KISS imPRESS Nails Review: Are These Press-On Nails Worth It?

Last Updated on May 24, 2025 by Wendy Sy

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This is my candid imPRESS nails review. Ever since I started using these press-on nails a few years ago, it changed my entire nail routine! 

Here’s everything you need to know about the pros and cons of this product. 

P.S. This is solely a KISS imPRESS nails review — the style that comes with adhesive backing and applies like a sticker. (Not the kind that you have to use with nail glue, which this brand also makes). Although I use those sometimes, I prefer this adhesive style since it’s so much more convenient, in my opinion. The best part is it’s also less nail damaging to your natural nails since it doesn’t involve glue.

First Off, What Are Press-On Nails?

I first heard about an imPRESS manicure a few years ago from my dear friend Marina over dinner one night. Everyone at the table complimented on her Insta-worthy nails, and she revealed that they were press-on nails. 

Press-ons? I was like, what are those?

Essentially, they’re plastic nail pieces with adhesive backs that you literally press on. Think of them as nail stickers that look like a real manicure. (More on the exact application steps in a moment.) 

imPRESS nails are part of KISS Products which are also known for their Falsies lashes. Each nail set comes with 30 nails of different sizes, a mini nail file, an alcohol swab prep pad, and a wooden stick cuticle pusher.

KISS imPRESS Nails Review: Shop the Story

​My Honest KISS imPRESS Nails Review

Right after learning about the magic that is KISS imPRESS nails, I had to try them ASAP. This was a few years ago and I was surprised by how easy and fast the process is. 

Ever since that day, I’ve barely used nail polish on my fingers (I still use nail polish for at-home pedicures). Also, I rarely go to the nail salons since it takes a long time to go back and forth. One of my pet peeves is removing gel polish so I try to avoid that as much as possible!

A significant improvement from when I first started using KISS imPRESS nails is their MUCH better adhesion. When I first used this product years ago, one or two of the nails would often come off, usually at the most inconvenient times, like in the middle of an event.

But even then, I would still use it. Although it was annoying, I always carried the box of extra nails to re-apply any nails if they fell off.

I’ve noticed that the new versions out today from the brand are extremely long-lasting. Thank goodness their improved technology completely leveled up the adhesion. 

In my recent experience, none of the nails would fall off even after 7 days of wear. They can likely last a couple more days, but I usually keep them on for a max of 7 days. This gives my nails a chance to breathe. 

I also love the range of nail designs that the KISS website has. From flower designs in a variety of colors to rhinestone styles and more, there are endless options to choose from. They also frequently partner with other brands like Kate Spade New York for limited edition styles.

There’s also a wide range of nail lengths (short or medium), nail sizes (normal, petite, wide fit, and kids), and nail shapes (like almond, coffin, and square). 

It’s so funny since now people comment on my nails all the time. And when I say they’re press ons, it’s the same reaction I had when I first discovered them. 

As a beauty editor, I’ve also tried the best press on nails by other brands. But I keep coming back to imPRESS nails! In my opinion, they’re just the easiest to apply and are reliable. I know exactly what the results will be every time I get a new box. 

The Pros

• Quick and easy application process
• Saves time from going to the nail salon
• Less expensive than most manicures
• No nail polish chipping, smudging, or dry time
• Comes in many nail art styles, colors, sizes, and lengths
• Makes it easy to change to different designs 
• Gives you long-lasting nails (up to 7 days wear time)
• Easy removal process, not damaging to your own nails
• Perfect for everyday wear or special occasions

The Cons

I think the pros outweigh the cons by far, but nothing is perfect. Here are all the details:

• Not as long-lasting as acrylic nails or a gel manicure
• Not as strong as dip polish
• You still have to file nails to smooth out the tips 
• Requires your real nails to be short (since they’ll peek out on one side if not cut)
• Not all stores have a lot of styles (but you can find a ton of options online)
• The nail sizes fit most people but not all

How Long Does KISS imPRESS Nails Last?

In my experience with the new imPRESS nails, they last 7 to 10 days. Usually, the nails are very long-lasting and don’t fall off within that time. But I usually take mine off on day 7 to give my nails a chance to breathe. Also, I love to switch up the styles!

Do They Really Stay On?

imPRESS nails typically last for about 7 days, and they literally “impress” me every time! But seriously, I highly recommend them. If you’re worried about a nail coming off, you can keep a small bottle of glue or some extra nails from the same pack in your purse for quick fixes.

Each box contains 30 nails, which gives me with enough material for two applications. When I first open a box, I typically choose 10 nails that are an exact match for my nail sizes (each nail is labeled with a small number on the clear adhesive). For the second application, I use 10 nails that are the next best fit. Although these are not my exact sizes, they are close enough; however, I do find that they tend to fall off more easily than the first set. Overall, the new imPRESS nails do a decent job of staying in place. The remaining 10 nails in the box are usually sizes that don’t fit my nails at all, so I just toss them.

Years ago (around 2019 and 2020), these press on nails came off a lot more easily. I used to always carry a mini nail glue in case one or two comes off. But now, imPRESS uses a new technology that makes the adhesive stay on better. The removal is still just as simple.

How Much Do They Cost?

KISS imPRESS nails are around $6 to $13 per pack, depending on the style. In my opinion, it’s a pretty good deal considering I get two uses out of every set. Compared to a nail salon, it’s so much less expensive and quicker to do.

You can also get some styles in a bundle and save (like this French manicure 3-pack for $21)!

What’s The Difference Between imPRESS Nails and KISS Nails?

imPRESS Nails is part of the KISS company. These are self-adhesive so you can simply press them on without nail glue. 

KISS nails that don’t have “imPRESS” on the label are usually styles that include nail glue. The brand also has a Salon X-tend line that uses an LED Soft Gel System that lasts up to 14 days.

The styles between these also vary. Although I use both, I like using imPRESS more since it’s faster to apply and easier to remove.

How To Apply imPRESS Nails

1. Clip Your Nails
To prevent long nails from showing when you flip your hand, it’s best to trim them short using a nail clipper.

2. Clean And Prep
Making sure your nails are clean makes the press on nails last longer. Wash hands then use the enclosed prep pad to wipe each nail. This will help your nails stay on longer! You can also use the included cuticle stick to prep your nail beds. 

Tip: I find that press-on nails last longer if you file the top of your nails (the rough texture makes for better adhesion). 

​3. Choose Nail Sizes
Each has little clear nail tabs with a number to show the size. The higher the number is, the smaller the nail. Place different nails on each finger to figure out the right size for each finger. Then line them all up on the table.

4. Apply
Time to start applying! Work with one nail at a time, removing the plastic cover clear adhesive tab, and pressing the nail on your finger. Hold each down for 20 seconds.

5. File
Use the included small nail file to smooth out the tips of each nail. 

How To Remove

​To remove press on nails, I gently peel each off. The residue will come off by gently rubbing it off. 

FAQs: KISS imPRESS Nails Review

Are They Hard To Remove?

No, imPRESS nails are really easy to remove! If you need help, nail expert Gina Edwards shared in a previous story: “Press-on nails can be removed with warm water and a little olive oil.” She also mentions that steam is also great for removal. In addition, you can “use a manicure stick around the nail to help the nail lift from the nail bed.” 

Can imPRESS Nails Be Reused?

Since these nails are self-adhesive, they cannot be reused. 

But the box comes with 30 nails, so you can likely get two full manicures from each. The only thing is the sizes vary. My fingers can fit several size numbers (for example, my pinky finger can be either an 11 or 10) so it works. 

Why Do They Keep Falling Off?

The right application is key for long-lasting imPRESS press on nails. Remember to wash your hands then wipe each nail with the alcohol wipe in the box before putting them on. 

Also, make sure to use the correct nail size for the best fit. You can place different press ons on top of your nail to check the size before peeling off the adhesive. 

Where To Buy

You can shop imPRESS nails below and throughout this story. They’re also sold in many drugstores, on the KISS website, Ulta Beauty, Target, and more!

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