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As we bid farewell to 2023 and anticipate the dawn of 2024, there’s no more fitting occasion than now to indulge in a luxurious and ethical manicure. Why not ring in this new year with Cruelty free and eco-friendly press on nails?

If you are looking for a simple self-care routine, consider choosing from this compilation of over 50 cruelty-free nail polishes.

As a mom with a hectic schedule, finding time to indulge in a nail spa is a rare luxury. So, in preparation for our recent family photoshoot, I researched how I can achieve salon-worthy nails. And then voila! found my answer Press on nails. But of course, I need to ensure the press on nail brands I would use are cruelty free and eco friendly.

To begin with, what exactly are press-on nails? What are they made? I am sure you have also across plenty of information about acrylic nails. So let’s delve in to understand the differences between the two.

Acrylic nails vs. Press on nails

Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails were donned to achieve picture-perfect nails long before the era of Instagram. They are artificial extensions applied to natural nails to enhance their length and appearance. Acrylic nails need to be professionally done at the nail salons. The process of getting acrylic nails involves the application of a combination of liquid monomer (usually ethyl methacrylate) and powder polymer onto the natural nails or artificial tips. The mixture forms a strong, durable layer that can be shaped, buffed, and painted to achieve the desired look.

Disadvantages of Acrylic nails:

• Not eco-friendly: Acrylic nails are made from plastic. Although they are duarable, they only last for 2-3 weeks and they cannot be reused.
• Intensive upkeep: They are durable, but acrylic nails can only be done in a professional nail salon. You need to keep going back for both removal and application of these nails.
• Damages nails: The chemicals used can also slowly damage your nails

Press on Nails

Press-on nails are crafted from acrylic resin, available in an array of shapes, colors, and designs. These nails can be affixed to your natural nails using traditional nail glue, double-sided adhesive strips, or an integrated adhesive strip. These are designed to be applied at home instead of a salon.

How are they Eco-friendly?

It’s important to note that press-on nails are crafted from a form of plastic, meaning they aren’t entirely eco-friendly. However, they can be reused multiple times making them a more sustainable choice than acrylic nails.

• Cruelty free: Press on nails can be Cruelty free if there was no animal testing done on the ingredients and the final product ie, the press on nails.
• Vegan: Press on nails can also be considered Vegan if they do not contain any animal-derived components. This includes the adhesives, materials used for the nails, and any additional accessories.
• Ethical Sourcing: Brands committed to cruelty-free practices also extend their ethical considerations to the sourcing of materials. This means ensuring that the production of press-on nails doesn’t contribute to any harm or exploitation of animals.

Pros:

• Ease of use: You can apply these at home at your convenience. You can easily apply them by adding nail glue on top of your nails.
• Re-usability: Press on nails can be re-used atleast 2-3 times till they start cracking or falling apart.
• They are more affordable than acrylic nails.
• They don’t damage your nails.

Cons:

• They aren’t as durable as acrylic nails.
• They may come off or crack easily, especially with frequent hand use.
• While you don’t require a professional to remove them, it may still take some time to take them off.

Eco-friendly Press on Nail Brands

Static Nails

Static Nails is Crueltyfree. All their products including press on nail glue are Vegan. They specialize in uncomplicated designs, featuring predominantly neutral, single-colored nail sets and well-manicured tips. Ideal for both special occasions and daily wear, these nails provide a polished appearance. Static Nails also caters to individuals who prefer shorter nail lengths. I found this brand to be more durable and long lasting.

Glamnetic

Glamnetic is Cruelty free. Press on nail glue is Vegan and contains Ethyl Cyanoacrylate and Polymethyl Methacrylate. This brand provides a broader range of pop-on nails, boasting more designs than Static Nails. Having tried them multiple times, I observed that these nails are prone to chipping, particularly during routine household tasks.

Dashing Diva

Press nails from Dashing Diva are Cruelty free and Vegan. They are also a PETA certified brand. This brand provides cost-effective options and a diverse selection of floral and glittery designs.

LOAMI Nails

LOAMI Nails are Cruelty free and Vegan. Being a Leaping Bunny certified brand, they prioritize eco-friendliness. The press-on nails are packaged in sustainable, eco-friendly paper that can be recycled or repurposed. This brand offers more neutral and french tip nail designs.

LOA Nails

LOA Nails products are 10 free, Cruelty free and Vegan. They are PETA certified Cruelty free and Vegan brand. This brand excels in creating vibrant color block nail designs.

Thank you again for choosing Cruelty-free! Even though, shopping Cruelty-free is just a small effort on your part, remember you are making a HUGE impact to the lives of millions of animals!

Shop CRUELTY FREE BRANDS A-Z

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