The Chemistry of Stick: The Real Science Behind Nail Glue
Introduction
You applied your nails perfectly, but two days later, one pops off. You blame the glue.
But here is the truth: Nail glue is a powerful industrial adhesive. When it fails, it’s usually not the product—it’s the Chemistry.
At TsukiNails, our glue is medical-grade Cyanoacrylate. To get the best retention, you need to think like a scientist. Here is how it works.
1. How Glue Works (The Bond)
Cyanoacrylate doesn't just "dry"; it cures.
-
The Catalyst: It reacts with moisture (hydroxide ions) in the air and on your nail surface to form tight polymer chains.
-
The Sweet Spot: You need some moisture (natural humidity) but not too much (wet hands). This is why we say "dry your hands" but don't over-dehydrate them to the point of chalkiness.
2. Enemy #1: Oil (The Barrier)
Oil molecules are slippery. They sit between the keratin of your nail and the glue.
-
The Science: If there is oil, the glue adheres to the oil, not the nail. The oil shifts, and the nail pops.
-
The Fix: 100% Acetone or Alcohol is a non-negotiable step to strip this lipid layer.
3. Enemy #2: Temperature (The Shock)
-
Cold: Makes the glue brittle and likely to shatter under impact (like tapping a keyboard).
-
Heat: Softens the polymer chains, making the glue gummy.
-
Advice: Avoid hot showers for the first 2 hours after application while the chemical cure is completing.
4. The "Air Bubble" Vacuum
-
The Physics: If you trap an air bubble, you create a vacuum-less space. Moisture enters this space, bacteria grows (Greenies), and the bond degrades from the inside out.
-
The Technique: Apply enough glue to fill the entire gap between your natural nail and the press-on curve.
Conclusion
Retention isn't luck; it's science. Control the oil, temperature, and application, and your TsukiNails will stay locked on until you decide to take them off.