Troubleshooting Guide: Getting the Most Out of Your Press-on Nails

Troubleshooting Guide: Getting the Most Out of Your Press-on Nails

Emmy Blakely

At Hello Love, we design our press-ons to be salon-quality, easy to apply, and long-lasting — but sometimes, even the best nails need a little extra love. Whether you're new to the press-on life or just need a few pro tips, this guide will walk you through the most common press-on problems (and how to fix them fast!).

Problem 1: Nails Popping Off Too Soon

Possible Causes:

  • Natural oils left on your nails
  • Not using the right size
  • Skipping prep steps
  • Using the wrong adhesive for your lifestyle

Quick Fixes:

Prep like a pro: Always start with clean, dry nails. Use an alcohol wipe to clean your nail beds, apply Nail Dehydrator, gently buff the surface, and push back cuticles.

Choose the right size: If a press-on overlaps onto your skin or cuticle, it's more likely to lift. Alternatively, a press-on that is too small will be likely to pop-off. Opt for the closest fit that sits fully on the nail bed. 

Pick your adhesive wisely: For day-to-day wear, Nail Stickers will do the trick. For the best long-lasting longer wear (up to two weeks), consider combining our Nail Stickers with a touch of our glue, which will give you that strong hold while still protecting your natural nails from damage.

Problem 2: Nails Lifting at the Edges

Possible Causes:

  • Incomplete pressure during application
  • Air bubbles or moisture trapped underneath

Quick Fixes:

Apply firm, even pressure for at least 30 seconds per nail when using glue.

Avoid water or lotion for 1–2 hours after application — the longer, the better (this is why we recommend applying your nails as your last step before bedtime)!

Re-glue the problem nail if needed — gently remove, re-buff, and reapply with a small drop of glue.

Problem 3: Glue All Over the Place

Possible Causes:

  • Using too much glue
  • Glue spilling out during pressure

Quick Fixes:

Use less glue: You only need a tiny drop of glue — one in the center, and maybe one near the tip for extra hold.

Use less pressure: You want to press the nail down firmly and evenly, but not so much so that you force all of the glue out the edges. This not only makes a mess, but leaves too little glue to adhere the press-on well to your natural nail. 

Have an alcohol wipe readily available. If glue spills out, quickly wipe it away with the wipe. 

Use Brush-on Glue: It's easier to control and will help you get a thin, even coat of glue on your entire nail bed.

Problem 4: Removal Feels Tough

Possible Causes:

  • Removing too early
  • Forcing nails off
  • Not soaking long enough

Quick Fixes:

Never rip off your press-ons — we love drama, but not that kind.

Soak your nails in warm, soapy water or oil for 10–15 minutes.

Gently lift from the sides using a cuticle stick. If they resist, soak a little longer. Patience is key!

❤️ Final Tips for Flawless Wear:

  • Store extra nails and adhesive in a cool, dry place.
  • Avoid hand creams or oils before application.
  • Always keep a spare nail (and mini glue) in your bag — just in case. Our Emergency Kits are perfect for this!

Still having trouble? Don’t worry — we’re here to help! Check out our Tutorial Page for short, helpful, step-by-step videos, reach out to us anytime at support@helloloveinc.com, or join our Facebook Customer Group to swap tips and get real-time advice from all your Hello Love besties.

Because with the right tricks (and the right nails), you really can stick the landing. 💅

Back to blog