The simple switch to save you hundreds on your regular nail appointments

From brow appointments to regular facials, the cost of beauty adds up, so it’s no surprise that we are seeing a shift towards at-home maintenance routines… in particular, at-home manicures.

A typical trip to the nail salon can cost you upwards of $50, and of course, hours of your time, which is even more valuable. But with one simple switch, you can get manicured nails from the comfort of your own home in half the time.

Here is everything you need to know about press-on nails, and eight great options you need to shop now.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

How long do press on nails last?

As a general rule, most press-on nail options like the Kiss Bare but Better Press On Nails or the Glam By Manicare Glam Ready Pre-Glued Nails are said to last between 7 and 10 days, which, realistically, is how long your salon mani will stay looking fresh before you start to get chipping and nail regrowth.

However, certain options such as the OPI xPRESS/ON Press On Nails are said to actually last longer, with up to 14 days of wear.

The secret to a longer-lasting nail application lies in the nail prep and the adhesive you use. To start, you want to ensure your nails are well dehydrated (each kit should come with an alcohol wipe to help), as this will allow for a better bond. You also want to keep your cuticles and nail beds tidy for a nice and smooth surface.

Nail glue is said to be much stronger, so if you’re wishing to get the longest lifespan out of your mani, this is the way to go; however, sticky tabs do a great job too, but they allow for a little more movement, which is how tears and breaks can happen.

Most kits like this Priceline Almond Press On French Nails or this Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Press-On Nails actually come with both glue and sticky tabs so you can select which works best for you.

Shop the press-on nail trend

Press on nails are particularly good if you are someone who loves a ‘barely there’ nail look, because the shape is completely customisable to your individual nails.

Here are the most chic and affordable options on the market:

OXX Cosmetics Artificial Nails with Adhesive

Here for $10

OPI xPRESS/ON Press On Nails

Here for $17.96

MCoBeauty Press On Nails French Manicure

Here for $15

Kiss Bare but Better Press On Nails

Here for $15.99

OPI xPRESS/ON Press On Nails

Here for $22.14

Priceline Almond Press On French Nails

Here for $10

Glam By Manicare Glam Ready Pre-Glued Nails

Here for $13.99

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Press-On Nails

Here for $10.77

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