Unpopular opinion — nails edition🤭💅🏼
I hate getting my nails done, especially in a salon. Between the costs, the wait, the multiple processes of what the tech has to do as well as the annoyance in time passing-it's too much for me😔. Then there's the constant sitting and making sure I don't mess it up before I get out of the salon as well as the lasting power of the nails. I still love how they look on my hands though😁 I found an alternative by putting on press ons with gel glue. Now, I can do it myself but then that comes with another issue of scheduling time to keep up with them or getting them to last. I am working on it so I can get better though🫶🏾. Am I the only one? #UnpopularOpinion
Okay, so in my last post, I spilled the tea on why I'm not a huge fan of salon manicures anymore and how I've been loving press-on nails. But I've seen so many of you asking, 'Do nail salons even do press-ons?' or wondering about the real deal with 'press-on vs. salon.' Let me dive a little deeper into my experience and what I've learned! First off, in my experience, it's pretty rare for traditional nail salons to apply press-on nails you bring in. Think about it – their business model is built around their services: gel, acrylic, dip, intricate designs, and the time and skill that goes into those. Applying a set of press-ons usually isn't something they offer, largely because it's a quicker, less revenue-generating service compared to a full set. Plus, they might not guarantee the application if they didn't provide the nails themselves. So, if you're hoping to get a salon tech to pop on your favorite set of clear-based nails with colorful glitter tips, you're likely out of luck. That's why the DIY route for press-ons is so popular! Now, let's talk about the big comparison: press-on nails vs. salon. For me, it truly boils down to priorities. When I did go to the salon, I loved the feeling of getting a fresh set, maybe some sleek coffin-shaped nails or even those trendy oval-shaped ones with vibrant French tips. The application was always perfect, and they definitely lasted. But then came the downsides: the cost adds up so fast, the hours spent sitting there, and the commitment to one design for weeks. It felt like a luxury I couldn't always justify, especially when my schedule got crazy. That's where press-ons became my game-changer. The freedom to switch up my look whenever I want is amazing! One week I could be rocking those long, nude almond-shaped nails with rhinestone-decorated tips (hello, #NAILINSPO!), and the next I could go for something more subtle. The cost is a fraction of a salon visit, and I can do them in the comfort of my own home while watching my favorite show. I even managed to find some amazing square-shaped nails that look just like a salon set. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The biggest challenge, as I mentioned before, is getting them to *last*. This is crucial, especially if you're used to the durability of a salon gel or acrylic. I've been experimenting, and here are my top tips for making your press-ons stay put: Nail Prep is Key: This is non-negotiable! Push back your cuticles, gently buff your natural nail to remove shine, and thoroughly clean them with rubbing alcohol to remove any oils. This creates a clean, rough surface for the glue to adhere to. Quality Glue Matters: Not all nail glues are created equal. I've had the best luck with gel glue or a strong, quick-drying nail adhesive. Don't skimp here! Apply a thin, even layer to your natural nail and a small dot to the press-on. Proper Sizing: Make sure the press-on nail fits your natural nail bed perfectly. If it's too big or too small, it won't seal properly and will lift. Press and Hold: Apply the press-on from cuticle to tip, and hold it down firmly for at least 30 seconds. This ensures a good bond. Avoid Water Immediately: Try to avoid submerging your hands in water for at least a few hours after application. Top Coat for Extra Seal: Some people swear by applying a gel top coat (and curing it with a mini UV lamp if it's gel) over their press-ons for extra durability and shine. This can really make them look like a true #Slay! salon manicure. Yes, there's a bit of a learning curve, and sometimes a nail might pop off unexpectedly (especially with my active lifestyle!), but I'm getting better at it. For me, the convenience, cost savings, and endless style options (like those 'LIT' colorful French tips I've been eyeing) completely outweigh the occasional hassle. It's a journey, but I'm loving the results and feeling so much more in control of my nail game. Are you team press-on or team salon? Or dabble in both like me sometimes?