SATIN Boutique Guides

Sizing

To maintain our standard of excellence, we utilize a two-tiered system based on your history with the brand.

Option 1: The Sizing Kit (Required for New Clients)
To ensure a flawless, professional-grade fit, all new clients are required to purchase a SATIN Sizing Kit before their first custom set. This eliminates measurement error and ensures your investment fits perfectly.

The SATIN Credit: Investing in your fit is risk-free. The total cost of your Sizing Kit is fully redeemable as a credit toward your first custom set. A unique redemption code will be included in your physical kit—simply apply it at checkout when you are ready to commission your design.

• Purchase: Order your Sizing Kit in your preferred shape and length.
• Fit: Press the clear tips onto your natural nails. A perfect fit covers the nail from side-wall to side-wall without overlapping onto the skin.
• Identify: Note the small number engraved on the underside of each tip.
• Record: Write down your sizes on the included Sizing Card for future reference.
• Order: Select "Custom" in the size menu of your desired set and enter your numbers in the "Custom Sizes" box at checkout.

Option 2: Manual Measurement (Existing Clients Only)
If you have previously ordered a Sizing Kit and need to verify a measurement for a new shape, you may use the manual method.

• Measurement: Place clear tape across the widest part of your nail bed. Mark the edges of your side-walls and measure the distance in millimeters (mm) against a ruler.
• Calculation: If you fall between lines, always round up to the nearest millimeter.

Natural Nail Tips:

Apres Natural tips have a flatter base and a subtle curve. These are best if your natural nails are on the flatter side or do not have a high arch. If most store-bought press-ons fit you comfortably without a gap at the cuticle, Natural is likely your best choice.

Sculpted Nail Tips:

Apres Sculpted tips have a more dramatic, higher arch. These are designed specifically for those with a higher curve in their natural nail bed. Sculpted tips can also be worn on flatter nail beds if you prefer the appearance of a higher apex and a more contoured look. If you often find that standard press-ons feel tight on the sides or leave a gap in the center of your nail, the Sculpted fit will provide a more comfortable and secure bond.

To choose your fit, look at your bare nail from a side profile view. If your nail looks relatively straight from the cuticle to the tip, select Natural. If your nail has a clear, rounded curve, or if you simply prefer a more arched look, select Sculpted. Choosing the correct fit ensures your hand-crafted set lasts for the full wear time and prevents the nails from popping off.

The Application Process

The longevity of your SATIN set depends entirely on the preparation of the natural nail. Follow this precise sequence to achieve a seamless, professional-grade bond.

1. Cuticle Refining: Using the flat edge of the wooden cuticle pusher, gently push back your cuticles. Use the pointed end to remove any skin growth from the nail plate. Ensure the nail plate is completely clear of skin; if adhesive bonds to the cuticle instead of the nail, it may cause the tip to lift prematurely.
2. Surface Etching: Lightly buff the entire surface of each natural nail using the buffer. You are not thinning the nail; you are simply removing the natural shine to create micro-texture for the adhesive. Focus specifically on the area near the cuticle and the side walls.
3. The Dehydration Phase: Use the alcohol wipe to scrub each nail vigorously. This removes dust and strips the surface of natural oils and moisture that interfere with the chemical bond. Once dehydrated, do not touch your hair, face, or skin, as you will immediately re-transfer oils to the nail.
4. Adhesive Application: Open the professional bond included in your kit. Apply a small, controlled amount of glue to the well (the indented base on the underside) of the SATIN tip. For maximum security, apply a very thin, even layer of glue to your natural nail as well before pressing the tip on.
5. The 45-Degree Technique: Align the base of the SATIN tip slightly above your cuticle. Lower it down at a 45-degree angle, allowing the glue to flow forward toward the free edge as you press down. This technique pushes air out and prevents the air bubbles that may cause premature lifting.
6. Compression & Set: Once the tip is flush against your nail, apply firm, even pressure. Hold for a full 30 seconds without moving or shifting the tip. This allows the adhesive to reach its initial set and create an airtight seal.
7. Post-Application Stabilization: For the most durable bond, avoid water for at least one hour post-application. This allows the adhesive to fully stabilize and cure against the nail plate.
8. Finishing (Important): Wait at least one hour before applying the cuticle oil pad or hand lotion. Applying oils too soon can seep into the bond before it has fully cured, which may compromise the longevity of your set.

Removal & Preservation

To maintain the structural integrity of your SATIN tips for future wear, we exclusively recommend the Gentle Soak method. Acetone is only recommended if you do not plan on reusing the set, as it will permanently dissolve the specialized soft-gel profile.

Timing is Everything:

The SATIN tips are engineered for high-performance wear. Because of this, the Gentle Soak method is most effective after 7 days of wear, once your natural oils have begun to soften the bond. If you must remove a set earlier, expect a longer soak time to preserve the health of your natural nail.

The Protocol (For Reusable Sets):

1. The Bath:
Prepare a small bowl with warm water and moisturizing dish soap. Add a generous tablespoon of one of the following oils to facilitate the bond release:

• Jojoba or Argan Oil: Best for deep penetration; these closely mimic the skin’s natural sebum to lift the adhesive gently.
• Sweet Almond or Apricot Kernel Oil: High in Vitamin E to protect and nourish the nail plate during the process.
• Fractionated Coconut Oil: A lightweight, efficient option that infiltrates the bond quickly.
• The SATIN Choice: A high-quality cuticle oil is the most effective way to treat the nail bed while you soak.

2. The Soak:
Submerge your fingertips for 15–20 minutes. This is a biological process; allow the solution time to neutralize the adhesive bond.

3. The Mechanical Lift:
Using the provided cuticle pusher, gently nudge the edge of the tip at the cuticle line. If you feel resistance or tension, do not force the lift.

4. The Infiltration:
For stubborn or "fresh" sets, apply a drop of oil directly into the gap between the SATIN tip and your natural nail. Soak for an additional 5 minutes.

5. The Release:
Gently rock the tip from side to side until it lifts freely. Never pull from the free edge (the top of the nail).

Aftercare:

• For the Natural Nail: Buff away any remaining residue with a soft buffer and apply cuticle oil immediately to restore hydration.
• For the SATIN Set: Use the provided cuticle pusher to peel any dried adhesive from the underside of the tip. Sanitize with an alcohol wipe and store in your SATIN case for your next engagement.