How to remove acrylic nails

 Taking off your acrylics at home can be a breeze with the right tools and technique. Here's a guide to removing them safely and giving your natural nails some TLC:

What you'll need:

1. Acetone nail polish remover (pure acetone is most effective)

2. Nail clippers

3. Emery board or nail file (preferably 180-grit or coarser)

4. Orangewood stick or cuticle pusher (metal tools can be harsh)

5. Cotton balls

6. Aluminum foil (optional, but helps trap heat)

7. Bowl or dish (for soaking)

8. Lotion or cuticle oil (for aftercare)

Steps:

Trim the excess: 

Clip off most of the acrylic length with nail clippers. This reduces soaking time and makes the process easier to manage.

Rough up the surface:

 Gently buff the top of the acrylic with the coarse side of your nail file. This disrupts the acrylic's smooth finish, allowing the acetone to work its magic faster.

Soak it up:

 Saturate a cotton ball with acetone. Place it on top of your nail and secure it with a piece of aluminum foil (optional). Repeat for all your nails.

Patience is key:

 Relax for 10-15 minutes. The acetone will break down the acrylic. You might feel a slight tingling sensation, which is normal.

Gently do it: 

After soaking, carefully remove the foil and cotton balls. The acrylic should be lifting or softening. Use the orangewood stick to gently push underneath any loose edges. Don't pry! If the acrylic isn't ready, re-soak for a few more minutes.

Buff and shape: 

Once all the acrylic is removed, use a finer grit nail file (around 220-grit) to buff away any remaining residue and smooth out your natural nails.

Moisturize: 

Acrylic removal can dry out your nails and cuticles. Apply lotion or cuticle oil to hydrate and nourish them.

Safety tips:

Avoid acetone on your skin: 

Acetone can be drying and irritating. Apply petroleum jelly around your nails to create a barrier.

Work in a ventilated area:

 Open windows or use a fan to avoid inhaling strong acetone fumes.

Take it slow: 

Be gentle throughout the process to avoid damaging your natural nails.

Healthy nails take time: 

After removal, your natural nails might feel weak or thin. Give them some time to recover by taking a break from artificial nails and focusing on maintaining healthy nail habits.

By following these steps, you can remove your acrylic nails at home with minimal fuss and keep your natural nails healthy and happy.