Here at CGS, we are all about saving that extra buck, so who says you can’t apply it to beauty too? How many times have you gotten acrylics and then decide you’re ready for something new? Whether it’s a new set, a fresh manicure or just wanting them off, a change is a change. Paying extra money to have the nail technicians remove them can be costly at times. Read below and check out these quick and painless steps to remove acrylic nails at home.
How to remove acrylic nails at home
Your key tools
The tool you’ll need in order to remove acrylic nails at home is simple. Items such as Acetone nail polish remover, nail clippers, nail buffer or nail file, tweezers, cotton balls or pads depending on your preference, aluminum foil, and lastly petroleum jelly.
Cut off the length
Depending on how new or old your set is can vary on how quick your nails will get removed. The first step in removing your acrylics is to use nail clippers to cut off the extra length to make the process smoother. The importance of clipping the extra length away is to cut as short as possible to your real nail to avoid doing extra work.
File away
The second step is to file away the top coat of nail polish. You don’t want to have to deal with the mess of color from the polish to get everywhere and cause more of a headache. Once you have filed away most of the color, apply petroleum jelly around your cuticles and nail. This helps avoid any irritation around your nails and cuticles. Once you’ve applied the petroleum jelly then soak the cotton balls/ pads in acetone nail polish remover.
Wrap it up
Next, tear a piece of aluminum foil and wrap it around your nail with the cotton ball/pad so it stays in place. Let your nails sit and soak for 10-30 minutes (it varies depending on how much acrylic was applied to the nail).
Once the time is up the acrylic nail should be soft making it easy to remove if it hasn’t been removed in the aluminum foil itself. If some of the acrylic is still on your nail use tweezers or nail clippers to pull it off gently. If you feel resistance, do not yank, just soak it in acetone to loosen the acrylic.
Clean up
Once all of the acrylic is off of your nails, they will likely feel weak. That’s normal. Wash your hands and nails with soap to remove any excess acetone. You should consider applying a nail strengthener, like Sally Hansen’s Hard As Nails, to help rebuild your nail’s texture.
Related: 6 Hacks for Growing Stronger Nails
Those extra dollars you just saved can now go towards your savings account! Do you prefer to take your acrylics off at home or have the professionals remove them? What other tips would you recommend for removing your acrylic nails? Leave a comment below to share your tips!
