How to take off acrylic nails at home

Acrylic nails are a great time saving alternative to applying nail polish. Although they usually look perfect for the first few weeks, they slowly start to grow out and chip, and that is how you know it is time to remove them.

For many, going to the nail salon to get them removed seems like the only way to get rid of them but actually you can remove them safely in the comfort of your home.

It could be that you want to avoid the harsh chemicals that can damage your nails or that you don’t have time to book an appointment for now.

Whatever the case may be, we have a safe solution that you could try:

The basic tools you will need are a large nail cutter that can easily cut the acrylic tips off, a nail buffer that has a smooth and rough side, a nail file, a metal pusher which is usually found in a manicure set (preferably one that also has a sharp knife-like side), soapy warm water, cuticle softener and some cuticle oil.

Step one

The first thing you will need to do is to soak your nails in warm soapy water. This step is to help soften the acrylic nails which will also help to make the removal process painless.

Let your nails soak for up to 15 minutes or longer before you try to remove them.

Step two

In this step, you will need to use your nail cutter. The best one to use is the big nail cutter since it is stronger than the smaller ones.

If you want to retain the length of your natural nails, you need to be careful not to chop them. You can turn your hand to have your palm facing you as you cut so that you can see where you need to stop.

Step three

Here is where you will need the metal pusher to gently separate the acrylic nail from your natural nails. You need to be as carful and as gentle as possible because the wrong move will leave you in pain.

Take your time as you lift the acrylic nail off and don’t be in a hurry.

Once you are done you can get the flat nail file to shape the tips of your nails.

Step four

Apply a layer of the cuticle softener and let it soak into your nails for a few minutes to soften. You can apply another layer and dip in fresh warm water. Some cuticle softeners still work without dipping in warm water so it all depends on the one you are using.

You will then use the metal pusher to scrape off the softened left overs but make sure you are doing it gently to avoid damaging your nails.

Final step

Once you have removed all of the acrylics, you can then use the rough side of your nail buffer to even out the surface and also to get rid of any acrylic that could have been left behind.

The next step is to buff with the smooth side of the buffer.

Rinse your hands and apply nail hardener to help your nails recover.

Lastly, apply a layer of cuticle oil or some coconut oil along the edges of your nails to moisturize them.