Have you tried press-on nails only to have them peel off after a few hours? Or maybe they stay on but don't look natural? In most cases, the problem comes from one of these 5 very common mistakes — and fortunately, all of them are easily avoidable.
Mistake #1 — Not preparing your natural nails
This is by far the most frequent and costly mistake in terms of longevity. Many people apply their press-on nails directly onto unprepared nails, with traces of moisturizer, oil, or simply natural sebum. The result: the glue or gel pad doesn't adhere properly, and the nail peels off within a few hours.
The solution: Always start by cleaning each nail with the alcohol pad included in your MB Beauty kit. Then push back your cuticles with the cuticle stick and lightly file the surface of the nail. This preparation takes 3 minutes and doubles the wear time.
Mistake #2 — Choosing the wrong size
A press-on nail that is too small leaves gaps on the sides where moisture and dirt can seep in, causing it to detach quickly. A nail that is too large overlaps the skin, which prevents proper adhesion and creates uncomfortable pressure.
The solution: Measure the width of each natural nail in millimeters and compare it with our MB Beauty size guide. If in doubt between two sizes, always choose the larger one — it can be lightly filed on the sides to fit perfectly.
Mistake #3 — Applying too much glue
More glue doesn't mean better hold — often it's the opposite. An excessive amount of glue overflows onto the sides, sticks to the skin, creates air bubbles under the nail, and results in an unesthetic finish. Glue that overflows onto the skin also peels off more quickly, taking the nail with it.
The solution: A thin drop of glue in the center of your natural nail is sufficient. Apply the press-on nail starting from the cuticle base and press firmly for 15 seconds over the entire surface to distribute the glue evenly without excess.
Mistake #4 — Not respecting the drying time
The glue continues to cure for an hour after application. Many people do dishes, wash their hands, or handle wet objects within minutes of application — this is the main cause of premature detachment in the first few hours.
The solution: Wait at least 60 minutes after application before any contact with water. Ideally, apply your nails in the evening before sleeping — the glue will have all night to dry perfectly, and your nails will last much better the next morning.
Mistake #5 — Forcibly removing your nails
When a nail detaches at one edge, the temptation is to pull it off quickly by force. This is the best way to damage your natural nail and make the press-on nail unusable. This bad habit is responsible for the majority of weakened natural nails after using press-ons.
The solution: Never force it. Soak your finger in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the glue. The press-on nail will then remove effortlessly, painlessly, and without damaging your natural nail. With gel pads, gently lift from the side edge — never from the base.
Bonus — Mistake #6: Using your nails as tools
Opening a box, scratching off a label, unscrewing a lid — these everyday actions can break or detach your press-on nails. Press-on nails are durable but not indestructible.
The solution: Get into the habit of using your fingertip rather than your nail for these small tasks. A simple change in habit significantly extends the lifespan of your nails.
In summary
- Mistake 1: Unprepared nails → clean with the alcohol pad before application
- Mistake 2: Wrong size → measure and choose the next size up if in doubt
- Mistake 3: Too much glue → a thin drop is enough
- Mistake 4: Contact with water too soon → wait 60 minutes
- Mistake 5: Forcible removal → soak in warm water for 15 minutes
Questions about your application?
Our team is available at contact@mbbeauty.store to help you get the best possible results with your MB Beauty nails. Response guaranteed within 24 hours. You can also consult our complete guide for 2-week wear.