You can add glam to your nails in a variety of ways. It is not always possible to get an appointment at the salon for social functions or celebrations. Here’s how to paint press on nails at home easily, in just six easy steps.

While pre-painted false nails are easy, you can not always find the perfect match for your outfit. Although pre-painted false nails are convenient, you may not always be able to find the perfect color to match your outfit.
That is why we must learn how to paint press on nails before applying at home. You can display your persona by polishing the press-on nails with the color of your choice.
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Things you will need on How to Paint Press On Nails
- False nails
- Nail varnish color of choice
- Cotton buds
- Remover
- Sellotape
Steps on How to Paint Press On Nails
Step 1: Selecting the Right False Nail Shape
The first step on how to paint press on nails is selecting the right shape or size of false nails. Test out various nail sizes to see which one fits better for each of your fingernails. When applied, the proper shape or size of false nails should match comfortably.
There are various options on the market. Once you’ve determined the appropriate sizes, arrange them in the desired order. Many press-on nails come with a size chart, making it easier to choose. It will be much easier to paint a pre-shaped false nail than to make adjustments later.
Step 2: Prepare the False Nails ready to Paint
Here’s where you will use sellotape and cotton buds before learning how to paint press on nails before applying it at home.
You will need to attach them to something before applying them; therefore, wrap the sellotape backward around the top of the cotton bud, so the sticky portion faces out.
Cut a short strip of thin tape with scissors to fit on the back of the press-on nails.
You should be able to press the fake nail onto the sticky tape, and it should stick around long enough to be painted from there.
After you’ve attached the nail to the end of the cotton bud, you will need to paint it.
Step 3: Paint the False Nails before Applying them
In this step, you will need to apply the good-quality nail polish of your choice. Apply it with long, steady strokes.
The fake nails should be ready to use after a coat or two of polish. Simply wait for them to dry fully. You might even apply nail art to a few or all of the nails if you’re adventurous and have a steady hand.
Step 4: Set each Nail off to the Side to Dry
After you have fully covered several of the fake press-on nails with polish, set them aside to dry on a flat surface. Repeat the same procedure for each nail once they’re polished.
Cover the flat surface with a paper towel to secure it from any nail polish drips from the press-on nails.
If you want to speed up the process, how to paint press on nails, you may cure the nails under UV or LED light.
Step 5: Apply a Second Coat
Apply a few more coats if you like the nail polish color to be more clear. Since nail polish is much more opaque on fake nails than on real nails, you do not need a second coat.
However, if you need to, you can add another coat of paint to each of the nails once the first coat has dried but is not fully fixed.
Once the second coat is applied, set each of the nails to the side on a smooth, covered surface to dry.
Step 6: Use a top Coat Polish
A crucial step on how to paint press on nails is adding a layer of topcoat polish, and we’ll tell you why it is important. Well, it adds an extra layer of protection to the painted nails. Hence, this step begins with applying a clear top coat polish on each of the nails once the color polish has been set but not completely dried.
After applying the topcoat, place each nail off to the side to dry completely before you begin to apply the press-on nails to your natural nails. You can even cure it under UV or LED light.
Make sure you let the nails dry for 20 to 30 minutes at least.
5 Best Gel Nail Polish
1. IBD Just Gel INFINITELY CURIOUS Nail Polish
IBD Just Gel INFINITELY CURIOUS Nail Polish

- 100% pure gel formula that wears like classic true gel
Here’s the IBD Just Gel in Orange color, giving a long-lasting finish on your press-on nails.
Orange is a vibrant, electrifying, and fashionable color. This vivid neon orange color is a perfect way to paint your toes or fingernails.
With a simple neutral-colored outfit that will make your look stand out. It fits perfectly on all skin tones, from fair to dusky.
The best feature of this 14 ml gel nail polish is that it does not affect the natural nail. It fixes in a few under UV or LED light and does not peel or wear away like regular nail polish.
The gel nail polish will not smudge or dry out, and the removal process takes just a few minutes.
Pros
- Long-lasting.
- Smooth application.
- Glossy finish.
- Protective formula.
- Easily removable.
- Causes no damage to nails.
Cons
- Bright color.
2. Kanorine Temperature Color Changing Gel Nail Polish
Kanorine Temperature Color Changing Gel Nail Polish

- No Nicks, Chips or Smudges
Treat yourself to the Kanorine Temperature Color Changing Gel Nail. As the name suggests, this gel nail polish is color-changing.
If your fingernails or toes are warm, they turn into a frosty white hue with violet tones. When the nails are cool, it turns into a dark purple or violet-like hue. It comes with a professional-grade, non-toxic formula of 10mL.
It lasts for two weeks and does not cause the gel to peel off. As a result, the gel’s solution is consistent and long-lasting. It is simple to apply this at home, and curing it is convenient under a UV or LED light.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Long-lasting
- Color changing feature
- Non-toxic formula
- Chip resistant
- Mirror finish
- Various color options
Cons
- Can be thick.
3. Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish
Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish

- Longwear polish with gel like shine, at home application, no lamp needed, easy Removal
If you’re looking for how to paint press-on nails for the perfect everyday color, try Essie Gel Couture, Tea Rose.
It comes in a two-pack with a color shade and a top coat of 13ml each. This will make your nails look elegant and chic. It has a rich formulation that is quite long-lasting.
All you need to do to achieve the enhanced look is by applying a couple of coats of gel nail polish and then one coat of topcoat to complete your gel manicure. The removal is pretty simple as well.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Glossy-finish
- Quick application
- Easy removal
- Rich formula
- Chip-resistant
Cons
- Not very sheer.
4. Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish

- Smudge-proof nails with up to 21 days of wear
When you learn how to paint press on nails, you will find that not all gel polish brands are the same. Here’s the Gelish gel polish. This offers a high-quality nail enhancement experience.
This 9 ml nail polish gel has a long-lasting and smooth finish that lasts up to three weeks and is chip resistant.
It is definitely on the higher end but worth it as it will complement your daily look. The application is easy, and it cures in 30 seconds under an LED lamp or 2 minutes in a conventional UV lamp.
Pros
- Cuticle friendly
- Comfortable design
- Easy application
- Smooth finish
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Expensive
5. Gelish Dynamic Duo Gel Nail Polish
Gelish Dynamic Duo Gel Nail Polish

- Dynamic Duo gel polish essential set includes Gelish Foundation base gel and Top It Off sealer gel.
You will not be disappointed with how to paint false nails with this pair. Here’s the Gelish Dynamic Duo to help you achieve salon-like results at home.
This luxury gel polish comes in a two-pack of 15 ml bottles. The nail polish is in one, and the topcoat is in the other. It is extremely simple to apply and must be cured under a UV or LED light.
Pros
- Easy application
- Cures in just 30 seconds
- Long-lasting
- Quick soak-off formula
- Smooth finish
- Good quantity
Cons
- Expensive
Conclusion
The important steps mentioned above on how to paint press on nails are extremely simple to execute, and anyone can master painting press on nails at home with ease.
We recommend the Kanorine Temperature Color Changing Gel Nail Polish if you want a unique and adventurous nail look.
Its special feature is the non-toxic formula that changes color based on the body’s temperature. Not only is it long-lasting, but it is also easy to apply.
But, if you are looking for a pack of two, we recommend the Essie Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish. It comes with a gel and topcoat of a Rich Formula, a minimal and elegant color, perfect for your everyday look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint on press-on nails?
You can, indeed, paint press-on nails. It’s a great way to keep your nails looking nice. You can improve the appearance by applying polish.
Here’s how to paint press on nails, firstly you’ll need some tape and a cotton swab that needs to be attached to the fake nail. Then you can proceed painting them.
Do you need a base coat for press-on nails?
Base coats are typically used to protect your natural nails, and there are numerous ways to help your nails grow healthier and stronger.
However, a base coat on your nails is required before applying the glue or fake nails. It will provide an additional layer of protection
How many times can you reuse press on nails?
You can definitely reuse press on nails. If you sterilize or clean them well, you can use it up to two or three times.
But, make sure that they are clean for usage as an unclean press on a nail may lead to bacterial or fungal infections.
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