The NailsByEli Guide
Your complete guide to applying, wearing, removing, and reusing your handmade press-on nails — so they last beautifully, wear after wear.
Get ready
Before Your Nails Arrive
A little preparation goes a long way. Here's everything to know before your NailsByEli set lands in your hands.
Sizing
Find your perfect fit using our sizing guide or order a sizing kit. Each nail is measured to match your natural nail beds for a seamless look.
Nail preparation
Have clean, dry, oil-free nails ready. Gently push back cuticles and lightly buff the surface so the adhesive bonds perfectly.
What is included
Every set arrives with 24 handcrafted press-ons, a prep kit (alcohol wipe, cuticle stick, mini file), adhesive, and an application guide.
Application
How to Apply
Follow these steps for a flawless, long-lasting application. Take your time — preparation is everything.
Application Tutorial
Watch the full application process — from prepping your natural nails to pressing each set on for a seamless finish.
- 1
Prep your natural nails
Gently push back cuticles, lightly buff the surface of each nail, and wipe with the included alcohol pad to remove oils and residue.
- 2
Select the right size
Lay each press-on over your natural nail to find the perfect fit — it should cover the nail bed edge to edge without overlapping the skin.
- 3
Apply the adhesive
Use glue for a longer, stronger hold or adhesive tabs for a gentler, reusable wear. Apply a thin, even layer to the back of the press-on.
- 4
Press & hold
Place the press-on at a 45° angle from the cuticle, then press down firmly for 15–30 seconds to squeeze out any air bubbles.
- 5
Repeat for all ten nails
Work one hand at a time, and avoid getting your nails wet for at least an hour after application to let the adhesive fully set.
Longevity
How to Make Your Nails Last
A few mindful habits will keep your press-ons looking fresh and secure for up to two weeks or more.
Water exposure
Avoid prolonged soaking. Pat nails dry after washing, and wear gloves for dishes and cleaning to protect the adhesive bond.
Everyday activities
Use the pads of your fingers rather than your nails to open, pry, or scratch — and treat them as gently as you would a fresh manicure.
Things to avoid
- •Soaking in hot baths, pools, or hot tubs for long periods
- •Using nails as tools to open cans, tabs, or packages
- •Picking at or peeling the edges of your press-ons
- •Harsh acetone near the adhesive while wearing them
- •Heavy oil-based lotions applied directly to the nail bed
- •Sleeping on your hands the first night after application
Removal
How to Remove Your Nails
Patience protects your natural nails. Soak, soften, and let the adhesive release — never force them off.
Removal Tutorial
Watch the safe, soak-off removal method that protects both your natural nails and your NailsByEli set for reuse.
- 1
Soak in warm, soapy water
Fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of soap. Soak your nails for 10–15 minutes to soften the adhesive.
- 2
Loosen the edges gently
Use the wooden cuticle stick to gently lift the edge of each press-on. Add more warm water if the adhesive is still firm.
- 3
Let the adhesive do the work
As the glue softens, the nail will release on its own. Wiggle gently — never force, pry, or rip the nail off.
- 4
Clean & set aside
Once removed, wipe any leftover adhesive from the press-on and your natural nail with soap and warm water.
Never force or rip your nails off. Pulling can damage the surface of your natural nail. Always soak until the adhesive softens and the press-on lifts away on its own.
Reuse
How to Reuse Your Nails
With gentle care, your NailsByEli set can be worn again and again. Here's how to clean, store, and prep them for their next wear.
- 1
Clean them gently
Wash each press-on with warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove oils, glue residue, and any debris.
- 2
Remove leftover adhesive
Gently scrape remaining glue from the back with a cuticle stick or a little rubbing alcohol. Avoid harsh tools that could scratch the nail.
- 3
Store them safely
Keep your set in the original NailsByEli box or a small container, laid flat and separated so the nails do not chip or bend.
- 4
Prep for the next wear
Before reapplying, lightly buff the inside of each press-on, wipe with alcohol, and use a fresh adhesive tab or glue for a secure hold.
Clean & store
Keep your set in its original box, laid flat and separated, so the nails stay protected and ready for their next wear.
Prep for reapplication
A light buff of the inside and a fresh adhesive tab give your reused set a hold just as strong as the first time.
Natural nails
Natural Nail Care
Healthy natural nails are the foundation of a great press-on wear. Here's how to protect them and what to watch for.
How to protect them
Proper application and a gentle soak-off removal keep your natural nails healthy. Always prep lightly, avoid over-buffing, and give your nails a break between sets.
What can cause damage
Forcing or peeling press-ons off, over-buffing the nail plate, and using harsh tools are the most common causes of natural nail damage.
DO
- •Lightly buff and clean before every application
- •Soak off your nails with warm, soapy water
- •Moisturize cuticles between wears
- •Give your nails a rest day between sets
DON'T
- •Peel, pry, or rip press-ons off
- •Over-buff the surface of your natural nail
- •Use acetone to force-remove the adhesive
- •Apply over damaged, broken, or infected nails
Find your fit
Sizing Guide
The perfect fit makes all the difference. Here's how to find your size — and how to get it exactly right with a sizing kit.
How to find your size
- 1
Hold a press-on over your nail
Place each size over your natural nail to compare. The press-on should cover the nail bed edge to edge.
- 2
Check all ten fingers
Sizes often differ between fingers and hands — note each one for a fully custom fit.
- 3
Not sure? Order a sizing kit
A sizing kit ships every size so you can try them on at home before ordering your set.
Size reference
Each NailsByEli set includes sizes 0–9 (24 nails total) so you can find the perfect match for every finger.
Make it yours
Custom Orders
Want something made just for you? NailsByEli custom sets are handmade to your exact preferences.
Choose your own colors, designs, shapes, lengths, charms, and finishes. Send inspiration photos and your sizing, and I will craft a one-of-a-kind set made to match your vision.
Day-to-day
Everyday Care
Answers to the everyday questions about living life in your NailsByEli press-ons.
Showering & washing hands
Press-ons are water-resistant but not waterproof. Avoid prolonged soaking and gently pat your nails dry after showering.
Swimming
Extended time in pools, hot tubs, or salt water can weaken the adhesive — wear gloves or limit submersion when possible.
Working out
Exercise is fine! Just give your nails a full hour to set after application before any heavy activity.
Sleeping
Be mindful of your hands the first night — avoid sleeping on your fists or picking at the nails while the adhesive fully cures.
Everyday activities
Use the pads of your fingers, not your nails, to open cans and tabs, and wear gloves when doing dishes or cleaning.
Everything else
Complete FAQ
Still curious? Here are the answers to the most common NailsByEli questions.
Ready for your next set?
Browse the full NailsByEli collection or reach out — I am always happy to help you find your perfect nails.