How to remove press-on nails

The most important thing to remember when removing your press-on nails is never force them off. If you try to remove the press-ons prematurely, before the glue has had time to start breaking down, you may damage your natural nails. If you applied too much glue during the initial application, it will mean that the press-on nails will stay on for a little longer than you intended. It’s recommended that you leave the press-on nails on for a few more days before attempting to remove them again.

Step 1: The seal of glue should have started to loosen at the end of your wear time, depending on how much glue you applied (see Step 3 of how to apply press-on nails). You should be able to see or feel the press-on nails lifting around the cuticle area or on the sides of each nail. Using the same hand, place one of your fingers on the tip of the press-on nail and gently press down. This should cause the press-on nail to lift slightly at the cuticle area. Dip one drop of acetone-based nail polish remover between the press-on nail and your natural nail to soften the remaining glue. 

Step 2: If the glue hasn’t started breaking down yet, you can soak your nails in hot, but bearable, water for 2-3 minutes. This will soften your nails and the glue, and you should be able to repeat Step 1. You can also soak your nails in acetone if the glue is particularly stubborn, but please note that this will ruin the press-on nails and they will not be reusable.

Step 3: After dripping a drop of acetone-based nail polish remover between the natural nail and the press-on nails, wait a few minutes before using the wooden cuticle stick (or one of your other nails) to GENTLY pry the press-on nails off, working from each side towards the middle of the nail. If they feel really stuck, drip another drop of acetone-based nail polish remover between your nail and the press-on nail to dissolve the glue and wait a few minutes before trying again.

Step 4: Once all the press-on nails have been removed, store them for reuse later on and use the “how to apply press-on nails” instructions to reapply them. Wipe your nails with acetone-based nail polish remover to remove any last traces of the nail glue.