How to Prep Your Press-Ons for a Perfect, Long-Lasting Hold
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So you’ve prepped your natural nails (go you!)—but did you know your press-ons need prep too?
One of the most important steps for getting a strong, long-lasting bond is prepping the underside of the press-on nail—and it’s the step most people skip. If you want your set to last days (or even weeks), this blog is for you.
Let’s walk through exactly how to prep your press-ons before applying.
✨ Why Press-On Prep Matters
Vinyluxe press-ons come beautifully smooth and pre-filed—ready to wear. But the underside of each nail is glossy, and that can actually prevent the glue from bonding fully.
Just like you buff your natural nail to remove shine, you’ll want to etch the inside of the press-on. That’s where the magic happens.
🔥 How to Etch the Underside with Acetone
Etching helps your glue grip better and last longer.
What You’ll Need:
• 100% acetone
• A small brush (don’t use one you love!)
• Press-ons laid out by size
• Paper towel or foil to protect your surface
Steps:
1. Dip your brush in acetone (don't oversaturate).
2. Scrub the underside of the press-on—just the part that will touch your natural nail.
3. You’ll see the nail start to melt a little bit—that’s what you want.
4. Let them dry completely before applying glue.
🧼 A Quick Note About the Brush
Acetone will damage most brushes. That’s why we recommend using one you don’t care about.
✨ Adjusting for the Perfect Fit
Here’s the thing: not all fingers are shaped the same, and even the best press-ons can need a little help around the cuticle area.
Sometimes:
• The cuticle area of a press-on might be too square or too round for your natural nail
• The nail itself might feel a little too wide, even if it mostly fits
• Or you’ll find that one stubborn finger needs a special touch
For example, I always have to file around the cuticle area of my left index finger—the press-on is just too square for that nail. So interesting how each finger is different!
Fix it:
Use a nail file at a 30° angle to file the underside of the press-on, especially around the cuticle curve. It’ll help the nail sit flush and feel more custom to you.
🧲 Why This All Matters
Etching the underside + adjusting the fit means:
• Better glue grip
• Less lifting
• Longer wear
• More natural-looking press-ons
Pair this with our favorite glue (Olive & June Ultra Strong Nail Glue) and you’re good to go.
💬 Final Thoughts
Prepping your press-ons is the secret step most people overlook—and the one that makes all the difference. A little acetone and a quick file can take your nails from “cute for a day” to “still flawless after a week.”
Want to walk through the full application process step-by-step?
Start here:
How to Apply Press-On Nails (That Actually Stay On)