Acetone-based removers: powerful but harsh on nails
What exactly is acetone?
Acetone is a potent solvent commonly found in traditional nail polish removers. It’s widely used to break down polish, glues, and resins. While incredibly effective at dissolving polish pigments, it doesn't stop there. It also strips the natural protective oil film from the nail plate, leaving it exposed to external damage. The surrounding cuticles suffer too—acetone dries them out, reducing their ability to protect the nail matrix.
The effects of acetone on nails
If you regularly use acetone-based remover, you might notice these signs:
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Nails that split or break more easily.
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Dryness or irritation around the nail.
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Temporary whitening of the nail surface.
Why? Acetone strips not just the polish, but also the nail and skin’s protective hydrolipidic layer. This weakens the natural barrier, dehydrates the nail, and disrupts its keratin structure. Before planning your next manicure, think about switching to a gentler polish removal method that protects your nail health.
Non-remover methods
Using a nail file—handle with care
Nail files are designed to shape your nails, whether you prefer them square, oval, or pointed. But when used to remove chipped polish, a nail file can damage the nail plate and leave uneven surfaces. These imperfections can linger for months, until the nail fully regrows. It’s a habit to avoid if you value your natural nail beauty.
DIY polish removal methods
Avoiding harsh chemicals? There are a few natural tricks to gently remove polish. These DIY solutions won’t always work on deeply pigmented or dark shades, but they’re worth a try if you’re after a gentler approach:
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🛁 Warm water + gentle soap + vinegar: Looking for a mild method? Soak your nails in a bowl of warm water (not too hot), a touch of gentle soap, and a spoonful of white vinegar for around 10 minutes. The heat softens the polish while the vinegar’s acetic acid adjusts the pH of the polish layer, helping it lift away naturally. Gently wipe off softened polish with a cotton pad or clean cloth. It takes time—but unlike acetone, it won’t dehydrate your nails.
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🍋 Lemon juice + white vinegar or plant oil: Lemon’s mild acidity helps break down polish. Combine with a nourishing oil like castor, sweet almond, or olive oil—or use white vinegar—for a solution that softens polish and nourishes the nail. Rich in fatty acids, these oils help break down pigments while strengthening the nail and cuticles. Apply the blend to a cotton pad, leave for a few minutes, then gently rub.
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🪥 Toothpaste + baking soda: Less well-known, this method works on lighter polish. Baking soda’s gentle abrasiveness plus the detergent action of toothpaste can help lift polish. Use an old soft-bristled toothbrush to rub the mixture onto your nails. It’s not a miracle cure—but handy in a pinch. Use sparingly, especially on sensitive nails!
Peel-off polish: an innovation worth trying
Inspired by peel-off face masks, peel-off polish removes easily without any remover. Just lift the edge and peel it away—it should come off in one go. It’s an innovative, effort-free solution with zero damage to your nails. Definitely worth a try!
Though not as strong as classic removers, these alternatives are much gentler on your nails and skin.
Our gentle, nail-friendly removal routine
Looking for an effective yet nail-friendly removal method? Try this thoughtful routine using specially formulated products that respect your nail’s natural balance:
1. Prepare 10 cotton pads sized for your nails.
2. Soak each one in acetone-free gentle remover.
3. Place a pad on each nail and press for one minute. You can use nail clips or foil to keep them in place on one hand at a time.
4. Slide off the cotton without rubbing—your nails should come clean. If polish remains near the edges, use a fresh soaked cotton pad.
5. Finish with a hydrating treatment, like a nail-strengthening or cuticle oil.
Oil-based remover or gentle remover: which to choose?
It depends on your nail type! At Manucurist, we offer two formulas:
💧Green™ Oil-Based Remover, enriched with sweet almond oil and vitamin E, removes polish while nourishing the nail plate. 99% bio-based and acetone-free, it’s perfect for dry or brittle nails—but it does require a little more patience.
🪶 Green Flash™ Gentle Remover, acetone-free and enriched with castor oil, removes all polish traces in under a minute, leaving nails clean, hydrated, and de-greased. Fast and effective, it works with both Green™ and Green Flash™ polishes.
What to do after removing your polish?
To revive your natural nails’ beauty and shine post-removal, follow these steps:
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Massage your nails and cuticles with a few drops of nourishing oil rich in plant-based ingredients. Huile Verte is a blend of six botanical oils that deeply hydrate and regenerate the nails and surrounding skin.
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Assess your nail health before applying new polish. Take a personalized online diagnosis to find the right care routine for your nail type.
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Need a polished look? Choose a nourishing treatment polish with a makeup effect. The Active™ range offers 11 formulas enriched with concentrated actives to strengthen nails between manicures. From Gloss to CC Polish, pick your favorite Active™ effect!
There are countless ways to remove nail polish—but not all are created equal. Between harsh removers and gentle home remedies, acetone-free gentle removers strike the perfect balance between performance and nail health. In our eyes, it’s the best way to keep your manicure fresh—without compromising your nails.
