As the nail care industry gives you a plethora of choices, you won’t run out of new things to try. Let’s be honest — painting our nails is not Picasso-level art, although in some obscure window of time, Picasso manicures were in. People literally have art on their nails! But most of the time, we opt for one or two timeless colors.

Whether it’s us or the chipping polish, at some point we have to let our nail color go. With a few easy swipes of the nail polish remover, your nails become a fresh canvas for your next artwork.

What is in nail polish?

Polish removers work by undoing what nail polish ingredients do.

After it leaves its tiny bottle, nail polish becomes a hard and pigmented film over your nails. It contains hardener or resin so that the film stays on your nail plate. This is why preparing for a manicure includes making sure nothing comes between your nail and the resin.

We don’t want the nail polish to be as hard as a brick. A stiff film is counterintuitive because it will chip and break easily. Plasticizers in your nail polish prevent this from happening.

Manufacturers use different kinds of resins and plasticizers. There are also additives in the nail polish that boost luster and longevity. In this industry, beauty must come in a long-lasting package.

Not everything in the nail polish bottle stays and hardens with the film. For traditional nail polish, the solvent that keeps the product liquid in the bottle will evaporate. Without the solvent, the nail polish would not stay dissolved.

On the other hand, gel nail polish doesn’t use evaporating solvents. Instead, they have photoinitiators that are activated under UV light. This starts the drying process. This also means you can’t remove gel polish in the same way as you would traditional nail polish.

CHECK OUT: How to take off acrylic nails with hot water

After the nail polish has hardened, nail polish removers have to do the reverse process.

Think of the nail polish ingredients as puzzle pieces suspended in liquid which is the solvent. When the liquid is removed, the puzzle pieces can join together and stay in place. The nail polish becomes or polymerizes into a hard film. Technically, the film is a polymer or a chain of smaller molecules.

If you add the liquid back to the hard film, the puzzle pieces break apart. Turning the hard film into liquid makes it easy to remove from the nail. You will also notice that the color is transferred to the cotton.

In general, acetone is the solvent used in nail polish. But other manufacturers use alternatives like ethyl acetate or butyl acetate that work similarly. For this time, we will focus on acetone-based nail polish remover.

The molecular structure of acetone allows it to interact and dissolve a lot of materials. That is why acetone is not just found in nail polish removers. Acetone can remove household stains and coats of color from surfaces.

How does it remove even the polish that’s already several weeks old?

Acetone only disrupts the arrangement of the molecules that make the nail polish hard. As long as the solvent can disturb the structure of the film, it can remove the nail polish from your nails.

Although both have a strong smell, the short answer is no. Rubbing alcohol can be one of the ingredients of a nail polish remover, but the nail polish remover’s not-so-secret weapon is acetone.

Is acetone rubbing alcohol? We can learn from organic chemistry that acetone is molecularly different from alcohol. Alcohols are chemicals with a group of oxygen-hydrogen (OH) bond.

Alcohols end with the suffix -ol. We may have encountered names like propanol, methanol, ethanol or ethyl alcohol, and isopropanol or isopropyl alcohol.

Scientifically, acetone is known as dimethyl ketone. It can also be called propanone. Unlike alcohols, propanone does not have an OH group. So, acetone’s names don’t end with an -ol suffix. Acetone belongs to another group called ketones. Instead of an OH group, ketones have a carbon-oxygen group.

When we buy rubbing alcohol from the pharmacy, there is a big chance that we get either isopropyl or ethyl alcohol. These alcohols can disrupt cells, effectively killing germs in the process. This makes rubbing alcohol an effective disinfectant.

Unless you own a nail salon, you might not always have a stash of nail polish remover lying around. You’re more likely to have rubbing alcohol because it’s a household disinfectant. And when it comes down to a matter of necessity, can you use rubbing alcohol to remove your nail color?

Essentially, rubbing alcohol is not the same as a nail polish remover. But if you don’t have other options, rubbing alcohol can get some nail colors off. Because it is not meant to be a nail polish remover, you will not get a fast and flawless result. Still, it can substitute nail polish remover when you’re out of luck.

What if it’s the other way around and you ran out of rubbing alcohol?

We keep rubbing alcohol around so we can clean our hands, bodies, and spaces. In its pure form, acetone disinfects surfaces as well. But if you check the bottle that you have, there is a big chance that its acetone concentration is less than 100%.

Despite being less than maximum strength, can nail polish remover be used as rubbing alcohol to disinfect surfaces? That nail polish remover may not be powerful enough to substitute rubbing alcohol. Dilution weakens its disinfecting power.

That the acetone in the remover is not strong enough is for good measure. Since it’s not made to kill germs, its acetone doesn’t need to be very strong. Too strong or too much acetone is very dehydrating. Your nails and the skin around them don’t deserve such harsh treatment when you just want to remove your nail color.

While rubbing alcohol may remove nail color, you can’t do the reverse and use the nail polish remover to disinfect. Especially when it comes to your body, you should stick to the intended use of items.

While this should not be the norm, you can take advantage of nail polish remover for other household uses, provided that you understand what you’re doing.

It boils down to what you intend to clean. First, you have to assess the situation. You should run a test to see if the liquid won’t damage your electronics. Just carelessly pouring the nail polish remover on the item is making a mountain of a molehill problem.

We go back to the idea that nail polish molecules polymerize or join together as the solvent evaporates. The acetone-based nail polish remover erases nail color because acetone disrupts polymers. If you misuse the nail polish remover, you may damage your electronics, especially those made of plastic.

Nail polish remover with acetone can save your day when you spill ink or superglue on your devices. And if you want to clean visible dirt and grime, you can use a minute amount of the polish remover.

Of course, this is only for surface cleaning. You should consult a professional when you want to clean the inside of your devices or those areas that are sensitive to corrosive chemicals.

The wonderful chemistry behind nail polish removers is often taken for granted. These products have been so long and widely used that we barely give them a second thought. That is until we need them. So far, the alternatives fall short of what nail polish removers are capable of.

CHECK OUT: How to fix bumpy nail polish

The post Is nail polish remover rubbing alcohol? appeared first on Polish pretty.

You can have anything artificial and there is nothing wrong with that. This is especially true for your hard-working fingers. Nothing should stop you from rocking eye-catching acrylic nails!

Like anything artificial that we add to our body, though, nail acrylics need proper care. It is the key to ensuring that your fake nails will look as natural as possible.

So before you enter into the world of nail enhancements, learn the basics of keeping them clean below!

How to cut your own nails under acrylic

Your nails will continue to grow under the acrylics. It’s natural and you must learn how to keep your acrylics in top shape even with your natural nail growth.

Sure, you can go to a professional nail technician for your regular fill appointments. But if you’re not willing to pay their expensive fees, you can trim your nails yourself. Be cautious not to damage your enhancements, though.

Here are the things that you’ll need:

Safety Nail Bits

Safety nail bits with a smooth dome-shaped top are great for trimming nails under the acrylics. If you can’t find a round-shaped nail bit that can fit your small pinky nail, choose a corn-head nail bit instead. The narrower tip of these types of nail bits is perfect for your tiny nails.

Begin at a low speed of about 6,000 to 7,000 RPM and go up according to the thickness of your nails. Go back and forth until you achieve your desired length. Remember to be gentle with your natural nails.

Brush

After trimming the nails under the enhancements, remove the dust using a brush. You can use any nail brush for this step.

Isopropyl Alcohol

After trimming your nails, use an Isopropyl alcohol to clean it. It’s a non-toxic product that isn’t only perfect for cleaning your nails. It will help prevent infection caused by minor scrapes too.

CHECK OUT: Can you paint over acrylic nails

Dirt between nail and acrylic

Acrylic nails are stunning. But, it can get in the way of your regular cleaning chores. You might have to reduce rigorous tasks like gardening if your beautiful acrylics are on.

Here are ways to keep your fake nails clean while they’re on:

Personal Hygiene

Proper handwashing is the key to keeping your nails clean. Use mild soap and water. Be careful when washing your hands. Improper hand washing can do more harm than good. If you have to use a brush, opt for a soft-bristled brush. Focus on the surfaces of acrylics as it’s more prone to germs compared to the other parts of your nails.

Protect Your Nails

Protect your nails using rubber gloves when doing some chores. This is especially important if it involves water. Using rubber gloves as you bathe is not a bad idea. This will help in preventing dirt from getting under your enhancements. It will keep your hands dry as well. Bear in mind that excessive moisture will cause fungi growth.

How do you clean underneath your nails?

It is almost normal for acrylic nails to accumulate dirt underneath. This is because we use our hands to do a lot of tasks. While it’s normal, you mustn’t ignore it. It’s unhealthy and dirty. So do something about it right away. Read below to know how to clean it properly!

You’ll need:

• Antibacterial soap
• Soft-bristle nail brush
• Cuticle pusher
• Nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol

You’ll have to:

1. Use an antibacterial soap and wash your hands in warm water. Do this whenever you do something with your hands. From cleaning your room and gardening, make sure to always take the time to wash your hands after. Be careful about too much hand washing, though. It can actually also compromise the durability of your nail enhancements.

1. Sterilize a soft-bristled nail brush in warm soapy water. Remove excess moisture. After that, you can use it to carefully brush under your long acrylic nails to remove any gunk. Be extra gentle. Improper brushing can weaken the glue.

1. Use a cuticle pusher to push away dirt tucked under your nail enhancements. Before proceeding to the other nails, clean the tool with a towel first. This is to prevent contamination. Be cautious as too much pressure can cause the enhancements to become loose.

1. Lastly, soak your nails in rubbing alcohol. Do this when reattaching a loose nail. This essential step will prevent fungal growth on the nail bed.

CHECK OUT: Why are nails clear

What is the white stuff under my acrylic nails?

Proper acrylic application is vital to prevent problems with your enhancements. Failure to do this can lead to discoloration on your nails.

That white stuff that you’re seeing under your acrylic nails is probably fungus growing. Incorrect acrylic applications can also cause chipping and flaking on your nails.

Perhaps, it’s not only white stuff you’re seeing in your nails. Maybe, you’re one of those who’ve asked the question “why are my nails yellow under acrylics?”.

Your loose acrylic nails are the culprit. The broken seal between the product and your nail will attract fungi growth. The discoloration will then start to appear. It will not only be yellow or white, a green nail discoloration is another sign of fungal growth caused by your loose acrylics too.

Symptoms

You’d know that it’s a fungal infection if it has the following signs:

• Nail discoloration (white, green, or yellow)
• Itching
• Redness or swelling on the skin around the nails
• Pain around the nails and on the nail bed
• Bad smell
• Brittle nails
• Pus on the nails

Causes

Now that we know the signs of fungi growth on acrylics, let’s dive into its causes below!

Improper Application

If the acrylic nails are improperly attached, they can become loose easily. When that happens, moisture will sip and get trapped into the area between your natural nails and enhancements. Your nails will then become the breeding ground for bacteria.

Poor Hygiene

This is one of the cons of going to a nail salon. It is because you wouldn’t confirm if they use sterile tools or if they practice proper hygiene.

If you do the nail enhancements, you have control over your hygiene practices. Make sure to sterilize your equipment to prevent exposure to fungal infections.

Not cleaning the gap

There will be instances when you’ll have to remove the enhancement. Perhaps, it detached on its own. Before you re-glue the acrylics to the nail bed, clean it properly. Soak your finger into rubbing alcohol before attaching the acrylics to the nail bed again.

Prevention

You don’t have to give up acrylics just because they can develop such problems. It’s all about knowing the proper way to attach them to your healthy nails. Here are a few ways to prevent fungal infections from your acrylics:

Test your fake nail for a reaction before applying products to all your nails. If it’s your first time using acrylics, apply the products to one nail.

Wait for several days to see whether it causes allergic reactions. Redness, itching, rash, and pain aren’t normal things when applying acrylics. When you notice this, stop using the acrylics and see a professional nail technician.

This one is very important yet often neglected. Unsanitized tools are actually among the common reasons why nail fungal infections occur. If you’re doing your own acrylic nails, dip the equipment that you are using on a good-quality disinfectant.

Change Nails Regularly

Sure, you can touch up every 2 to 3 weeks if you want to wear your enhancements for more than a month. But this doesn’t mean that you can wear them for a year.

The longer that you are wearing them, the more you’ll be risking your nails from infection. That’s why you have to remove your fake nails if you have it for more than three months already.

After that, let your natural nails rest for a month before getting your new enhancements.

Remedies

We’ve talked about the symptoms and causes of preventable fungi growth on your nail enhancements. Now, let’s tackle the easiest home remedies that you can do. Read below!

• Vinegar: Vinegar is well-known for its antibacterial properties. Soak your finger in a 2:1 mixture of vinegar and warm water.
• Tea Tree Oil: This miracle oil is not only good for reducing your acne. You can also apply it to your nail two times a day to help treat fungi growth.
• Oregano Oil: If tea tree oil isn’t available, use oregano oil instead. In the same way, apply it to your affected nails two times a day. Use a cotton swab for a proper application.

CHECK OUT: How to fix bumpy nail polish

How to get rid of nail growth under acrylics

If only nails stop growing for a long while after you get acrylics, right? This way, you wouldn’t need to change your acrylics right away. You can enjoy having beautiful nails for a longer time.

But no, that’s not the case. Your nails will grow at their natural rate under the acrylic. For this reason, you need to keep it maintained. You have a couple of options when your nails start to grow.

Go with your natural nails

It will take around two weeks for you to notice the growth in your nails under the acrylics. When this happens, your enhancements will not look as good as it was when it’s newly installed. Trimming the nails under the acrylic wouldn’t be easy as well.

If you want an easy way out, you can completely remove the products and go with your natural nails. You can also get a new clean set after. This option could be costly, though.

Continue wearing your enhancements

Installing acrylics on your own might not be as costly as going to the nail salon. But it also involves a lot of time, energy, and effort. Unless you have a few hours to allot for the nail art yourself, you would want your enhancements to last. That said, you might not want the first option.

You don’t have to remove your current enhancements as the nails underneath start growing. You can continue wearing your enhancements for more than a couple of weeks.

How? Take the time to file the nails under the acrylics. Use a medium carbide cone with a rounded top. Be careful to not cut the underside of your fingers.

First, put your nails upside down. Shave off the excess nail growth from the center. Be careful not to hit the sidewall of the enhancements. If you do, it will create an unsightly notch or could even damage your acrylics.

CHECK OUT: Alternative to Acrylic Nails

The takeaway!

Acrylic nails are beautiful and stylish. But only when they’re still clean. The good thing is, you can actually keep them clean and healthy through proper nail care. Our best advice is to always be cautious about your acrylic nails and make sure they don’t get dirty. And when they do, clean them properly!

That way, you can enjoy having long and stunning nails with no fuss.

The post How to clean underneath acrylic nails? appeared first on Polish pretty.

But after a while, you’ll notice that they’re longer than you’re comfortable with as they start to snag on your clothes or scratch your skin. So you want to know if there’s a way to shorten them.

If these were your natural nails, you’d just need to pick up your nail file to solve your problem.

But can you file down acrylic nails at home? Well, you’ll need to read more to find out.

What are acrylic nails made of?

If you love getting your nails done, then you’ve probably tried acrylic nails in different shapes and designs. But do you know what they’re made of?

Acrylic nails are a mixture of liquid monomers and powder polymers to form an extension of your natural nails.

To differentiate them from gel extensions, see if your nail tech dips their brush into liquid then into powder to create a thick paste instead of applying a putty-like mixture on your nail.

Also, acrylic nails are only air-dried, so you wouldn’t need to cure them under a UV light to solidify them.

Once they’re dry, acrylics are stronger and more durable than gel nails. So you won’t have to worry about cracking or lifting them while filing and reshaping later.

Can you file acrylic nails after getting them done?

So you’ve had your nails done and are feeling pretty good about it. But when you slide your finger on one nail, you notice there’s an uneven edge.

Since you want your acrylic nails to be perfect, you wonder how you can fix them.

If your acrylics consist of fillers, then it’s safe to say that filing them can easily fix the issue.

The filler could be uneven on that nail, which your nail tech may have then overlooked when filing.

You can go back into the salon to have them even out. But if you’re already at home, you can also file them yourself.

Don’t be afraid of using a nail file on your freshly manicured talons since they’ll already be dry.

So a few quick swipes of your nail file can even the edges out. Just make sure not to file too much, or you’ll ruin the nail shape.

Can I file my acrylic nails shorter?

Have you ever picked a longer acrylic nail length than usual just to mix things up but then realized you hated them?

So instead of being stuck with that nail length until your next appointment, did you know that you can actually file them shorter?

Don’t worry; filing your acrylics won’t damage them since they’re pretty sturdy. Just make sure to press down on the middle of your nail bed to ensure the acrylics won’t detach from your nail.

Also, since acrylic nails can last between 1 week to 2 months, your acrylics can become lengthy over time since your natural nails grow. So filing them is just part of maintaining them.

So if you’re not comfortable having longer acrylics between nail appointments, you can file them down to a shorter length.

Can you reshape acrylic nails at home?

Have you picked square-shaped acrylics because they looked gorgeous at the moment but now want oval nails instead?

A great thing about acrylic nails is that you can reshape them anytime you want. Since they’re made of polymers, you don’t have to worry about damaging them.

The trick to reshaping your acrylic nails is using a good-quality nail file, as it can help you reshape your nails quickly. Depending on your skill, you can either use an electric file or a hand file.

Make sure the shape you’re changing your nails into is close to your current shape, so they’ll be easier to file. For example, you can go easily from a square to an oval shape. But going from a stiletto to a square shape is more challenging unless you want to file them down really short.

Also, avoid filing the tops of your nail bed if you want to preserve your nail polish, or else they’ll end up scratched.

I accidentally got my acrylic nails too long

Going to the nail salon and having your nails pampered can be quite a relaxing experience. So we won’t blame you if you fall asleep in the middle of your appointment.

So by the time your nails are ready, you see that they’re longer than you prefer. Yikes.

Long nails are pretty; they’re just not practical for your lifestyle.

Since you don’t have the time to go back to the nail salon to fix your nails, you wonder if there’s anything you can do to shorten them.

As mentioned above, you can file your acrylics down to reduce length. As long as you use proper tools and techniques, you won’t have to worry about ruining them.

How do you file acrylic nails?

You’ve probably seen your nail technician use an electric file on your acrylics to shape and smoothen them. But can you also use them at home?

The answer is, yes, you can. Electric files, or e-files, can file and buff nail extensions faster than hand files.

So if you prefer to wear acrylic nails, you can invest in a good-quality e-file to maintain them at home.

Using the tool will need a bit of practice, especially if you have never used one before. But when you get the hang of it, filing your nails will be a breeze.

To use an e-file, hold the tool vertically to get an even shape.

Start by filing the sides of your acrylics using the tips of the drill bit. Then move to the top, or free edge, of your nails. As you go along, re-adjust the angle of your e-file depending on the shape that you want.

Remember not to put too much pressure when pressing the drill bit to your acrylics, or you’ll end up with much shorter nails.

Also, lift the bit away from your nails from time to time to avoid building up heat that could damage your nails.

If you want to reshape them, you can also use a marker to draw your desired shape on your nails. That way, you’ll have a guide on where to position the drill bit so the shape will come out even.

How to file acrylic nails without electric file?

If the thought of using an electric file on your nails makes you nervous, don’t worry, you can use a hand file.

You’re probably familiar with nail files by now, but did you know that nail files also come in different grits?

So instead of just picking up any nail file, let’s determine which type works best for filing acrylics.

Remember, the lower the grit, the coarser the nail file will be, so check the label to know if you have the right one.

Since acrylics are harder than your natural nails, they will need a coarser grit. So a 100 grit nail file will smoothen your nails faster than a lower grit.

The shape of the nail file won’t matter as long as you have the correct grit grade.

When using a brand new nail file, remember to score it by rubbing it a couple of times against another nail file. That way, you’ll blunt the surface a little so it wouldn’t cut you if the file touches your skin.

Start by filing the free edge of your acrylic nails. Then move on to the sides in an upward motion away from your fingers. Re-adjust the angle of the nail file according to the shape that you want. Then repeat the steps until you get your desired nail shape and length.

How can I shorten my acrylic nails at home?

If your acrylic nails are now longer than what you’re used to, you can use nail clippers to chop off some length.

It’s faster than filing them down, especially when you want a large chunk of the acrylics off.

But this can also be tricky since acrylic nails don’t bend as your natural nails do. So you can accidentally cut off more length than you want, be cautious when you do this.

Also, avoid cutting your natural nails if you don’t want to damage them.

To trim your acrylics, place the side of your nail clippers to the length that you want your acrylics to be. Press the clippers to create a crack on your nails. Avoid placing the clippers on the center of your nail, or you’ll risk splitting them across.

Repeat the step on the other side of your nail until the unwanted length is off.

Once you’re done trimming your acrylics, you can shape and even them out using a hand file.

How to shorten acrylic nails without breaking them?

If you want to go on a safer route to shorten your acrylic nails, you can use an electric file or hand file.

If you prefer an electric file, you’ll need to use a 180 grit sanding band to shorten your nails faster.

To file, turn on the e-file to 15,000 rpm (rotations per minute), making sure the drill bit rotates away from you. Position the e-file vertically on the free edge of your nail and start filing straight across. Repeat until you get to your desired length.

Once you’re satisfied, reshape your acrylics, and you’re done.

But if you want to use a hand file, it will take you longer, but it will still give great results.

So you will need a 100 grit hand file to shorten your acrylics. To start, file the free edge of your nails straight across and repeat until they get to the length you want.

As you go along, you can also switch to the sides of your acrylics to start shaping them. Once they’re short enough, make sure your nails are all even, and you’re good.

CHECK OUT: How to take off acrylic nails with hot water

Final thoughts

Acrylic nails can be an exciting way of adding length to your nails, but sometimes too much length can get in the way of your day-to-day life.

So filing down your acrylics between your appointments can make your life easier.

You can choose between an electric file or a hand file, but make sure you’ll use a coarse grit to get the best results.

Once you’re satisfied with the length, you can enjoy fabulous nails without the fear of scratching yourself.

The post Can you file down acrylic nails? appeared first on Polish pretty.

But while acrylic nails are easy to apply, the removal process can be a little challenging.

Having it removed in a nail salon can be quite costly. Most salons will charge you from $10 to $15.

So if you’re tight on budget, this article is for you. Fortunately, there are other alternatives available which won’t require you to spend that much.

Follow along as we look into cheap and effective ways in removing acrylic nails.

Can you get acrylic nails off with hot water?

Yes. In fact, the safest way of removing acrylic nails is with hot water.

The skin around the nail cuticle is softer and is more sensitive to damage and corrosion.

It is recommended to get acrylic nails off with hot water since it does not contain harsh chemicals which could harm the skin in any way.

CHECK OUT: Can you paint over acrylic nails

How do you get acrylic nails off quickly?

If you want instant acrylic nail removal, acetone does the job.

The fastest way in taking off acrylic nails is with acetone. Simply pour the acetone in a bowl and dip your nails there for about five minutes.

Using a metal cuticle pusher, remove the acrylic nails off. Do this gently as possible.

Again, soak your nails in the bowl of acetone for another five minutes and keep pushing. Do these steps until you’ve fully removed the acrylics.

Aside from this method, you can also soak a cotton ball filled with acetone and cover your nails with it. Wrap the fingertips with tin foil afterward and leave it for about 15-30 minutes.

While it is true that acetone instantly removes acrylic nails, regular use of acetone may lead to skin problems.

So what do you do then?

Thankfully, there are other techniques available in removing acrylic nails without using acetone.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, plain hot water is the safest way of removing acrylic nails since it is a natural ingredient.

Hence, here are five easy steps you can follow in removing acrylic nails using hot water:

1. Fill a bowl with hot water. Be careful so that you won’t burn your hands.
2. Once the water is lukewarm, soak our hands in the bowl.
3. Do this for 20 minutes.
4. Look out for any bulges. This indicates that the acrylics are falling off.
5. Using a sharp object, carefully separate the acrylic nails from the real nails.

When doing this method, never pull your nails forcefully or you might rip off your real nails.

How to take off acrylic nails with hot water and soap

Acrylic nails are extremely attached to your real nails. Gentle soap and hot water won’t dissolve the glue holding them.

However, the exception is dish soaps.

Compared to regular and skin-friendly soaps, dish soaps contain strong chemicals such as surfactants, making it viable for acrylic nail removal.

How do you remove acrylic nails with hot water and dish soap?

The process is simple. Just mix the dish soap with warm water.

A grease-fighting dish soap is a top choice when it comes to removing acrylic nails. It can be very effective in breaking down the bond in the acrylic’s adhesive.

Simply follow these 4 easy steps:

1. Dip your nails in a bowl of warm water mixed with dish soap for about 10 minutes.
2. Use a nail tip in removing your acrylic nails from your real nails. Be very careful in this step.
3. Move the nail tip around the nail cuticle and wait until the fake nails pop off. If it does not pop off, soak your nails in the bowl of soapy water.
4. Repeat step 2 until your acrylic nails completely come off.
5. For final touches, use a manicure brush in removing the dust and a cuticle pusher in pushing the nail cuticle back.

CHECK OUT: Why are nails clear

How to take off acrylic nails with hot water and oil without acetone

Hot water softens the nails, making it easy to remove acrylic nails. But what about removing it with oil?

This may be a little surprising but oil can remove acrylic nails.

Yes, you’ve heard that right! You can take off acrylic nails with hot water and oil without the use of acetone.

Here’s a step by step tutorial:

1. Fill a bowl with hot water and soap.
2. Pour a few drops of argan oil into the bowl of warm soapy water.
3. Soak your nails in the bowl for 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Gently remove the acrylic nails from your original nails.

This mixture loosens up the glue that holds the acrylic nails, making it easy to remove them.

How to take off acrylic nails with hot water and olive oil

But what about virgin olive oil?

Well, olive oil can be a good substitute for cuticle oil. Aside from promoting nail growth, virgin olive oil also helps loosen up the adhesive holding the acrylics.

All you need is a bowl of warm water and olive oil and you’re good to go!

Follow these steps I’ve listed down below:

1. Apply olive oil onto your nail cuticle
2. Soak your nails in a bowl of warm water and leave it there for 10-15 minutes.
3. Pat your fingers dry
4. Push underneath the nails with the use of a cuticle stick.
5. Repeat the process until the acrylic nails pop off.

This method requires a little bit of pressure so be very careful not to rip your nails off.

How to take off acrylic nails with hot water and acetone

This method is also known as the “double boiler.” When doing this, you’ll be needing a large bowl filled with warm water and a small bowl filled with acetone.

The steps are quite simple and easy to follow:

1. Pour the acetone in a small bowl and pour the hot water on a large shallow bowl.
2. Put the small bowl filled with acetone inside the large bowl filled with hot water. This heats up the acetone, thereby speeding up the removal process.
3. Cover the skin around your nails with petroleum jelly to avoid hand dryness due to the acetone.
4. Soak your hands in the acetone bowl for 30 minutes with 10 minute breaks in between.
5. Scrape off the adhesive nails with a cuticle stick or any pointed object.
6. Repeat the entire step until the acrylic nails are completely removed.

After doing all the steps, wash your hands with water and soap and moisturize them.

CHECK OUT: Alternative to Acrylic Nails

Final thoughts

There are several ways of removing acrylic nails without heading to a nail salon.

Luckily, there are techniques which can be done in the comfort of your own homes. You can either use acetone for faster removal or hot water for less damage.

These two alternatives will surely save you a lot of money.

However, make sure that you’re doing these DIY methods properly. Removing acrylic nails incorrectly could damage your natural nails. Hence, you should carefully follow the steps listed above and come up with a nail care routine.

Also, moisturizing and buffing your natural nails is a must right after scraping off the acrylics. This keeps your real nails smooth and healthy.

CHECK OUT: Why does my gel polish peel off

The post How to take off acrylic nails with hot water? appeared first on Polish pretty.