3 Easy Ways to Put Nails on Without Glue

If you have ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to put on nails but didn’t have any glue, you know how frustrating it can be. The good news is that there are a few different ways to put on nails without glue, and they are all relatively easy to do. In this article, we will discuss three different methods for putting on nails without glue. We will also provide some tips for keeping your nails looking their best.

The first method for putting on nails without glue is to use nail tabs. Nail tabs are small, adhesive tabs that you can apply to the back of your nails. Once the tabs are in place, you can simply press your nails onto your natural nails and they will stay in place. Nail tabs are a great option for people who want a quick and easy way to put on nails, and they are also very gentle on your natural nails.

The second method for putting on nails without glue is to use nail wraps. Nail wraps are thin, adhesive strips that you can wrap around your nails. Once the wraps are in place, you can use a nail file to trim them to the desired length and shape. Nail wraps are a great option for people who want a more natural look, and they are also very durable. However, it is important to note that nail wraps can be more difficult to remove than nail tabs.

Choosing the Right Nails

Consider Your Nail Shape and Size

Selecting nails that complement the natural shape and size of your fingers is crucial for a seamless look. For elongated, slender fingers, opt for nails with a coffin or square shape. These shapes elongate the finger and create an elegant silhouette. Conversely, shorter, wider fingers are better suited to shorter, rounder nails. Oval and almond-shaped nails strike a balance between length and width, flattering most finger types.

Choose the Right Cuticle Fit

The cuticle area is where your nail meets your skin. When selecting nails, pay attention to the cuticle arch, which refers to the curve of the nail near the cuticle. Choose nails with a cuticle arch that closely matches your natural curve. An ill-fitting cuticle arch can result in nail lifting or premature detachment. If you have a deep cuticle curve, opt for nails with a pronounced arch, such as C-curve nails. For flatter cuticles, choose nails with a shallower arch.

Match Your Nail Bed Width

The nail bed refers to the skin under your nails. To ensure a snug fit, measure the width of your nail bed and select nails that are approximately the same width. Nails that are too wide can overlap the skin, causing discomfort or premature detachment. Conversely, nails that are too narrow will leave a visible gap between the nail and the skin, resulting in an unnatural appearance.

Nail Shape	Suitable for Finger Shape
Coffin	Elongated, slender fingers
Square	Elongated, slender fingers
Oval	Most finger types
Almond	Most finger types
Round	Short, wide fingers

Preparing Your Nails

1. Remove Old Nail Polish and Cuticle

Start by thoroughly removing any old nail polish using a nail polish remover. Next, soak your nails in warm water for a few minutes to soften your cuticles. Gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or an orange stick. Trimming any excess cuticles can help create a clean and polished look.

2. File and Shape Your Nails

Filing your nails to your desired length and shape is crucial for a flawless nail application. Choose a nail file with a suitable grit that matches the thickness of your nails. File in one direction to avoid weakening the nails. Consider the shape that complements the length of your nail bed. Some popular shapes include:

Shape	Description
Round	Smooth, rounded edges, ideal for short nails.
Oval	Slightly elongated, rounded edges, suitable for medium-length nails.
Square	Straight, blunt edges, appropriate for longer nails.
Almond	Pointy, tapered edges, creating an elegant and feminine look.

3. Cleanse and Dehydrate Your Nails

Wipe your nails with a nail cleanser or alcohol to remove any oils or residue that may prevent the nails from adhering properly. Dehydrating your nails helps create a slightly rough surface that enhances the bond between the natural nails and the artificial nails.

Applying Nail Adhesive

Nail adhesive is a temporary solution for applying nails without glue. It’s less permanent than glue, making it easier to remove nails without damaging your natural nails. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using nail adhesive:

Prepare your nails: Remove any existing nail polish or adhesive. Clean your nails with a nail brush and soap and water. Dry them thoroughly.
Apply the adhesive: Choose a nail adhesive designed for artificial nails. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the underside of the artificial nail. Avoid getting any adhesive on your skin.
Press on the nail: Align the artificial nail with your natural nail and press down firmly for 10-15 seconds. Hold the nail in place until the adhesive sets.

Detailed Guide to Pressing On the Nail

Step 1: Find the correct alignment: Hold the artificial nail at a slight angle and carefully align it with the cuticle of your natural nail. The base of the artificial nail should rest on your natural nail without overlapping or hanging over the edges.

Step 2: Apply gentle, even pressure: Starting from the cuticle, gradually apply pressure to the artificial nail, working your way towards the tip. Use your thumb or index finger to press firmly, ensuring that the nail adheres evenly to your natural nail.

Step 3: Maintain pressure: Keep applying constant pressure for 10-15 seconds to allow the adhesive to set. Do not press too hard, as this can damage your natural nail. Avoid wiggling or moving the artificial nail during this time.

Step 4: Check for secure adhesion: Once the time has elapsed, lift the artificial nail slightly to check if it is securely attached. If the nail moves, reapply pressure for a few more seconds.

Troubleshooting:

Nail is loose: If the nail becomes loose, carefully remove it and reapply the adhesive. Ensure that you clean the nail and adhesive surface before reattaching the nail.
Adhesive showing: If adhesive is visible around the edges of the nail, gently wipe it away with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover.

Securing the Nails

Once you have prepared your nails and applied polish, it’s time to secure them. There are several methods you can use to keep your nails in place without glue. Here’s how:

1. Use Double-Sided Tape

Cut small pieces of double-sided tape and apply them to the back of your nails. Then, press the nails firmly onto your natural nails and hold for a few seconds to ensure a secure bond.

2. Apply Nail Wraps

Nail wraps are self-adhesive strips that come in various designs and colors. Apply them to your clean, dry nails and smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. The adhesive on the wraps will create a strong hold.

3. Use Nail Tabs

Nail tabs are small, self-adhesive squares that you can apply to the back of your nails. Similar to double-sided tape, they provide a temporary but secure bond. Press the nails onto your natural nails and hold for a few minutes to secure them.

4. File and Buff the Back of the Nails

Filing and buffing the back of the nails helps create a rough surface that enhances the adhesion of polish and adhesives. This technique is particularly useful for securing heavy or long nails.

5. Use a Nail Strengthener

Nail strengtheners are clear or tinted liquids that you can apply to your nails to improve their strength and durability. When applied to the back of the nails before securing, they create an extra layer of adhesion that helps keep the nails in place.

Nail Strengthener	Purpose
Calcium	Promotes nail growth and strength
Biotin	Supports nail health and prevents brittleness
Keratin	Strengthens the nails and protects them from damage

Note that these methods provide a temporary hold. For a more permanent solution, consider using nail glue or visiting a nail salon for a professional application.

Trimming and Shaping the Nails

1. **Gather your tools.** You will need a pair of sharp nail clippers, a nail file, and an orange stick or cuticle pusher.

2. **Trim the nails.** Use the nail clippers to trim the nails to your desired length. Cut straight across, avoiding cutting into the corners of the nail. This will help prevent ingrown nails.

3. **File the nails.** Use the nail file to shape the nails. For a square shape, file the edges of the nail straight across. For a rounded shape, file the edges of the nail in a curved motion.

4. **Smooth the edges.** Use the nail file to smooth any rough edges on the nails.

5. **Push back the cuticles.** Use the orange stick or cuticle pusher to gently push back the cuticles. This will help to create a clean and polished look.

6. Apply a nail buffer. A nail buffer is a tool that helps to smooth the surface of the nails and create a glossy shine. To use a nail buffer, hold the buffer against the nail and move it in a circular motion. Apply gentle pressure and avoid over-buffing, as this can weaken the nails.

Remove ridges and smooth the nail surface

Create a glossy shine

Nail Buffer Grit	Use
80-100 grit
150-180 grit

7. **Apply a top coat.** A top coat is a clear nail polish that helps to protect the nails and keep them looking shiny. Apply a thin layer of top coat to each nail and allow it to dry completely.

Filing the Nails

To achieve a secure fit, your natural nails should be filed to a short length to prevent the artificial nails from interfering with your daily activities. However, if you prefer longer nails, file the edges to round them off slightly to reduce the risk of snagging or tearing.

1. Gather Tools and Materials

Ensure you have all the necessary tools, including a nail file, buffer, and cotton balls for cleansing the nails.

2. Determine the File Grit

Choose a file with a 180-grit or higher for fine finishing. Avoid using coarser files, as they can damage the nail surface.

3. File in One Direction

File the nails in a single direction, moving from the cuticle to the tip. This technique prevents the nails from splitting or becoming uneven.

4. Shape the Nails

File the edges of the nails to your desired shape, whether round, square, or oval. Avoid filing the nails too thin, as this weakens them.

5. Buff the Surface

Use a buffer to gently remove any ridges or imperfections on the nail surface, creating a smooth base for the artificial nails.

6. Wipe with Isopropyl Alcohol

Cleanse the nails with a cotton ball soaked in isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils or debris.

7. Nail Surface Preparation

For a long-lasting application, consider using a nail dehydrator or primer. Apply these products according to the manufacturer’s instructions to enhance the adhesion of the artificial nails.

Product	Purpose
Nail Dehydrator	Removes moisture from the nail surface, creating a more porous surface for better adhesion.
Nail Primer	Provides a sticky base for the artificial nails to adhere to, preventing lifting and chipping.

Buffing the Nails

The final step in preparing your nails for stick-on application is buffing them. This will remove any remaining debris or oils from the surface of the nails, creating a smooth and even surface for the adhesive to bond to. To buff your nails:

Use a fine-grit nail buffer block or a soft-bristled brush to gently buff the surface of each nail, moving in circular motions.
Continue buffing until the nails have a smooth, matte finish.
Do not over-buff, as this can damage the nails.
Wipe away any dust created by buffing using a clean, lint-free cloth.

Tips for Buffing Nails:

Here are some additional tips for buffing your nails effectively:

Tip	Benefit
Use a high-quality nail buffer block.	This will provide a smooth, consistent finish.
Buff in small, circular motions.	This will prevent the nail from becoming damaged.
Do not over-buff.	Over-buffing can weaken the nails and make them more prone to breaking.
Wipe away dust immediately.	Dust can interfere with the adhesion of the stick-on nails.

Applying a Top Coat

1. Choose the Right Top Coat

Select a top coat specifically designed for press-on nails. These formulas adhere better to the artificial nail material and provide a longer-lasting finish.

2. Prepare Your Nails

Cleanse your natural nails with alcohol to remove any oils or debris. This ensures a better bond between the press-on nail and your own.

3. Apply a Thin Coat

Using a small brush or sponge, apply a thin coat of top coat to the entire surface of the press-on nail, including the edges.

4. Wait for the Base Coat to Dry

Allow the base coat to dry completely before applying the top coat. This prevents smudging or peeling.

5. Apply a Second Coat

After the base coat is dry, apply a second coat of top coat, this time focusing on the edges and tips to seal the press-on nail in place.

6. Use a Quick-Drying Formula

For faster drying, opt for a top coat with a quick-drying formula. These products usually dry within a few minutes.

7. Avoid Over-Applying

Applying too much top coat can cause the press-on nails to become thick and bulky. Stick to a thin, even layer for the best results.

8. Cure Under a UV/LED Lamp (Optional)

Some press-on nail top coats require curing under a UV/LED lamp for maximum durability. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific curing times.

9. Troubleshooting: Top Coat Peeling or Chipping

Possible Causes:
- Over-application of top coat
- Poor nail preparation (oils or debris present)
- Using a non-compatible top coat
Solutions:
- Apply a thinner layer of top coat
- Cleanse your nails thoroughly before applying the press-on nails
- Use a top coat specifically designed for press-on nails

How To Put Nails On Without Glue

When it comes to applying press-on nails, glue is the most common method. However, there are a few other ways to put on nails without glue, which can be helpful if you have sensitive skin or don’t want to deal with the mess. Here are a few methods you can try:

1. Nail tabs: Nail tabs are small, adhesive strips that can be applied to the back of press-on nails. They are easy to use and remove, and they don’t damage your natural nails. To use nail tabs, simply peel off the backing and apply the tab to the back of the press-on nail. Then, press the nail onto your natural nail and hold it in place for a few seconds.

2. Double-sided tape: Double-sided tape can also be used to apply press-on nails. It is a bit more difficult to use than nail tabs, but it can be more secure. To use double-sided tape, cut a small piece of tape and apply it to the back of the press-on nail. Then, remove the backing from the other side of the tape and press the nail onto your natural nail. Hold the nail in place for a few seconds to ensure that it is secure.

3. Nail glue dots: Nail glue dots are small, round dots of glue that can be applied to the back of press-on nails. They are easy to use and remove, and they provide a strong hold. To use nail glue dots, simply peel off the backing and apply the dot to the back of the press-on nail. Then, press the nail onto your natural nail and hold it in place for a few seconds.