Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.
What do blue eyeshadow, bouncy blowouts, and press-on nails all have in common? They've all had tremendous glow-ups since the last time they were trending. Now, celebrities like Dua Lipa, Kendall Jenner, and Emma Chamberlain sport blue eyeshadow to star-studded events, voluminous blowout tutorials crowd TikTok For You Pages, and press-on nails have made a resurgence that has put over-priced manicures to shame. While the press-on nails of the past were known to be flimsy and cheap, it's fair to say that times have (drastically) changed. Now, these manicure alternatives have taken center stage, becoming the preferred option for quick and on-trend nail looks.
Luckily, due to the renewed desire for press-on nails, there are a handful of great options on the market. And, as a press-on-nail-enthusiast myself, I made it my mission to find the best sets that are affordable, durable, and – most importantly – super cute. The winner? Olive & June's Press-On Nail Sets ($10). Ahead, learn more about why this brand helped me nail the at-home manicure game.
About the Olive & June Press-On Nail Sets
- Olive & June has some of the most inclusive nail sizes on the market.
- Each package comes with 42 nails and the Instant Mani pack includes 21 sizes.
- Two of every nail size is included in every Instant Mani pack.
- Press-on nails last seven days, while glue-on nails last up to 14 days.
- The nails are made from up to 94 percent post-consumer recycled materials.
- The sets include non-damaging, non-toxic glue.
- The nails are reusable for up to several times as long as you remove them with warm soapy water.
What I Like About Olive & June Press-On Nail Sets
Let's be real: not all fake nail sets are made equal. Some are flimsy; others don't fit different nail beds. Some sets don't come with enough nails, while others don't have all the right tools. After searching high and low, I've realized that it's hard to find a set that's just right. However, the Olive & June sets come with everything I need. I really like how there are 42 nails in a kit, allowing me to find the perfect fit for each nail. Plus, I'll have extra in case any come off. On top of that, it was great to have a prep pad, a two-in-one file and buffer, a wood cuticle pusher, and glue.
In terms of the actual nails, I found these really easy to apply. They're malleable, which helps them conform to each nail bed, but they're also sturdy enough that I know they won't break. On top of that, they're a great length and they come in so many cute colors and designs.
How to Use Olive & June Press-On Nail Sets
No matter which fake nail kit you use, the application process is pretty similar. It's worth noting that Olive & June offers two different kinds of nail options: press-ons and glue-ons. I personally prefer glue-on nails since they last longer, so I opt for glue-on sets more often than not.
To apply Olive & June nails (both press-on and glue-on), start by making sure your nails are clean and free from any polish. Then, pick the right size nail. Olive & June press-on nail sets come with various options to fit different nail shapes and sizes, so carefully match each press-on nail to your own nail. From there, peel off the adhesive backing if you're doing press-ons, or apply a small dollop of glue if you're doing glue-ons. Then, align the fake nail with your natural nail, starting from the cuticle and pressing down firmly toward the tip. Hold the press-on in place for a few seconds to allow the adhesive and/or glue to bond securely. (I usually hold it for about 10 seconds.) Once your nails are applied, you can trim and file them if you so please.
What to Consider Before Trying Olive & June Press-On Nail Sets
While I absolutely loved the almond shape of the nails, I noticed the tips of some nails were a bit rough around the edges. I was able to easily file them down, but if I had left them, they definitely would've snagged on clothes. I also want to note that I got a light-colored nail set, and they were a bit see-through. I could see a bit of the glue under some nails, which was not ideal, but the hue was still cute regardless.
Where Are Olive & June Press-On Nail Sets Available?
The Olive & June nail sets are available at the brand's website, as well as at Target (both in-store and online).
Rating: ★★★★
FAQs
PaintLab 999-Aura Press-on Nails
I found the nails to be super durable thanks to the seven-layer gel technology they use, and none of the paint chipped before removing them. While the short almond nails were the ideal length for my taste, they're easy to file down and fully customizable.
What are the disadvantages of press on nails? ›
Aside from infection, Dr. Murray said applying and removing fake nails can potentially cause damage, leading to problems like brittle nails and breakage. It's also possible to experience an allergic reaction to the press-on nail itself or the glue used to secure it.
What is better, press-on or glue on nails? ›
Press on nails don't damage easily and will always shine
The incredible thing about press on nails is that they won't damage as easily as other false nails. The nail is made of plastic but is strong and crafted to last long. Press on nails don't lose their finish either, they will continuously shine.
Is it OK to wear press on nails all the time? ›
If you want to wear artificial nails for more than a few weeks, you'll need touch-ups every 2 to 3 weeks to fill in the gaps that appear as your nails grow. Frequent touch-ups can seriously damage your natural nails. In short, artificial nails can leave your nails thin, brittle, and parched.
Do press-on nails ruin your nails? ›
The removal process of press-on nails can lead to issues like damaged or brittle nails. “The last thing is certainly they can damage your nail plate, just from them being pressed on, ripped off, all that sort of stuff,” Penzi said.
Do nails grow under press on nails? ›
Your nails will look beautiful when you leave the salon, but obviously your natural nails will continue to grow, leaving a gap at the bottom of the acrylic. This means that every few weeks you will need an infill appointment to get these gaps filled.
Do press-on nails come off in the shower? ›
You can definitely shower with press on nails. You can even go swimming, wash your hair, and do any regular housework that you usually do.
Do celebrities wear press on nails? ›
From Jennifer Lopez to Kim Kardashian, press-on nails are one of Hollywood's best kept beauty secrets. After revealing that one of her covetable stiletto shaped French manicures was achieved using artificial 'stick-on' nails via Instagram last year, interest in Kardashian's temporary technique rocketed.
What is the difference between fake nails and press on nails? ›
Press-on nails are a type of fake nail, but they differ from traditional salon-applied fake nails in several ways: Application: Press-on nails are designed for at-home use and come with adhesive pre-applied or included in the kit. They can be easily applied by anyone without the need for professional skills or tools.
Do press-on nails cause fungus? ›
Fungal infections are a relatively common complication of getting acrylic nails, which are plastic nails that are glued atop your real fingernails. In most cases, these infections aren't serious and clear up with home remedies or with antifungal medications.
Oily Nails: Before applying press on nails, it's important to prep and clean your nails thoroughly to remove any oils. Oily nails can prevent the adhesive from sticking properly, leading to nails that pop off.
How many times can you reuse press on nails? ›
You just need to soak your press-on nails for long enough in a mixture of water, soap, and oil for the glue to weaken enough to be removed. And also you need to scrape off the nail glue under the press-on nails before reapplying them. Press-on nails can potentially be reused up to 5 times if they haven't been damaged.
What kind of fake nails last the longest? ›
Acrylic nails are made by combining a liquid monomer and a powder polymer to create a hard, durable coating. Acrylic nails are typically applied to nail tips or natural nails and can be shaped and filed to any desired length or style. Acrylic nails are very durable and can last for up to six weeks with proper care.
What is the strongest type of fake nail? ›
💪🏼 Out of Acrylic, Hybrid Gel, Hard Gel and Full Cover Tips— Acrylic is the strongest! It's also the hardest nail product to master.
What lasts longer, acrylic or dip nails? ›
Dip has the durability of acrylic and the flexibility of gel, but without all the harmful chemicals and potential damage to the nail bed. Whether you're having your nails done professionally or doing your own dip powder at home, the end result is longer-lasting with brilliant shine.
