Why Your Nails Didn't Last: 5 Rookie Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Introduction
You bought the kit. You followed the instructions (mostly). But 24 hours later, your thumb nail is missing.
It’s frustrating. But before you blame the glue, check your technique.
Press-on nails rely on chemistry to stick. If you skip a step, the chemistry fails. At TsukiNails, we want you to get the full 14-day wear. Here are the top 5 mistakes beginners make—and the simple fixes.
1. Mistake #1: Skipping the "Dehydration" Step
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The Error: You washed your hands, dried them, and immediately applied the glue.
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The Problem: Your nails absorb water like a sponge. If they are damp, they shrink as they dry, breaking the glue bond. Plus, natural oils are still on the surface.
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The Fix: Wait 10 minutes after washing hands. Then, scrub vigorously with the Alcohol Prep Pad. Do not touch your face or hair afterwards!
2. Mistake #2: Flooding the Cuticle
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The Error: Using too much glue, causing it to spill out onto your skin.
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The Problem: Glue on skin = instant lifting. As your skin moves and produces oil, it pushes the glue (and the nail) away.
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The Fix: Apply a small dot to the natural nail and a small dot to the press-on. Leave a 1mm gap from the cuticle when you press down; the glue will spread to the edge naturally.
3. Mistake #3: Picking the Wrong Size (Too Big)
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The Error: Choosing a nail that covers your entire nail bed and touches the skin on the sides.
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The Problem: If the press-on touches your skin, it will lift within hours.
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The Fix: Always choose a size that is slightly smaller than your nail bed. It should fit strictly on the nail plate. If you are between sizes, choose the larger one and file the sides down.
4. Mistake #4: Using Hand Cream Immediately
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The Error: Applying lotion or cuticle oil right after gluing the nails on.
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The Problem: The glue takes time to fully cure and harden. Oil can seep into the edges and dissolve the fresh bond.
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The Fix: Keep your hands dry and oil-free for at least 1 hour after application.
5. Mistake #5: Using Your Nails as Tools
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The Error: Using your new claws to open a soda can or peel a sticker.
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The Problem: Press-ons are strong, but they are not indestructible levers.
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The Fix: Use your knuckles or a tool. Treat your nails like jewels, not tools.
Conclusion
Application is a skill. Once you correct these 5 small habits, you’ll go from "Why did this fall off?" to "I can't believe these have been on for 2 weeks!"