Trying to get the polish off acrylic nails is risky as they may get damaged or even come off. Most nail polish removers contain acetone, which is the same substance used to remove acrylic. For this reason, it is best to choose one without acetone if you have used regular nail polish. Unlike those in semi-permanent gels, they are difficult to remove with a mild solvent, so you will have to use a file. However, remember that it is important to have your beautician touch up your acrylic nails every 2-3 weeks, to always have beautiful and tidy hands, but also to prevent possible infections.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Use Acetone-Free Nail Remover
Step 1. Use a non-acetone based nail polish remover
The reason why it is absolutely not recommended to use acetone is simple: it is the substance that is used to remove acrylic. Many brands nowadays produce solvents that contain more delicate ingredients. Check the label on the package carefully to make sure you are choosing the right product.
Step 2. Soak a cotton ball with acetone
Pour in enough to moisten it, but not soak it. If you prefer, you can use a piece of gauze to prevent cotton residue from sticking to the nail polish as you scrub it off.
You can also use cotton swabs to better reach the outermost parts of the nail
Step 3. Rub the cotton on your nails
Without pressing too hard, rub the nail polish with the damp swab. Since you are using an acetone-free solvent it may take a little longer than normal. Keep scrubbing until you've removed all the polish from the first nail, then move on to the next.
Step 4. Replace the used cotton ball with a new one as often as necessary
You will probably need to use at least three to completely remove the polish from your nails. In some cases you may need more, depending on the amount of polish applied previously. Basically when you notice that the wad is soaked in color, starts to dry or sticks to the nail polish, it's time to throw it away and replace it with a clean one just soaked in solvent.
Method 2 of 2: Using the Nail File
Step 1. Get a medium grain nail file (150 or 180)
It must be strong enough to be able to smooth out the gel polish; a medium grain should suffice. You can buy a file of this type in any perfumery supplied.
Step 2. Move the file over the nail polish in one direction
Grasp it firmly in one hand and press it against the surface of one of the nails on the opposite hand. Now start moving it abruptly, always in the same direction. You should notice that the polish begins to peel off the nail.
Move the file to different places on the nail to remove the polish everywhere. Don't keep filing the same part for a long time. This is an important factor in preventing excessive heat from being generated due to friction
Step 3. Continue filing until the polish has been completely removed
When there is no trace left on the first nail, move on to the next one. Keep doing this until you can get it off completely.
You will need to be patient as it is a long process. Take the opportunity to listen to a podcast, chat with a friend or watch a show you like on TV
Warnings
- Do not try to peel off the polish with the other nails, otherwise you will most likely end up ruining the reconstruction. Particularly if you have used a gel polish, trying to detach it could also remove the superficial layers of the natural nail.
- Remember to use only acetone-free nail polish remover.
- Be aware that acrylic nails can seriously damage natural ones. To prevent them from deteriorating too much, consider using artificial reconstruction only for special occasions.
