Nail Prep, Application & Removal

PREP

Good prep makes ALL the difference when it comes to getting the longest wear from your Dolce Nails.

1. Choose your sizes
Match each press-on to your natural nail from sidewall to sidewall. If you’re between sizes, choose the slightly larger nail and gently file the sides to fit.

2. Push back your cuticles
Use the cuticle stick provided to gently push back your cuticles and remove any cuticle sitting on the nail plate.

3. Buff your natural nails
Buff the entire surface of each natural nail to remove the shine. Pay extra attention around the cuticle area and sides of the nail — don’t skip this part!

4. Clean & dehydrate really well
Use the alcohol prep pad provided to thoroughly clean each nail. Give them a proper scrub rather than just a quick wipe.

For even more dehydration, you can wipe your natural nails with 100% pure acetone before application.

Make sure your nails are completely clean and dry before moving on.

EXTRA TIP: Avoid applying your nails straight after showering, bathing or having your hands in water. Your natural nails absorb water and temporarily expand, which can affect how well your press-ons adhere.

APPLICATION WITH NAIL GLUE

For longer wear of up to 2+ weeks with proper prep.

1. Apply your glue
Apply a thin, even layer of glue to your natural nail and a small drop of glue towards the cuticle area on the underside of the press-on.

You want enough glue to create full contact between your natural nail and the press-on without having excess glue squeeze out around the sides.

2. Apply at a 45° angle
Position the press-on near your cuticle at approximately a 45° angle, then slowly lower it onto your natural nail.

3. Hold it in place
Apply gentle, consistent pressure for 60–90 seconds. Make sure there are no air bubbles underneath.

4. Work from pinky to thumb
Apply your nails from pinky to thumb, leaving your thumbs until last. It makes the whole process much easier!

5. Keep them dry
Avoid water for at least 1–2 hours after application to give the glue time to properly set.

EXTRA TIP: Apply your nails before bed if you can. It gives them hours without water and is one of my favourite ways to get the best hold.

APPLICATION WITH ADHESIVE TABS

Perfect for shorter-term wear, events or when you want to easily reuse your Dolce Nails.

1. Choose your tabs
Choose an adhesive tab that fits your natural nail without touching the surrounding skin.

2. Apply the tab
Press the adhesive tab firmly onto your clean, prepped natural nail and smooth it down, making sure there are no air bubbles.

3. Warm the adhesive
Once the adhesive tab is applied to your natural nail, rub over it firmly for a few seconds to warm the adhesive before removing the protective film.

4. Remove the film
Peel away the protective film without touching the adhesive.

5. Apply your press-on
Position the press-on near your cuticle and press down with gentle, consistent pressure for 30–60 seconds.

Again, work from pinky to thumb and leave your thumbs until last.

6. Keep them dry
Avoid water for at least 1–2 hours after application.

EXTRA TIP: Prep matters with adhesive tabs too! With really good prep and application, they can last much longer than people expect.

A FEW EXTRA TIPS FOR LONGER WEAR

• Make sure the press-on fits sidewall to sidewall — sizing makes a big difference.
• Don’t rush your prep. Removing all shine, oil and residue from your natural nails is one of the biggest factors in how long they last.
• Avoid getting glue on your skin or cuticles.
• Avoid using hand cream, cuticle oil or other oily products immediately before application.
• Try not to get your nails wet for the first 1–2 hours after applying them.
• Applying them before bed is ideal if you can.
• Remember, everyone’s wear time can vary depending on nail type, lifestyle and prep.

REMOVAL

When you’re ready to remove your Dolce Nails, gently use the cuticle stick to loosen the edges and break the seal.

Soak your nails in warm soapy water with some oil for 10–15 minutes. Dish soap and any oil will do.

Gently work around the edges with the cuticle stick as they begin to loosen. Never force or pull the nails off. If they’re not lifting easily, soak for a little longer and try again.

Once removed, gently buff away any remaining glue from your natural nails. Your Dolce Nails can be reused with care.

TIPS

  • Applying a little extra oil around the edges while soaking can help loosen stubborn nails.
  • Be patient! If a nail isn’t coming off easily, don’t force it. Soak again for another 5–10 minutes and gently work around the edges.
  • The longer you’ve worn your nails, the easier they will generally be to remove.

Steph x