"Two hands come in handy, it's the way of the world"

Fing'rs Flirt Color Crush #02087

Your hands and nails reflect your personality... "press on" or "fake" nails are an inexpensive way to enhance your look.  Press ons are easily available at any drug store and can be conveniently applied at your leisure at home.  The concept is simple... you glue them over your natural nails.  There are tons of styles, colors, and sizes to choose from.

I prefer "real short" or "short" lengths when it comes to my press ons.  They tend to look more natural, and are way more functional for me.  (It's seriously not reasonable for me in my line of work to be walking around with Wolverine claws.)  The shorter lengths also tend to stay on better and are less likely to crack.

Nailene:

Nailene nails are super strong and long lasting, they used to make an 'unfinished' nail you could paint over that was fantastic, but I think they discontinued it as I am unable to find it anymore.  :(  They do make a rockin' French tip, but don't try to paint over it.  Their finish rejects polish (especially at the ends) and chip and scratch even with a clear laquer top coat. ($6.49 a box)

Fing'rs Flirt Color Crush are my absolute favorite.  They are a little thinner, but they don't break or crack.  They go through the wear and tear of my days and by the end of the week, look almost as good as when I put them on.  Although they are already "painted", I do typically paint over them.  Polish stays nicely and they look like they were professionally done.  They seem to be the least expensive for some reason, but I find them to be the best.  Also, I usually get two sets from one box, talk about bang for your buck.  ($4.49 a box)

Application:

$3.29 a bottle

Before applying nails, clean all traces of any polish or glue that may be on your nails with a high quality nail polish remover.  WASH YOUR HANDS with soap and what.  Then gently buff your nails.  Buffing your nails to hard can damage them, which is never any good.  Rinse the residue and with water and make sure they are thoroughly dry before your apply nails (mositure under the nail can lead to fungus, yuck!)  Do a dry run first to make sure the nails fit and arrange the sizes for easier application.  I always, always, always, apply glue to my actual nail and then the inside of the press on.  Firmly press the nail for about 20-30 seconds, you can do more if you feel it's a little loose.  You can use the glue they supply in the package, or buy your own.  I prefer the brush on glues as the application is way easier, less messy, and more exact.  (I've glued my fingers together once or twice in my day)  I've been applying these babies for years, and I've found this to be the more effective application method.

 Broadway Nails are pretty good too, but their white tips tend to chip.  Also, like the Nailene, you can't paint over them.  Stay away from Revlon nails, I was pursuaded by their cute colors but the nails were TERRIBLE.  Splint right down the middle... during application.  UG.  I tried them again months later thinking it was a fluke.  Their nails are bogus, thin, weak, brittle... total disappointment.  AND they cost $8.49 a box.  Don't waste your money.

As far as polishing goes, it's important you coat your nails evenly.  Too heavy a coat of polish can lead to cracks and chips.  There's ons of colors for your taste or preference... neutrals, neons, bold shades, pastels...   Wear what suits you best.  (Keep in mind skin tone!  The wrong color can totally offset your look, just like makeup.)  When you frist apply your polish, remove the excess from the brush.  Apply a thin, even coat in 3 strokes.  Once this has set, apply a second coat the same way.  Two thin coats is better than one heavy one.   When the coats dry, you can add a transparent lacquer to add shine and help prevent chipping.  Make sure that you have at least 20-30 minutes after applying polish before you really have to do anything... Think:  during an episode of your favorite show.

Removal: DO NOT try to pull, peel, or break off.  Clip the nail down to the approximate length of the natural nail and then soak in acetone polish remover until soft.  You can buff your nails to get the rest off.

I LOVE Orly polish.  You can grab a bottle from CVS for about 7 bucks.  It's a little pricier than some of the other drug store available brands but it's totally worth it.  They have a great selection of colors, and it LASTS.  No chipping, no scratching, just shiny perfect color.

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Press on nails are more of a short term option; they have a short lifespan in comparison to their salon 'acrylic' counterpart.  (7 to 10 days)  I usually wear mine for about 7 days and then I let my natural nails breathe for a day or two.  In the long run, still way cheaper than a full set at a salon (depending on the salon it can cost you 25-35 bucks and then you'll need a fill after a few weeks).  A box of Fing'rs gets me through 2 weeks or so, running me about 10 bucks a month for nails as oppposed to 40!  Also, the constant change gives me ample opportunity to update my look.  ;)

Tip:  Carry the little bottle of glue that comes with your nails in your purse in cases of "woopses"  Air bubbles under the nail can occasionally cause the nails to pop off, and if that happens, you'll be ready.  Over time, you'll get used to the application and this will happen less and less.

 Pros:

Variety of colors and styles, solid colors, french tips, designs

Variety of lengths to suit the lifestyle of anybody

Can cover up short and brittle nails

Don’t break easily, pretty durable

Prevent nail biting

Poli lasts longer

More affordable as salon acrylics can get expensive

Cons:

Chemicals in the glue may cause allergic reactions

Accidental gluing of fingers...

If not removed properly, they can damage your natural nails

Possible nail fungus without proper care