Press-on nails should fit snugly and securely, covering the entire nail bed without exposing the natural nail on the sides, and sitting just above the cuticle line. According to Byrdie, "Always select a size where the left and right sides of your nails don't show, and make sure the nail sits right above your cuticle line. If nails are too big, they come off more easily."
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
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Width: The press-on nail should completely cover the width of your natural nail. There should be no visible gaps on either side. If you can see the edges of your natural nail peeking out, the press-on is too small.
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Length: While length is largely a matter of personal preference, the press-on nail should not extend so far beyond your natural nail that it becomes unwieldy or prone to catching on things.
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Cuticle Line: The base of the press-on nail should sit neatly and directly above your cuticle line. It shouldn't overlap the cuticle or leave a large gap.
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Secure Fit: The press-on nail should adhere securely to your natural nail without any lifting or gaps. A properly sized nail will help ensure better adhesion.
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Comfort: You shouldn't feel any pinching or discomfort when wearing press-on nails. If you do, the nail may be too small or the wrong shape for your nail bed.
Here's a table summarizing the key aspects of a good press-on nail fit:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Width | Fully covers the natural nail; no gaps on the sides. |
| Length | Extends to a comfortable and manageable length. |
| Cuticle Line | Sits neatly just above the cuticle; no overlap or large gap. |
| Security | Adheres firmly without lifting. |
| Comfort | No pinching or discomfort. |
It's important to choose the correct size press-on nails for each finger to ensure a comfortable and long-lasting wear. When in doubt, it's generally better to choose a slightly larger size and gently file it down to fit, rather than forcing on a nail that's too small. Remember, according to McFerran, if nails are too big, they come off more easily.
