Using fake nails you will have beautiful and sensual hands without the hassle of having to care for them or wait for them to grow. They are easily applied, so there is no need to go to the beautician. Just buy a pack of artificial nails and a tube of the special glue you need to attach them to be ready to apply them on your natural nails. Then you can shape and decorate them as you like!
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Apply the False Nails
Step 1. Get everything you need
Anyone can apply fake nails at home, but it takes some special tools to do a good job. To show off some fabulous hands, you need:
- A pack of false nails;
- False nail glue;
- Nail clipper;
- Nail file.
Step 2. Follow the safety instructions on the packaging
The false nails and the glue to attach them will be accompanied by special instructions that allow you to use them correctly and safely. Read them carefully point by point and take all the suggested precautions to do a good job and not put your health at risk.
For example, the glue package may say that it should be used in a well-ventilated area
Step 3. Select a fake nail for each finger
Look at them carefully to find the one that best suits the size of the corresponding natural nail. It will need to be large enough to cover it completely and precisely.
Make several tests by combining the false nails with the natural ones to find those of the most suitable size. Once you have made your choice, arrange them on the table in the order you will need to apply them
Step 4. Apply a layer of top coat on natural nails
The glue could damage them, but applying a layer of top coat before attaching the fake nails will help protect them. However, remember that generally using glue directly on clean nails, fake nails adhere more securely.
Anyway, if you are concerned about the health of your hands, apply a layer or two of top coat before sticking on the fake nails
Step 5. Apply the glue
Generally, false nails are part of a kit that also includes the adhesive needed to attach them, but the fact remains that you can choose the product you prefer and buy it separately. Grab an artificial nail by the tip and apply a line of glue in the concave part.
- Sometimes the false nail instructions specify an exact place to apply the glue, so read them carefully. In any case, make sure to put it on the part of the nail that will overlap the natural one.
- Remember that the nail sticker glues quickly and is quite strong. Check that you have positioned the artificial nail in the correct way before pressing it on your finger.
- If you make a mistake, apply a few drops of nail polish remover (with acetone) along the outline of the nail. This will loosen it so you can detach it and start over.
Step 6. Push on the fake nail
Press it against the natural one to make sure the glue sticks firmly. If the artificial nails you have purchased have a contoured underside, be sure to line them up properly with the cuticles at the base of the nail. If, on the other hand, they have a straight underside, leave a few millimeters of free space.
- Press on the nail for about five seconds to give the glue time to set.
- Repeat the same operations for each nail.
Part 2 of 2: Shortening and Shaping False Nails
Step 1. Shorten the artificial nails
They are usually exaggeratedly long, so you may need to trim them a little before you can shape them with the file. You can shorten them to the desired length using a nail clipper or a pair of scissors.
- Make sure you cut them straight, especially if you like square-shaped nails.
- If, on the other hand, you prefer almond or stiletto shapes, you can also cut part of the sides of the nail.
- Try to shorten them a little less than you think you need them. Filing them will shrink further, so when the job is done you may find that they are not as long as you wanted.
Step 2. Flex the sides of the nail
Generally false nails are quite straight and stiff and this could make them look unnatural. To make them have a more natural curve, you can gently flex them on the sides as if you were trying to bring them closer together.
- Place your thumb and forefinger respectively on both sides of the nail, then flex it very gently towards your fingertip a couple of times.
- Repeat the same operations for each nail.
Step 3. Shape your nails
After giving your nails the desired length and curvature, it's time to file them to get the shape you prefer. Take a sturdy file and decide which style you want to replicate among the most fashionable ones, for example:
- Square nails;
- Almond-shaped nails;
- Oval nails;
- Rounded nails;
- Stiletto nails.
Step 4. Put the polish on your nails
When you are satisfied with the shape achieved, you can start coloring them as you wish. Choose the shades of enamel, the technique and the decorations you prefer.
