Adhesive 101: Tabs vs. UV Gel vs. Glue – Which is Best for You?

One of the most common questions we get at Velvetkay is: "How do I make them stay on?"

The secret to a flawless, long-lasting manicure isn't just the nail itself—it's what you use to apply it. While traditional nail glue has been the norm for years, modern technology has given us safer, cleaner, and stronger alternatives.

Here is your ultimate guide to adhesive options, and why we strictly recommend Adhesive Tabs and UV Solid Gel for our handcrafted nails.

1. High-Strength Adhesive Tabs (The Velvetkay Standard)

This is the default method included in every Velvetkay Professional Tool Kit[cite: 13]. Unlike the flimsy stickers of the past, our high-strength tabs are designed for serious wear.

• Best for: Weekend wear, special events, and those who change styles frequently.
• Durability: 1 to 7 days.
• Why we love it:
  • Zero Damage: It creates a cushion between the press-on and your natural nail.
  • Instant Reuse: Because there is no hardened glue residue, you can pop the nails off, peel away the tab, and put the nails back in their box [cite: 15] for next time.
  • Water Resistant: Fine for hand washing and showering (just avoid long hot baths).

2. UV Solid Gel Tabs (The Game Changer)

Looking for durability that rivals a salon acrylic set? UV Solid Gel (often called "UV Jelly") is the future of press-on application.

• Best for: Vacations, long trips, or wearing one set for weeks at a time.
• Durability: 2 to 3+ weeks.
• How it works: It looks like a sticker but is actually semi-cured gel. After applying the nail, you cure it under a UV/LED lamp for 60 seconds. The gel hardens, creating a waterproof, airtight bond.
• Why it's superior: It completely fills the gap between your natural nail and the press-on, preventing hair from getting caught and blocking out water.

3. Why We Don't Recommend Liquid Glue

You may notice that we do not include liquid glue in our kits. This is a conscious choice to protect your natural nails and your investment.

While liquid glue is cheap and easy to find, it comes with significant downsides:

• Damage Risk: It bonds chemically to your nail plate. Removing it often requires soaking in acetone or forceful prying, which causes peeling and thinning of your natural nails.
• Ruins the Art: Liquid glue leaves a hard, white residue on the back of the press-on nail. This residue is nearly impossible to remove without damaging the handcrafted structure[cite: 18], meaning you can't reuse your beautiful Velvetkay set.

The Verdict

At Velvetkay, we believe in Luxury with Intention. We choose methods that keep your natural nails healthy and allow you to enjoy our handcrafted art again and again.

For daily wear, stick with our High-Strength Adhesive Tabs included in your kit. For a vacation-proof hold, keep an eye out for our upcoming UV Solid Gel solutions.