Fake nails add a touch of glamor in an instant. You can leave them "naked" if you prefer a natural look, or give them a perfect manicure. Whether you want to apply them for prom or just to try something new, this article will be very useful for you.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare Real Nails
Step 1. Remove the old nail polish
Before applying the false nails you must clean yours from any trace of nail polish, even if transparent, as it prevents their perfect adhesion. They will come off in a day or two, unless you follow all the steps correctly.
- If you are already wearing fake, gel or acrylic nails, you need to remove them. You can use acetone or another method to do this.
- Wash your hands after using the solvent or acetone. These chemicals can dry out your nails.
Step 2. Soak your nails
Do a quick manicure before gluing on your fake nails to be sure they won't come off immediately and to ensure the health of the real ones. Start by leaving them in hot water for about five minutes to soften them. Dry your hands and nails with a cloth.
You can add soap or shower gel to the water if you wish, but don't use an oily solution. Although it is a great idea for moisturizing the skin and nails, traces of oil can prevent the correct application of the fake ones and frustrate the action of the glue
Step 3. Cut and file your nails
Use a nail clipper and a file to smooth the edges. Cut them short but don't overdo it, you need to leave some edge for the fake nails to stick to. The file will make them smooth.
Step 4. Push the cuticles back
While the base of the nails is still soft, use an orange wood stick to push the cuticles back so you are sure to glue the fake nails to the real ones and not the skin.
Don't cut them, just pull them back towards your finger. These cuticles protect the base of the nail from infections and if cuts increase the risk of bacterial contamination and infiltration by germs
Step 5. Polish your nails
Use a specific polishing block to create a slightly rough surface that the fake nails will adhere to better. When finished, remove the fine powder that has formed.
Part 2 of 3: Apply the False Nails
Step 1. Line up the false nails
Open the package and place them on the work surface in the order in which you will apply them. The largest ones will go on the thumbs and the smallest ones on the little fingers. Make sure the size fits your real nails and use a file to shape the edges if necessary.
- The easiest way to attach the fake nails is to glue them. Your kit should include a fingernail for each finger and a small bottle of adhesive.
- If you have purchased an acrylic nail set, the process will be a little more complicated. Read this article for more information.
- If you have a gel nail kit, follow these instructions.
Step 2. Apply the first nail
Smear a small amount of glue on the real nail and another small drop on the back of the fake nail (which will adhere to your finger). Carefully place your nail on top of yours making the rounded edge perfectly coincide with the cuticle line. Press and hold the nail for 10 seconds to let the glue stabilize.
- Check that it fits snugly against the real nail with no gaps or gaps.
- Don't overdo the glue. It must not overflow from the edges. A few drops are more than enough; if the adhesive leaks, use a cotton swab to remove it.
- Proceed with caution to avoid sticking the crooked nail: the adhesive sets in seconds.
- Start by applying your nails to your dominant hand.
Step 3. Repeat the process for all other fingers
Glue the nails one by one, always using a little adhesive. Remember to always maintain the pressure for at least 10 seconds, to ensure a perfect seal.
Step 4. File them to give them any shape you like
You can use a normal nail file to shape them with the classic almond or square profile, but also according to your taste. If you like the shape they are as they are, there is no need to file them!
Part 3 of 3: Decorate the False Nails
Step 1. Apply nail polish
Some fake nails are sold pre-decorated but if yours are neutral you can give them some style. If you love a classic look, just a few layers of nail polish are enough. To change a bit and get out of the monotony, here are some suggestions:
- Floral decorations.
- Ombré manicure.
- Galaxy design.
- Ladybug motif.
- Marbled effect.
Step 2. Add some sparkles
You can apply a layer of glitter polish of any color, but if you want nails that really stand out, you can buy a small pack of rhinestones to stick on. You can get a “blinding” look by applying several on each nail, or just to elegantly complete the decoration.
Step 3. Do a French manicure
This is a natural and very beautiful style that makes your false nails stand out. You can buy a specific kit or buy pink, clear and white nail polish.
Step 4. Test the nail decoration pens
They are available in many colors and allow you to create the designs you prefer without smudging and messing (as often happens with classic glazes). Try a polka dot pattern or something more complicated like drawing a panda or a strawberry.
Advice
- Fake nails need to be wide enough to hide real ones.
- Check that your real nails are clean and without polish.
- Make sure you do not have any oily substances on your fingers before applying the false nails, otherwise they will come off easily.
- Handle your false nails very gently. Don't bite them like you would a real one or you will definitely ruin them.
- Polish your real nails with a nail polish block before applying the fake ones if you want to get the best results.
- Look for the type of false nails that best suit your personality.
