Can You Reuse Press on Nails?

If you want a professional-looking manicure at home but don’t want to fuss with products and tools, there is no better option than press-on nails.

Press-on nails are fake nails that can be applied in minutes.

And they’ve come a long way since their initial “look” and now appear like an actual manicure you’d get at a nail salon.

But convenience during application isn’t the only reason people fawn over press-on nails; most are also 100% reusable.

So, can you reuse press on nails?

The key is application and removal. If you make a mistake during either process, you might not be able to reuse your press-on nails!

Can You Reuse Press On Nails?

Most press-on nails are removable, which is great if you’re trying to save money and get the most life from your product.

However, just because most press-on nails can be reused doesn’t mean they necessarily “will.”

You have to be extra careful with applying and removing the press-on nails to ensure they can be used additional times.

How Many Times Can You Reuse Press on Nails?

There is really no right or wrong answer regarding how many times you can reuse press-on nails.

As long as the press-on nail is in good condition, you can reuse it.

However, I don’t see most people getting more than two or three rounds using the same fake nail.

Let’s face it - fake nails deteriorate over time, and even with the proper application and removal process, you can still be left with nails that aren’t pretty enough for another round.

Are All Press on Nails Reusable?

Not all press-on nails are reusable.

So, when you’re shopping for your next back of press-on nails, make sure you read through the description carefully.

For the most part, high-quality press-on nails will be reusable (such as Clutch Nails).

Don’t hesitate to spend a little more on your press-on nails.

After all, you will be getting more than one use out of them. You will get your money’s worth!

How Long Do Reusable Press On Nails Last?

Reusable press-on nails aren’t much different from other kinds of press-on nails.

You should get up to two weeks of wearing press-on nails before needing to take them off, clean them, and reuse them as desired.

Read how you can make press on nails last longer in our detailed guide.

How to Apply Press-On Nails To Reuse

You don’t need to be incredibly fussy when it comes to application.

For the most part, you will place your press-on nails onto your natural nails as usual.

The only difference is what you’re using to adhere to the nails.

Sticky tabs (adhesive strips) are the best option for press-ons.

They work like double-sided tape, so you won’t have to deal with nail glue that can be excessively strong and challenging to remove.

If you’re going to use nail glue to apply press-ons, I recommend using weaker nail glue.

Sure, they might not last as long, but you will get more wear out of them in the long run.

How To Remove Press On Nails To Reuse

The key to reusing press-on nails without buying a fresh batch is to remove them properly. (It’s easy - way easier than acrylic nails or other manicures!)

Improper removal will ruin the press-on nails and your natural nail underneath.

For example, you could break the press-ons and cause your natural nail to become weak or scratched.

That said, you have a few ways to remove press-ons, whether you opted for sticky tabs or some kind of nail glue.

Note: Never try to remove press-on nails from the nail beds by tugging or pulling.

This can cause an immense amount of pain. Too much force will also ruin the press-on nails and your own nails underneath.

Here are two ways to remove press-on nails.

1. Soak the Nails

The best way to remove press-on fake nails.

All you need to do is fill a bowl with warm soapy water and allow your nails to soak for around 20 minutes.

From there, it should be easy to remove the nails without tugging.

If you’re having trouble removing them, you may need to refill the bowl with hot soapy water and go for another round.

Some people suggest adding cuticle oil, olive oil, or body wash into the mix of warm water for some added “help” to knock out the adhesive.

If you’re not afraid of chemicals, you can also do a quick soak in acetone for around five to ten minutes.

It’s dehydrating, but it works like a charm. Just moisturize the nail and surrounding skin after using acetone.

2. Cuticle Oil and a Cuticle Pusher (Or Orange Stick)

If you’re at the stage where your press-on nails are starting to come off, you can use this method.

Use a cuticle pusher to gently lift a bit more of the press-on nails. Then, place a few drops of cuticle oil underneath the nail.

Let it soak for a few minutes, then use the cuticle pusher (or orange stick) to gently pull the nail off entirely.

You can remove any leftover glue with a cotton ball soaked in acetone when you’re done.

You can also gently buff the excess particles off using your cuticle pusher or orange stick.

FAQs

Are press-on nails damaging?

Press-on nails are notoriously safe for your natural nails. The only potential issue is removing fake nails. If you do so too roughly, you can damage your natural nails.

Are press-on nails better than acrylic?

Press-on nails tend to be better than acrylics because they’re cost-effective, safe, less damaging, and super simple to do from home.

As a bonus, you don’t need to worry about any of the “extra” steps like using the right nail glue for nail tips, nail polish on top of artificial nails, etc.