How to Apply Fake Nails at Home: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying fake nails at home can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a little patience, it's a skill you can master. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to get beautiful, long-lasting nails from the comfort of your home. Ready to get started? Let's go !

Preparation of natural nails

Cleaning and disinfection

Before you begin, make sure your nails are clean and disinfected. Use nail polish remover to remove any nail polish and wash your hands with antibacterial soap.

Explore our professional files and polishers available in our Fake Nail Accessories collection.

Filing and polishing

File your natural nails to even them out and shorten them if necessary. Next, use a buffer to remove the natural shine from your nails. This will help the false nails adhere better.

Discover our range of nail cleaners and disinfectants in our Fake Nail Accessories collection.

Application of the protective base

Apply a thin protective base coat to protect your natural nails and ensure better adhesion of the false nails.

Discover our selection of protective bases in our Gels for False Nails collection.

Marie, a mother of two, takes the time to prepare her nails in the evening after her children have gone to bed. She finds this step relaxing and essential for a successful pose.

Choosing and preparing false nails

Size and style selection

Choose false nails that suit the size and shape of your natural nails. You can opt for pre-decorated nails or neutral nails to customize.

Browse our False Nail Capsules collection to find the perfect style for you.

Adjustment of false nails

If necessary, file the edges of the false nails so that they fit snugly against your natural nails. This step is crucial for a natural result.

Our manicure tools in the False Nail Accessories collection can help you adjust your false nails precisely.

Preparing false nails

Before sticking, make sure the false nails are clean and dry. You can also lightly polish them for better adhesion.

Julie, a young professional, prefers false nails with a matte finish and takes the time to adjust them perfectly for a flawless office look.

Applying false nails

Application of glue

Apply a small amount of glue to the natural nail and the false nail. Even application is key to avoiding air bubbles and ensuring good hold.

Discover our range of professional quality glues in our False Nail Gels collection.

Placement and pressure

Place the false nail on your natural nail, starting at the base and pressing firmly for a few seconds to ensure good adhesion.

Verification and final adjustment

Once all the false nails are in place, check that they are aligned correctly and adjust if necessary. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Our finishing products in the collection All our Nails Art products can help you perfect your manicure.

Clara, a student, finds that applying false nails is a fun activity to do with her friends during their sleepovers.

Finishing and maintenance

Filing and shaping

After application, file the false nails to give them the desired shape. You can opt for a square, rounded or stiletto shape depending on your preferences.

Explore our False Nail Accessories collection for high-quality filing tools.

Applying varnish

If your false nails are neutral, apply your favorite polish. For best hold, use a base coat, two coats of colored polish and a top coat.

Discover our long-lasting varnishes in our Gel Polish for False Nails collection.

Regular maintenance

To prolong the life of your false nails, avoid exposing them to hot water and use gloves for household chores. Apply cuticle oil regularly to keep your nails and cuticles healthy.

Discover our range of Premium Cuticle Oil – ArtisticNails Paris .

Sophie, a nail art enthusiast, loves creating unique designs on her false nails and proudly shows them off on her social media.


With this guide, applying false nails at home becomes an accessible and enjoyable task. Take care of your nails and have fun creating beautiful and unique looks!

The ArtisticNails Paris team.