As nail salons were closed during the circuit breaker, many of us longed for trips to our beloved nail salons. But fret not as there are a few easy alternatives to get your nails looking fresh and pretty! Whether you’re a fan of short nails or you enjoy having claws, nail stickers and press on nails might be what you’re looking for!
Getting your nails done is a relaxing experience. Painting your nails might seem fun and all but that’s only if you have good control of your hands. I know that sometimes, I wish I was ambidextrous just so I could decently paint the nails of my non-dominant hand. When I purchased bottles of nail polish to paint my nails at home, I’d be filled with disappointment as the polish would go all around my nails. I can’t be the only one who doesn’t trust themselves in painting their own nails.
Going to nail salons to get my nails done and boy was it a life changer. Whether it was a classic or gel polish, I know it boosted my confidence when I walked out of the salon with pretty nails. Nail extensions were also super fun to have on, despite having to re-learn how to use your hands. Personally, it’s hard to grow out my nails and when I first got extensions, I was OBSESSED with my claws!
If you like colourful or fanciful nails, you must feel pretty bummed out about not being able to get your nails done. But fret not! Thanks to the creative minds of our nail stylists, a bottle of nail polish isn’t your only option anymore. Now, there are products such as press on nails and nail stickers to help jazz up your nails! The great thing about these is that you can order them online and do them yourself!
Press on acrylic gel nails
Several manicurists have come to our rescue with at-home manicure kits! The prices of the kits are much more affordable than what you would pay for at the nail salon for extensions (usually starting from $50). Despite being in a similar price range, these press on nails are reusable with proper care! So you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
The customisation of these nails are also incredible! You can choose the shape of the nails, the colour, embellishments, designs and everything! Just be sure to tell your nail artist what you’re looking for and if possible, provide a reference image. These nails are great if you have short nails or you ‘d like to add some length.
How to measure your nail width
To get the right fit, you’ll have to measure the widths of each individual nail.
There are two ways you can measure the width of your nails
- Using a measuring tape
- Place the measuring tape over your nail and note down the width of each nail.
- Using clear tape, a marker and a ruler
- Place the clear tape on your nail and mark the edges of your nail. Remove the tape and measure the width using a ruler.
You’ll want to follow the size guide from the nail artist you’re purchasing from as they may differ. If the width of your nail is in-between those in the sizes, choose the bigger size instead of the smaller size.
How to apply press on nails
- Remove any existing polish and clean your nail bed.
- Using a cuticle pusher, push your cuticles back.
- Buff your nail with a nail file.
- Wipe your nail with an alcohol wipe to ensure that it is clean.
- Apply the nail glue on your nail.
- Place the fake nail on top and hold in place for about 30 seconds.
How long do the nails last
The great thing about press on nails is that they are reusable! Depending on the type of glue you use, the duration they last for will defer. With the proper care and removal, you’ll be able to reuse your press ons 3-4 times.
| Nail glue tab | Nail glue |
| 1-3 day use (for temporary wear) | Lasts for about 2-3 weeks |
| Sticker with a similar shape to natural nails (rounded square) | Liquid glue |
How to remove press on nails
- Soak your hand in soapy water to loosen the nail glue.
- After about 10-15 minutes, wiggle the acrylics left to right and remove them for your nail bed.
- If the nails are still stuck, you can soak your hands in an acetone-based nail polish remover as a last resort.
- Scrape of the excess glue using the cuticle stick or you can buff them down with a nail file.
- Keep your nails for the next time you wish to use them again!
Note if you are using nail polish remover
Acetone nail polish remover is harsh on the nails and skin and will dry them out. Be sure to wash your hands and moisturise them if you are using this method. Don’t forget to also hydrate your cuticles with cuticle oil.
The designs of your nails may also be removed in the process
Where to buy:
Wow Nails SG
Price
$40-65 for a set ($1.50 – $3.20 for delivery)
Includes
- Handmade Customised Tip Set
- Nail Glue
- Nail Glue Tab
- 1x Nail File
- Alcohol Wipes
DM her on Instagram to order your set!
Eunsnails
Price
$12 – $40.60 for a set ($1 – $4 for local delivery)
Includes
- Pressed On Nails
- Nail Glue
- 1x Nail FIle
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- 1x Cuticle Trimmer
- Alcohol Swabs
- Nail Tabs given upon request
DM her on Instagram to order your set!
Francznails
Price
$12 – $40.60 for a set ($1 – $4 for local delivery)
Includes
- Pressed On Nails
- Nail Glue
- 1x Nail FIle
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- 1x Cuticle Trimmer
- Alcohol Swabs
- Nail Tabs given upon request
DM her on Instagram to order your set!
Baked Nails SG
Price
$15 onward for a set (free local delivery)
Includes
- Customised Nail Tips
- Nail Glue
- Nail Glue Tabs
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- 1x Plastic Cuticle Trimmer
- 1x Mini Nail FIle
- 1x Mini Buffer
- Alcohol Pads
DM her on Instagram to order your set!
Nails by Fiona
Price
$15 onwards for a set
Includes
- Handmade Press Ons
- Storage Box
- 24 Nail Tabs
- Nail Glue
- 1x Nail File
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- Alcohol Wipes
DM her on Instagram or head over to her website to order your set!
Nails by Fels
Price
$10 – $20 for a set (free local delivery)
Includes
- Press Ons
- 24 Reusable Nail Tabs
- 1x Nail File
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- Alcohol Wipes
Head over to her website to order your set and DM her on Instagram your order!
Flutter Nails
Price
$10 – $35 for a set
Includes
- Nail Tips
- 24 Nail Tabs
- Nail Glue
- 1x Mini Nail File
- 1x Wooden Cuticle Pusher
- Alcohol Wipes
DM her on Instagram to order your set!
Nail stickers / wraps
These are great if you like the length of your natural nails! They work very similarly to stickers and most have a 2D design! Whether you prefer a simple solid colour or a colourful marble design, you’re bound to find the sticker sheet right for you.
How to apply nail stickers
- Remove any existing polish and clean your nail bed.
- Using a cuticle pusher, push your cuticles back.
- Buff your nail with a nail file to help remove any excess oil.
- Cut off the sticker you want to use.
- Peel off the plastic backing and position the nail sticker in the centre of your nail.
- Press down the sticker on your nail and remove creases (you can use the cuticle stick for this)
- File the excess sticker downwards (file only in one direction)
If you’d like for the nail wraps to last longer, you can also apply a top coat on them!
To ensure that the nail stickers fully adhere to your nails, avoid water for a few hours. It’s best to apply the wraps after you take a shower or in the evening before you go to bed!
How long do nail stickers last
The nail sticker will last for about 1-2 weeks.
How to remove nail stickers
Soak your nails in warm water and peel the stickers off.
Where to buy:
Nodspark
Price
$15 for a set (free local delivery)
Includes
- 16 Nail Polish Wrap of various sizes
- 1 x Nail File
- 1 x Cuticle Pusher Stick
- Tips Page
Website | Facebook | Instagram
NAILWRAP.CO
Price
$12.90 for a set (excluding delivery)
Includes
- 16 Nail Polish Wrap of various sizes
- 1 x Mini Nail File
- 1 x Cuticle Pusher Stick
- Instructions for application and removal
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Dashing Diva
Price
$8.90 – $17.90 for a set (excluding delivery)
Includes
- 34 Gel Nail Strips in 11 Sizes
- 1 x Mini Nail File
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Now that you know where to get the goods, be sure to flaunt them! The options are endless with what designs you could do! Remember to give your nails some time to breathe before putting on another set of nail wraps or press ons. When purchasing these nails, you’re also supporting our local businesses during these trying times. So let’s show our nail community some support!
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Writer: @furdoors
Lifeguide.sg 