Having your acrylic nails done at a salon screams power, right, ladies? However, they can be hard to maintain sometimes, particularly when they are already starting to grow.
"Fingernails grow out around one tenth of an inch every month, and you will notice the cuticle bed growth in two weeks."
This is according to Ramya Kollipara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Dallas.
This means you must come back to the salon for a retouch, or to have the nails professionally removed — or, I’m sorry to say, you can try to remove them on your own at home. But, is this the best option?
Nope! – But, is this what any expert would advise? Not by a long shot. However, I also recognize the fact that sometimes, your time may be limited so there may be times when you simply have to do some stuff yourself.
Fortunately, I’ve done some research, and have come up with some tips that you can use to avoid, or at least minimize, damage to your nails. Continue reading this article as a reference.
Healthy nails are just as important as getting a fabulous nail art.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove Acrylic Nails?
Most nail salons charge anywhere between $10 and $15 to remove artificial nails. Clients usually pay this extra amount whether or not they want any further nail services since removing acrylic nails is a complex and time-consuming procedure that requires the experience and skill of a nail technician.
Does It Hurt To Remove Acrylic Nails?
Sore nails after removing acrylics are caused by physically removing them by scraping, tugging, or forcing them off with a nail tool. This is normal, and there is nothing to worry about.
If you have discomfort or soreness after removing your acrylic nails, the following methods may help.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water.
- Dip your fingers in cold water to relieve nail bed discomfort.
- Dry and sanitize your nails with alcohol.
- If the soreness is severe, you can take a pain reliever.
How To Remove Acrylic Nails At Home?
Wrapping your acrylic nails with a cotton pad soaked in pure acetone, wrapping your nails in aluminum foil, and letting them sit for thirty minutes is the quickest way to remove the nails.
Things you’ll need:
- Acetone
- Cotton balls
- Nail polish remover clips or foil
- Tiny bowl
- Nail clippers
- Nail file
- Nail buffer
- Nail pusher and orange wood stick
Here are some simple step-by-step instructions to help you:
- Remove as much of the acrylic nail as you can.
- Soak away any excess acrylic nail polish.
- Allow them to soak for around 20 to 30 minutes.
- Scrape or buff away any remaining acrylic.
- To strengthen your nails, use cuticle oil or cream.
Here is a video tutorial that you may watch for a precise and simple guide.
How To Take Off Acrylic Nails Without Acetone?
If you do not want to use harmful substances to remove your artificial nails, you might try using hot water instead. You may also include a few drops of soap in the mixture.
Things you’ll need:
- Warm water
- Nail clipper
- Nail buffer
- Cuticle pusher or orange wood stick
- Small bowl
Here are some simple step-by-step instructions to help you through the process:
- Get a bowl with hot water.
- Soak your nails and let them sit for around 20 to 30 minutes.
- Soak your nails until your acrylic nails begin to bulge.
- Leave it on for as long as your nails are effortlessly falling off.
- Use an orange wood stick to separate the artificial nails from your natural nails.
- Nourish your nails with cream or natural oil to keep them healthy.
You may watch this short video to serve as your guide:
How To Soak Off Acrylic Nails?
Prepare a bowl and fill it with 100 percent acetone. Drench your nails in it for at least 5 minutes. Push the acrylic nails away from your natural nails with a pusher or an orange wood stick. Repeat the process until all of your acrylics have been removed.
Things you’ll need:
- Small bowl
- Acetone
- Pusher or orange wood stick
Simple step-by-step instructions for you to follow:
- Prepare a small bowl and put acetone on it.
- Dip your nails for about 5 minutes.
- Gently push your acrylics from your nails.
- Repeat until all the acrylics are completely removed
Here’s a YouTube video you can watch to serve as your guide:
What Can You Use Other Than Acetone To Remove Acrylic Nails?
Solvents such as ethanol, ethyl alcohol, and propylene carbonate are commonly used in non-acetone nail polish removers. Though they are still chemical solvents, they are gentler on your nails than acetone.
How Do Nail Salons Remove Acrylic Nails?
Your nail technician will gently buff your acrylics before applying an acetone-soaked cotton ball to them. They will wrap the nails in foil, and set aside for at least 20 minutes. They will then repeat the process, scraping off your acrylics until they are completely removed.
Things To Keep In Mind While Taking Off Acrylic Nails
Here are some things to keep in mind when going back to natural nails.
- Take good care of your cuticles.
- Trim your nail edges.
- To keep your nails healthy, use cream or cuticle oil.
- Apply nail strengthener.
- Do not abuse your nails.
Final Verdict
Acrylic nails, on their own, may be damaging, and the process of removing them might be far more harmful. That is why it is critical to take good care of your nails once they have been removed. Follow the tips we’ve provided to keep your nails strong and beautiful. Please feel free to comment if you have any questions or need clarification.