Interested in how to sell press on nails?
Starting a press-on nail business is exciting, but figuring out how to actually sell them? That’s where things get tricky. If you’ve been wondering how to get customers and grow your business, I’ve got you. Here are 9 proven ways to sell press-on nails and actually make money doing it.
This post is all about proven ways to sell press on nails.
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Proven Ways to Sell Press-On Nails:
1. Build a Professional Website
If you want to sell press-on nails seriously, having your own website is a must. Selling through Instagram or Etsy is great, but a website makes your business look more legit and gives you full control over your prices, policies, and branding.
Best platforms for your press-on nail website:
- Shopify – Easy to set up, great for beginners, and has built-in marketing tools.
- Wix – Customizable with a drag-and-drop builder, perfect for creatives.
- Big Cartel – A good option if you want something simple and affordable.
Having a website also makes it easier for customers to find you when they search for custom press-on nails, luxury press-on nails, or handmade press-on nails online.
2. Sell Press-On Nails on Etsy
Etsy is a huge marketplace for handmade products, and it already has an audience looking for custom nails. If you optimize your listings with the right keywords, you can get sales without having to chase customers.
How to get more sales on Etsy:
- Use a combination of high-quality pictures and videos; listings with video get more views
- Write detailed descriptions with keywords like long-lasting press-on nails or reusable press-on nails
- Offer multiple sizing options
- Provide great customer service and encourage reviews
While Etsy does take a percentage of your sales, the built-in traffic makes it a solid place to start, but I’d recommend getting your own website soon after like I did.
3. Leverage Instagram & TikTok
Instagram and TikTok are game-changers for selling press-ons. People love seeing behind-the-scenes content, nail transformations, and satisfying application videos. If you have the time this is a great free option.
How to market your press-on nails on Instagram & TikTok:
- Post high-quality photos and short-form videos of your nails
- Use trending sounds and hashtags like #pressonnails, #customnails, #pressonnailbusiness and #luxurypressons
- Show application and removal tutorials
- Go live to talk about your nails and answer customer questions
- Collaborate with influencers in the beauty and nail space
Consistency is key here! The more you show up, the more people will trust your brand.
4. Use Pinterest to Drive Long-Term Sales
Pinterest is one of the best platforms for selling press-on nails because people go there specifically to look for beauty inspiration. Unlike Instagram or TikTok, where posts fade quickly, Pinterest pins can bring in traffic for months or even years after posting. This is the option I chose years ago and it works very well for me. Outside of Google, Pinterest brings in close to 50% of my traffic.
How to use Pinterest to sell press on nails:
- Create eye-catching pins – Use high-quality images or videos of your nail sets.
- Use keywords in pin titles & descriptions – Example: “Luxury press-on nails | Custom handmade nails | Reusable press-ons.”
- Pin consistently – The more you pin, the more your content gets seen.
- Link back to your website or Etsy shop – Make it easy for people to buy your nails.
Pinterest is a long-term traffic source, so even if your pins don’t go viral overnight, they can keep bringing in sales over time.
5. Sell in Facebook Groups & Marketplace
Facebook might not be the first place you think of, but nail-related Facebook groups are full of potential buyers. Many people specifically search for handmade press-on nails or affordable custom nails in these groups.
How to sell in Facebook groups:
- Join nail-related or beauty groups where people might be looking for press-ons
- Share photos and videos of your work (without being spammy)
- Offer exclusive discounts for group members
- Engage in conversations and answer questions to build trust
Facebook Marketplace is also worth trying if you want to attract local buyers.
6. Work with Beauty Influencers
Influencer marketing works fast when done right. Instead of paying for ads, send a few nail sets to beauty influencers and let them showcase your work. Their followers trust their recommendations, which can bring in instant sales.
How to find influencers to promote your press-on nails:
- Look for small to mid-sized beauty influencers (10K-50K followers)
- Check their engagement—comments and shares matter more than follower count
- Reach out via DM or email and offer to send them a free set in exchange for a review or video
When influencers post about your nails, their audience gets introduced to your brand, making it easier for you to gain new customers.
7. Offer Limited Edition & Seasonal Designs
People love exclusivity. If you create limited edition press-on nail designs, it creates urgency and makes customers want to buy before they sell out.
Ideas for limited edition collections:
- Trend-based designs (like chrome nails, French tip variations, or aura nails)
- Themed sets inspired by popular aesthetics (clean girl nails, Y2K nails, minimalist nails)
- Signature artist series (unique designs hand-painted by you, never to be repeated)
When you market your press-on nails as unique and custom-made, customers see more value in them.
8. Start an Email List for Repeat Customers
Most small business owners sleep on email marketing, but it’s one of the best ways to keep customers coming back. Unlike social media (where your posts don’t always reach people), emails go directly to your customers’ inboxes.
How to grow your email list:
- Offer a discount (like 10% off their first order) in exchange for their email
- Send weekly updates with new designs, special offers, and nail care tips
- Remind customers when their nails need a refresh to encourage repeat sales
This keeps your brand at the top of their mind and helps build long-term loyalty.
9. Sell at Local Pop-Up Shops & Beauty Events
If you want to sell press-on nails beyond social media, pop-up shops are a great way to gain exposure and connect with customers in person.
Where to find local events:
- Beauty conventions and nail expos
- Small business markets
- Fashion and lifestyle pop-up events
- College campuses (students love affordable press-ons)
Bring sample sets, take custom orders on the spot, and make sure your display is eye-catching. The in-person experience makes a huge difference in getting people to buy.
Selling press-on nails successfully isn’t just about making cute designs—it’s about strategically marketing and positioning your brand. Whether you’re using social media, an online store, or pop-up events, the key is consistency.
If you’ve been struggling to get sales, try focusing on one or two of these strategies first and build from there. The more people see and trust your brand, the easier it gets to sell press-on nails and grow your business.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments—I’m happy to help!
This post is all about proven ways to sell press on nails.
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