Perfect nails are essential, but what should you do if your nail technician is unavailable? It’s time for a convenient alternative. Enter: Press-on nails.
We have long placed our trust in gel and acrylic nail extensions. While these nail extensions may be adorable, the mess they can create is not worth it. In contrast, press-on nails (ready-made artificial acrylic nails) have come to the rescue.
“Press-on nails were first invented in the 50s but didn’t get popular until the 80s when nail art became more popular,” Brittney Boyce, celebrity nail artist and founder of NAILS OF LA, told Sunday Riley.
Interestingly, it wasn’t until the late 2010s that press-on nails began to dominate the nail industry. These nails are not only extremely simple to use, but they are also very convenient. Here, we highlight black-owned brands to help you achieve a chic set of press-on nails.
1. Nail Candy Press-Ons
Nail Candy Luxury Press-Ons is the brainchild of Yewande Moore, who refers to herself as a “small town gal,” per the brand’s website. Nail Candy offers a line of handmade acrylic press-on nails in various lengths, shapes, and styles. The brand sets out to provide clients with “beautiful manicures in an instant” that lasts up to two weeks with proper nail care.
2. Mari by Marsai
Next up, we have Mari by Marsai, created by actress and entrepreneur Marsai Martin. Launched in February 2022, the brand offers press-on nails that allow customers to customize various sets to suit their style.
“Mix-match, shape, color, and cut to create a look that’s entirely your own,” Martin says via her website. “You have the ability to create something beautiful in this life, and I hope my first collection inspires your creativity within.”
3. The Sassy Nails Studio
The Sassy Nails Studio is a custom nail business founded by Jamie Barbie. From weddings to date nights, the brand’s luxury custom nails are all designed with every occasion in mind. Clients also have the option to create their own manicure sets. The brand offers extra-long nails (coffin or stiletto shape), designer foil wraps, double-sided jelly tape, and various butterfly stickers.
4. Kacidilla Nails
Kacadilla Nails offers luxurious, handmade press-on nails — from minimalist to eye-catching designs and sets — “for the everyday baddie.” The brand believes that looking good should not break the bank. So, it’s no surprise they offer a buy now and pay later option. Customers can also request customization services — additional charges may apply.
5. Nails by Nixxie
Next up, we have Nails by Nixxie! The brand was founded in 2019 after Nixxie decided to create nails that help her save money without compromising creativity. Since then, Nixxie has been sharing her artistry with nail lovers, offering handmade designs that put your nail health first. Now, nail lovers can flex gorgeous manicures without the hefty price tag.
6. Pressed by Ren
There’s no excuse to slack on your press-on nail game. These Black-owned press-on nail brands each take a unique approach with their creations. So, if you fancy a chic press-on nail set — from bold patterns and prints to classic solids — you have six new brands to work with.
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