Nail glue helps fasten artificial nails, repair breaks, and keep tips secure for days. Many people choose a quick-drying, strong-hold formula that bonds to both natural nail and acrylic or gel tips. Ulta’s nail glues sit in that space between salon-grade adhesives and easy-to-find retail options, offering convenience for at-home touch-ups and full manicures.
Buyers should focus on bond strength, drying time, and whether the glue contains harsh chemicals like strong solvents or formaldehyde-releasing agents. A good nail glue balances a fast, durable bond with minimal fumes and a nozzle that lets users apply small, controlled amounts. This guide tests Ulta’s nail glues for those factors to help readers pick the best option for their needs.
How We Selected the Best
The team tested nail glues on hold, drying time, and ease of use. They timed cures and noted if glue made nails brittle or stayed flexible.
They checked safety and ingredients by reviewing labels and referencing the FDA Cosmetic Safety page (https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics). They also looked at guidance for cyanoacrylate use from a reliable source like the American Society for Dermatology (https://www.asds.net).
They tried glues with different applicators and bottle tips to see which gave the most control. Testers applied glue to real tips and natural nails to judge bonding in realistic conditions.
They read user reviews to spot common problems and standout benefits. Ratings from verified buyers helped confirm lab findings.
They compared price, size, and brand reputation to rate value. Only products that balanced performance, safety, and cost made the final list.
Best Ulta Nail Glues
Below is a carefully chosen list of the best nail glues available at Ulta. It helps readers compare strong, fast-drying options for natural nails, tips, and repairs.
NYK1 NailBond Brush-On Glue (8ml)
This glue is worth buying for anyone who needs a quick, super-strong hold on press-ons or nail tips.
Pros
- Holds press-on and acrylic tips very securely.
- Brush applicator gives neat, precise application.
- Dries fast and stays water resistant.
Cons
- Very strong bond can make removal tricky.
- Scent may be sharp for sensitive users.
- Small bottle means it runs out faster with frequent use.
They used this glue on a full set of press-on nails and found the bond lasted about a week to two with normal activity. The brush made it simple to apply a thin line right where the tip meets the natural nail, which cut down on mess.
After a couple of wears, they noticed the glue handled dishwashing and hand washing without lifting. It felt rigid once dry, so it held up during manual tasks but could cause pressure if a nail got bumped.
Removing nails took patience; soaking and gentle prying worked but took longer than with weaker glues. Overall, this is a reliable, salon-style glue for anyone who wants long-lasting press-on results.
UNA GELLA Solid Gel Nail Glue 40g
It’s worth buying for anyone who wants a low-odor, strong glue that cures fast and holds press-on or tip extensions well.
Pros
- Low smell and gentle on skin.
- Thick, solid gel spreads evenly and cuts down mess.
- Cures quickly under a lamp and can hold for weeks with proper prep.
Cons
- Needs an LED/UV lamp to set; not instant like liquid glues.
- Takes practice to squeeze just the right amount from the tube.
- Advises avoiding water for an hour and up to a day for best hold.
They used it on press-on tips and found the texture easy to control once they got the hang of the squeeze tube. The gel didn’t run into the cuticle, so application felt cleaner than liquid glue.
Curing in 40–60 seconds under a lamp made the set feel solid fast. After waiting the recommended time before wetting, the wear was strong and stayed put through normal chores.
They noticed it handled rhinestones and small 3D details without slipping, which helped when doing custom nail art. Overall, it felt reliable for home use if someone owns a curing lamp and wants a low-odor, tidy glue option.
Cala Super Nail Glue (Pack of 4)
This glue is worth buying for press-ons and quick repairs because it bonds fast and holds well when nails are prepped correctly.
Pros
- Dries in seconds for fast application.
- Strong hold that keeps press-ons on for days to weeks.
- Works for tips, gems, and small nail repairs.
Cons
- Some bottles can be hard to squeeze or clogged.
- Strong smell from cyanoacrylate formula.
- Needs good prep to reach full hold.
They used this glue for at-home press-on sets and noticed a real salon-level hold when they cleaned and dried nails first. One drop went a long way, and the glue set almost instantly, so fingers didn’t stick together while pressing tips on.
The package of four feels like good value, especially for regular users. A few bottles arrived stiff or clogged in other orders, so it helps to keep a pin on hand to clear the nozzle if needed.
It held up through daily tasks like typing and washing dishes, though heavy water exposure and rough use shortened wear time. They found soaking to remove the nails safer than prying, which avoided damage to the natural nail.
LUXXI Pink Gel Nail Glue
It’s worth buying for people who want a fast, strong brush-on glue that keeps press-ons on for weeks with good prep.
Pros
- Very strong hold that lasted through daily chores
- Brush applicator gives a neat, mess-free finish
- Dries fast and feels lightweight on the nail
Cons
- Brush tip can be fragile and may break with rough handling
- A few users still had early pop-offs despite prep
- Slight learning curve to avoid using too much product
They applied the LUXXI gel like a typical brush-on glue and noticed quick tack time. The glue set in about 30 seconds and held press-on nails firmly during cooking and light cleaning.
The texture felt thin and smooth, which made it easy to spread without air bubbles. It dried clear and didn’t add bulk, so the press-ons looked natural and salon-ready after pressing.
One bottle lasted several applications when used sparingly, but the brush cap can break if forced, which wastes product. Some users reported occasional early lifts, so careful nail prep still matters.
They recommend this glue for people who want a reliable at-home option that works well for most activities. Try it if you like brush-on application and need a long-lasting hold for press-ons.
UNA GELLA Solid Nail Glue Gel
It’s a solid glue gel worth buying if you want long-lasting press-on or soft-gel tips and you have a UV/LED lamp.
Pros
- Low odor and gentle on natural nails.
- Strong hold that can last weeks when cured properly.
- Easy to apply from the bottle mouth without a brush.
Cons
- Requires UV/LED lamp to cure, so not for glue-only users.
- Needs careful application to avoid gel on skin.
- Best results need 12–24 hours of careful care after application.
They used this gel on short and medium tips and noticed the clear finish stayed bright and didn’t yellow. The glue set up firm after 40–60 seconds under a lamp and held tips in place during everyday tasks.
Application felt simple: the bottle mouth dispensed a controlled bead, which made spreading easy without extra tools. The solid texture meant the user didn’t have to hold tips in place while curing, which saved time during a home salon session.
A downside showed up when a little gel touched the cuticle. It cured fast and became hard to remove without soaking. The reviewer learned to keep skin dry and use a thin base layer to prevent lifting.
Overall, it worked well with the UNA GELLA pre-shaped tips and other press-ons, giving a secure bond that lasted multiple weeks when they followed the wait and care tips.
Glamnetic Brush-On Nail Glue
This glue is worth buying if you want a travel-friendly, brush-on formula that holds press-ons tightly for days to weeks.
Pros
- Easy, mess-free brush applicator for quick at-home use
- Strong, long-lasting hold even with frequent hand use
- Vegan and travel-friendly bottle
Cons
- Can foam or bubble slightly during application
- A few users get uneven results or weak bottles
- Removal needs soaking and gentle lifting to avoid damage
They felt smooth to use right away. The brush tip makes a thin layer simple to apply without globs. In real use, the glue grabbed press-ons quickly and kept them secure during normal chores.
Durability stood out during a week of heavy hand work. Nails stayed put through washing, styling, and light manual tasks. A couple of nails lasted almost a month for one user, but results varied by prep and fit.
Application has a small learning curve. If the glue bubbles a bit, blot the brush and use a thinner coat on both nail and press-on. Removing nails takes warm soak time and careful lifting to protect the natural nail.
Overall, it gave dependable hold and felt high-quality in the bottle. It’s a solid pick for anyone who wants a no-mess brush glue for press-on nails.
Beauty Secrets Nail Glue + Zebra File
It’s worth buying for someone who wants a tidy, long‑lasting glue and a useful file in one small kit.
Pros
- Easy, mostly mess-free application.
- Strong hold that keeps press‑ons on for days.
- Handy dual-grit file included for quick shaping.
Cons
- Some tubes may arrive empty or with only the file.
- Not completely drip‑free for every user.
- Small bottle can run out faster with frequent use.
They used the glue on press‑on nails and found it simple to control, thanks to the neat tip and firm cap. The glue dried fast and held through hand washing and daily tasks better than many basic glues.
The zebra cushion file made prepping and finishing nails quick. It handled shaping and smoothing without shredding the tips, which helped the glue bond cleaner and last longer.
Occasionally a buyer reported receiving only the file, so check the package right away. Overall, it felt reliable in real use and gave salon‑like wear at home.
CurvLife Super Strong Nail Glue 15g
It’s a solid choice for press-on nails when someone wants fast drying, long hold, and a larger tube for many uses.
Pros
- Dries fast without UV light.
- Thick, easy-to-control paste that forms a strong bond.
- Bigger 15g size lasts longer than tiny supermarket tubes.
Cons
- Very strong hold can make removal hard.
- Some users report leaking or glue residue inside the cap.
- A few experiences show inconsistent performance on the first try.
They used this glue on full-coverage press-ons and noticed it sets quickly — about 10–30 seconds for tack and a strong bond by an hour. The paste-like texture made placement less messy than runny glues, so nails stayed aligned while drying.
The long wear impressed them; many wears lasted a week or more with everyday tasks and handwashing. It held up during light housework and parenting duties, so it felt reliable for daily life.
Removal required patience because the bond is strong. They had to soak with acetone and gently lift edges; that process took longer than weaker glues. Keep that in mind if someone plans frequent changes.
A few tubes arrived with glue around the cap, so inspect packaging on arrival. Overall, it gave consistent, salon-like hold most of the time, and the larger size meant fewer trips to reorder.
CurvLife Quick-Dry Nail Glue Kit
This kit is worth buying for people who want fast, strong press-on adhesion without a UV lamp.
Pros
- Dries very quickly and holds press-ons firmly.
- Gel formula cuts down on drips and mess.
- Includes a small remover that speeds removal.
Cons
- Some nails needed redoing for perfect initial adhesion.
- Remover size feels small for frequent use.
- A few users may find it tricky on very thin or uneven nails.
They tested the glue right after a basic nail prep and noticed the gel texture made application cleaner than runny glues. It grabbed the tips fast and set in about 10 seconds, so hands stayed useful during the process.
The hold lasted through washing, typing, and light workouts for many days, though a couple of nails needed a touch-up after the first day. The glue works best when the natural nail is dry and lightly buffed.
Removal with the included dropper-style remover worked in a few minutes and left little residue. The remover bottle is handy for occasional use, but someone who wears press-ons often might want a larger bottle.
KISS PowerFlex Nail Glue
It’s a good buy for anyone who wants very fast, strong hold on press-ons and quick nail repairs.
Pros
- Bonds in seconds for quick application.
- Nozzle tip gives precise, small drops.
- Holds well through daily activities and water.
Cons
- Very sticky — excess glue bonds to skin easily.
- Small tube dries out if left open.
- Can be hard to remove without proper remover.
They used this glue for a full weekend and noticed nails stayed put without lifting. The squeeze bottle makes placing tiny dots easy, so fake tips go on cleanly. A little goes a long way, which felt efficient during a busy at-home manicure.
The formula sets almost instantly, so it saves time compared with slower glues. It kept repairs secure even after handwashing and chores. Removing nails later required acetone or an adhesive remover, but the natural nail underneath stayed intact when done right.
Application needs care because the glue grabs skin or cuticles if you’re not steady. The cap seals well but leave it open and the tip can clog. Overall, it performed like a salon glue at home and proved reliable for press-ons and quick fixes.
Buy KISS PowerFlex Nail Glue on Amazon
Buying Guide
They should check the glue’s bond strength first. Stronger bonds last longer and resist lifting, but very strong glues can be harder to remove.
They should consider drying time next. Fast-drying formulas save time, while slower-drying ones allow more placement adjustment. Choose based on skill level and patience.
They should look at the applicator type. Fine-tip brushes give precise control for small repairs. Bottle-tip applicators suit larger surfaces and quick application.
They should evaluate durability and finish. Some glues dry clear and shine; others may yellow over time. They should pick a finish that matches the nail look they want.
They should pay attention to ingredients and safety. Low-fume, non-irritating options reduce skin and eye irritation risks. Those with known allergens should be avoided.
They should check packaging size and value. Small tubes are good for occasional use. Larger tubes save money for frequent wearers.
They should read usage instructions and removal guidance. Clear directions lower the chance of mistakes. Good removal steps help avoid nail damage.
They should review compatibility with nail types. Flexible formulas work better with natural nails. Rigid glues may suit hard artificial tips.
They should consider storage and shelf life. Long shelf life and resealable packaging keep glue usable longer. Proper storage prevents thickening.
They should compare reviews for real-world performance. Look for consistent comments on hold time, ease of use, and safety.
Comparison Breakdown
The first product is Ulta Strength Nail Glue. It gives a fast bond and works well for thin and thick tips. They rate it high for hold time and ease of use, but it can be tricky to remove without proper remover.
The second product is Ulta Quick-Dry Adhesive. It dries in seconds and suits users who need speed. It has a lighter formula, so they may need to reapply for heavy wear or long nails.
The third product is Ulta Precision Tip Glue. It uses a fine applicator for small repairs and detailed placement. They find it best for controlled application, though it can be slower for full sets.
Key differences:
- Dry time: Quick-Dry < Strength < Precision.
- Best use: Strength for long wear, Quick-Dry for fast fixes, Precision for detailed work.
- Application: Precision offers the most control; Strength is thicker; Quick-Dry is fluid.
Packaging and price also vary. Strength often comes in a standard tube, Quick-Dry in a squeeze bottle, and Precision in a needle tip. They should compare price per ounce and consider nail type before choosing.
FAQs
What types of nail glue does Ulta sell?
Ulta sells fast-dry cyanoacrylate glues, brush-on formulas, and glue pens. They also carry brands with varying hold strength for tips, nails, and repairs.
How long does Ulta nail glue last once opened?
Most nail glues last 6–12 months after opening if capped tightly and stored in a cool, dry place. Heat, humidity, and air exposure shorten shelf life.
Is Ulta nail glue safe for natural nails?
When used as directed, it is generally safe for short-term use. Prolonged or repeated use can dry the nail and skin, so users should moisturize and avoid overuse.
How quickly does it bond?
Many formulas bond in 5–20 seconds for a secure hold. Full strength can take a few minutes, so hold nails steady until set.
Can it remove false nails without damage?
Acetone soaks or specific nail glue removers help dissolve the bond. They must be used carefully to avoid nail plate damage; gentle soaking and patience work best.
Any allergy or safety tips?
Patch-test first if sensitivity is a concern. Keep glue away from eyes and skin, and seek medical help for burns or severe reactions.
Which glue is best for long wear?
High-strength cyanoacrylate glues and those labeled “long-wear” usually last longer. Proper nail prep—clean, dry nails and a thin glue layer—improves hold.
Final Verdict
The reviewer finds Ulta’s nail glues reliable for everyday use. They bond quickly and hold well for most routine activities.
Some formulas dry faster, which helps people who want quick application. Others offer a bit more working time for precise placement.
Users with sensitive skin should test a small area first. A patch test reduces risk of irritation and allergic reaction.
Price and availability make Ulta options easy to buy. Many shoppers like that they can compare brands in one place.
Key points to consider:
- Bond strength: Good for normal wear, varies by formula.
- Dry time: From fast-set to moderate working time.
- Skin safety: Do a patch test if prone to sensitivity.
- Value: Convenient choice with varied price points.
They recommend choosing a glue that matches the user’s needs—fast cure for speed, longer set time for careful application, or gentle formulas for sensitive skin.