There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping out with freshly manicured nails.
For years, I wanted that salon-perfect finish, booking gel appointments and sitting patiently under UV lights.
But with recent news that gel nails are facing bans in parts of Europe due to safety concerns around an ingredient called TPO, which is labelled carcinogenic, I started looking for alternatives.
That’s when I stumbled upon stick-on nails, and honestly, I’ve never looked back.
At first, I was sceptical. Could something so quick and affordable really compete with salon-quality nails?
But after my first set, I was hooked. The application took minutes – no lamps, no harsh smells, and no risk of damaging my natural nails.
Best of all, I could change them as often as I liked, whether it was a bold set for a weekend out or a subtle nude for the work week. It’s become part of my routine: a tiny beauty ritual that feels fun, creative, and completely fuss-free.
Beyond convenience, what amazed me is how much variety there is.
Press-on nails come in endless shapes, colours, and designs, and for special occasions, you can even have them custom-made.
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I spoke to Kayla Korte, a Cape Town-based nail artist, who creates one-of-a-kind designs for weddings, matric dances and themed events. “Custom design nails are reusable, just as durable as a gel manicure, and won’t damage the natural nail if applied with sticky tabs instead of glue,” she explained.
Korte loves the flexibility they offer: “They can be removed for work and reapplied later, and designs can range from traditional French tips to hand-drawn movie-inspired characters. Length and shape are fully customisable, and they fit all nail sizes.”
The more I explored, the more I realised stick-on nails tick all the boxes:
- Convenience – applied in minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Affordability – a budget-friendly alternative to salon appointments.
- Less damage – no harsh filing or chemicals, keeping natural nails healthy.
- Variety & style – countless colours, shapes, and designs for every mood.
- Quick application – a salon finish at home in minutes.
- Reusability – many sets can be worn more than once.
- Flexibility – change your look as often as you like, without long-term commitment.
For me, press-ons have turned nail care into something joyful again. No more feeling trapped in a single manicure for weeks or worrying about damage to my nails. Instead, I get to play, experiment, and match my nails to my mood with zero guilt.
If you, like me, are ready to move away from the risks of gels and the costs of salons, stick-on nails might just become your new beauty essential.
Lifestyle
