Growing up, my mom always emphasized the importance of having well-manicured nails. She would tell me that everyone is looking at your hands (especially if you talk with them like I do) and that a good manicure will pull together the look.
It was rare that I saw her without a fresh set, and before leaving her current appointment, her next one was always booked. As I got older and started booking (and paying for) my own nail appointments, I lived by the same rules. But when I moved out and larger bills (like rent) came along, sacrifices had to be made in the budget. Unfortunately, nail appointments had to be the first to go. I could no longer justify spending over $100 per appointment for the styles and designs I wanted, or even $50 just for a plain color I wasn’t fully in love with and would be bored of in a week.
Instead of giving up nails completely, I turned to a much more affordable alternative: press-ons.
Salon Perfect Fall-o-ween Press-On Nails
- Easy to apply
- Fits natural nail bed shape
- May be a learning curve
Design: Black swirl | Includes: 30 press-on nails, 1 nail file, 1 nail glue
Why I tried Salon Perfect press-on nails
I began my journey with press-on nails in February of this year after being invited to an event where a brand debuted a new UV light system. I love that technology for longer wear (about two weeks on average) but I was looking for something I could apply and remove quickly.
I was also looking for something budget-friendly enough to grab on the fly and that came in designs similar to what I used to ask my nail tech for. Even though I was moving toward press-ons, I didn't want to sacrifice my personal taste and style. Enter — Salon Perfect.
Why I like Salon Perfect press-on nails
First and foremost, the price is right. Salon Perfect offers hundreds of designs in different lengths, all priced at under $10. This was exactly what I was looking for.
Every time I wear a set of Salon Perfect press-ons, I get complimented! Even my mom loved them so much that, after she saw my set, she ran to Walmart to get her own and did them the same day.
Everything you need comes in the kit, including nail glue, a cuticle pusher, a nail file and 30 nails, so you can curate the set that fits your nail beds perfectly without having to do any additional filing. Plus, of the press-on nails that I've tried, the glue that comes in this kit is some of the strongest.
I'm not particularly gentle with my nails, often using them to pry things open and the like, and they still manage to last at least a week. If one does happen to pop off before I'm ready to remove it, all it takes is one more dot of glue to re-secure it and I'm good for another few days.
Despite the strength of the glue, they're still really easy to take off when you're ready! The brand recommends a soak in warm, soapy water. I've tried it that way and have just popped them off with the pointy end of a cuticle pusher. Both ways have left my natural nail beds in great condition (though this may just be a product of genetics more than anything else).
Last but not least, the one thing using Salon Perfect press-on nails affords me is the most important: time. Instead of spending hours in the nail salon, I can do these in 30 minutes in the comfort of my own home. Above all else, that's priceless.
What to consider
If you've never applied press-on nails before, there will be a learning curve. When I started applying them on my own, I wasn't the best at it. Here are a few key tips that have helped me:
- Properly prep your nails. Use nail polish remover to remove any lingering glue, polish, or debris on your nail bed. Push your cuticles back before applying.
- Apply one drop of glue on the nail and one drop on your nail bed. This was a tip a coworker gave me when I first started applying nails and now I won't do it any other way. The extra dot provides an invaluable hold that'll keep your press-ons secure.
- Hold for the full 15 seconds. Don't try to rush through it. The extra few seconds of pressure are worth it to ensure it's really on there.
- Keep a paper towel on the side for excess glue. When pushing down, some excess glue is likely to spill over the sides of your nail. That's okay! Just keep a spare paper towel on the side to wipe it off as you go.
- Use cuticle oil when you're done. It truly makes all the difference in how long your nails last and how good they look. I also advocate for daily application!
More Salon Perfect sets to shop
Salon Perfect Glazed Chocolate Press-On Nails
- Affordable
- Fit nail perfectly
- Color isn't as accurate IRL
- Tore easily for some reviewers
Design: Brown chrome powder effect | Includes: 30 press-on nails, 1 nail file, 1 nail glue
Themed after a glazed donut, these press-ons have a glossy finish reminiscent of the sweet treat.
Salon Perfect 170 Pearl French Press-On Nails
- Don't damage nails
- Only lasted a couple of days
Design: French tip with pearl | Includes: 30 press-on nails, 1 nail file, 1 nail glue
For a French manicure with a twist, this option comes with a tiny pearl at the top of each nail.
Salon Perfect Liquid Gold Purple Swirl Press-On Nails
- Durable
- Match natural nail shape
- Gold wore off quickly
Design: Purple, gold and baby blue swirl | Includes: 30 press-on nails, 1 nail file, 1 nail glue
Perfect for summer or festival season, this swirl design adds a unique twist to your nails.
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The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.
Kamari Stewart is an associate editor for Shop TODAY. She has been with the team almost four years covering a wide range of topics, including gift guides, home and organization, beauty, fashion and product reviews.
