We all love acrylics. They look fantastic and are a great way to enjoy stylish nails for longer. What isn’t so fantastic, however, is removing them! It’s common to get acrylics removed professionally, especially if you’re getting new nails reapplied on top. However, if you’re looking for advice on how to take acrylic nails off at home, the good news is you can learn how to do it yourself in a few simple steps.
Here at Naio Nails, we’ve put together all the information you need on how to remove fake nails yourself quickly, easily and, most importantly, without causing damage to your nails or nail beds.
How to Remove Acrylic Nails With Acetone
One of the most common and easiest ways to remove fake nails is with acetone. Also known as propanone, acetone is a powerful liquid solvent that quickly and easily removes both gel polish and adhesive.
Because of its powerful properties, acetone breaks down the acrylic so it can be easily lifted off the nail. However, it can be quite drying if used too heavily or too often on natural nails.
The Products You’ll Need
- Nail Clippers/Cuticle Nippers
- Nail File
- Acetone
- Cotton Wool/Lint Free Pads
- Tinfoil/Soak Off Clips
- Cuticle Pusher
How to Remove Acrylic Nails at Home in 5 Easy Steps
Ready to get started? Here’s our step by step guide on how to remove acrylic nails at home.
Step 1: Trim Down Your Acrylic Nails
Use nail clippers or strong cuticle nippers to trim down your acrylic nails. This reduces the surface area of the nail, allowing the acetone to reach your natural nails more easily. Cut down to where your natural nails begin, but not too low, or you could damage your natural nail.
Step 2: Use a Nail File to Thin the Acrylic
Run the nail file across the nail in a back and forth motion. The idea is to thin the acrylic, making it easier for the acetone to penetrate. Make sure not to file too deep, as filing too much risks damaging your natural nail.
Step 3: Apply Acetone-Soaked Cotton Wool to the Nail
Soak cotton wool in acetone acrylic nail remover, then place it directly over the nail, making sure it’s fully covered. Then wrap your nails in foil to secure the cotton in place.
Step 4: Soak Your Nails
Leave the cotton wool and foil in place for at least 10 minutes to allow the acetone to soak into the acrylic.
Step 5: Remove Your Acrylic
Remove just one of the wraps, then gently use a cuticle pusher to scrape the softened acrylic off. If the acetone has penetrated enough, the acrylic should lift and slide off easily.
If the acrylic is still a little hard underneath, reapply the wrap and leave your nails to soak for a further five minutes before trying again. Repeat this process for each nail until the acrylic has been completely softened and removed. Don’t be afraid to re-soak your cotton wool with acetone if it’s getting a little dry.
Tips for Getting Acrylic Nails Off Safely
Use 100% acetone: If removal is taking a while, it could be the acetone you’re using. Make sure you’re using 100% acetone rather than a supermarket or drugstore acetone, as these are often watered down.
Never pull, cut or bite them off: As tempting as it can be, never pull, cut or bite the acrylic off your nail! While this may be faster, you’re very likely to damage and weaken your natural nails in the process.
Video Tutorial: How to Remove Acrylic Nails
To see exactly how we do it at Naio Nails, check out our simple video tutorial on how to remove acrylic nails using this same method.
Keep Your Natural Nails Strong and Healthy
Now you know how to remove acrylic nails at home like a pro, you’ll never have to resort to picking or biting them off again, saving your nails from serious damage. To keep your nails strong and healthy at all times, explore our collection of nail prep, removal and aftercare products at Naio Nails.
