The soap and water will soak into the nail glue and soften it, making it easier to remove the nails. You can also soak your nails in a little pure acetone to soften the glue, but be aware that acetone is much harsher on your skin, nails and cuticles than soap and water. [1] X Research source Alternatively, soften up your nail glue by putting a few drops of cuticle oil on each false nail and letting it soak in for a few seconds. [2] X Research source
Don’t try to yank the nail off if it doesn’t pry loose easily. Soak the nail in soapy water for a few more minutes if you need to soften up the glue a little more.
If you like, you can then use the “shine” side of the buffer to polish up your nails after buffing them.
If your nails feel dry after you’ve rubbed them with acetone, apply a little nail moisturizer or cuticle oil. [4] X Research source
Don’t trim down into your nail bed as this will be painful. This process works for SNS (dipping powder nails), and acrylic nails.
If you see any of your natural nails coming through under the fake nails, stop filing that spot. If you continue to file, you risk damaging your natural nails.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, apply the petroleum jelly liberally.
If you don’t have cotton pads, cotton balls will also work. Purchase acetone and cotton pads from a pharmacy or a supermarket. If you have sensitive skin, choose an acetone-based nail polish remover that is designed for sensitive skin. The fumes from acetone can be toxic, so always use it in well-ventilated areas.
The aluminum foil will help trap warmth and moisture so the acetone doesn’t evaporate before the glue has a chance to soften. This speeds up the removal process. Repeat the process for all the nails on 1 hand, and then move to the other hand. If you find it difficult to work on your opposite hand while your original hand is still soaking, ask a friend to help you or wait until you have removed the foil and cotton pads before attempting to start the other hand. [10] X Research source
If the first nail is still covered in glue or the false nails are still firmly in place, leave the foil and pads on for another 15 minutes. Be careful not to place the used acetone pads onto wooden or plastic tables as the chemicals will damage the surface.
Replace the acetone-soaked cotton balls and foil if the false nails don’t come off easily.
Purchase a nail file from a pharmacy. Note that some stores will call them nail buffers.
Use regular soap if that’s all you have at home.
Almond oil and olive oil are good natural nail moisturizers. Purchase these from a natural health and beauty store or from a pharmacy.
Try taking a week-long break every 8 weeks between manicures. Consider applying fake nails without glue next time, to see whether this works better for you than having to deal with nail glue removal.
