As many of us know, a good manicure requires tons of upkeep. Whether you opt for extensions, press-ons, gel, dip, lacquer, or natural nails, keeping your nails looking their best is a challenge. No matter how many nail-growth supplements you take or how often you go to your nail tech, nails will be nails, which unfortunately means that manicure mishaps are bound to happen. Sometimes, we need to call in the big guns—that's where products like nail glue come in.
What is nail glue used for?
If you've ever gotten acrylics done, you're intimately familiar with nail glue, as it's what's used to make the enhancements adhere to your nails. "Manicurists use it to secure a plastic tip to the end of the nail bed in order to elongate the appearance and length of your nails," says Bellacures marketing specialist Rianna Basurto.
Nail glue can also come in handy for breaks and splits. You can use nail glue to repair a broken nail before you apply nail polish on top. This is especially helpful if you don't want to cut every single one of your nails just because one of them broke. (We've been there!)
How do you apply nail glue?
It depends on what you're planning to use nail glue for. "For a hairline crack in the nail, it's best to use a precision glue," says celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards. "This allows you to control smaller amounts of glue right in the crack without spillage. For full-cover tips, I like a thicker glue, so I would recommend a brush-on glue. The brush gives you total control of the amount before you place on the nail." Keep reading for the best nail glues out there, according to nail experts.
This instant-bond nail glue dries in three seconds. Since this nail glue has a nozzle tip, Edwards recommends it for small cracks in nails since it gives you the most control.
"This vegan formula adheres quickly to the nail bed and is sure to give you the long-lasting mani you are looking for," says Basurto.
This is Edwards's go-to nail glue for applying full-cover tips. The brush gives you tons of control while also ensuring max coverage.
"This nail glue is not only easy to apply but is also fast drying," says Basurto. "It is truly perfect for all of your nail-glue needs."
Edwards recommends this nail glue for a super-quick dry. She warns, however, that it's not for a novice, as it dries so quickly.
Basurto loves that this nail glue is infused with vitamins A and E. "This antioxidant-rich nail glue has a long-lasting hold and is available at an amazing price point," she says.
This nail glue can last up to 18 days. It's also extremely customizable, and you can apply less to only wear it for one or two days. It dissolves on its own, so you don't have to worry about harsh removal.
Yes, this nail glue really does dry in five seconds. (So use it cautiously!) IBD's glue is a professional favorite.
This brush-on nail glue comes in a no-clog bottle, so it's incredibly long-lasting.
This nail glue applies just like nail polish. It's guaranteed to keep press-ons on for two weeks.
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