Nail polish removers remove polish quickly and effectively, but what else can they remove in the process? If you're looking to clean your nails of old polish without using a regular nail polish remover, there are actually a few alternative methods that can work.
One of the main ingredients in what is generally known as a "traditional" nail polish remover is acetone, which can be very damaging to nails. "Acetone is very drying and harsh," says Brittney Boyce, a renowned nail artist and founder of NAILSOFLA. "But [removers] work very quickly." Acetone-free removers are gentler on nails, but they take a little longer to work.
Before starting any of the removal procedures below, soak your nails in warm water. According to Christine Koehler, founder and director of Flora 1761, the water will expand the nail bed. This can help loosen the polish and prepare your nails for one of the alternative removal methods.
Rubbing alcohol
"Apply a little to cotton wool or pad and place it on your nail," Boyce explains. "Let it sit for about 10 seconds and gently rub it back and forth. Your nail polish should come off fairly quickly."
Vinegar and orange juice
Mix your favourite fruit juice with white vinegar and you have a homemade nail polish remover, says Amy Ling Lin, founder and CEO of Dear Sundays. "Combine equal amounts of white vinegar and natural orange juice and mix them together," she says. "Dip the cotton ball/pad into the mixture and press it onto your nails for about 10 seconds until the nail polish softens. Then pull the cotton ball to remove the polish."
Lemon
Hair spray
Soy-based solvents
Post-stripping care
On the other hand, taking care of your nails doesn't necessarily mean resorting to sophisticated products. "You definitely just want to hydrate as much as possible to keep your nails healthy," says Koehler. "A good diet is always great for strong nails, but hydration is just so important. Drink lots of water, and then specifically, work the hydration into your nails."
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