Acrylic nails provide a convenient way to cover natural nail problems, such as breaks, chips and disfigurements. If you have decided to forgo your false nails for a more natural look, prep them for removal to prevent damage to your natural nail bed. Soaking your nails prior to the removal creates a gap between the acrylic and your natural nail. This is the best way to help prevent the top layer of your natural nails from peeling off during the removal process.
Snip off the tips of each false nail using nail clippers. Clipping helps break the seal between your natural nail and the false nail, making removal easier.
Fill two small glass bowls with 1 inch of acetone nail polish remover. Use bowls you do not eat out of, reserving them only for this purpose in the future.
Submerge your nails in the acetone for 10 to 15 minutes. Within 10 to 15 minutes, the false nails should begin to become soft and gooey.
Lift the false nails away from your natural nails using a cuticle pusher or a metal nail file. Slide the cuticle pusher between the false nail and your natural nail and pull up.
Repeat the lifting process on all 10 nails. Wash your hands with soap and water to remove the acetone and false nail residues.
Tip
Rub some petroleum jelly on the skin around your nails if you have sensitive skin.
Warning
Do not force or pry the false nail away from your own. If a nail does not lift off easily, repeat the soaking process.
References
Writer Bio
Jonae Fredericks started writing in 2007. She also has a background as a licensed cosmetologist and certified skin-care specialist. Jonae Fredericks is a certified paraeducator, presently working in the public education system.
