(Without Damaging Your Natural Nails)
You’ve rocked your Pretty Slick Nails like an absolute queen, but now it’s time to say goodbye—for now. Removing your press-ons the right way is super important if you want to reuse them and keep your natural nails healthy.
Whether you used nail glue or adhesive tabs, here’s exactly how to remove your press-on nails safely, step by step.
⚡️ If You Used Nail Glue (For Long-Wear Sets)
This method takes a bit more patience, but trust me—it’s so worth it.
What you’ll need:
- A bowl of warm water
- A few drops of cuticle oil (or olive oil)
- Optional: acetone-free nail polish remover
- Orangewood stick or cuticle pusher
- Nail buffer
Step-by-step:
1. Soak your nails in warm, soapy water with a few drops of oil for 10–15 minutes. This softens the glue and loosens the press-ons.
2. Gently lift the edges with a cuticle stick or orange wood stick. Never force it—if it resists, soak a bit longer.
3. Repeat the soak and lift method until all nails are off.
4. Buff off any glue residue gently from your natural nails.
5. Finish with love: Wash your hands and moisturise or apply cuticle oil to nourish your nails.
💅 Pro tip: Never rip or peel off glued press-ons. That’s the fastest way to damage your nail beds!
⚡️ If You Used Adhesive Tabs (For Short-Term Wear)
Removal is super easy and quick!
What you’ll need:
- A cuticle pusher or orange wood stick
- Cuticle oil (or olive oil)
- Optional: warm water and oil soak
Step-by-step:
1. Apply a little cuticle oil around the edges of the press-on nails, trying to get some underneath.
2. Gently slide the cuticle stick under the edge of the nail tip and wiggle it side to side to loosen the tab.
3. Peel off slowly, lifting from the sides—not the front—to avoid bending the press-on.
4. Optional soak: If a tab is a bit sticky, soak the nail in warm water for 2–3 minutes to soften it.
5. Wipe away residue with rubbing alcohol or nail cleanser.
💅 Pro tip: Give your press-ons a little clean and store them away for next time!
✨ Nail Aftercare
After removing your press-ons:
- File any rough edges.
- Gently buff off any glue residue.
- Apply a nail strengthen or cuticle oil.
- Apply lashings of hand cream.
Want to Reuse Your Pretty Slick Nails?
You totally can! Just make sure you:
- Clean off glue or tab residue
- Store them safely
- Avoid soaking them too long in acetone or water to keep them looking fresh.
Questions? I’ve Got You 💌
If you’re unsure or need help with removal, just drop me a message. I’ll walk you through it! Your nails should feel as good coming off as they did going on.
Stay slick,
Katie 🖤