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How to take off acrylic nails without acetone

How to take off acrylic nails without acetone
By - Nail 7 min read 0 views

Do you have acrylic nails that need to be removed? And you dont want to spend money on removing the acrylics. Because some salons charge extra for that. But now there is no need to pay for removing these nails. You can learn alot of techniques to remove these nails in beginner acrylic online course but you can do also learn some quick hacks to remove them here. 

If you’ve ever had your skin feel tight or dry after a salon visit, acetone was likely the reason behind it. It gets the job done fast, but it’s not gentle, and it definitely isn’t for everyone. So if you're trying to avoid that strong smell and chemical exposure, you're not alone. 


We will talk about the tips of removing these acrylic nails and let’s talk about acetone as well. 

What is Acetone?

Acetone is a chemical used in nail polish removers. It’s powerful and breaks down acrylic and gel polish quickly. That’s why salons uses these carefully. It’s also super drying, especially for people with sensitive skin or brittle nails.

You’ll usually see acetone used with a cotton pad and foil method, where nails are soaked for 15–20 minutes. While this works like magic, your nails might end up weak and your cuticles begging for moisture.


Why You Should Not Use Acetone?

Here are a few reasons you might want to skip it:

  • Sensitive skin: Acetone can cause redness, flakiness, and itchiness.

  • Dry nails: It takes away natural oils, making nails rough and more likely to split.

  • Headaches or nausea: That strong chemical smellcan cause headache also. .

  • Natural approach: Some people are just trying to cut back on harsh chemicals altogether and that’s valid!


What Kind of False Nails Can We Remove?

Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about what kind of nails you’re working with. In this case, it’s acrylic nails, the hard, sculpted kind that’s built on top of your natural nail using a powder and liquid combo. Acrylics are popular because they’re strong, long-lasting, and can be shaped into any style. But once they start growing out, lifting, or chipping. it’s time to say goodbye to them.

How to Remove Acrylic Nails Without Acetone

Alright, let’s get to the good part. No acetone? No problem. Here are the best, at-home ways to remove acrylic nails safely without touching that harsh chemical.

1. Soak and Remove Using Warm Water and Dish Soap

Yes, seriously. One of the easiest ways to start loosening up those acrylics is a warm water soak. This method won’t completely remove them in one go, but it’s a safe and gentle way to soften the adhesive and make it easier to pop them off.

What you’ll need:

  • Warm water

  • A few drops of dish soap

  • A bowl

  • A nail file

  • A wooden stick or cuticle pusher

Steps:

  1. Fill a bowl with warmwater and add a few drops of dish soap in it.

  2. Soak your nails for 15–20 minutes.

  3. Use your thumb or a cuticle pusher to gently lift the edges of the acrylic.

  4. If it resists, soak a little longerdon’t force it.

  5. Once loose, file off any remaining glue gently.


This method is perfect for people who want to take care of their nails during removal. You can even add a few drops of cuticle oil into the soak to keep your nails hydrated.

2. The Dental Floss Trick 

This one needs a bit of teamwork, but it works great if your acrylics are already lifting a bit.

What you’ll need:

  • Dental floss 

  • A cuticle stick

Steps:

  1. Use a cuticle stick to gently lift the edge of the acrylic.

  2. Have your helper slide the dental floss under the lifted edge.

  3. Slowly and gently pull the floss back and forth in a sawing motion, moving towards the tip.

  4. The acrylic should slide off gradually.


This method requires patience and a steady handbut it’s super effective. Make sure you're not pulling too hard or you could damage your natural nail.

3. Nail Clipping + Filing

Sometimes, removing acrylics without acetone just means going slow and steady. If you’re not in a rush, this method is gentle and doesn’t require any soaking.

What you’ll need:

  • Nail clippers

  • A nail file or buffer

  • Cuticle oil

Steps:

  1. Trim your acrylic nails as short as possible.

  2. Use the filer to gently file down the acrylic layer.

  3. Keep filing until you start to see your natural nail beneath.

  4. Finish with a good layer of cuticle oil or nail strengthener.


This takes time and patience, but your nails will be free from those chemicals that are harsh..

4. Oil Soak for Extra Moisture

If your nails are dry or damaged, try this method using a mix of warm oil and soap to soften the acrylics.

What you’ll need:

  • Olive oil or coconut oil

  • Warm water

  • Dish soap

  • A bowl

Steps:

  1. Mix equal parts oil and warm water, add a few drops of dish soap.

  2. Soak your nails for 20–30 minutes.

  3. Gently push or lift the edges of your acrylics.

  4. Repeat if necessary.

Aftercare Tips

Once those acrylics are off, your natural nails might be feeling a little weak or uneven. Don’t worry that’s normal. Here’s how to get them back to full health:


  1. Apply cuticle oil daily.

  2. Use a strengthening nail treatment or clear nail polish.

  3. Give your nails a break before applying new false nails.

  4. Keep them trimmed and smooth to avoid roughness.


And if this whole DIY removal sparked your interest in nail care, you might even want to learn acrylic nails online through certified courses that teach you how to do it the right way.

Final Thoughts

Acrylic nails are stunning, but when it’s time to take them off, opting for acetone-free removal is a good choice. Whether you choose to remove it from warm water, warm soapy soaks, gentle flossing, or simply filing, your natural nails 

Just remember: never rip or force your acrylics off. That can ruin your natural nails. Take your time, go gently, and treat your hands with care.