As a beauty editor and self-proclaimed press-on princess, I've tried every press-on nail brand I've found. Trust me when I say they've come a long way from the original drugstore press-on manicures that barely stayed on for an hour. Now they're chic and durable, and they come in an incredible array of designs—from classic, neutral colors to bold, trendy patterns. They're also more versatile, available in a variety of lengths and shapes, from exaggerated stiletto nails to short and rounded options that you can still wear while typing.
Another reason I love them: Press-on nails aren't just an easy at-home option that offers a professional-looking manicure in minutes; they're also a healthier alternative for your nails. They don't require any maintenance or heavy-duty removal like gel or acrylics (just soak them in warm water to remove), and they protect your natural nails from external aggressors. In my case, press-ons have stopped me from biting and picking at my nails. (I'm the problem, it's me.)
If you haven't tried press-on nails yet, consider this your sign to give them a go. To help you choose the best of the best, I tested and gathered my favorite picks.
The glue that comes with the Nails of LA press-ons is no joke. It can last a couple of weeks without budging. The nails come in playful patterns and designs and aren't so long that they're obstructive to your daily life. Each kit contains 24 nails, a dual-sided file and buffer, a cuticle stick, and that no-joke glue.
If you have tiny pinkies or wide nail beds, then you'll appreciate this inclusive kit: Most press-on nail kits only offer around 25 to 30 nails, but this kit comes with 42 press-on nails to account for all different nail sizes. They also offer a ton of manicure options, from solid colors to mixed sets.
When you're in a pinch and need a cute but simple manicure in minutes without sacrificing your ability to do regular things (read: type, open up a soda can, etc.), these press-ons have you covered. They come in 15 solid colors, from bolds to neutrals.
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Best Packaging
Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Manicure Press-On Nails Kit
4
Best Packaging
Sally Hansen Salon Effects Perfect Manicure Press-On Nails Kit
The new Sally Hansen press-ons come in so many colors, designs, shapes, and lengths that there's an option for everyone: bold and long, short and square, monochrome colors, and fun patterns. The nails come in an innovative box that allows you to slide your fingertips underneath the plastic-encased tips so you can see how they'll look on you before buying. Each kit comes with both glue and adhesive tabs, along with a nail file and prep pad.
These look so realistic, are very durable, and have a classic neutral style that's perfect for any occasion. The Bare but Better collection comes in small, medium, and long sizes, so you can choose a length depending on your preference. I like the medium length because it gives just the right amount of extension without feeling like you can't do basic activities. Each kit contains everything you need for a long-lasting style: 28 nails, pink nail glue (which matches the nail hue), a mini file, and a manicure stick.
Want a trendy manicure with intricate designs but don't want to spend hours getting them done at a nail appointment? Chillhouse has you covered. The brand offers the cutest designs on the market, from this neutral yin-yang option to checkered patterns and swirly prints. Each kit contains 24 nails, a dual-sided file and buffer, a cuticle stick, and nail glue (and this nail glue is so good, I use it with other brands, too).
At first, putting on press-on nails with glue is tricky; things can get sticky quickly. This option lets you forgo the glue. Instead, you peel and press the included two-sided stickers onto your natural nails then place and press-on the tips. I find that this short length doesn't feel restrictive or make it difficult to get things.
Sizing might be difficult for those with small nail beds
For those who love length: These PainLab press-ons give extension-like acrylics or gel-X nails without the maintenance or price tag. They come in bright, bold, and unexpected designs that are sure to boost your mood whenever you look at your mani.
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok