How To Safely Remove Acrylic Nails At Home

Option #2: Non-Acetone Soak

If you’re wondering how to remove fake nails without acetone, we have you covered. If an acetone-free method is your preference, this acrylic nail removal technique will help you.

What you’ll need: Nail clippers, tweezers or a cuticle stick, acetone-free nail polish remover and a bowl.

How To Execute: Again, begin by clipping your nails as short as possible. Then using a pair of tweezers or a cuticle stick, gently pry and lift the edges of your acrylics. Keyword: Gently! Pour some acetone-free nail polish remover into a bowl, making sure to pour enough so your nails can be fully submerged, and put your fingers in. Wait 30 to 40 minutes or more if needed. When the nail starts to loosen, reach for your tweezers once more to pull the acrylics off your actual nails. This process may take longer but won’t leave your nails and cuticles as brittle and dry as acetone can.

Option #3: Dental Floss

Another way to remove your acrylic nails sans acetone is to use a bit of dental floss. Yes, you read that right—dental floss! This thin piece of string can be used for more than just healthy teeth and gums. That said, this technique can cause damage to your actual nails, so it’s best used when your acrylics have already begun to come loose.

What you’ll need: Cuticle stick, dental floss, and someone to assist.

How To Execute: First, grab your cuticle stick and gently lift the edges of your acrylics with it. If your acrylics have already begun to come loose, you may not need to do much for this step! Then enlist the help of your roommate, partner, or a friend. You’ll need another person for most of this removal process. After the edges of your nails have been lifted, have them insert a piece of dental floss under the acrylic nail. Carefully move the floss down the nail in a sawing motion until the acrylic pops off. And voilà!

What To Do After You Remove Acrylic Nails

Now that you’ve gotten those acrylics off, let’s talk post-manicure removal. When you remove your acrylics, you may be left with some residue. Use a nail file to buff the tops of your nails and smooth the edges. Your cuticles will also be needing some love so apply cuticle oil generously to soften and care for your them. And finally, show your hands need TLC and reach for the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Hydra Nutrition Manuka Honey All Over Balm - Face, Neck, Chest and Hands to wrap your skin in soothing moisture.

Next: How To Choose The Right Nail Shape