When they are applied properly, nail stickers can look impressively natural while also adding some interest and colour to your personal appearance. They can also be an excellent way to celebrate a holiday or express your personality. However, they’ll never look good or last long if they are peeling off as a result of poor application technique.
Get them right though, and they can last as many as three weeks. This short guide gives you all the tips you need to make sure your stickers are applied to a professional standard.
1. Get your natural nails sparkling clean
If you’re applying nail stickers at home, the process does not need to take as long as it does when you get them done professionally in a salon. However, this does not mean that you don’t have to prepare properly.
Your first step should be to remove any old polish that’s still on your nails using a powerful nail polish remover. You might also need to use a cuticle pusher to scrape stubborn polish off, but be gentle. Your stickers won’t adhere well to a damaged surface.
2. Buff and file
Getting your nails clean and ready is about more than just removing old polish. Buff them until shiny and smooth, then file and shape them too. You want to be applying the stickers to the best-looking version of your natural nails.
3. Soak your nails
The last step for getting your nails ready is to soak them in warm water. A few minutes is enough, and this should soften up your cuticles so that you can push them back if you need to. Then it’s time to get your stickers ready. It’s a good idea to check the size before you peel them away from the clear sheet they come on.
4. Peel them with tweezers
You’ve just spent time getting your nails all nice and ready, so it would be a shame to get them covered in sticky adhesive residue. You can easily avoid this by using a pair of tweezers to peel the stickers off of their sheet.
5. Apply them completely flat
This will make them last longer. The spot you should be aiming for is as close to your cuticles as you can get them if they’re the kind that covers your entire nail. If they are purely decorative stickers, then of course you can choose. But make sure there are no bumps or creases in the stickers when you apply them. Otherwise, some of the adhesive will not make contact with the surface of your nails.
6. Add a top coat
Applying a transparent coating over the top will add a final glossiness and shine that really makes them look professional. It will also help them to last longer.
7. Show them off
The only thing that’s left after you’ve followed all the instructions above is to get out there and show them off!
Conclusion
Nail stickers are a versatile way to add some flair and fun to your look. Whether you’re going for bold or subtle ones, applying them with due care can make even a home job look professional and last even longer.
