Can You Use Eyelash Glue for Fake Nails?

Fake nails have become an increasingly popular way to decorate your fingers with long-lasting designs and colors. But nail glues can be expensive. Some people wonder if they can substitute cheaper eyelash adhesives instead. In this blog, we’ll explore whether using eyelash glue for fake nails is a good idea or not.

What is Eyelash Glue?

Eyelash glue is designed specifically to bind fake eyelashes securely to your natural lashes. The ingredients allow it to quickly set for a tight hold that remains flexible. This prevents the faux lashes from slipping down or coming loose throughout the day.

The glue is safe for use near your eyes. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it works well on other areas of skin. Eyelash adhesives are formulated not to irritate the sensitive tissue along your lash line. However, sensitivity may vary on hands and nails.

Key Qualities of Fake Nail Glue

Fake nail adhesives have some important qualities that eyelash glues may lack:

– Flexibility – Nails glues remain somewhat flexible after drying so they can bend with your nail. Eyelash adhesives become rigid.

– Bonding ability – Nail glues are designed to bond porous, keratinous nail surfaces. Eyelash glue adheres best to smooth skin.

– Water resistance – Nail adhesives hold up well during hand washing and wet conditions. Eyelash glues dissolve easily when wet.

– Non-irritating – Ingredients won’t cause redness or itching on most people’s nail beds and skin. Reactions are possible with eyelash glue.

Using Eyelash Glue for Fake Nails

You can experiment using eyelash adhesive for your fake nails. Here’s how:

1. File and buff your natural nails to remove shine and smooth surface. Remove any oil, lotion, or residue with alcohol. Let nails dry.

2. Trim and shape your fake nail tips to fit each nail. Test the size by holding the tip over your nail. It should fit with just a slight overhang on the sides and top.

3. Apply a thin layer of eyelash glue to the underside of the nail tip, spreading it evenly across. Take care not to get glue on the nail surface.

4. While glue is still wet, firmly press glued nail tip onto your natural nail. Hold for 30 seconds.

5. Allow 5 minutes for glue to fully cure and harden. The bond should feel quite stiff and tight, similar to eyelash extensions. Add another thin glue layer if needed.

6. Trim excess length or sides carefully with nail clippers or file. Shape free edge.

7. Optional – Apply 1-2 coats of clear polish over joint between your natural nail and tip to blend and reinforce bond. Let dry between coats.

The Pros

Using eyelash adhesive does offer a few benefits:

– Low cost – Eyelash glue only costs a couple dollars compared to $10 or more for specific nail glues. Useful if you replace nails frequently.

– Easy removal – The rigid bond tends to pop off more easily compared to flexible nail glue. Less filing needed.

– Non-damaging – Won’t damage natural nail surface when removed properly.

The Cons

However, there are more downsides to be aware of:

– Weak bond – Eyelash glue may not adhere nails as long or strongly as needed for durability. Nails could lift, crack or pop off more readily.

– Inflexible – Creates a harder, more brittle bond prone to cracking with nail bending. Not ideal for active lifestyle.

– Skin reactions – Glue formula isn’t optimized for use on hands. Redness, itching, burning or peeling around the nails is possible with sensitivities.

– Water concerns – Typically not waterproof. Nails may detach prematurely when washing hands, doing chores, etc.

Should You Use Eyelash Glue on Fake Nails?

While it’s possible to experiment substituting eyelash adhesive to install fake nails, it does carry some disadvantages. The bond tends to be weaker and less flexible, risking the nails popping off prematurely. Skin irritation is also a possibility if you react poorly to the ingredients.

For best and longest-lasting results, invest in quality nail glues designed specifically for fake nail application. They create a more flexible, durable bond able to last 2+ weeks with proper application and care. The right glue will help your manicure last, protecting your time and money investment into stylish nail enhancements.