glue on your skin when applying these nails, but it comes off easily. Reals also appreciated the "on-trend designs" and how you can easily clip them to your desired length.
“[My nails] always last about two weeks from when applied, but after the first week, it's easier to remove (just by peeling them) if you do want to take them off.” —Erika Reals
Damage-Free: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: Yes | Customizable: Yes, 24 nails in different sizes to find the right fit | Finish: Some matte, some glossy | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Dual-sided buffer, cuticle stick, nail glue
Easy to apply and durable
Available in customized lengths and sizes
Comes with everything you need
Difficult to remove unless you soak the nails ahead of time
Known for false magnetic lashes, Glamnetic has released several styles of press-on nails, which our team found to be user-friendly and durable. The set also includes everything you need, with the glue, file, cuticle stick, and even a storage box.
PEOPLE commerce writer Alyssa Brascia says she appreciates how these nails “ensure that you'll always get the look and length that you want at a fraction of the price.” Our team noted that the glue created a small mess during the application, and while the nails held up beautifully, they are somewhat tricky to remove — you really have to soak the nails prior.
“I've always been a DIY nail girl, and while I usually paint and glue them myself, my latest obsession has been the press-ons from Glamnetic. Perfect nails at a keyboard-friendly length and a gorgeous $15 price? It doesn't get better than this.” —Alyssa Brascia
Damage-Free: Mostly | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: No | Customizable: Yes, multiple sizes and lengths | Finish: Glossy | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Storage box, nail glue, double-sided nail file, cuticle stick, alcohol pad
Comes in a portable packet with tools
Pretty designs with recycled plastic packaging
Sizing was a little off
Some glue residue stuck around after removing the nails
If you like to bring your nail options on the go, the sets from Quickies are perfect for travel (and super user-friendly). PEOPLE commerce editor Madison Yauger loves these since they’re super easy to apply. She met a slight challenge with the sizing because she has really narrow nails, but she was able to find options that fit well to complete the manicure.
The nails also held up at home, testing against the same measures in the lab — surviving a rigorous hand washing and not being too difficult to remove. That said, these are definitely long-lasting if you want them to be. There’s also a good inventory of designs, lengths, and sizes for a more customized experience.
“Each packet comes with 24 nails in a variety of sizes, a mini glue applicator, and a tiny nail file. I had to soak my nails in warm, soapy water for about seven minutes and then use a cuticle tool to gently push against the edges until each nail popped off. There was some glue residue after, so I continued soaking my nails for a few more minutes and then buffed them out. You could see a little bit of the glue leftover, but it all came off within a day after soaking my nails in acetone.” — Madison Yauger
Damage-Free: Mostly | Waterproof: Yes | Reusable: Yes | Customizable: Yes, different lengths, sizes, and designs | Finish: Glossy | Adhesive: Glue | Included Tools: Nail file, glue
Hoping to recreate salon-quality manicures at home? We test thousands of products, and we recommend these polishes and gel kits for long-lasting nails.
OPI GelColor: After testing 20 gel nail polishes, we decided this classic polish was the best. Paired with a UV lamp, we were impressed with this polish’s vibrant color and chip-free durability.
Morovan Nail Kit: Looking to up the ante? Consider this poly gel kit, which will allow you to achieve a pro-level manicure at home. We tested 10 at-home gel nail kits, and this $50 set came out on top. For the price of one salon manicure, you’ll get eight polish shades, a primer, a dehydrator, a base coat, a top coat, an LED lamp, and various nail and cuticle tools.
If you’re someone who’s always got their hands in something, the durability and longevity of your press-on nails should play a factor. Durability generally has to do with the strength of the adhesive (either glue or a sticker backing) and the material of the nail itself. For instance, a sticker nail won’t last as long as a thicker nail applied with glue. Our pick from Chillhouse Nails lasted for two weeks while our senior commerce editor was traveling, so we’d support the claim that these nails are quite durable.
One of the best perks of press-on nails is that they generally cause less damage to your nails than acrylics, gel, or powder manicures, which is what we love about the ManiMe Press-On Gels. That’s because most of these nails can peel off after soaking them for about 15 minutes in warm, soapy water and using a wooden tool to lift the edge. Mind you, take caution when showering for the same reason — hot water can loosen the adhesive.
To remove excess glue, wrap an acetone-soaked cotton round around your fingertip for 20 minutes, using tin foil or something to keep it in place. The glue will dissolve easily, and you can wash your hands and go about your day.
When considering what kind of press-on nails will be the best, fit, shape, and length should not be forgotten. If you're going for stylish talons, you might prefer stiletto or ballerina-shaped nails, whereas a shorter round or square nail might be best for those doing more work with their hands. Gerstein says press-on nails "also make great blank canvases for DIY nail art," so if you're feeling crafty, you might want a longer nail to create more space.
Gerstein shared a few techniques that help with applying and removing press-on nails. "Like any manicure, pushing back cuticles and making sure the nail is free of oil, lint, and dust is important," she says. "Always swipe with alcohol, and let nails dry before applying tabs/glue. Tabs are for temporary wear, [and] glue, if applied correctly, can get up to 2.5 weeks of wear."
Our team tried out nearly 20 sets of press-on nails in our PEOPLE Tested lab. For each set of nails, we considered the ease of application, overall look, and strength of adhesive (as well as length of wear in a few cases).
Depending on the quality of the nails and adhesive, most press-on nails last from one to two weeks. The time will vary depending on how much you use (and abuse) your nails.
Press-on nails are a great alternative to more damaging options like gel polishes and acrylics. Though gel polishes and acrylics may last longer, the removal process for press-on nails is much easier on your nails, and since they only stay on for a couple of weeks, they are less likely to cause any issues. Additionally, regular use of cuticle oil will not only nourish your nails but also promote better adhesion to nail products.
Many press-on nails can be removed by simply soaking your hands for 15 to 30 minutes in warm, soapy water. Any remaining residue from the adhesive can be removed with an acetone nail polish remover, which may be used to remove gel and acrylic manicures.
Make sure your nails are clean, dry, and free of nail polish. Push back your cuticles and wipe each nail with cotton soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove any oily residue. Make sure your nails are dry, and buff each one so the press-ons have a smooth surface to adhere to.
Madison Yauger is a commerce editor for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. Yauger has used her extensive testing experience to report the best white nail polishes, the best dermaplaning tools, and more. For this story, she spoke to a celebrity nail artist in addition to heavily researching the market of press-on nails and using lab-tested insights such as ease of application, durability, and more to determine which press-on nails figuratively popped off versus those that literally did.
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