How do I prevent air bubbles when putting on nail tips?

Answer

Make sure the tip fits the plate properly. If the tip is too big, it will cause a problem. If the tip has a well, make sure to rock the tip on the nail starting from the natural free edge.

Remember not to apply extra pressure because that can cause the tip to fan out and that can also lead to bubbles. — Lysa Comfort is president of Charisma Nail Innovations in Encino, Calif.

First, place a small amount of adhesive in the tip’s well. Then hold your tip at a 45-degree angle with your thumb on top. Place the tip against the free edge and slide the tip down. Then slowly rock the tip forward until all of the adhesive has reached the end of the well. Hold the edge of the tip so if you see a bubble you can slightly roll your thumb to the right or left. Never place direct pressure on the tip and nail during adhesion. When you let go this can cause a suction effect, and that’s when air bubbles shoot in. When the entire nail well is clear of bubbles and the adhesive has reached the end of the well, stop and hold it. If you roll the tip too far forward air bubbles will seep in the back edge. — Sarah Brown is a state licensed instructor at Masterworks Salon and Spa in Mequon, Wis.