Do you have press-on nails that need to be removed? If so, you may wonder how to take off acrylic nails without acetone. Acetone is a harsh chemical used to remove fake nails and can cause skin irritation or damage if not used properly.
Fortunately, some great alternatives are available if you want to take off acrylic nails at home without acetone. In this post I will explore some of the best ways to safely and effectively remove your press-on nails, whether glue-on or gel nails.
1. Soapy, Hot Water
Soap and water are another great way to remove acrylics without harsh chemicals or solvents. Take some warm water and add a few drops of liquid soap into it. Soak your nails into this solution for at least twenty minutes before you proceed to remove them. Once you've soaked your nails, use a cotton pad or swab to peel off the fake nail from its base gently. If any stubborn bits are left over, you can use tweezers or a cuticle pusher to remove them. If twenty minutes aren’t enough to loosen the fake nails, soak your nails in water for another ten minutes.
2. Acetone-Free Nail Polish and False Nail Remover
Non-acetone remover is made of an alcohol-based solution and is less harsh than its acetone counterpart. Non-acetone remover dissolves the glue on your false nails without causing too much damage to the underlying skin and nail bed.
Many acetone-free nail polish removing products comprise solvents such as isopropyl, acetate, and propylene carbonate. To use this method, apply a generous amount of non-acetone remover onto the surface of your acrylic nails and wait for it to dissolve the glue. Once it does, you should be able to peel off the fake nails easily.
While these solvents are still chemicals, they are less harmful to both your nails and health.
3. Cuticle Oil
Cuticle oil is a blend of natural oils such as jojoba and almond, which helps to soften the glue on fake nails.
This method not only helps you get rid of press-on nails but keeps your real nails healthy and well-nourished. Apply a few drops of cuticle oil onto the base of each nail and wait for it to soak in. This should help soften the glue and make it easier to peel off the press- on nails.
If you want to act faster, soak the entire cotton ball in the cuticle oil. Instead of holding it against each nail, wrap it with tape. You can also use tin foil and cover your nails for some time. Once the fake nails have loosened, use an orange stick to remove the leftovers.
4. Dental Floss
Using dental floss to do away with your press-on nails is a good idea. After soaking your nails in warm water or using cuticle oil, take dental floss and slide it under your fake nails.
Move the floss back and forth along your fake nail until it gets loosened and takes off. Flossing may damage your nails a little bit, make sure to buff them properly. Apply some cuticle oil and lotion to keep them nourished and moisturized.
5. Use Business Card
This method of removing acrylics is very similar to the dental floss method. Even if you don't have dental floss, you might have a business card tucked away in your wallet. In this case, grab the card and prepare to pull out the nail.
When there is a gap between the natural nail and the press-on nail, insert the business card into this gap. Just as with dental floss, simply slide the card up to the end of the nail.
Try to take it slow and pull out the nail slowly. This will help you avoid damaging your natural nails.
6. Nail File
You can also try using a nail file. A course-grit file will help break down the acrylic and allow you to remove it more easily. Use your nail file in a back-and-forth motion until all of the press on nails have been removed from your nails.
Using a nail file on its own has to be a last resort, as it will damage the natural nail underneath. So, you should always try to use a gentler method first before resorting to this one.
Tips for Removing your Acrylic Nails
- Do not yank your nails while performing the above remedies. Or you could seriously injure your nails and make them bleed.
- After removing the press-on nails, use nail polish from time to time to restore the nail bed to its natural state.
- Scrape off the remaining acrylic nails. Glue should not be left on the nail bed for long.
- Don't use too warm water when cleaning, or you may burn your hands.
- Make sure you give enough time to each of the tips listed above, or the results won't be satisfactory. Remember, these are home remedies and need plenty of time.
- Sand your nails from time to time to keep them shiny and shiny. Get in the habit of using nail polish on your nails to keep them hydrated. Eat healthy foods to keep your nails healthy and avoid breakage and chipping.
- Leave your natural nails in for at least ten days each time you remove acrylic nails before choosing new ones. This time will give your nails enough nutrients to keep them healthy. After all, don't use too many chemicals on your nails.
- When choosing acetone-free nail polish remover, make sure you choose a reputable and reliable brand. Research the manufacturer thoroughly before buying the product. Read the details carefully and buy the right product.
Hopefully, the above method will provide you with a safe and gentle way to remove your press-on nails.
All of these methods are valid, but everyone has their own preferences. If a technique doesn't work for you, don't give up. Try these methods until you find one that works for you and keeps your nails looking healthy and beautiful.
