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Sticky Tabs: Application & Removal

How to apply and remove your press on nails using the sticky tabs provided in your application kit.

4/16/20261 min read

Applying Press-Ons With Adhesive Sticky Tabs

  1. Cut and file your nails.

  2. Remove any old nail product and make sure your hands and nails are clean.

  3. Take the buffer block and gently buff away any shine. DO NOT over do it. You just want to roughen up the nail slightly along with any shine.

  4. Use the alcohol pad to remove any debris, oil and dirt off your nail plate.

  5. Find a sticky tab that covers a majority of your nail plate.

  6. Remove the tab and rub it onto your nail bed.

  7. Remove the protective film.

  8. At a 45 degree angle slide the bottom of the tip into the cuticle area.

  9. Hold firm for 15-30 seconds.

  10. Avoid getting your hands wet for at least an hour.

Optional: Some people like to use a hair dryer to get the glue tabs warm before applying the nails to help them adhere better. Results may vary from person-to-person with this method.

Removing Press-Ons When You Used Sticky Tab Adhesives

  1. You will want to wait until the tabs feel like they are coming loose.

  2. Don't pull them off.

  3. Once your nails start to feel like they are loosening up you can soak them in a bowl of warm soapy water (hot water, dish soap, a few drops of oil--any kind) for up to 15 minutes.

  4. Check to see if they've loosened up more and they should slide off.

  5. If they still feel attached you can apply more oil underneath the nail tip and your natural nail and let them soak longer.

  6. Once they feel loose enough you can use the cuticle stick to gently pop off the nail. They should come off very easily.

Optional: You can use the Press-Off™ which we have a version in our storefront available as a clickable pen! This product will help the nail tip slide off much easier and within minutes.