Applying fake nails can be tricky. While you want them to stay on, you also don’t want to damage your natural nails in the process. This leaves many wondering – can you use super glue for fake nails?
Specialty nail glues are a safer option when applying fake nails. They are designed to specifically bond to both the natural and artificial nail for secure wear. But if you do opt to try super glue, there are precautions you should take.
The Benefits and Risks of Using Super Glue
Super glue has a reputation for being able to stick just about anything together quickly. This speed and strength is why some people consider using it for fake nails. But super glue also has some distinct disadvantages when used on nails:
Pros
- Strong, fast-drying bond. Super glue begins drying in just seconds, creating a solid bond between surfaces.
- Easy to find. Since super glue is a common household adhesive, it is easy to locate at grocery stores, hardware stores, etc. Specialty nail products can be harder to find.
- Inexpensive option. At just a few dollars for a small tube, super glue is one of the most budget-friendly adhesives around. Nail glues specifically for artificial nails are pricier.
Cons
- Skin irritation. The cyanoacrylate in super glue can cause redness, swelling, blistering, dryness, and general irritation on the skin surrounding the nails.
- Harsh fumes. As it dries, super glue emits harsh vapors that can irritate eyes, nose, and throat. Working in a well-ventilated area is a must.
- Difficult removal. Super glue is designed to create permanent bonds. It does not dissolve or weaken over time. This makes super glue very difficult to remove from natural or artificial nails.
- Weak bond to nails. Though super glue works on many materials, it does not bond as well to smooth surfaces like nails. The bond may not withstand daily wear and tear.
- Uneven application. The quick drying time makes it hard to evenly position fake nails and avoid getting glue on the skin or surrounding nails.
- Potential nail damage. Improper removal of super glue can pull layers of the natural nail off with it, leading to thinning and peeling.
So while super glue may seem like an easy adhesive solution, it does come with some risks. Using the proper nail products can help avoid these downsides.
How to Apply Fake Nails with Super Glue
If you do choose to try super glue, take steps to minimize damage and create the most secure bond:
Prepare the Nails
- Remove any existing nail polish from natural nails using non-acetone remover. Never apply glue or false nails over polish.
- File the surface of the natural nails lightly to remove shine and create texture.
- Push back and trim cuticles to ensure they won’t interfere with the false nail bond.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry nails completely. Remove any trace oils with isopropyl alcohol.
Apply the Super Glue
- Work in a well-ventilated room. Avoid inhaling fumes directly.
- Put a small drop of glue on the back of the false nail near the cuticle area.
- Spread the glue quickly using the brush before it dries. Get as close to edges as possible.
- Press the false nail on tightly from cuticle to tip. Hold for 30 seconds until bonded.
- Clean up any excess glue immediately with an orange stick before it dries. Avoid getting glue on the skin.
- Apply glue to each nail individually. Don’t glue on a whole set then go back to clean up.
- Let nails dry 15 minutes before filing the edges to blend with your natural nails.
Proper application is key to creating a lasting bond with super glue. Rushing through the process can lead to lifting, gaps, and poor adhesion.
Removing Fake Nails Applied with Super Glue
Taking off fake nails attached with super glue is challenging. The bond is just too strong for the nails to soak or peel off easily. Here are some methods, but they may damage the natural nail:
- Soak cotton balls in pure acetone nail polish remover. Place them directly on the false nails and wrap in foil. The acetone may weaken the bond after 20-30 minutes.
- Gently pry up the edges of the false nail with an orangewood stick. Work slowly around the edges until you can slide dental floss under the nail to detach it.
- Use an emery board to gently file off the false nail, little by little. Be very careful not to file into your natural nail.
- As a last resort, see a professional manicurist. They may be able to remove the nails without as much damage to your natural nails. Avoid picking or peeling which can pull up layers of your nail plate.
No matter the method, removing super glued on nails takes time, patience, and care to avoid harming your natural nails.
Better Alternatives to Super Glue for Fake Nails
While super glue in a pinch may seem convenient, specialty nail products give you better results with fewer risks. Popular options include:
Nail Glue for False Nails
Nail glue is specially designed to bond artificial nails to your natural nails. The formulation creates a strong hold that typically lasts 1-2 weeks with proper application.
Benefits
- Strong bond engineered for nails. Provides long-lasting adhesion.
- Quick drying time. Usually sets in about 60 seconds.
- Easy, damage-free removal. Nails soak off in acetone.
- Designed to avoid natural nail damage. Flexible bond and nourishing ingredients.
Application Tips
- Avoid over-gluing. Use a thin layer for best results.
- Keep cuticles pushed back so they don’t interfere with bond.
- Tap nails gently into place after gluing instead of pressing hard.
- Ensure nails fit properly side-to-side to prevent lifting and gaps.
Nail Adhesive Tabs
These small adhesive tabs stick to the underside of false nails for quick, temporary wear. No liquid glue needed!
Benefits
- Super easy application. Just peel and stick tabs to prepped nails.
- Damage-free removal. Nails pop off easily with no harsh chemicals.
- Ideal for short-term wear. Tabs last 1-3 days on average.
Application Tips
- Prep nails just like you would for glue-on nails.
- Avoid getting adhesive on your skin when applying nails.
- Gently press and hold nails for 30 seconds after applying for best adhesion.
- Keep nails dry as much as possible, since moisture weakens the bond.
Caring for Fake Nails Applied with Super Glue
Caring properly for fake nails is key to avoiding lifting, breakage, and other bonding issues:
- Use nail oil daily around the nails to prevent dryness and lifting.
- Apply cuticle oil to keep the nail base flexible and strong.
- Avoid excessive water exposure which can compromise the bond. Wear gloves for cleaning and dish washing.
- Don’t pick at the edges of the false nails to avoid chipping the glue bond.
- Go easy with your nails. Avoid opening soda cans, prying things, and other tasks that can cause breaks.
- See your manicurist right away if you experience a broken bond or lifting for a repair.
Can You Use Super Glue for Nail Tips?
Nail tips are thin artificial nail extensions that bond to just the edge of your natural nail for lengthening. Much like false nails, most manicurists do not recommend using household super glue to apply tips.
The main risks are the same as full false nails:
- Skin irritation and harsh fumes from the cyanoacrylate adhesive
- Potentially uneven bonding leading to lifting or breakage
- Difficult removal that can damage the natural nails
Specialty nail glues create a much better semi-permanent bond for nail tips. Or consider nail adhesive tabs for temporary wear.
If you do try super glue for tips, limit it to small touch ups or emergency repairs. Avoid wearing them long term.
The Takeaway
While super glue provides that quick-fix appeal, it’s generally not the best choice for adhering fake nails or tips. Specialty nail products give superior results and reduce the risks of skin irritation, nail damage, and bonding failure. They are worth the small additional investment for beautiful, long lasting nail looks.
However, if you do find yourself in a pinch without proper nail supplies, you can attempt to use super glue. Just be extremely careful with preparation, application, and removal to minimize damage. And replace the super glue with quality nail glue or adhesive tabs as soon as possible. Your nails will thank you!