If you love the look of a fresh manicure but don’t always have the time (or patience) for a salon visit, press-on nails can be a pretty great option.
Color Street has now entered the press-on nail world! If you’re not already familiar with Color Street nail polish strips, you might be wondering: What’s the difference? Glad you asked. One is actual nail polish in a dry strip form and the other is an artificial nail. Whether you’re looking for a quick everyday manicure, extra length, or something a little more glam for a special occasion, Color Street press-on nails give you another way to switch up your nail look.
Color Street press-on nails are planned to be an ongoing part of the product lineup, with additional selections coming in the future. The initial collection is available while supplies last and designs may sell out before the next release arrives.
If you’re wondering about how to apply Color Street press-on nails, how to find the right size, how long they last, or how to remove them without damaging your natural nails, let’s get into it.
What Are Color Street Press-On Nails?
Color Street press-on nails are lightweight artificial nails that attach to your natural nails using an adhesive tab that’s already attached to the back of each nail. Each package contains 32 nails in 16 sizes, nail remover, a nail file, a cuticle stick and an alcohol prep pad.
Color Street press-on nails are available in short and medium lengths, with styles including oval, almond, and square shapes. They’re designed to give you a finished manicure in minutes without messy nail glue, a curing lamp, or waiting for polish to dry.
How Do You Apply Color Street Press-On Nails?
I find applying press-on nails to be just as easy as applying nail polish strips. Basically, there are 3 main steps. Prep. Find the right size. Apply. However, prep and sizing are the most important parts of application.
1. Prep your nails
Start with clean, dry nails and use the included prep pad to remove oil and residue. You want the adhesive to make contact with your nail, not any oils or your skin.
2. Find the right size
The press-on should fit your natural nail from sidewall to sidewall without covering your skin. If your press-on is too small, it can adhere to your nail poorly. If your press-on is too big, it can overlap onto your skin and cause lifting.
Choose the press-on that fits each natural nail best. If you’re between sizes, Color Street recommends sizing down. Keep in mind that sizing can vary between shapes and lengths, so don’t assume the same number will fit every style.
3. Apply and press
Peel the backing from the adhesive tab, align the press-on with your natural nail at a 45 degree angle, as close to your cuticle area as possible (but not over any skin), and press firmly for 20-30 seconds.
That’s it.
How Long Do Color Street Press-Ons Last?
Color Street press-on nails are designed to provide up to 10 days of wear with proper preparation, application, and care. Your actual wear time can vary depending on your natural nails and daily activities. If a press-on starts to loosen or lift, it’s time to remove it rather than picking at it or trying to glue it back down.
Which Length Should I Get?
Color Street press-ons are available in short and medium lengths, and oval, almond, and square shapes. The length of each nail varies slightly between shapes so the best way to ensure the fit you’re looking for is to measure the length of your nail bed and compare to the sizing chart. For example, those with long nail beds might find the “short” length is too short for their natural nails while those with shorter nail beds may be able to comfortably wear both the short and medium lengths
How Do You Remove Them?
Use the included press-on nail remover around the edges of the nail and let it sit for about 30 seconds. Then gently lift the press-on with the included manicure stick. Repeat as needed until the nail releases.
Don’t pry or pull off a press-on that’s still firmly attached. You could also remove layers of your natural nail. Proper removal is an important part of keeping your natural nails looking their best.
Can You Reuse Color Street Press-Ons?
No. Color Street press-ons are intended for one-time use.
Can You File or Shape Them?
Yes. Color Street press-ons can be gently filed to customize the length or shape. Just use some caution when filing over a design or French tip since filing too much could change the look.
Can You Put Nail Strips Over Press-Ons?
Yes, you can apply Color Street nail strips over press-ons. This works best when the press-on doesn’t have raised embellishments that would keep the strip from laying smoothly.
My First Impressions
For me, the sizing was the biggest thing. Having 16 different sizes to choose from is really nice. I was able to find the perfect size for each of my nails.
They’re also lightweight without feeling flimsy. After wearing them for several days, they still feel sturdy enough that I don’t worry about them popping off when I’m doing something normal, like opening a can of soda (but also, your nails aren’t tools so don’t do that. Yes, I did it to see if I could, but no I don’t open my drinks with my nails on a regular basis and you shouldn’t either, friend).
Ready to try Color Street press-on nails? Check out what’s currently available.
More Color Street Press-On Nails FAQs
Are Color Street press-on nails safe for natural nails?
When applied and removed correctly, Color Street press-on nails are designed to be comfortable and safe for natural nails. If a nail begins to loosen or lift, remove it rather than leaving a gap where water or debris could become trapped underneath.
What if there’s a gap between my natural nail and a press-on?
Some people with long, curved, or especially flat nail beds may notice gaps after application. If this happens, Color Street recommends trimming your natural nails shorter before applying the press-ons to help prevent gaps where water could become trapped.
Can I use Color Street Ridge-Filler or Nail Strengthener underneath press-ons?
No. Color Street recommends applying press-on nails to clean, bare natural nails for the best adhesion and durability.
How should I store unused press-on nails?
Store unused nails in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
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