If you're looking to apply fake nails, but want to avoid using nail glue (or don't have one), congratulations! There are many ways you can try to glue false nails without glue. Even if these techniques don't hold nails as long as glue, you can use them to change your appearance or apply artificial nails without having to commit to wearing them for weeks.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Applying False Nails with Double-Sided Adhesive
Step 1. Use the built-in adhesive on your nails if you want a longer lasting result
Some fake nail brands come with a built-in adhesive tape. This double-sided adhesive is usually cut to nail size and can last for several days.
You can also buy your own nail adhesive, either through a beauty supply store or online
Tip:
If you're afraid the adhesive will damage your nails, coat your nails with a transparent nail polish first!
Step 2. Choose a patterned nail adhesive for a temporary nail polish
The patterned adhesive is designed to stick for several hours without hurting your skin – or your nails – when removed. You can use it to glue false nails for one day.
- This is a great option if you have a special event or are going to a wedding on the weekend, but want your fake nails to be removed before work on Monday!
- This adhesive is an object that is used to hold clothes without hooks. The adhesive is usually placed between the fabric and the leather. You can buy it at a convenience store, online store, or supermarket.
- You can also use a special double-sided wig adhesive.
Step 3. Cut the adhesive to nail size if you are using patterned adhesive
Since this adhesive is sold as a roll, you will need to use scissors to cut the adhesive to the size of your nail. All your nails are different sizes. So, cut the adhesive to the size of each nail instead of cutting them the same size.
If you want, you can also stack two layers of adhesive together, then cut them to make 2 equal-sized pieces of adhesive. For example, after you measure one thumb, you can cut 2 layers of adhesive at a time to attach to both your thumbs
Step 4. Clean and prep your nails
Wash your hands and wipe each nail with a cotton swab dipped in non-acetone nail cleaner. This will help remove dirt and grease, and ensure the adhesive sticks perfectly.
Step 5. Peel off one side of the adhesive, then press it against your nail
Adjust one side of the adhesive to the nail, then peel off the other side. Carefully apply the peeled adhesive to the nail, then press it down with your fingers to make sure it is firmly attached.
- If the adhesive folds or bulges after installation, you may need to remove it and replace it with a new one.
- It's a good idea to apply the adhesive to your nails one at a time.
Step 6. Peel off the adhesive on the other side from the top
Once the adhesive is attached to the nail, carefully peel the top off. Your nails are now glued on.
Be careful not to touch the adhesive that is already installed
Step 7. Apply false nails, starting at the tip of the nail near the cuticle
Align the bottom edge of your artificial nail or the base of your natural nail. After that, carefully place the nails onto the adhesive. Gently press to flatten the nail, remove any trapped air, and seal it perfectly.
The adhesive will work right away, no need to wait for it to dry
Step 8. Place the false nail on the other nail in the same way
Once you've attached the first nail, continue until the entire set has been successfully installed. You may need to be patient to peel the adhesive off when the entire nail is almost done. Use the tip of the pad of your finger to make it easier.
Installation can be done quickly, and you don't have to wait for it to dry
Step 9. Peel off the adhesive to remove the nails
You can easily remove false nails if you use adhesive. Simply peel the nail from the adhesive, then remove the adhesive from your natural nail.
Method 2 of 3: Applying False Nails with Transparent Nail Polish
Step 1. Prepare your natural nails
Wash your hands and spray a dehydrator on your nails. If you don't have this liquid, clean each nail with a non-acetone nail polish remover. This is an important step in removing oil and dirt so that the nail polish can stick firmly.
Step 2. Paint the back of the false nails with transparent nail polish
Apply enough paint, but not too much so that the liquid doesn't run off when applied to the natural nail. The amount of polish applied to your natural nails should be more.
- You can use any brand of nail polish, even beaded polish. However, do not use colored paint. If the paint oozes out when applied, the color will show under the nail.
- Alternatively, you can apply the polish to your natural nail first.
Step 3. Let the nail polish dry for 15-30 seconds
Don't let the nail polish dry completely, but let it sit for a few seconds before applying false nails. When the paint turns sticky, the liquid will hold the false nails better.
- If you use a paint that dries quickly, you may not need to let it sit. Experiment with either nail to find out which method works best for you!
- If the nail polish has dried, apply it again. If the paint looks very thick, dip a cotton swab in the nail polish remover and wipe it off. Let your nails dry before applying nail polish again.
Step 4. Put on fake nails and press for 30-60 seconds
Once the polish has started to thicken, but hasn't dried yet, align the back end of your fake nail and your real nail. Press the false nails, then hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute to wait for the nail polish to dry.
The nails should not shift when you press them. Otherwise, the nail polish will not stick well
Step 5. Attach the nails one by one until complete
Since each nail must be pressed for one minute, this technique requires a little patience. However, once you're done, you'll get a beautiful set of nails that will last you for a few days!
Even if you only need to press each nail for a minute, the false nail installation process usually takes up to 1-2 hours in total. So, don't press or pull on your nails too hard during this time
Step 6. Soak the false nails in nail polish remover if you want to remove them
To remove artificial nails that are glued with nail polish, you must remove the polish. Fill a small bowl with nail polish remover, then soak your nails for 5-10 minutes. After that, slowly remove the false nails.
Do not forcibly remove the nail as it can be painful and injure your natural nail
Method 3 of 3: Applying False Nails with Base Coat and Paper Glue
Step 1. Wipe each nail with nail polish remover
First of all, wash your hands first. Then, dip a cotton swab in non-acetone nail polish remover and wipe all your nails. Alternatively, you can also spray a dehydrator on your nails. If you don't follow this step, dirt and oil on your nails can make it difficult for the nail polish and glue to stick.
Step 2. Paint one nail with a special nail base coat
A base coat is a protective layer that is often used over a layer of nail polish to make the color last longer. This liquid is able to protect the nails so that the natural oils that come out of the surface will not affect the adhesion of the glue.
- Base coats are generally clear or pale in color, such as white, cream, or reddish.
- Since the base coat should not dry out, it is best to apply one at a time.
Tip:
Want it fast? Mix the base coat liquid with the paper glue, then apply it directly to the nails!
Step 3. Apply a layer of paper glue before the base coat dries
Use a clean nail brush or paintbrush to apply a layer of paper glue to your nails. Use enough glue, but not too much so it doesn't run to the edges of the nail.
It's a good idea to first pour the glue into a small container, such as a sauce container or small bowl. However, if you prefer, you can take it straight from the bottle before applying it to your nails
Step 4. Press the false nails into the glue, then hold for 30-60 seconds
Align the fake nail with your real nail, then press. Hold for 30-60 seconds for the glue to dry.
Nails should not move when the glue is not dry. This can prevent glue and nails from sticking firmly
Step 5. Leave the nails on for 5 minutes to dry
After all the nails are done, let the glue sit for 5 minutes to dry completely. Don't let your nails hit anything, don't pull, and don't get wet until the glue has dried.
Your fake nails can last for a day
Step 6. Remove false nails by soaking them in nail polish remover
Fill a small bowl with nail polish remover, soak your nails for 10 minutes, then gently remove them. Don't try to peel or pry your nails without soaking them first as this can damage your natural nails.
