Prep the same way
Wash and dry your hands, wipe each nail with the alcohol wipe, push back cuticles and lightly buff off the shine. Tabs grip best on a clean, matte, dry nail.
Match and lay out
Confirm each press-on against its finger so you're not adjusting once a tab is down.
Choose the right tab size
Pick the adhesive tab that covers as much of your nail bed as possible without overhanging the skin. More contact means a more secure hold.
Press the tab to your nail
Peel one side of the tab and press it firmly onto your natural nail, smoothing out any bubbles. Then peel away the top film.
Apply the press-on
Line it up at the cuticle, press down firmly and hold for 5 seconds, pressing across the whole nail so the tab bonds evenly.
Firm them all in
Repeat for each nail and give the full set a final press. The bond strengthens over the first few minutes.
Avoid
- Don't expect glue-level longevity — tabs are a gentler, shorter hold by design.
- Don't submerge your hands in hot water or wear tabs in the shower or pool; moisture and heat loosen them fastest.
- Don't touch the sticky surface of the tab — skin oils reduce grip.