It has now been weeks since you had your fingernails professionally done. The nail growth is visible as the acrylic tips slowly lift off, revealing the natural nails underneath. What was once a stunning extension now seems to be something of a hindrance.
While a trip back to the nail salon and the power of acetone will lend a helping hand to remove your acrylic nails, there is an inexpensive way to continue with this removal without the use of this harsh chemical.
What is acetone?
According to the health-driven information hub Medical News Today, acetone is a colourless liquid that evaporates quickly into the air. It also dissolves or breaks down other materials such as paint, varnish, or grease. Naturally in the environment and small amounts present in the body, exposure to acetone can irritate the eyes, nose, or skin, while consumption can lead to acetone poisoning.
Given how strong the solvent is, some people who opt for acrylic nail extensions may want to stay away from acetone.
If this rings true for you, or if you want to save some rands, below are ways how you can safely remove your acrylic nails without acetone.
Using acetone-free nail polish remover
Make sure you have a bowl, tweezers, a nail clipper and, of course, acetone-free nail polish remover, says Medium (a publication keen on sharing human stories and ideas).
Start by clipping your nails to the slightest length, then use the sharp edge of the tweezer to pry open the edges. “Pour your nail polish free of acetone into a bowl. Paint your nails, then soak them for 20 to 30 minutes,” instructs Medium. “You will notice that your acrylic nails are starting to come loose while your nails are soaking.” Finally, use the tweezers to gently remove the nails. Repeat the steps if the nails are not properly removed.
Using cuticle oil
Soak a cotton bud in the cuticle oil and then soak it against your nail for five minutes, ensuring that enough oil reaches the end of the nails so that they can easily come out, states Medium. Then, use a toothpick to help lift the false nails off the natural nails.
“Cuticle oil is a blend of natural oils such as jojoba and almond, which helps to soften the glue on false nails,” adds the beauty company False Eyelashes.
Using hot, soapy water
“Fill a bowl or sink with hot, soapy water and soak your nails for about 10 minutes,” notes False Eyelashes. “Once you’ve soaked your nails, use a cotton pad or swab to peel off the fake nail from its base gently.”
Also see: How to effortlessly type with long nails
