The 14 Best Nail Glues for Long-Lasting DIY Manicures

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The latest press- and glue-on nails are game changers for when you're short on time but want a natural look. But behind every Hailey Bieber–inspired design is a good nail glue to make sure those faux nails stay on as long as possible.

But what is the best nail glue in 2023? It can be overwhelming to figure out which one is the best for your nails and goals, but we not only consulted experts, but also put the below nail glues to the test ourselves. From wraps to tips and even delicate decals, these 10 best nail glues will not only keep your mani holding on for a week or more, but willalso keep your natural nails strong and healthy.

Brush-On Nail Glue

A pick from dermatologist Michael I. Jacobs, associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and medical technology director at Cortina, this Glamnetic nail glue is top-tier. It doesn’t get easier than this brush-on formula, which you can apply directly to false nails before popping them on. This formula also boasts a two-week hold without damaging the nail bed.

Customer Review:

"This is the best nail glue I've tried! You do have to wait for it to get tacky and apply it to both your nail and the fake nail, but if used right it can last you up to two weeks." — Sara

Ultra Quick Nail Glue

With more than 53,000 reviews on Amazon, it’s safe to say this formula is a crowd favorite. Reviewers raved about its ease of use and long wear time, with manicures lasting two weeks or more.

Customer Review:

"This nail glue is AMAZING!! My nails lasted for 3 days through several dance performances, hand washings, heavy lifting and packing and I don’t think they would’ve come off if I hadn’t taken them off myself." — Bailey

Static Nails Non-Damaging Brush On Nail Glue

Both at-home manicure pros and beginners swear by this glue. The non-damaging and non-toxic formula is flexible, letting you wear nails for as long as 18 days or even as quickly as a single day if you want to change your nail look.

Customer Review:

"I have tried every nail glue out there and this is definitely the best! Usually after a few days, I have nails popping off or loose. I'm on day 5 and they are still strong!" — Jennifer

Super Strong Nail Glue for Acrylic Nails

Brush this adhesive on tips, nail decals, gems, you name it. Its strong-hold formula will keep your mani or nail art in place for weeks at a time.

Customer Review:

"Now this is made perfectly for beginners, and it actually works incredibly well. I'm able to keep my nails for about a week. No air bubbles. Easy as heck to apply since it just feels like you're applying nail polish. When I make sure to take the time to cover all the bases on my natural nail and my fake nail, it really does last and remains sturdy." — Tabitha

Drip Proof Nail Glue

For something heavy-duty, turn to this nail glue from L.A. Colors. Reviewers rave about how well it holds press-ons; just be careful when applying as it does tend to stick to everything it touches.

Customer Review:

"The absolute best nail glue I’ve ever used! It can be messy when opening but if you keep the tip clean you’ll have no issues. I recommend this to literally everyone." — Lex

PowerFlex Maximum Speed Nail Glue

In a rush? Just swipe this glue on each nail before applying tips or to fix a break—it’ll dry in just three seconds(!) so you can be out the door in minutes.

Customer Review:

"My favorite nail glue! This glue holds up so well, one of the strongest nail glues I’ve tried and super cheap." — Nessi

Kiss VitaBond Nail Glue

This pink-tinted, odorless glue is infused with vitamins A and E to help keep your nails strong while it works.

Customer Review:

"This is good if you want nails to last a few days & avoid damage. Not great for long-term wearers." — Danielle

Fast Bond Nail Glue

Dashing Diva—the long-standing, New York City–based nail salon knows nails—which is why the brand's at-home glue is a surefire win when it comes to a long-lasting manicure.

Customer Review:

"Absolutely in love with this nail glue. The hold is great and it’s east to apply because the consistency of this is so gel-like there is no mess. The bond it has to the nail is so strong and it does not lift if applied correctly." — Madison

5 Second Nail Glue

Sometimes convenience is half the battle during an at-home mani, and this pro-loved glue has a built-in stand to make it easy to set down between nails. Even better? It dries in five seconds or less.

Customer Review:

"I love this nail glue. I often neglect to protect my nails with gloves while cleaning, and 5 Second Nail Glue holds and never disappoints." — Pamela

Nail Rescue Kit

Is there anything worse than a rogue broken nail? This all-in-one kit repairs splits, cracks, and breaks in seconds, thanks to precise, brush-on glue and repair powder for extra strength.

Customer Review:

"This stuff is so great, I can’t recommend it enough. There’s nothing worse than a broken nail, but the rescue kit gives it the strength to stay together until it grows out. I can’t tell you how many manicures this has saved." — Meghan

Plus Nail Glue

Fake nails, tips, and wraps: this all-purpose nail glue will adhere to everything. Nail lovers turn to this for their most intricate nail art to last well past two weeks.

Customer Review:

"When I tell you this is super glue it is. I have been looking for a nail glue that will hold up as I love wearing press-ons and have stuff to do around the house and this glue has become my holy grail. Just a little goes a long way." — Patricia

Rhinestone Glue Gel

Looking to jazz up a new mani? This nail glue helps you add rhinestones, gems, and more nail charms to dress up any nail look. The glue is made of resin, so you'll need a UV lamp to cure it.

Customer Review:

"I’ve tried a few other brands of nail charm glue and also the acrylic method to keep the charm on the nails but this has been by far the best glue I’ve used! It helps to last my charms plus it doesn’t dry too quickly that way you can angle your charm correctly. 10/10." — Melanie

Olive & June Brush on Nail Glue

Made to keep your press-ons for more than 10 days (reviewers rave that nails stayed on for weeks), this non-toxic formula has a strong hold while also being gentle on your nail beds.

Customer Review:

"Super easy to use. Nails stayed on for four weeks and we're still easy to remove with just warm water." — Elin

KDS Nail Glue

With its thin applicator for precise glue placement, it can hold anything from tiny art decals to press-ons. It also comes in a handy pen you can easily hold it as you do your nails.

Customer Review:

"This glue is very good. Holds up to a lot of wear and tear. Easy to use and if used correctly does not run all over the place. Will purchase more." — Susan

How do you apply nail glue?

First things first, always refer to the instructions before getting started. But generally speaking, you should make sure your nails are properly prepped. For best results with most glue formulas, buff nails smooth, wipe them clean with alcohol, and allow them to dry completely before applying adhesive.

Jacobs also suggests doing a patch test to make sure you don't get a reaction from the glue. "Before applying any new product, it's good practice to complete a patch test," the derm says. "Apply a small amount of nail glue to one nail and see if any allergy or dermatitis develops."

How do you remove nail glue?

Again, directions will save you here! Many formulas recommend soaking your nails in acetone and warm water to soften the glue and ensure the nails easily pop right off. This will help prevent damage and stripping off your natural nails.

Jacobs adds that there still may be residue so gently scrape it off with a wooden tool (he says to avoid using metal since the nails are soft and delicate at this stage). Then wash hands with warm water and soap to get rid of any leftover acetone or glue. He also says that applying cuticle oil can help repair the nails and nail beds, allowing them to heal and grow stronger.

Is nail glue bad for your nails?

If you’re applying and removing your fake nails properly, you’re more likely to avoid major damage to your nails. Jacobs says that it's best to avoid nail glues with harsh chemicals such as
formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene as they can compromise the integrity of the nail beds and can cause splintering or cracking.

Make sure you never pry them off without soaking your nails first, and try to give your nails a break for a few days in between sets.

Meet the Experts

• Michael I. Jacobs, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and medical technology director at Cortina

Why trust Harper's Bazaar?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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