Glue stickers and solid glue gel are popular adhesives for press-on nails, but which one should you choose? Let’s go through the differences to find the best option for your nails. 

What are press-on glue stickers?

• Glue sticker also known as press-on nail tabs
  
• They are semi-transparent, flexible adhesive sheets that stick to both the natural nail and the press-on nail.  
  
• Glue stickers are typically pre-cut to fit different nail sizes. 
  
• No need for curing with a UV/LED lamp, lasts up to 7-10days.

Get it here: GELLY Super Glue Stickers

What is solid glue gel?

• Solid glue gel is a thick, mouldable gel.
  
• Solid glue gel provides a stronger, longer-lasting hold (2-3weeks) compared to glue stickers.  
  
• You need cure nails with solid glue gel using an LED/UV lamp.

Get it here: Solid Nail Gel Set for Press On Nail

Key Differences: Glue stickers vs. solid glue 

Which glue should you choose?

Pick glue sticker if you…  

• Want a quick, no-fuss application.  
  
• Prefer temporary nails (e.g., for events or weekends).  
  
• Don’t have an LED lamp.  
  
• Have sensitive nails (glue sticker is easier to remove).  

Pick solid glue gel if you… 

• Need long-lasting wear (2+ weeks).  
  
• Often expose nails to water (washing, swimming, etc.). 
  
• Want salon-level durability.  
  
• Don’t mind a slightly more involved application and removal process. 

How to use press-on nail glue sticker?

Step1

Use a nail file to evenly polish the natural nail surface.

Step2 

Clean your nails with an alcohol swab. Remove any oil or dirt. 

Step3

Choose the right-size glue stickers for all nails.

Step4

Peel off the top plastic layer of the glue stickers.

Step5

Press the nail onto your finger at a 45-degree angle and slowly press down.

Step6

Hold and press for about 10 seconds.

Check out Ultimate Guide to Press-On Nails: Styles, Sizing, Application & Removal. This guide has everything you need—from finding your perfect fit to applying, removing, and maintaining your press-ons like a pro. 

How to use press-on nail solid glue gel?

Step1. File your nail surface and clean with an alcohol swab

• Use a fine-grit nail buffer to lightly file the nail surface vertically until it feels matte. 
• Clean your nails with an alcohol swab. Remove any oil or dirt. 

Step2. Apply the base coat

• Choose a peel-off base coat and apply a small amount to the center of the nail.

• Cure under an LED lamp for 1 min.  

Step 3. Scoop out solid glue

• Use a nail tip or a dedicated tool to take a pea-sized amount of solid glue (about 1/3 of the nail size).  

• Solid glue is easy to shape. 

Step 4. Attach the press-on nail  

• Align the press-on nail at a 45-degree angle near the cuticle, then press down and push toward the base.  

• Apply firm pressure to distribute the glue evenly and squeeze out any excess.  

Step 5. Clean any overflow  

• Use a cuticle pusher or cleanup brush to remove excess glue around the edges before it sets. 

• Solid glue is easy to clean before curing and won’t stick to skin.  

Step 6. Cure your nails  

• Cure under an UV/LED lamp immediately

• How long you should cure for depends on the nail colour:

• Light nails: At least 1-2 minutes

• Black/dark nails: At least 2-3 minutes

• For single-lamp devices, angle the light from multiple sides to fully cure your nails.

• Rotate your hands occasionally during the curing to make sure all angles dry properly.

Check out How to Use Solid Glue for Press-On Nails: The Secret to Long-Lasting Manicures. This guide covers everything you need to know about using solid glue gel from prep to aftercare, so you can achieve long-lasting, salon-quality nails at home.

To sum up, choose based on your lifestyle and how long you want your manicure to last! 

Read more

Welcome to your new press-on nails destination in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong! GELLY's new physical store!

Learn how to apply and remove press on nails in Ultimate Guide to Press-On Nails: Styles, Sizing, Application & Removal

Can I Shower with Press-On Nails? The good news: Yes! Find out some smart maintenance tips for long-lasting wear!