Press On Nail Size Guide: How to Measure Your Nails (mm Chart)

The single biggest reason press on nails disappoint people is a poor fit. Nails that overhang the sides or leave a gap at the edges look obviously fake and lift early. The good news? Getting the right size takes about two minutes and a ruler. This guide shows you exactly how.

Why sizing matters so much

A well-fitted press on sits flush with your natural nail, edge to edge, with no overhang and no gap. That's what makes it look like a real manicure — and it's also what makes it last, because there's no loose edge for water or knocks to catch. Spend two minutes measuring now and every set you order will fit beautifully.

What you'll need

Just a ruler or measuring tape marked in millimetres, and something to write your measurements on. That's it.

How to measure your nails, step by step

1. Measure the width, not the length. Place the ruler across the widest part of your nail — usually near the base, where the nail meets the skin on each side.
2. Measure in millimetres. Note the width of each nail to the nearest millimetre.
3. Do all ten fingers. Don't assume both hands are the same — your thumbs and pinkies in particular are often different widths between hands. Measure each nail individually.
4. Write them down. You'll end up with ten measurements. Keep this list saved on your phone so you never have to measure again.

How to read the size chart

Once you have your ten measurements, match each one to the corresponding size on our chart. Our sets come in sizes XS through L, and most sets include a spread of sizes so you can fit your whole hand from one box.

You'll find the full chart with measurement photos on our Size Guide page — match each finger's millimetre measurement to the closest size listed.

The golden rule: order to your widest

If one of your nails falls between two sizes, always choose the larger size. Here's why: you can gently file a press on down to make it narrower, but you can't add width back. A slightly large nail can be filed to fit perfectly; a slightly small one will leave gaps at the sides and never sit right.

Mixing sizes across your hand

It's completely normal — and expected — to use different sizes on different fingers. You might wear a M on your thumbs, S on your index and middle fingers, and XS on your pinkies. This is exactly why each set includes a range of sizes. Mixing sizes is the secret to a fit that looks custom-made.

Quick fitting tips

• File for a custom fit. Once a nail is on, you can lightly file the sides and free edge for a perfectly smooth, tailored finish.
• Check before you glue. Lay each press on against your natural nail first, without glue, to confirm the fit. Adjust before committing.
• Between sizes on most fingers? You're likely a true in-between — go up a size overall and file down as needed.

Order with confidence

A two-minute measure now means every set you buy fits like it was made for you — and a good fit is what makes press ons look real and last for weeks. Got your sizes sorted? Browse our short and medium lengths, or explore the full range.

Once your set arrives and you're ready to apply, our step-by-step application guide takes it from there.