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This is how you *properly* remove acrylic nails at home

25 March 2020 by Beth Ryan

People keep saying that isolation is a good time for DIY and, seen as salons are shut for the next 3 weeks, we agree (yes, beauty DIY counts). We’ve already divulged our tips for removing your gel mani at home and next up? Acrylic nails.

By Beth Ludolf

  • 1 Things you'll need

    There’s a few things you need; nail clippers, a good nail file and buffer, a cuticle pusher, a small bowl and some pure acetone. You’ll probably have some bits around the house, others you might have to buy (you can get them all on Amazon).

  • 2 Cut them short

    The first step is to cut your nails down – especially if they’re long. Use nail clippers to cut the acrylic down to the length of your natural nail underneath (flip your hand over, you’ll be able to see where your natural nail ends).

  • 3 File them down

    Grab a nail file (it needs to be a good one, acrylic is tough) and start filing the flat of the nail to thin out the product. The more product you file away, the less time they’ll take to soak off.

  • 4 Soak them off

    Pour the acetone into a bowl and dip your nails in, leaving them to soak until the acrylic fully breaks down. Every 20 minutes take them out the bowl and scrape off the gooey top layer of acrylic with a cuticle pusher – repeat until its all gone. If your skin is sensitive use cotton pads and foils (as if you’re removing gel polish).

  • 5 Buff them out

    Buffing them with a soft buffer will help to remove any stubborn bits of acrylic and smooth out the nail plate. Finish with nail strengthener and some hand cream.  

    During this uncertain time, we’ll be continuing to create the content you love – whether for distraction, inspiration or to give guidance on wellbeing. If there’s anything you’d like to see (or not see) please contact us on Instagram @treatwell_uk. We hope you keep safe and healthy.

Image credits: Shutterstock, @malvabelle, @jenny.jennys, @lizzienewell_x, @jeanette

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