How to fix press-on nail problems like a pro
There’s nothing more frustrating than a rogue press-on popping off just when your hair, makeup, and outfit are giving everything they’re meant to give. While press-ons are the ultimate beauty hack, even the best sets can misbehave. But don’t panic—every issue has a fix (and no, you don’t need to run back to the salon or spend $$$).
Here’s your no-fluff, everything-you-need guide to fixing the most common press-on nail issues.
📏 Sizing
You’re not sure how to measure your nails correctly using the sizing kit.
What might be happening:
You’re not applying enough pressure when testing the sizing tip—this means you’re not mimicking real application.
Your natural nails aren’t in their truest, product-free state (gel, acrylic, or even leftover glue can skew results).
You only measured one hand—pro tip: our hands are not identical.
You didn’t double-check your numbers or fit.
You’re in between sizes and unsure whether to go up or down.
You’re unsure what a “good fit” actually feels or looks like.
The fix:
When using your sizing kit, apply pressure like you would during an actual application. That gentle but firm press mimics the real fit.
Make sure your nails are trimmed and free of any product. Bare nails give you the most accurate sizing.
Trim natural nails slightly shorter than your chosen press-on length so they stay invisible underneath.
Measure all ten fingers—yes, even if they look symmetrical. Fingers can vary from hand to hand.
Take your time. This isn’t a rush job. Double-check each nail’s size and how it feels.
If you're between sizes or unsure, always size up—you can file it down for a tailored fit. You can’t make a small nail bigger.
Gapping is normal and usually filled with glue. But if the gap is so big that even glue won’t do the trick, you might need a different nail shape with a softer or flatter curve.
A press-on that pinches or leaves any part of your nail bed exposed = too small.
If it overlaps the skin of your finger = too big.
If there’s gapping between your natural nail and the press-on = possibly wrong curvature or size.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly measure your nails.
🤕 Discomfort
Your press-on nails are pinching, pulsing, or just straight-up hurting.
What might be happening:
Wrong size: If it feels tight or like it’s squeezing your nail, it might be too small and means you should size up a half or full size next time.
C-curve mismatch: If your nail beds are flatter and the press-ons are super curved (meaning they have a high apex), the press-on might not sit flush. A flatter shape will feel more natural. Likewise, if your natural nails have a naturally high apex (they’re more domed or curved), press-ons with a flatter curvature may pop off or not grip well. In this case, you’ll want to go for shapes with a higher apex or more defined C-curve to mirror your natural arch.
Too much pressure on application: Pushing too hard can bruise the nail bed.
Your nails aren’t ready: Soft, brittle, sensitive, or damaged nails = bad idea.
The fix:
Remove the press-ons gently by soaking them off in warm water if the discomfort is consistent.
Switch to better-fitting shapes that are more compatible with the natural curve of your nail bed and type.
If it’s sore but fades after a few hours, you’re likely fine. Apply light, but firm pressure on and around the press-on nail during application.
Only apply press-ons on healthy nails. When in doubt, let your natural nails recover first and then consult with a nail or health care professional.
🧼 Hygiene
Dirt or gunk under the nails, especially with long sets or jelly nails.
What might be happening:
Trapped grime and dirt under or around the nail.
Sticky glue tabs (especially if oversized) can collect debris like magnets.
The fix:
Clean under your nails with a soft brush regularly.
If you used glue tabs and some is showing on the sides or underneath the press-on, just peel off the extra.
Wash hands properly (don’t skip those cuticles).
If you’re wearing jelly sets, double down on cleanliness—they’re see-through, and dirt shows. If it’s bad, you might need to remove and reapply with a fresh glue tab.
🦠 Infections
Greenies, irritation, or suspicious nail drama.
What might be happening:
Wearing press-ons on compromised or infected nails.
Moisture trapped between your natural nail and the press-on has created an environment for bacteria.
The fix:
Only wear press-ons on healthy, product-free nails.
Avoid water, oils, or lotion for at least one hour before and after application.
If symptoms appear, avoid wearing press-ons and consult a health or nail professional. Always better safe than sorry.
💥 Pop-offs
Your nail made a dramatic exit mid-text.
What might be happening:
Snagged it, knocked it, or didn't use enough glue.
Using the wrong length for your lifestyle.
Using your press-on nails as tools (opening packages, putting unnecessary pressure on them, etc.)
The fix:
Be intentional: don’t use nails as tools.
Shorter nails are best for those who use their hands a lot.
Apply firm, even pressure for 30–60 seconds to secure the glue’s bond when applying them.
You can pre-etch the inside of the press-on nail with a nail file or buffing block and this will help with retention.
💨 Lifting
Your nails catch on your hair—or worse, start lifting at the cuticle.
What might be happening:
Adhesive bond has weakened (especially at the edges).
Didn't use enough glue.
Natural nails aren’t properly prepped.
Not sealing the nail properly.
The fix:
Reapply when you feel lifting—don’t wait.
Use enough glue to cover the full nail.
Always prep properly. Push cuticles back and apply the press-on as close to the cuticle as possible.
Push out air bubbles by applying firm but gentle pressure on and around the nail, especially around the cuticle.
💅 Chipping + scratching
You set looks tired from daily wear and tear, especially if you’re reusing them.
What might be happening:
Your using your nails as tools to open, pick, scratch, pry, tap, and press things. Stop that.
The fix:
Look after your nails with care, use gloves when you can to protect them.
Don’t use them like tools.
For minor scratches, apply a thin coat of clear polish or gel topcoat to refresh.
For deeper chips, you can gently buff and re-topcoat, or retire the set if gel paint has chipped as this is tricker to fix.
🧪 Liquid glue issues
Glue isn’t gluing like it’s supposed to or your having difficultly applying it.
What might be happening:
You’re applying liquid glue but it’s not feeling secure or pops off early or easily.
The glue isn’t setting.
The glue is flooding your cuticle and one or both sides of your nail.
Accidentally got glue on the press-on nail itself.
The fix:
Start with a small dot at the base of your nail (cuticle area), then spread evenly to the tip.
Avoid any moisture (oils, lotions, water, serums, etc.) at least one hour before application.
Apply the press-on nail at a 45 degree angle starting the cuticle, then press it down all the way to the tip. This will push out any air bubbles and pockets.
Apply firm pressure on and around the nail for at least 30 seconds while the glue sets.
For glue flooding, clean excess quickly an alcohol wipe.
If glue gets on the press-on nail, quickly wipe it away with an alcohol wipe.
🟡 Adhesive tabs struggles
The glue tabs don’t fit, don’t stick, or leave residue.
What might be happening:
Tabs aren’t covering the whole nail.
Tabs are too big or don’t match the shape of your nail.
The fix:
Stack the tabs to cover the full nail or cut to fit.
Apply the tabs close to the cuticle and sides to avoid gaps.
🧽 Nail prep
Your press-ons won’t stay on and you don’t know how to properly prepare your natural nails before application.
What might be happening:
There is water, moisture, oils, or product on the nail plate.
Your press-ons are lifting prematurely.
The fix:
Avoid getting your hands wet or using lotion, oils, and serums at least one hour before application.
Clean and dehydrate your nails thoroughly before application (you can use 100% acetone, 99% alcohol, or a dedicated nail dehydrator).
Lightly buff your natural nail for grip—you can do the same and etch the inside of the press-on if you wish.
Use the cuticle stick to gently push back your cuticles to reveal more of the nail plate. If you're unsure how to prep properly, follow a prep guide or ask a pro.
🎯 Application
Crooked nails or wonky placement, or they aren’t sticking when you apply them
What might be happening:
You weren’t ready when the glue set.
Don’t touch the glue (liquid or adhesive tabs) before applying the nail.
The fix:
Practice with glue tabs first to perfect pressure + placement.
Apply from cuticle then press down all the way to the tip, pressing evenly.
If misaligned, you’ve got a few seconds to fix it before glue sets.
🧼 Removal
You want to remove or switch out a current set and you’re tempted to rip them off (don’t).
What might be happening:
Impatience, mostly.
It hasn’t been 7 days since you applied your nails with liquid glue.
You’ve prepped your nails so well that the press-on nails aren’t budging
The fix:
Soak in warm water + oil. It’s important to top up with fresh warm water as it cools, this helps break down the glue.
Only attempt to remove the press-on nails at least 7 days after application.
Wedge the cuticle stick under the press-on nail and gently lift and wiggle to loosen the bond but never force off a nail—soak in between attempts and be patient.
Buff off glue residue gently on your nail (if any) and the back of the press-on post-removal.
If you struggled to remove your set, consider using less glue next time or don’t prep your nails as well.
⛔ Improper fit
They’re sitting wonky, feel off, look unnatural and costumey, fingernail is peeking.
What might be happening:
Incorrect sizing or shape.
Fit feels different when using glue adhesives.
Press-on doesn’t sit flush against the cuticle.
Your natural nails might be longer than when you measured them initially.
The fix:
Use the sizing kit to measure your nails again when they are bare and short.
Glue adhesives will naturally add a few millimetres compared to liquid glue which can impact the fit slightly but is barely noticeable.
If the press-on nail overlaps onto your skin, it’s too big (you can carefully file it down to size).
If it pinches or doesn’t cover the entire nail, it’s too small (size up next time).
If your nail peeks out from underneath, especially at the tip even after filing your natural nail, then the shape might not be compatible with your nail bed shape and type.
File the cuticle of the press-on nail to match the curvature of your cuticle.
✨ Cleaning and storing
Adhesive left on the back or they don’t feel clean.
What might be happening:
Residue from glue tabs or liquid glue.
The fix:
For tabs, add a drop of oil and use the cuticle stick to twist off.
For liquid glue, gently buff the inside of the press-on until it feels level and smooth.
Clean each nail with alcohol or warm water only. Never use acetone as this can dull and warp the nail.