Removing Press On Nails- Soak Off Edition
Even though I constantly share videos of my nail removal process, people are still surprised by how quickly my press-on nails come off. Many assume there's a secret trick, but honestly, it's all about using the right method and knowing when it's time to remove them.
Here are my favorite tips for an easy, damage-free press-on nail removal.
Start with the Right Container
Use a container that's deep enough to fully cover your fingertips. You want your entire nail—including the sides—to stay submerged while soaking. If your container is too shallow, the removal process will take much longer.
Warm Water + Dish Soap
There's no magic ingredient—just warm water and dish soap!
I personally use Dawn dish soap, but any dish soap should work. If you'd like a little extra help loosening the adhesive, you can also add:
Coconut oil
Baby oil
Olive oil
These aren't required, but they can help soften the glue while keeping your skin moisturized.
My Step-by-Step Removal Process
Fill your container with warm water and dish soap.
Soak your hands for a few minutes.
Using a wooden cuticle stick, gently lift around the edges of each press-on nail. Don't force the nail off—you're simply creating small openings around the sides.
Once the edges begin to lift, place your hands back into the warm water.
While your nails are soaking, continue using the cuticle stick to gently work underneath the nail. As the glue softens, the press-ons should pop off with very little effort.
If a nail isn't ready, don't force it. Simply let it soak a little longer.
Cleaning Your Press-On Nails
Once your nails are removed, don't toss them into storage right away!
Use the same warm water solution along with a small nail brush to gently clean the underside of each press-on. This removes any leftover glue, oils, or debris so they're ready for their next wear.
Don't forget to clean your natural nails too! Give your hands a quick rinse, and you're all set.
Removing the Leftover Glue
If you own a nail drill, this step can make your press-ons look almost brand new.
For the back of your press-on nails, use:
Mandrel bit + sanding band
This combination works well for removing dried glue without damaging the nail.
Important Safety Tip
Never use a sanding band directly on your natural nails.
For your natural nails, use a gentle bit such as:
A fine needle bit
A flat-end cylinder bit
Always keep your drill on a low speed to start, increasing only if necessary. Your natural nails are much more delicate than your press-ons, so work carefully.
Why My Nails Remove So Easily
Everyone's experience will be a little different, but here's why my removal process is usually so quick.
I Remove Them at the Right Time
I normally wear my press-ons for about two weeks. As soon as I notice the edges beginning to lift, I remove them.
Don't wait until they're barely hanging on! Removing them once they naturally begin lifting is much easier—and you can always reapply them if you'd like to continue wearing the set.
My Natural Nails Are Oily
I naturally have oily nail beds, which means the adhesive begins releasing a little sooner than it might for someone with drier nails.
I Use a Shorter-Wear Nail Glue
I intentionally use a nail glue designed to last about one to two weeks because I love changing my nails often.
If you prefer using stronger, long-lasting glues, your removal process may take longer. In that case, I highly recommend purchasing the glue remover made by that same brand. It's usually the safest and easiest way to remove stronger adhesives without damaging your natural nails.
Final Thoughts
Remember, everyone's nails are different, and there isn't just one "correct" way to remove press-ons. This is simply the method that has worked best for me after lots of trial and error.
I hope these tips make your next removal easier! If you have another removal method that works well for you, keep using what works. The goal is always healthy natural nails and reusable press-ons.
If you'd like to see this process in action, be sure to visit my Application & Removal page where I've posted step-by-step videos to guide you through the entire process.
