A woman's hand with pink press-on nails. It's used as the featured image of the blog: how to make press-on nails last

How to Keep Press-On Nails Lasting: My Secret Tips as a Busy Mom Who Adores Pretty Nails

Hello Loves,
Are you like me in finding time for yourself between work, motherhood and still looking your best? Press-on nails are an essential tool when trying to maintain balance in life: quick, cute and incredibly useful! They make any look instantly more put-together!

Press-on nails have finally made their comeback into beauty and fashion circles after over a decade of dominating. Thanks to newer options like jelly gel glue (I swear by it; more on this in a moment), press-ons no longer just look salon quality; they feel it too! And, more importantly, it is healthier too! But let’s be realistic: how do we actually ensure they last long enough?

Today I’m sharing the strategies that keep my press-ons looking perfect for days and sometimes weeks! Whether you’re new to press-ons or looking for some refreshers, here’s my take on how I maintain mine!

Get Started Right

Before beginning to apply your nail art, always ensure your natural nails are free from debris or oil – I like to give mine a quick wipe with alcohol pad or nail cleanser to do this quickly – it makes all the difference.

Gently File and Buff

I like to lightly file and shape my natural nails to ensure my press-ons fit securely and comfortably, before buffing with jelly gel glue for extra grip. Don’t go too overboard- just give a gentle touch will do. Remember, the blue side is the coarse side, and the pink side is the fine side.

There are 4 short nail files in the picture.
Nail file is ncluded in all the eleglara’s press-on nail for free.

Apply Jelly Gel Glue

Let’s talk glue – but not harsh stuff! One reason eleglara’s nails caught my attention was due to her use of non-harsh jelly gel glue that’s easier on her natural nails while holding like magic.

Just apply the correct size one and gently press your nail tip against it for 30-60 seconds – super simple!

There are 24 pcs Jelly Gel glue pad in the picture
There are 24 pcs jelly gel in different sizes. Just apply the ones that fit.

Press, Hold and Chill


After applying your nail, be sure to give it a good press before diving right in to dishes or showering right away – give it time for setting! I recommend waiting an hour between water activities such as dishes or showering (perhaps doing them late at night when everyone has gone to sleep and enjoy some adult time while they set…a glass of wine would certainly help!)

Keep Them Dry


While long baths and pampering for everyone are great ways to unwind and relax, if I know I am going all out with cleaning I’ll put some gloves on – not only for protection of nails but also to keep jelly gel glue looking its best underneath!

File Edges When Needed Occasionally, edges may catch on your socks when first worn. To keep things comfortable and snag-free, I use a soft nail file to lightly file down these edges so they fit just right.

Keep Extra Nails Safe Eleglara nails usually provide more than enough nails for several wears (yay!) so I always keep any leftovers and any extra jelly gel glue in a small zip bag so they’re readily accessible if a quick touch-up is ever necessary.

One Simple Action Can Bring So Much Beauty


It’s amazing how something so straightforward can help us feel so put-together and stylish. Even when I’m running around after my toddler and haven’t showered in weeks… having beautiful nails gives me that boost of self-esteem I need!

Hope these tips help extend the lifespan of your press-ons and keep you looking and feeling amazing!

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