On a Budget? These Press On Nails Actually Last

Nailed it.

Not everyone has time – not to mention the funds – to get a manicure, so many of us settle for press on nails and often, it’s hard to find ones that actually last.

The best press on nails are those that you can wear for at least a week, if not longer. You should be able to take them off yourself without damaging your natural nails or soaking your hands in acetone.

You might scoff at the idea of using false nails, but they’re not just for budget-conscious beauty lovers. Celebrities like Ariana Grande, Chrissy Teigen and Jennifer Lopez have also relied on the low-maintenance talons for keeping their real nails healthy while also looking polished.

Another thing that makes them so appealing is that they come in so many different designs, so you can switch it up and try different styles whenever you want. You don’t need to wait hours for a nail tech to create detailed nail art either – it’s already done for you.

Some falsies are pre-glued, while others require glue application before wearing them. Ultimately it’s trial and error; I prefer pre-glued nails as it removes the faff, but you might find gluing them yourself makes them last longer.

a hand with manicured nails on white textile

The sheer number of brands creating false nails is colossal, but there are some that are better than others. Elegant Touch is one of the UK’s most popular nail brands, with countless designs that stand the test of time.

Kiss is another fantastic fake nails brand, and they also specialise in false lashes and products for your brows. I’ve been using their falsies for years and I’ve always got on with them very well.

US brand Olive & June is another good one. Not only do their nails last, but their products are high quality and they offer useful hints and tips on how to use them online.

Here’s our edit of the best press on nails out there.