The 11 Best Press-On Nails, According to Our Testers and Editors

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Tamara Staples

People / Tamara Staples

Getting your nails done is a luxury, but you don’t have to go to the salon for high-quality tips that would make a Kardashian look twice. Press-on nails bring the spa home to you, with a range of lengths, colors, and styles that are easy to apply, wear, and remove.

“It’s really about shape and style and what you’re looking for in art,” celebrity nail artistElle Gersteintells PEOPLE. With her work donning the perfectly manicured hands of clients like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Gigi Hadid, Gerstein knows how the right set of nails can make or break a look. But when you’re on the go, a quick option is always preferable. “When you don’t have the time to sit forextravagant nail art(or the money), press-ons are a great option,” Gerstein says.

Best Overall:Static Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicure at Amazon$18Jump to Review

Best Overall:Static Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicure at Amazon$18

Best Overall:

Best Overall (Cheaper):Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On Nails at Amazon$9Jump to Review

Best Overall (Cheaper):Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On Nails at Amazon$9

Best Overall (Cheaper):

SALE

Best Kit:Olive & June Press-On Mani at Target$10Jump to Review

Best Kit:Olive & June Press-On Mani at Target$10

Best Kit:

Best Gel Kit:SALEKiss Salon X-Tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit at Amazon$23$19Jump to Review

Best Gel Kit:SALEKiss Salon X-Tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit at Amazon$23$19

Best Gel Kit:

Best Damage-Free:ManiMe Stick-On Gels at AmazonJump to Review

Best Damage-Free:ManiMe Stick-On Gels at Amazon

Best Damage-Free:

Best Designs:Paint Lab Press-On Nails at Amazon$13Jump to Review

Best Designs:Paint Lab Press-On Nails at Amazon$13

Best Designs:

Best Variety:KISS imPRESS Press-On Nails at Amazon$8Jump to Review

Best Variety:KISS imPRESS Press-On Nails at Amazon$8

Best Variety:

Best User-Friendly:Chillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Nails at Shopbop.comJump to Review

Best User-Friendly:Chillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Nails at Shopbop.com

Best User-Friendly:

Best Adhesive:Glamnetic Press On Nails at Amazon$15Jump to Review

Best Adhesive:Glamnetic Press On Nails at Amazon$15

Best Adhesive:

Best OverallStatic Nails Reusable Pop-On ManicurePHOTO: Ulta$18 at Amazon$18 at UltaView on Staticnails.comStar QualitiesEasy to applyStayed securely attached, even while doing household tasksQuick and easy to removeRed FlagsGlue was a little messy during the applicationThe Static Nails press-on set proved to be a favorite for its simple application, whimsical design, and durability. Our team liked the natural and classy look of the nails, as well as the shape and size of each nail.These nails earned a near-perfect score for application and overall look, meaning we thought the quality replicated what you’d find at a salon with the ease of home application. And these nails held their own even after testing was complete. We wore these nails for over a week, doing household tasks like laundry and washing the dishes, and only one nail popped off during that time.To remove, we opted to peel them off — which took about 15 minutes. Our only complaint was the glue, which sometimes stuck on the top of the nail and made the application slightly messy (though simple to accomplish!).Damage-Free:Yes |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:Yes (up to 18 days or 6 times for shorter wear) |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Dual-sided file/buffer, gluePHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best OverallStatic Nails Reusable Pop-On ManicurePHOTO: Ulta$18 at Amazon$18 at UltaView on Staticnails.com

Best OverallStatic Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicure

Best Overall

Static Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicure

PHOTO: Ulta

$18 at Amazon$18 at UltaView on Staticnails.com

Star QualitiesEasy to applyStayed securely attached, even while doing household tasksQuick and easy to removeRed FlagsGlue was a little messy during the application

Star QualitiesEasy to applyStayed securely attached, even while doing household tasksQuick and easy to remove

Easy to apply

Stayed securely attached, even while doing household tasks

Quick and easy to remove

Red FlagsGlue was a little messy during the application

Glue was a little messy during the application

The Static Nails press-on set proved to be a favorite for its simple application, whimsical design, and durability. Our team liked the natural and classy look of the nails, as well as the shape and size of each nail.

These nails earned a near-perfect score for application and overall look, meaning we thought the quality replicated what you’d find at a salon with the ease of home application. And these nails held their own even after testing was complete. We wore these nails for over a week, doing household tasks like laundry and washing the dishes, and only one nail popped off during that time.

To remove, we opted to peel them off — which took about 15 minutes. Our only complaint was the glue, which sometimes stuck on the top of the nail and made the application slightly messy (though simple to accomplish!).

Damage-Free:Yes |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:Yes (up to 18 days or 6 times for shorter wear) |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Dual-sided file/buffer, glue

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best Overall (Cheaper)Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On NailsPHOTO: Dashing Diva$9 at Amazon$9 at Sallybeauty.com$9$8 at Jcpenney.comStar QualitiesLightweight feel and strong adhesiveEasy to prep and applyRed FlagsNot reusable, so after they fall off, you can’t reapplyEarning a perfect score in every test we ran, the Dashing Diva nails are lightweight on your fingers but durable enough to last. These nails were easy to prep and had a strong adhesive that kept them in place. They didn’t falter after repeated hand-washing and lightly bending the edge of the nail to test the adhesive. We loved the look and felt they were comparable to salon-quality nails.The only slight inconvenience is that these nails aren’t reusable, so once they fall off, they can’t simply be reapplied. However, the set comes with 30 nails in 12 sizes, a prep pad, a nail file, and a wooden manicure stick to help with the application. Given the price (and ease of replacement!), we think these nails are a solid choice for those on a budget who want salon-quality nails at a reasonable price.Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes,multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Shiny |Adhesive:Pre-glued adhesive nail tab |Included Tools:Prep pad, nail file, wooden stickPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best Overall (Cheaper)Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On NailsPHOTO: Dashing Diva$9 at Amazon$9 at Sallybeauty.com$9$8 at Jcpenney.com

Best Overall (Cheaper)Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On Nails

Best Overall (Cheaper)

Dashing Diva Magic Press Press-On Nails

PHOTO: Dashing Diva

$9 at Amazon$9 at Sallybeauty.com$9$8 at Jcpenney.com

Star QualitiesLightweight feel and strong adhesiveEasy to prep and applyRed FlagsNot reusable, so after they fall off, you can’t reapply

Star QualitiesLightweight feel and strong adhesiveEasy to prep and apply

Lightweight feel and strong adhesive

Easy to prep and apply

Red FlagsNot reusable, so after they fall off, you can’t reapply

Not reusable, so after they fall off, you can’t reapply

Earning a perfect score in every test we ran, the Dashing Diva nails are lightweight on your fingers but durable enough to last. These nails were easy to prep and had a strong adhesive that kept them in place. They didn’t falter after repeated hand-washing and lightly bending the edge of the nail to test the adhesive. We loved the look and felt they were comparable to salon-quality nails.

The only slight inconvenience is that these nails aren’t reusable, so once they fall off, they can’t simply be reapplied. However, the set comes with 30 nails in 12 sizes, a prep pad, a nail file, and a wooden manicure stick to help with the application. Given the price (and ease of replacement!), we think these nails are a solid choice for those on a budget who want salon-quality nails at a reasonable price.

Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes,multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Shiny |Adhesive:Pre-glued adhesive nail tab |Included Tools:Prep pad, nail file, wooden stick

Kiss Nails Bare But Better Press On Nails

PHOTO: Amazon

$9$7 at Amazon$9 at Walmart$9 at Ulta

Star QualitiesLarge variety of shapes, colors, and lengthsLasted about a week and a halfComes with 28 nails and application toolsRed FlagsNot reusable

Star QualitiesLarge variety of shapes, colors, and lengthsLasted about a week and a halfComes with 28 nails and application tools

Large variety of shapes, colors, and lengths

Lasted about a week and a half

Comes with 28 nails and application tools

Red FlagsNot reusable

Not reusable

We’ve tested a range of press-on nails, but one our team particularly loves is the Kiss Bare but Better Nude Nails. We find a Kiss set will last about a week and a half, so you’ll get a good amount of use out of them before moving to your next look.

“I’m devoted to my glue-on nails, so as a DIY snob, I’m usually designing my own manicure before I go for a store-bought pack. However, therearea few brands that I’ll gravitate towards if I need to fix up my nails in a pinch, and one happens to be Kiss. I love how professional these look on my nails — the hue fading into a transparent ombre near my nail bed to give the mani a seamless, acrylic-like look.” —Alyssa Brascia, PEOPLE writer

Damage-Free:Yes |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:File, manicure stick, glue

Behrman Cesa Communications

Best KitOlive & June Press-On ManiPHOTO: Olive & June$10 at Target$12 at WalmartView on Oliveandjune.comStar QualitiesComes with grooming tools, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep everything organizedNails are sturdy and made from recycled materialsRed FlagsGlue application was messyFor a little extra oomph on your nails, look to Olive & June The Press-On System. Going above a single set of nails, this kit provides high-quality press-on nails, a host of nail grooming tools and serums, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep it all organized. We loved the design and sheen of these nails, as well as the sturdy material, which is made from 94 percent post-consumer recycled materials.With top scores in most of our tests, this set of nails survived the sink test and remained in place after our team washed their hands three times. We chose to soak our nails when we were ready to remove them, and the process took about 25 to 30 minutes.The only hiccup was the glue involved in the application process — which created a bit of a mess. We only struggled to apply one out of 10 nails, and the others adhered easily.Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:Yes |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Pouch, glue, nail clipper, file, buffer, cuticle pusher, cuticle serum, nail strengthener, removal kitPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best KitOlive & June Press-On ManiPHOTO: Olive & June$10 at Target$12 at WalmartView on Oliveandjune.com

Best KitOlive & June Press-On Mani

Best Kit

Olive & June Press-On Mani

PHOTO: Olive & June

$10 at Target$12 at WalmartView on Oliveandjune.com

Star QualitiesComes with grooming tools, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep everything organizedNails are sturdy and made from recycled materialsRed FlagsGlue application was messy

Star QualitiesComes with grooming tools, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep everything organizedNails are sturdy and made from recycled materials

Comes with grooming tools, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep everything organized

Nails are sturdy and made from recycled materials

Red FlagsGlue application was messy

Glue application was messy

For a little extra oomph on your nails, look to Olive & June The Press-On System. Going above a single set of nails, this kit provides high-quality press-on nails, a host of nail grooming tools and serums, a removal kit, and a pouch to keep it all organized. We loved the design and sheen of these nails, as well as the sturdy material, which is made from 94 percent post-consumer recycled materials.

With top scores in most of our tests, this set of nails survived the sink test and remained in place after our team washed their hands three times. We chose to soak our nails when we were ready to remove them, and the process took about 25 to 30 minutes.

The only hiccup was the glue involved in the application process — which created a bit of a mess. We only struggled to apply one out of 10 nails, and the others adhered easily.

Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:Yes |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Pouch, glue, nail clipper, file, buffer, cuticle pusher, cuticle serum, nail strengthener, removal kit

Best Gel KitKiss Salon X-Tend LED Soft Gel System Starter KitPHOTO: Kiss USA$23$19 at Amazon$20 at Walmart$26 at Ulta

Best Gel KitKiss Salon X-Tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit

Best Gel Kit

Kiss Salon X-Tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit

PHOTO: Kiss USA

$23$19 at Amazon$20 at Walmart$26 at Ulta

Star QualitiesNails feel thicker and stronger than most press-onsSalon-like finishLED lamp is super easy to useRed FlagsGlue started to weaken after 2 days of wear

Star QualitiesNails feel thicker and stronger than most press-onsSalon-like finishLED lamp is super easy to use

Nails feel thicker and stronger than most press-ons

Salon-like finish

LED lamp is super easy to use

Red FlagsGlue started to weaken after 2 days of wear

Glue started to weaken after 2 days of wear

We had to try out these at-home gel press-on nails after gymnastSuni Lee wore them while competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics— though we knew that if they held up to the uneven bars, they’d be able to withstand our day-to-day lives.

This kit came with everything you could need to apply agel manicure at home, from the full-cover tips to the mini LED lamp and gel adhesive. These nails felt thicker than many other press-ons we’ve tried, but they were easy to shape with a nail file despite their strength. Plus, the LED lamp was super easy to use — it automatically shut off after curing for one minute and didn’t hurt our skin if gel oozed out of the nail (an issue we’ve run into before).

Damage-Free:Mostly |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:Yes |Customizable:Yes, different lengths, sizes, and designs |Finish:Glossy |Adhesive:Gel |Included Tools:Nail file, LED lamp, gel adhesive, USB cable, manicure stick

People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Damage-FreeManiMe Stick-On GelsPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon

Best Damage-FreeManiMe Stick-On Gels

Best Damage-Free

ManiMe Stick-On Gels

View on Amazon

Star QualitiesCompletely damage-free and long-lastingCome in a variety of fun patterns and designsStayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water — and even after the showerRed FlagsStandard size doesn’t fit as well as the custom

Star QualitiesCompletely damage-free and long-lastingCome in a variety of fun patterns and designsStayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water — and even after the shower

Completely damage-free and long-lasting

Come in a variety of fun patterns and designs

Stayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water — and even after the shower

Red FlagsStandard size doesn’t fit as well as the custom

Standard size doesn’t fit as well as the custom

One of the trickiest parts of press-on nails is ensuring you don’t damage your nails in the process, and these nails from ManiMe ensure an easy application and removal. Despite being stick-ons, these nails hold up surprisingly well against water and everyday use. They stayed on after multiple rounds of washing with hot water. To remove them, you should soak them in hot, soapy water for about 10 minutes before peeling them off. Acetone works to remove any residue as well.

The only flaw we could find is when you buy the sample sizes, they are harder to apply for a perfect fit. While our testing team used the sample sizes, the custom option fits much more seamlessly. All you have to do is send in a photo of your nails and the press-ons are 3-D-printed to match. You can also modify the fit with nail clippers and seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies, some matte, some glossy |Adhesive:Pre-glued adhesive gel on each nail |Included Tools:Prep pad, nail file, wood stick

Best DesignsPaint Lab Press-On NailsPHOTO: Paint Lab$13 at Amazon

Best DesignsPaint Lab Press-On Nails

Best Designs

Paint Lab Press-On Nails

PHOTO: Paint Lab

$13 at Amazon

Star QualitiesCome in whimsical designs and bold colorsNails stayed in place during thorough hand washingEasy to apply and have a seamless lookRed FlagsNot reusable, but the price reflects one-time use

Star QualitiesCome in whimsical designs and bold colorsNails stayed in place during thorough hand washingEasy to apply and have a seamless look

Come in whimsical designs and bold colors

Nails stayed in place during thorough hand washing

Easy to apply and have a seamless look

Red FlagsNot reusable, but the price reflects one-time use

Not reusable, but the price reflects one-time use

While these nails are highly durable and you can enjoy them for a few weeks, they are not reusable. However, given the low price and wide availability, you can get another pair in no time at all.

Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies, some matte, some glossy |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Dual-sided nail file and buffer, wooden cuticle stick, nail glue

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best VarietyKISS imPRESS Press-On NailsPHOTO: Amazon$8 at Amazon

Best VarietyKISS imPRESS Press-On Nails

Best Variety

KISS imPRESS Press-On Nails

$8 at Amazon

Star QualitiesSuper easy to apply, since there’s no glue involvedComes with extras, so you can get the right fit and have replacements on handWide variety of colors and designsRed FlagsNot reusable

Star QualitiesSuper easy to apply, since there’s no glue involvedComes with extras, so you can get the right fit and have replacements on handWide variety of colors and designs

Super easy to apply, since there’s no glue involved

Comes with extras, so you can get the right fit and have replacements on hand

Wide variety of colors and designs

For those looking for an assortment of color options, Kiss Impress has over 300 solid colors and designs to choose from, including a Taylor Swift red, ballet pink, and sophisticated navy. Thirty-three nails come in every set, so you can find the right fit for each of your nails. This set comes with an adhesive tab on each nail, so you simply peel off the backing and press the nail on.

“I used to getwild nail arton a regular basis, but I moved this year and haven’t yet found the perfect nail artist in my new state. Thankfully, these Kiss Impress nails are holding me over. They come in so many cute colors and designs (like thisfunky collab setand thissunset palette set), so my nails are still making a statement. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to apply.” —Erin Johnson, PEOPLE associate editorial director

Damage-Free:Yes|Waterproof:Yes|Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes, shapes, and colors |Finish:Varies, some matte, some glossy |Adhesive:Pre-applied adhesive |Included Tools:Prep pad, nail file, manicure stick

Best User-FriendlyChillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On NailsPHOTO: AmazonView on Shopbop.com

Best User-FriendlyChillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Nails

Best User-Friendly

Chillhouse Chill Tips Reusable Press-On Nails

View on Shopbop.com

Star QualitiesSurprisingly durableEasy to apply and reapplyStayed on for two weeksRed FlagsNot the easiest to removeGlue residue may get on your skin during application, but it comes off easily

Star QualitiesSurprisingly durableEasy to apply and reapplyStayed on for two weeks

Surprisingly durable

Easy to apply and reapply

Stayed on for two weeks

Red FlagsNot the easiest to removeGlue residue may get on your skin during application, but it comes off easily

Not the easiest to remove

Glue residue may get on your skin during application, but it comes off easily

During testing, we were impressed with how well these nails did when we washed our hands — not one nail came off during the sink test. It’s common to get some nail glue on your skin when applying these nails, but it comes off easily. Reals also appreciated the “on-trend designs” and how you can easily clip them to your desired length.

Damage-Free:Yes |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:Yes |Customizable:Yes, 24 nails in different sizes to find the right fit |Finish:Some matte, some glossy |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Dual-sided buffer, cuticle stick, nail glue

Best AdhesiveGlamnetic Press On NailsPHOTO: Sephora$15 at Amazon$15 at SephoraView on Glamnetic.com

Best AdhesiveGlamnetic Press On Nails

Best Adhesive

Glamnetic Press On Nails

PHOTO: Sephora

$15 at Amazon$15 at SephoraView on Glamnetic.com

Star QualitiesEasy to apply and durableAvailable in customized lengths and sizesComes with everything you needRed FlagsGlue was messyDifficult to remove unless you soak the nails ahead of time

Star QualitiesEasy to apply and durableAvailable in customized lengths and sizesComes with everything you need

Easy to apply and durable

Available in customized lengths and sizes

Comes with everything you need

Red FlagsGlue was messyDifficult to remove unless you soak the nails ahead of time

Glue was messy

Difficult to remove unless you soak the nails ahead of time

Known forfalse magnetic lashes, Glamnetic has released several styles of press-on nails, which our team found to be user-friendly and durable. The set also includes everything you need, with the glue, file, cuticle stick, and even a storage box.

PEOPLE writerAlyssa Brasciasays she appreciates how these nails “ensure that you’ll always get the look and length that you want at a fraction of the price.” Our team noted that the glue created a small mess during the application, and while the nails held up beautifully, they are somewhat tricky to remove — you really have to soak the nails prior.

“I’ve always been a DIY nail girl, and while I usually paint and glue them myself, my latest obsession has been the press-ons from Glamnetic. Perfect nails at a keyboard-friendly length and a gorgeous $15 price? It doesn’t get better than this.” —Alyssa Brascia

Damage-Free:Mostly |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:No |Customizable:Yes, multiple sizes and lengths |Finish:Glossy |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Storage box, nail glue, double-sided nail file, cuticle stick, alcohol pad

Best for TravelQuickies Press-On NailsPHOTO: Quickies$23 at Amazon

Best for TravelQuickies Press-On Nails

Best for Travel

Quickies Press-On Nails

PHOTO: Quickies

$23 at Amazon

Star QualitiesComes in a portable packet with toolsPretty designs with recycled plastic packagingDurable, long-lasting nailsRed FlagsSizing was a little offSome glue residue stuck around after removing the nails

Star QualitiesComes in a portable packet with toolsPretty designs with recycled plastic packagingDurable, long-lasting nails

Comes in a portable packet with tools

Pretty designs with recycled plastic packaging

Durable, long-lasting nails

Red FlagsSizing was a little offSome glue residue stuck around after removing the nails

Sizing was a little off

Some glue residue stuck around after removing the nails

If you like to bring your nail options on the go, the sets from Quickies are perfect for travel (and super user-friendly). PEOPLE editorMadison Yaugerloves these since they’re super easy to apply. She met a slight challenge with the sizing because she has really narrow nails, but she was able to find options that fit well to complete the manicure.

The nails also held up at home, testing against the same measures in the lab — surviving a rigorous hand washing and not being too difficult to remove. That said, these are definitely long-lasting if you want them to be. There’s also a good inventory of designs, lengths, and sizes for a more customized experience.

“Each packet comes with 24 nails in a variety of sizes, a mini glue applicator, and a tiny nail file. I had to soak my nails in warm, soapy water for about seven minutes and then use a cuticle tool to gently push against the edges until each nail popped off. There was some glue residue after, so I continued soaking my nails for a few more minutes and then buffed them out. You could see a little bit of the glue leftover, but it all came off within a day after soaking my nails in acetone.” —Madison Yauger

Damage-Free:Mostly |Waterproof:Yes |Reusable:Yes |Customizable:Yes, different lengths, sizes, and designs |Finish:Glossy |Adhesive:Glue |Included Tools:Nail file, glue

After deciding on your next set of press-on nails, check out these other PEOPLE-Tested (and approved!) nail products. Our editors and independent testers have carefully tested each product to ensure it’s the best of the best in its category.

Olive & June Quick Dry Polish Bright & Bold SetView on Oliveandjune.comMorovan Nail Kit$36 at AmazonDazzle Dry Nail Lacquer in White Lightning$22 at AmazonView on Dazzledry.comSally Hansen Cuticle Rehab$14$9 at Amazon$9 at Target$13$9 at Walmart

Olive & June Quick Dry Polish Bright & Bold SetView on Oliveandjune.com

Olive & June Quick Dry Polish Bright & Bold Set

View on Oliveandjune.com

Morovan Nail Kit$36 at Amazon

Morovan Nail Kit

$36 at Amazon

Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer in White Lightning$22 at AmazonView on Dazzledry.com

Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer in White Lightning

$22 at AmazonView on Dazzledry.com

Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab$14$9 at Amazon$9 at Target$13$9 at Walmart

Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab

$14$9 at Amazon$9 at Target$13$9 at Walmart

Hoping to recreate salon-quality manicures at home? We test thousands of products, and we recommend these polishes and gel kits for long-lasting nails.

OPI GelColor: Aftertesting 20 gel nail polishes, we decided this classic polish was the best. Paired with aUV lamp, we were impressed with this polish’s vibrant color and chip-free durability.

Morovan Nail Kit: Looking to up the ante? Consider this poly gel kit, which will allow you to achieve a pro-level manicure at home. Wetested 10 at-home gel nail kits, and this $50 set came out on top. For the price of one salon manicure, you’ll get eight polish shades, a primer, a dehydrator, a base coat, a top coat, an LED lamp, and various nail and cuticle tools.

What to Know About Press-On Nails

Durability

If you’re someone who’s always got their hands in something, the durability and longevity of your press-on nails should play a factor. Durability generally has to do with the strength of the adhesive (either glue or a sticker backing) and the material of the nail itself. For instance, a sticker nail won’t last as long as a thicker nail applied with glue. Our pick fromChillhouse Nailslasted for two weeks while our senior editor was traveling, so we’d support the claim that these nails are quite durable.

Damage Control

One of the best perks of press-on nails is that theygenerallycause less damage to your nails than acrylics, gel, or powder manicures, which is what we love about theManiMe Press-On Gels. That’s because most of these nails can peel off after soaking them for about 15 minutes in warm, soapy water and using a wooden tool to lift the edge. Mind you, take caution when showering for the same reason — hot water can loosen the adhesive.

Pro TipTo remove excess glue, wrap an acetone-soaked cotton round around your fingertip for 20 minutes, using tin foil or something to keep it in place. The glue will dissolve easily, and you can wash your hands and go about your day.

Pro Tip

To remove excess glue, wrap an acetone-soaked cotton round around your fingertip for 20 minutes, using tin foil or something to keep it in place. The glue will dissolve easily, and you can wash your hands and go about your day.

Length and Shape

When considering what kind of press-on nails will be the best, fit, shape, and length should not be forgotten. If you’re going for stylish talons, you might prefer stiletto or ballerina-shaped nails, whereas a shorter round or square nail might be best for those doing more work with their hands. Gerstein says press-on nails “also make great blank canvases for DIY nail art,” so if you’re feeling crafty, you might want a longer nail to create more space.

Technique

Gerstein shared a few techniques that help with applying and removing press-on nails. “Like any manicure, pushing back cuticles and making sure the nail is free of oil, lint, and dust is important,” she says. “Always swipe with alcohol, and let nails dry before applying tabs/glue. Tabs are for temporary wear, [and] glue, if applied correctly, can get up to 2.5 weeks of wear.”

Our team tried out nearly 20 sets of press-on nails in our PEOPLE Tested lab. For each set of nails, we considered the ease of application, overall look, and strength of adhesive (as well as length of wear in a few cases).

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the quality of the nails and adhesive, most press-on nails last from one to two weeks. The time will vary depending on how much you use (and abuse) your nails.

Press-on nails are a great alternative to more damaging options like gel polishes and acrylics. Thoughgel polishesandacrylic polishesmay last longer, the removal process for press-on nails is much easier on your nails, and since they only stay on for a couple of weeks, they are less likely to cause any issues. Additionally, regular use ofcuticle oilandnail strengthenerwill not only nourish your nails but also promote better adhesion to nail products.

Make sure your nails are clean, dry, and free of nail polish. Push back your cuticles and wipe each nail with cotton soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove any oily residue. Make sure your nails are dry, and buff each one so the press-ons have a smooth surface to adhere to.

Madison Yaugeris an editor for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. Yauger has used her extensive testing experience to report thebest white nail polishes, thebest dermaplaning tools, and more. For this story, she spoke to a celebrity nail artist in addition to heavily researching the market of press-on nails and using lab-tested insights such as ease of application, durability, and more to determine which press-on nails figurativelypopped offversus those that literally did.

Our Expert PanelElle Gersteinis an NYC-based celebrity nail artist who’s worked with the likes of Natasha Lyonne, Julianne Moore, Jennifer Lawrence, and Blake Lively.Gina Edwardsis a Kiss ambassador and celebrity nail artist who has created designs for New York Fashion Week as well as clients like Nicole Kidman, Vera Wang, and Anne Hathaway.

Our Expert Panel

Elle Gersteinis an NYC-based celebrity nail artist who’s worked with the likes of Natasha Lyonne, Julianne Moore, Jennifer Lawrence, and Blake Lively.Gina Edwardsis a Kiss ambassador and celebrity nail artist who has created designs for New York Fashion Week as well as clients like Nicole Kidman, Vera Wang, and Anne Hathaway.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com