Stuck Like Glue—Experts Reveal the Nail Glues With the Most Staying Power (2024)

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Historically, a salon visit was necessary whenever anyone wanted to change upacrylic nails or attemptnail art. But today, it's much easier to achieve a salon-quality manicure from the comfort of your own home. To do so, you need a manicure kit with nail glue, especially if you're applying fake tips or press-on nails. According to nail technician Molly Romah, you can also use it to fix broken nails. Whether you opt for brush-on or squeeze-tube application, celebrity nail stylistGina Edwards says a glue that offers a long-lasting hold is crucial.

Now that you're looking to add nail glue to your vanity, makeup bag, or nail toolbox, we want to ensure you spend on the right products. So, we conducted hours of research on the best nail glues, evaluating each based on user-friendliness, dry time, hold, and removal—extra points for formulas infused with ingredients that strengthen, nourish, or otherwise benefit nail health—to achieve this list of the very best of the best.

Our Top Picks

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What We Like

  • Long-lasting

  • Dries quickly

  • Strong hold

What to Consider

  • Hard to remove

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.10 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

With its durability and ease of use, this nail glue ranks high in our books. It dries quickly—in five seconds or less—and keeps fake tips or press-ons in place for at least two weeks. Reviewers rave that this nail glue lasts through it all, including daily activities like washing dishes and making the bed.

But bear in mind a high-strength formula also means it'll be a little harder to remove your nails when you're ready to replace them. You might need to use nail polish remover to dissolve some of the adhesive or gently pry them off with a cuticle pusher. Also worth mentioning: The squeeze tube is pretty small and doesn't contain as much glue as others on this list—but you don't need much, and you can get two for under $10.

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.37 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This nail glue contains at least twice as much product as most others we found, so you'll definitely get a good bang for your buck. But that's not the only reason to buy it. As the name suggests, the fine-tipped nozzle prevents drips when applying the adhesive, while a special cap ensures it never clogs. We also like that the formula quickly bonds to the nail and lasts up to two weeks.

What We Like

  • Brush applicator makes it easy to apply press-ons

  • Long-lasting glue

  • Dries quickly

What to Consider

  • Tricky to remove

Active Ingredients: Cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.27 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This UK brand is a celeb favorite for on-the-go manicures. We love its precision brush applicator, which is ideal for press-on and French tip application. The user-friendly, long-lasting, water-resistant formula dries quickly and holds up through it all—including frequent handwashing and strenuous tasks. It can be tricky to remove, but this is really just a testament to how well it works.

What We Like

  • Repairs broken or cracked nails

  • Multipurpose formula

  • Long-lasting glue

What to Consider

  • Messy to work with

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.10 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Split, cracked, or broken nail? It happens to the best of us. That said, you'll be glad to have this nail glue on hand next time you need a fix. A tiny bit does the trick, and the narrow nozzle helps with precise application. "Repair your broken nail with a patch combination of nail glue and a tea bag or a thin paper towel," says Romah. Of course, you can also use this product to apply acrylics.

What We Like

  • Controlled application

  • Dries quickly

  • Doesn’t set too quickly

What to Consider

  • Smell can be intense for some

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.23 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Accomplishing acrylic nails at home is no easy feat, which is where this Makartt nail glue comes into play. Its brush offers easy, even application with no lumps, bumps, or clumps. Like the best nail polish brushes, all you need is one swipe to coat each nail evenly. And even though it dries quickly, it gives you just the right amount of time to set everything into place. What's more, it can be used to apply press-ons or gems and fix broken nails, too.

What We Like

What to Consider

  • Doesn’t come with a lot of product

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.17 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

At-home manicures are all about saving time. Still, it can be hard to be patient while everything dries, which is why we love this nail glue from IBD. As the name suggests, the on-the-go formula dries in just five seconds. In addition to applying a fresh set of nails or tips, it's great for reapplication and fixing broken nails in a pinch. Plus, it has the seal of approval from Edwards. "I use this in conjunction with ridge filler powder for a quick fix—it's very consumer-friendly," she says.

What We Like

  • Multiuse formula great for wraps, press-ons, and tips

  • Dries quickly

  • Affordable

What to Consider

  • Applicator makes it tricky to apply

Active Ingredients: Not listed | Size: 0.14 oz | Cruelty-Free: Not listed

Nail wraps are an alternative to gels, dips, acrylics, and regular nail polish. They're essentially thin adhesive strips you wrap around each nail bed, then file down to achieve the proper fit and shape. Big Bondini Plus is a multipurpose formula you can use not only for fake nails and tips but also for wraps. While nail wraps usually come with a sticky backing, swiping on a thin coat of this glue before applying them can ensure they stay put and help them last longer.

What We Like

  • Mistake-proofapplication

  • Perfect consistency

  • Dries quickly

What to Consider

  • Doesn’t come with a lot of product

  • Tricky to open over time

Active Ingredients:Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Not listed

Are you a nail glue newbie? This beginner-friendly option from Young Nails is easy to apply with the attached brush. Not too thick nor too runny, the medium viscosity formula is quick-drying but not so quick that you'll feel flustered trying to position each nail. The overall design helps minimize mistakes, and if you do mess up, no sweat! Just use a bit of soap and warm water to remove the glue.

What We Like

  • Long-lasting glue

  • Multipurpose formula

  • Dries quickly

What to Consider

  • Has a learning curve

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.23 oz | Cruelty-Free: Not listed

This pro-level, salon-quality nail glue isn't messing around. The quick-bonding, remarkably reliable adhesive promises to last up to 30 days—there's a good chance your natural nails will grow out before your fakes pop off. Just a heads up, it's meant to be applied to the fake nail rather than your nail bed. Besides acrylics and extensions, you can use it to embellish your nails with rhinestones or fix cracks and splits.

What We Like

  • Precision application perfect for nail art

  • Duel-headed with brush and fine pen tip

  • Strong, long-lasting adhesive

What to Consider

  • Requires UV lamp

Active Ingredients: Resin | Size: 0.27 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This dual-headed nail glue has a precision brush on one side and a fine pen tip on the other, making it easy to deposit tiny dots where you want to apply rhinestones, crystals, gems, or charms. You can count on your nail embellishments to stay put for a few weeks. However, since this is a resin adhesive, it has to be cured with a UV lamp. The brand makes an affordable mini nail-drying lamp designed for one finger at a time.

What We Like

  • Great for gems and crystals

  • Formula won’t bubble

  • Long-lasting formula

What to Consider

  • Better for touch-ups than full application

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.75 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Want to add a little sparkle to your nails? This fast-drying, quick-bond nail glue is technically meant to provide long-lasting staying power for full-cover acrylics and press-ons. However, the thick gel formula, squeeze-on application, and precision tip make it a stellar choice for nail gems. It can also be used to fill gaps and seal cracks.

What We Like

  • Keeps tips in place after positioning

  • Unique solid gel formula

  • Nonslip

What to Consider

  • Requires UV lamp

Active Ingredients: Resin | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This nail glue is the way to go for those applying fake tips or nail extensions at home. Boasting a high-viscosity formula, the unique "solid gel" creates a super sticky base to press on the tips. You won't have to worry about the extensions sliding around or slipping off after you position them, but as a resin glue, it needs a UV lamp to cure.

What We Like

  • Pen formulationmakes application easy

  • Dries quickly

  • Helpful for quick fixes

What to Consider

  • Not as strong as other nail glues

Active Ingredients: Ethyl cyanoacrylate | Size: 0.16 oz | Cruelty-Free: Not listed

Worried about a nail popping off midday? Keep this nail glue pen in your bag just in case it happens when you're out and about. With a narrow nozzle and a fine tip, it offers convenient and precise application. The best part? It won't open up or spill, thanks to the secure cap. This nail adhesive also dries super fast, so you'll be on your way quickly after fixing your nail.

What to Look for in a Nail Glue

  • Purpose: Before picking a nail glue, think about what you'll use it for most, as not all are created equal. "It's best to use a thin glue for a crack or split, which easily fills nails, whereas a thicker glue is better for tips," says Edwards. For instance, a thinner formula with a precision brush is a good option for fixes and fills. A heavier-duty formula intended for pros is more suitable for applying tips and extensions.
  • Viscosity: According to Edwards, nail glues with a higher viscosity are best, meaning the consistency is thick and gel-like rather than runny. "This will give it a better hold," she says. Sometimes, a slightly thinner formula is sometimes better for beginners, as it gives more time to position each nail and will be easier to remove in the event of mistakes. Low-viscosity adhesives tend to also be better for nail wraps.
  • Application and Dry Time: Most nail glues are either brushed on using a built-in brush (not unlike nail polish) or squeezed out from a narrow tip. Romah is partial to the brush-on variety. "It's much easier to apply, and it does not get on your fingers," she says. "You also have a lot more control." That said, squeeze tubes can be useful for dotting on glue for gems and crystals. Then there are pens, which are great for on-the-go use. Also, remember that each formula will have a different dry time. "It typically takes around 10 to 20 seconds for nail glue to dry, but it really depends on the brand and the amount you use," says Romah. Some dry quicker than others, and you'll also find resin formulas that need a UV lamp to cure.

FAQ

  • How do you apply nail glue?

    When applying nail glue, it’s always better to start with less, says Edwards. “You never want to flood the nail with glue and spill it onto your skin, which can betricky to remove without your fingers sticking together.” She further advises you to place your finger at a downward angle so if you do happen to spill, it’ll go down onto the paper towel instead of your skin.

  • How do you remove nail glue?

    Nail glue is best removed with an acetone-based remover, says Edwards. “Apply on a lint-free towel and wipe excess glue or soak for one to two minutes for removal.”

  • Does nail glue expire?

    Yes, nail glue expires and loses its adhesion, explains Edwards. “A good marker is if you see the glue has hardened or changed in color.”

Add to Cart

Before you check out, here are some products to help you achieve a flawless and affordable at-home manicure that rivals the salon:

  • Olive and June Press-on Nails: The brand says their press-on nails are the “realest-looking fake nails you’ll ever see,” and they are not lying. With multiple size options in each kit, you’ll never struggle to find the perfect fit for your nail beds. They last for two weeks, but with our nail glue options, you might be able to squeeze out some extra wear time. The best part is the designs are constantly changing to keep up with current nail trends, but they are all equally cute and stylish.
  • Nail Rhinestones: Blinged-out nails are always fun, and this set of nail rhinestones offers endless color options and sizes. The kit includes a trusty pair of tweezers and a pick-up tool to apply the stones with utmost precision. For only $10, this kit is quite the steal, and with next-day shipping from Amazon, Pinterest-worthy nails are right around the corner.
  • Dashing Diva Ultra Shine Gel Nail Strips: Nail strips, aka nail wraps, are a great alternative to traditional polish because they don’t have to dry and come in exciting patterns and colors. We especially like these from Dashing Diva for their classy pink and white ombre, but they also have a slew of other colors. When applied with a thin layer of nail glue underneath, wear-time is extended significantly.

Meet Our Experts

Team Byrdie also consulted with experts to ensure the accuracy of this story and recommend the best nail glues:

  • Gina Edwards is a celebrity nail stylist and expert.
  • Molly Romah is the lead nail technician at Chillhouse.

Why Trust Byrdie

Rachel Dube has written for some of the biggest publications out there. During her career, she has tested hundreds of beauty products, treatments, and at-home hacks.

Theresa Holland is a freelance writer. She updated this story with additional products, expert recommendations, and buying tips.

According to ourDiversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any nail glues from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses. If you know of one we should consider, please email us atcontact@byrdie.comand we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Stuck Like Glue—Experts Reveal the Nail Glues With the Most Staying Power (2024)
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