Ready to get started? Here’s how to apply Color Street press-on nails, find your best fit, and remove them without unnecessarily damaging your natural nails.
What comes in a Color Street Press-On package?
Each box includes:
– 32 nails in 16 different sizes
– Nail file
– Alcohol prep pad
– Remover
– Cuticle Stick
Everything you need for application and removeral is included!
Step 1: Prep Your Natural Nails
Good preparation helps the adhesive tabs stick properly.
Start with clean, dry nails and use the included prep pad to remove oil and residue.
Good prep, especially your cuticle area is key. But you should know that your cuticle and your proximal nail fold are not the same thing. Your cuticle is the thin layer of dead tissue that can stick to the surface of your natural nail. Sometimes it’s very visible. Sometimes it’s not. Your proximal nail fold is the little fold of skin next to the base of your nail. That is living skin. And no, you should not be pushing it back, cutting it, scraping it away, or breaking that seal so you can put your press-on underneath it.
I’ve seen people recommend applying press-ons under the cuticle. They’re talking about putting the press-on under the proximal nail fold. NO! Your proximal nail fold is there for a reason. It’s living tissue that helps protect the area around the nail matrix, where new nail cells are formed. Pushing it back aggressively, cutting it or breaking the seal can increase the risk of irritation or infection.
Step 2: Find the Right Press-On Nail Sizes
Taking your time with sizing is worth it.
The press-on should fit your natural nail from sidewall to sidewall and come close to the base of your nail without overlapping onto your skin. You don’t want your natural nail showing along the sides, but you also don’t want the press-on sitting on 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.
There are 16 sizes, so there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find the size that fits best. The numbers are on the plastic tab covering the adhesive and go from 0–15. Choose the press-on that fits each natural nail best. Color Street recommends sizing down if you’re between sizes.
Hold the press-on against your natural nail and press down before removing the plastic covering the adhesive to check sizing – the size you thought was perfect might actually be too big once you press it down.
And don’t assume the same number will fit every shape! Sizing can vary between shapes and lengths. A size 5 short oval isn’t necessarily going to fit the same way as a size 5 medium square. So when you’re trying a new shape or length, you may need to do a little trial and error again. If you have long nail beds, you may find the short length shorter than you’d prefer. If you have shorter nail beds, you may be comfortable wearing either short or medium lengths. Comparing your measurements with Color Street’s official sizing chart (coming soon) can help you choose the best option.
Step 3: Apply the Press-On Nails
Once you’ve checked your sizes, you’re ready to apply your manicure.
- Choose the correct press-on for your nail.
- Peel off the clear plastic cover to expose the adhesive backing (the end with the tab goes next to your cuticle area).
- Align the press-on near the base of your natural nail at a 45 degree angle, keeping it off your surrounding skin.
- Press the nail firmly onto your natural nail.
- Hold it in place for 20–30 seconds.
- Make sure you’re pressing firmly from all angles to get the best seal.
Take your time with alignment. Once you’ve pressed a nail into place, you want it sitting straight and fitting comfortably.
Step 4: File or Shape Your Nails (Optional)
Want to customize the length? Color Street press-on nails can be gently filed or trimmed after application. Use the included nail file to adjust the length or shape to your preference and smooth any rough edges.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
- Be careful when filing designs or French tips, since filing may change the appearance of the pattern.
- Don’t over-file or apply excessive pressure.
- Avoid using your nails as tools, even if they feel sturdy.
Step 5: Give the Adhesive Time to Set
Once all your nails are applied, you’re ready to show off your manicure!
For the best results, avoid getting your nails wet for a couple of hours after application. This gives the adhesive time to set properly. Color Street press-on nails are designed to provide up to 10 days of wear, depending on nail preparation, application, and your daily activities. Your individual results may vary.
If a press-on begins to lift or loosen, don’t ignore it. A gap can allow water or debris to become trapped underneath, so it’s best to remove a lifting nail rather than leave it in place.
How to Remove Color Street Press-On Nails
Removing your press-ons carefully is just as important as applying them correctly. Don’t pry, pull, or force a nail off while it’s still firmly attached. Doing so can damage the surface of your natural nail.
Each Color Street press-on kit includes a specially designed nail remover to help make removal easier.
Follow these steps:
- Generously apply the included nail remover around all edges of the press-on and underneath the tips.
- Allow the remover to sit for at least 30 seconds.
- Use the included cuticle stick to gently lift the press-on as the adhesive loosens.
- If the nail doesn’t release easily, apply more remover and allow it additional time to work.
- Repeat as needed until the press-on comes away without forcing it.
The key is patience. If you feel resistance, don’t try to pop the nail off. Give the remover more time and repeat the process. After removing your press-ons, clean your natural nails before applying another manicure.
Press-On Nail Troubleshooting & FAQs
What if the press-on doesn’t fit my natural nail?
Try another size before applying it. The press-on should cover the natural nail without overlapping onto your skin. If you’re between sizes, Color Street recommends sizing down.
What if I notice a gap between my natural nail and the press-on?
Some people with long, curved, or especially flat nail beds may have trouble getting a close fit. Color Street recommends trimming your natural nails shorter before application if gaps are a problem. A good fit matters because gaps can allow water to become trapped between the nails.
Can I use nail strengthener or ridge-filler underneath my press-ons?
No. Apply press-ons to clean, bare natural nails for the best adhesion and durability.
Can I apply Color Street nail strips over press-on nails?
Yes, nail strips can be applied over press-ons, but they work best on a smooth surface without raised embellishments. Keep in mind that removing a nail strip may loosen the press-on adhesive or affect the design underneath.
What should I do if a press-on starts lifting?
Don’t try to glue it back down or force it into place. If the nail starts lifting or loosening, remove it carefully to help prevent water or debris from becoming trapped underneath.
Can You Reuse Color Street Press-On Nails?
Color Street press-on nails are intended for one-time use. For the best fit, appearance, and wear experience, use a fresh set for your next manicure.
P.S. Some links in this post are affiliate links. See disclosure here.
→ Try a sample of Color Street nail polish strips
→ Shop Color Street
Need general shenanigans or want to talk nails? Join my Facebook group!