Press-on nails (or artificial nails as they used to be called) have been dominating the beauty and wellness space since the last two decades. They are available everywhere in all price ranges, design, and form. I strongly believe that there is the right size, shape and style out there for everyone. But as much as these nails feel like all the rage, they are also thought to be a temporary trend. As a replacement for salon nails, press-on nails are considered not as high quality or convenient. If you’ve never tried them out, you might be wondering the same thing: are press-on nails just a trend that will fizzle out? Or are they actually a productive alternative to salon nails? Let’s find out!

As a nail artist who has been practicing nail art, design and manufacturing for 10+ years, I find that there are 3 reasons to declare press-on nails to be more everlasting than salon nails. Each reason is measured based on a benefit or quality you think is necessary in salon nails, and then we will assess how press-on nails perform in comparison. 

1. Functionality and Convenience: You can come to your own rescue

Picture this: You are on your way to an event. While in the car, your gel nail gets stuck on your dress and breaks. It can happen to anyone, anytime. What might ensue now is a slight panic. Your manicured nails are meant to give you confidence; a chipped nail can sometimes come in the way! In such a situation, press-on nails come super handy. Having an extra nail or set allows you to quickly fix the broken nail and apply a new one. 

If you’re your own nail technician, it’s much easier to take care of a nail emergency! (graphic)

When it comes to application wear, press-on nails do not last as long as salon nails. If applied carefully, press-ons can last you a maximum of two weeks. However, what you trade for longevity, you get back in time and convenience! Putting on your own nails takes less than 30 minutes and can be done at any time, even in the car on the way to an event!

2. Cost Benefits: Sustainable in the long run

If you’re someone who frequents salons for scheduled nail appointments a lot, you likely know that press-on nails cost much less than salon nails. When paying for salon nails, you pay not just for nails themselves, but also the service. In the case of press-ons, you purely pay for the best product possible and the rest is in your hands! If you’re nervous about application and removal, here is a breakdown of how I do it.

What makes press-on nails so affordable is the fact that they are reusable. By using nail tabs (which you can select as an option when placing your order), you can make your sets reusable for up to X times.

3. Quality-control: The perfect look each time

What makes press-on nails truly unique is you! Since you’re the one who will put them on, much of the control in this process lies in your hands. Our job at LUNA LAB is to make sure that the nails are the right size, shape, and design. While we give you all the tools you need in the LUNA LAB prep kit, the application process is in your hands. All LUNA LAB nail sets come equipped with detailed instructions about application If this still seems like a daunting ask, here are some resources to help you out:

LUNA LAB FAQs

For orders and inquiries, email me at info@lunalab.ca or reach out to me on Instagram

Blog: Learn more about press-on nails and what happens behind the scenes of LUNA LAB.