prep your nails

HOW TO

What you’ll need

Nail file
Cuticle pusher (wood stick or metal pusher)
Alcohol wipe / 70% isopropyl alcohol
Buffer block
Lint-free wipe or tissue

STEP 1 : Wash your hands (then dry completely)

Wash with soap and water to remove dirt and oils. Dry really well (especially around cuticles).

Tip: Avoid hand cream or cuticle oil before applying press-ons.

STEP 2 : Remove old product (if any)

Take off polish, gel, or glue residue so your natural nail is clean and smooth.

STEP 3 : Push back your cuticles

Gently push back the cuticle area (the thin skin on the nail plate). This is key, press-ons lift fastest when they’re stuck on cuticle skin instead of nail.

Don’t cut deep. Just push back + tidy loose skin if needed.

step 4 : Lightly buff the nail surface

Use a buffer/file to lightly remove the shine from your nail plate.

Focus on the center and sides

Don’t over-buff (you’re just roughing the surface)

STEP 5 : Shape your natural nails

File to your preferred shape and make sure the free edge is neat.

This helps press-ons sit flush.

STEP 6 : Clean + dehydrate your nails

Wipe each nail with an alcohol wipe (or alcohol on a lint-free wipe) until there’s no dust or oil left.

Important: Don’t touch your nails after this step.

Prep your nails