Lily’s Glow Up Diary: My Nail Care Journey

Besties, is there any better feeling in the world than a fresh mani?! I’m obsessed—the colours! The designs! The ✨ vibes ✨.

But you know what I don’t love? The harsh chemicals and long hours at the salon. I used to be a ride-or-die acrylic girlie, but lately, I’ve been on a major press-on kick. They're less toxic, more affordable, and just as cute. We’re talking Pinterest-level nails without the price tag!!!

If you’re ready to save time and money (without sacrificing style), here’s how I’ve built the ultimate at-home press-on nail routine.

Why I Love Press-On Nails 💖

Let’s be real—painting your nails only for them to chip 5 minutes later is pure heartbreak. With press-ons, you just wait a few minutes for the glue to dry, and boom—you’re back to scrolling TikTok with perfect nails. No salon appointment. No smudges. No drama.

My go-to press-on brand:
Glamnetic – Their designs are sooo cute, they come in a ton of sizes, and bonus: they’re reusable!

How I Prep My Hands for Press-Ons

Treat your hands like royalty before your mani moment. This is where the magic really starts!

Step 1: Exfoliate

I use the Tree Hut Pink Hibiscus Rose Sugar Scrub to buff away dry skin and leave my hands super soft. Plus, the scent is a whole tropical vibe.

Step 2: Cleanse

Why should our hands get anything less than luxury? I use Byoma’s Gel Cleanser to get rid of any oil, dirt, or residue. It leaves my skin fresh and ready for the next steps.

Step 3: Hydrating Serum

Say it louder for the girlies in the back: skincare is for your whole body! I use Bubble Skincare’s Hydrating Serum on my hands to lock in moisture. Dry, cracked skin? Not on my watch.

Step 4: Hand Mask

A hand mask = instant spa energy. I rotate between the Sally Hansen Hydrating Hand Mask and the SPA Moisture Mask—both are ultra-soothing and make your hands feel baby-soft.

Step 5: Moisturizer

Non-negotiable, bestie. I’m obsessed with Cake Beauty’s hand creams—they smell like dessert and leave your hands silky smooth.

How to Apply Press-On Nails (That Last)

Press-ons are so easy and they actually last if you prep properly. Here's my tried-and-true method:

1. Shape and prep: Start by filing your nails and shaping them to your desired length.
   
2. Cuticle care: Gently push back and trim your cuticles. Follow up with a bit of cuticle oil to keep things smooth.
   
3. Cleanse: Use the alcohol pad that comes with your press-on kit to remove any oils or residue.
   
4. Buff: Lightly buff the surface of your nail with a nail file. This helps the glue grip better and helps the press-ons stay flawless for longer.
   
5. Glue time: Apply a thin layer of glue to both your natural nail and the press-on.
   
6. Apply & press: Line up the press-on, press it down from base to tip, and hold for 15–20 seconds. Once it sets—done!
   
   

And voilà—salon-worthy nails, minus the appointment.💅

Do you do your nails at home? What’s your go-to method—polish, gels, press-ons? I want to hear all your tips in the comments! 

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