Sizing, Application & Care Guide

Don't know how to size your fingers for your press ons? Here's an easy guide!

Choosing the correct size is the most important step to ensure your press-on nails fit comfortably and look natural.

Nail & Nymph Studio offers standard sizes:

XS | S | M | L

If you are unsure of your size, measuring your nails before ordering is recommended.

How to Measure Your Nails

You can measure your nails in two simple ways.

Method 1 — Measuring Tape

  1. Place a soft measuring tape across the widest part of your natural nail.

  2. Measure the width from sidewall to sidewall.

  3. Record the measurement in millimeters (mm).

  4. Repeat for all ten nails.

Compare your measurements to the size chart provided on each listing.

Method 2 — Coin sizing method (most accurate for your tech)

  1. Place a Canadain quarter coin (American will do) on a flat surface.

  2. Lay your hand flat beside the coin with your fingers relaxed and spread naturally.

  3. Take a clear photo directly from above, making sure both the coin and your entire hand are visible.

  4. Repeat for your other hand, as nail sizes can differ slightly.

  5. I'll use the coin as a size reference to estimate your nail widths and create a set that's as accurate as possible.

Please note: While this method is usually very accurate, it isn't guaranteed to be a perfect fit. For the most precise sizing, I recommend using a sizing kit specific to your tech before placing your custom order.

When to Size Up

If your nail measurement falls between two sizes, always choose the larger size.

A slightly larger nail can be gently filed to fit, while a nail that is too small will not sit properly.

How to Apply Press-On Nails

Each order includes an optional prep kit with the essentials needed for application.

Prep is the most important step for helping your nails last longer.

Step 1 — Prep Your Natural Nails

  1. Push back your cuticles using the cuticle stick.

  2. Lightly buff the surface of your natural nail.

  3. Clean your nails using the alcohol prep pad or a lint free cotton pad with 70% isopropyl alcohol.

This removes oils that prevent adhesion.

Step 2 — Select Your Nail Sizes

Lay out the press-on nails and match each one to your natural nail before applying glue.

Make sure each nail fits sidewall to sidewall without pressing into the skin.

Step 3 — Apply Nail Glue

Or you can use a nail adhesive tab, see below for your options

Step 4 — Press & Hold

Place the press-on nail slightly above your cuticle and press downward.

Hold firmly for 20–30 seconds.

Repeat for each nail.

Avoid water for at least 1-2 hours after application.

Nail Care Tips

To keep your press-ons looking their best:

• Avoid using nails as tools
• Wear gloves when cleaning
• Reapply glue if a nail loosens
• Store nails safely if you plan to reuse them

With proper care, many press-on sets can be worn multiple times.

Nail Adhesive Options

Press-on nails can be applied using either nail glue or adhesive tabs, depending on how long you want to wear your set.

Each method has its benefits.

Nail Glue (Longest Wear)

Nail glue provides the strongest hold and is recommended if you want your press-ons to last several days to over a week with proper care.

Best for:

• Long wear
• Daily activities
• Stronger hold

How to apply with glue

  1. Apply a thin layer of glue to your natural nail.

  2. Add a small amount of glue inside the press-on nail.

  3. Press the nail firmly onto your natural nail.

  4. Hold for 20–30 seconds.

Avoid water for at least 1 hour after application.

Adhesive Tabs (Temporary Wear)

Adhesive tabs are perfect for short-term wear, events, or if you want to reuse the set more easily.

Best for:

• 1–3 days of wear
• Special events
• Easy removal

To apply:

  1. Choose a tab slightly smaller than your natural nail.

  2. Press the tab onto your nail and remove the protective film.

  3. Press the press-on nail firmly on top.

  4. Hold for 20–30 seconds.

Tips to Make Press-On Nails Last Longer

Proper prep makes the biggest difference in wear time.

For the best hold:

• Push back cuticles before applying
• Lightly buff the surface of your natural nails
• Clean nails with alcohol to remove oils
• Avoid applying right after showering (nails are softer)
• Press nails firmly for at least 30 seconds
• Avoid water for 1–2 hours after application

Nail Care Tips

With proper care, press-on nails can stay looking beautiful and many sets can be reused multiple times.

Be Gentle With Your Nails

Press-on nails are durable, but they shouldn’t be used as tools. Avoid using them to open cans, peel labels, or pry objects.

Wear Gloves When Cleaning

Cleaning products and prolonged water exposure can weaken adhesive and dull the finish. Wearing gloves helps protect both your nails and your skin.

Avoid Excessive Water Exposure

Long periods in water (such as hot baths, pools, or dishwashing without gloves) may loosen the adhesive.

Reapply If Needed

If a nail begins to loosen, remove it carefully, clean off old adhesive, and reapply using fresh glue or adhesive tabs.

Store Nails for Reuse

If you plan to reuse your press-on nails:

• Remove leftover glue gently
• Clean the underside of the nail
• Store them safely in their box or a small container

Keep Your Natural Nails Healthy

Between wears, give your natural nails time to breathe and apply cuticle oil or hand cream to keep nails and skin hydrated.

Remove Nails Safely

Never force or pull off press-on nails.
Soak them in warm, soapy water and gently lift the edges with a cuticle stick.

Proper removal helps protect your natural nails and keeps the press-ons reusable.

Pro tip: Applying your nails before bed allows the adhesive to fully set overnight.

How to Remove Press-On Nails

Never force or pull off press-on nails.

This can damage your natural nails.

  1. Soak nails in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes.

  2. Gently lift the edges using a cuticle stick.

  3. If resistance occurs, soak longer.

Any leftover glue can be gently buffed away.