This Is the Easiest Way to Fake a Salon-Grade Manicure
Press-on nails have come a long way, and these are the very best false nails we've tried that deliver a professional-looking mani in moments.


Getting my nails done is one of my all-time favourite treats. There's nothing like walking out of the salon with a fresh set, especially if it's with some customised nail art or trying a trending nail colour or nail trend. However, it's definitely an occasional treat that I couldn't afford to have all of the time. While I have a gel nail kit at home, it's not the same as having them done professionally. Plus, I don't have the steadiest of hands, so my nail art skills are quite questionable. (I'm right-handed, so the designs on my right hand are never quite as neat as those on my left.)
For the times when I can't make it to the salon or I just don't have the patience for complicated nail art, I reach for press-on nails. False nails have come a long way, and you can now get every shape, length and design imaginable. And nowadays, they last for more than just a couple of hours.
From short neutral press-ons to false nails with incredible nail art, there are so many artificial nails to choose from, and they're usually attached in one of two ways. Some press-ons come with a nail glue to secure the press-ons in place; others come with a pre-glued adhesive, which you simply press onto your natural nails. Either way, they're way faster than sitting in the salon or waiting for your nails to dry.
Ahead, we've rounded up the best press-on nails from classic colours to nail art designs.
The Best Press-On Nails
- OPI Xpress/on Press on Nails, £10
- Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails, £7
- Elegant Touch French Acrylic Nails, £7
- Boots False Nails, £8
- Nails Inc Artificial Nails, £9
1. OPI Opi Xpress/on Press on Nails
The OPI Press-On Nails are, by far, some of the best false nails I've ever tried. They come in a range of flattering shades, including OPI's classic colours like Bubble Bath, Big Apple Red and Funny Bunny, as well as nail art effects like cat-eye. These oval-shaped ones in the shade Bubble Bath are my favourite.
2. Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails
3. Elegant Touch French Acrylic Nails
Ombré designs are always a winner, and this French ombré will suit any situation.
4. Boots False Nails
5. Nails Inc Shellfie Ready Artificial Nails
Tortoiseshell nails are perfect for this time of year, and press-ons allow you to get the look without a costly nail art appointment.
6. Dreamery Late Check Out False Nails
7. Nail HQ Press on Nails
Love a chrome mani? Love a French tip? Love an almond-shaped nail? Congrats, you just found your next press-on nails.
8. Chillhouse Chill Tips Press on Nails Kit
9. Glamnetic Press on Nails in Pure Intentions
Love a milky manicure? These ones are complete with a glazed finish that makes them look so elevated.

Eleanor Vousden is the beauty editor for Who What Wear UK. She was previously deputy editor at Hairdressers Journal, health writer at Woman & Home and junior beauty editor at Powder. She has also contributed to Wallpaper and Elle Collections.
With a degree in fashion journalism from the London College of Fashion, she has 10 years of industry experience and has been highly commended at the BSME Talent Awards for her work on Powder and also contributed to the title winning Website of the Year at the PPA Awards.
Eleanor’s journalistic focus is providing readers with honest and helpful beauty content. She has interviewed celebrity makeup artists, hairstylists and dermatologists throughout her career, as well as celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Sarah Jessica Parker and Scarlett Johansson.
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