Can press-on nails be glued with gel?

To gel cure press-on nails at home, you’ll need a few essential materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Press-on nails : Choose a set of press-on nails that have a clear or transparent design to ensure proper light penetration and curing of the gel. Warning: sticking opaque coloured capsules will not work with this method as the UV/LED light will not be able to reach the gel under the capsules!
2. Gel bonding adhesive : You will need an adhesive specifically designed for gel-curing press-on nails. This adhesive is formulated to work with gel products and provides a stronger and longer-lasting bond. For example: builder gel and bonder gel.
3. UV or LED light : You’ll need a UV or LED light to cure the gel. UV lights emit ultraviolet rays, while LED lights use light-emitting diodes for curing. Both types of lights are effective, so choose the one that you prefer or have access to.
4. Alcohol wipes : Before applying the press-on nails, it’s essential to clean your natural nails to ensure proper adhesion. Alcohol wipes or nail cleansers can be used to remove any oils or residue from your nails.
5. Nail file and buffer : To prepare your natural nails for applying press-on nails, you’ll need a nail file and a buffer. The nail file helps shape your nails, ensuring they are the correct length and form, while the buffer creates a slightly rough surface to enhance adhesion.
6. Cuticle pusher : A cuticle pusher is necessary to gently push back your cuticles before applying the press-on nails. This step provides a clean and neat application, which helps prevent lifting.

Once you have everything ready, follow these simple steps to apply your press-on nails for a flawless, long-lasting manicure :

• Start by shaping and trimming your nails to your desired length using a nail file. Lightly buff the surface of your nails.
• Gently push back cuticles with a cuticle pusher.
• Clean your nails with an alcohol wipe or nail cleanser to remove oils and residue. This step ensures a clean base for better adhesion.

• Lightly etch the underside of each press-on nail where it will meet your natural nail. This technique creates a textured surface that helps the gel adhere more securely. If you’re using RC Nailosophys press-ons, there’s no need to etch—they’re pre-etched for your convenience!

• Apply a thin, even layer of builder gel to the etched area of the press-on nail, covering the entire contact surface.

• Place your hand under the LED light, ensuring all the nails are fully exposed. The curing process usually takes 30 to 60 seconds, depending on the type of gel and light you’re using.

While gel-curing press-on nails can secure them, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with this method.

1. Incomplete curing: If the press-on nails are dark or opaque, UV light may not fully penetrate to cure the gel underneath. This can leave uncured gel in contact with your nails, increasing the risk of nail lifting and potentially causing allergies to gel products over time.
2. Incomplete curing: If the press-on nails are dark or opaque, UV light may not fully penetrate to cure the gel underneath. This can leave uncured gel in contact with your nails, increasing the risk of nail lifting and potentially causing allergies to gel products over time.
3. Allergic reaction: Uncured gel can trigger contact dermatitis, causing swelling, redness, inflammation, and, in severe cases, nail separation. Proper curing is critical, but it’s not always guaranteed with press-ons.

By understanding these risks, you can make informed decisions about the best application methods for your press-on nails while keeping your nails healthy and safe.