Review - imPRESS Press-On Manicure

 So you've probably seen the ads for these around; there are a lot in magazines and a few that pop-up on youtube. On a recent trip when I didn't have time to do my nails, I picked up a pack of these to try out. Read on for my review!

What:
Touted as "the revolutionary way to apply polish" their website states that imPRESS nails provide all of the following: no drying time, superior, lasting shine, easy removal, lasts up to a week. They come in a wide range of solid colors and fun patterns plus classic French manicure so there is plenty to choose from. Nicole Scherzinger is also their celebrity spokesperson and her line is available to view on their site. I actually like her patterns "Don't Wanna" and "Sexy Fresh" a lot more than those from the original line (despite the ridiculous names).

They come in a snap open fake nail polish bottle and are basically thin press-on nails with a glue tab and a little plastic cover that peels off. They're all size numbered so that you can match them up before applying. The box recommends that you apply the thumb nail last; I actually missed this when I did my first hand and did it backwards - it was a little trickier this way round.
The nails are simple enough to apply - after removing all polish just match up the sizes to your nails, swipe nails with the enclosed cleansing pad, peel back the plastic tab and press down firmly. Ta Dah! That's pretty much it, simple huh?

 

Why:
Well in my case, I wanted a quick fix that would last me through a few days away. I'd seen these and wanted to try them out for a while. I actually applied my set while I was in the car (somebody else was driving!) and it took less than 10 minutes.

The pros and cons:
I'd say that the best things about this kit are that the nails are super-fast to apply and that they look great. I got so many compliments on this manicure you would not believe! I wanted something a little crazy so I went for Over the Moon - neon pink and purple with black leopard print.
There were no chips, no lifting and they felt very secure. They also fit pretty well and there are 12 different sizes so I think most people would be able to get a good match up.
And now for the cons. Firstly, they smelled very strongly of plastic, even through the packaging which was pretty gross. Unfortunately the smell remains even after washing, hand-sanitizing and applying scented moisturizers. Now, I'm an obsessive hand washer so the fact that these still smelled so strongly after a couple of days is saying a lot.
Another issue I had with these was the edges around the cuticles - they don't seal properly and things get caught under them. This was particularly annoying when I was trying to do anything with my hair! I kept worrying that I was going to rip my hair out as I could feel it sticking to the glue underneath the nails - not good.

Also, the glue tabs mean that the nails don't completely lie flat as they would with traditional glue-on nails. Again - annoying! Things got trapped at the tips between the falsies and my actual nails all the time which not only grossed me out but also worried me that I would rip the nails off when I tried to clean them.

I kept these on for 4 days before they drove me crazy with the catching and the smell.
To remove, simply peel from the sides. I suggest going very slowly and perhaps having a cotton bud with polish remover to soften the glue as you go. It wasn't difficult but I was worried that I was ripping my natural nails as the glue is very strong.

It was a pretty uncomfortable sensation and I noticed a lighter patch where the glue had been on my nails but I don't think they did any real damage.

Verdict:
I think these are great for a night out or a special occasion - people will definitely notice and they are fun to look at. I think they're also good for short holidays - they're cheaper than a manicure and if you are careful, they wear well.

I might purchase these again if I'm feeling lazy or want something bright and flashy but I think I'll be sticking to Sally Hansen Salon Effects for every-day wear.


Where:
Most drugstores, check the site for stockists, there's also a printable coupon for $1 off.
US - CVS, Walgreens $5.99 - $7.99
UK - Boots, Superdrug £5.99 - £8.99