What can you use instead of nail glue to stick on nails?

If you’re looking for alternatives to nail glue to stick on nails, there are several options that can provide a strong hold while being gentler on your natural nails. Here are some popular alternatives:

1. Adhesive Tabs

• Description: Adhesive tabs are double-sided sticky pads specifically designed for press-on nails. They are a common and effective alternative to glue.
• How to Use:
  1. Start with clean, dry nails. Wipe them with alcohol or acetone to remove oils.
  2. Select the correct size adhesive tab for each nail.
  3. Apply the tab to your natural nail, pressing down firmly to ensure a strong bond.
  4. Peel off the protective backing and press the fake nail onto the tab, holding it in place for 30 seconds.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 3 to 7 days, depending on your activities and how well you apply them.

2. Gel Polish Base Coat

• Description: A gel polish base coat can create a tacky surface that helps press-on nails adhere securely.
• How to Use:
  1. Apply a thin layer of gel polish base coat to your natural nails.
  2. Cure the base coat under a UV or LED light for about 30 seconds, but do not fully cure it—leave it slightly tacky.
  3. Press the fake nail onto the tacky surface, holding it down firmly.
  4. Optionally, cure the nail again under the light to reinforce the bond.
• Longevity: Can last around 7 days with proper care.

3. Double-Sided Tape

• Description: Double-sided tape can be a quick and easy alternative to glue for a temporary hold.
• How to Use:
  1. Cut small pieces of double-sided tape to fit your nails.
  2. Apply the tape to your natural nails, pressing down firmly.
  3. Remove the protective layer from the tape and press the fake nail onto it.
• Longevity: Best for short-term use, typically lasting a day or two.

4. Sticky Tack or Putty

• Description: Sticky tack or putty, typically used for mounting posters, can be used to attach fake nails in a pinch.
• How to Use:
  1. Roll a small amount of sticky tack into a ball and flatten it slightly.
  2. Place it on your natural nail and press the fake nail over it.
• Longevity: This method is very temporary, usually lasting only a few hours.

5. Nail Stickers or Strips

• Description: Nail stickers or strips, often used for nail art, can serve as an adhesive layer for fake nails.
• How to Use:
  1. Apply the nail sticker or strip directly to your natural nail, making sure it’s smooth and bubble-free.
  2. Press the fake nail onto the sticker, applying even pressure to ensure a good bond.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 1 to 3 days, depending on the quality of the stickers.

6. Nail Wraps

• Description: Nail wraps are adhesive strips that cover your entire nail and can act as a bonding agent for press-on nails.
• How to Use:
  1. Apply the nail wrap to your natural nail.
  2. Smooth it out and then press the fake nail over it.
• Longevity: Can last up to a week, depending on the quality of the wrap.

Conclusion:

Adhesive tabs are the most popular and reliable alternative to nail glue, offering a secure hold with easy application and removal. Gel polish base coats provide a longer-lasting option, while double-sided tape and nail stickers are quick fixes for short-term wear. Sticky tack and nail wraps can work in a pinch, though they may not last as long.