15 Best Nail Polish Removers That Won’t Damage Your Nails – 2023

Removing nail polish is anything but exciting, and if you don’t have the best nail polish removers to use, it can be time-consuming as well! Besides, the quality of your nail polish remover can affect the appearance and health of your nails. It is essential to use a formula that suits your nail type, whether weak, tough, brittle, or sensitive. We have compiled a list of our top picks of nail polish removers that won’t damage your nails and will get rid of the nail paint in a jiffy! Check them out below.

Types Of Nail Polish Removers And Which One To Choose?

Ladies, there are two kinds of nail polish removers – acetone and non-acetone. While the former is the most common one (and it works wonderfully at removing the most stubborn polish), acetone is also pretty harsh on your nails and the skin surrounding them. Why? Because it simply removes the natural oils from your skin.

Non-acetone removers, on the other hand, use less aggressive solvents like propylene carbonate and ethyl acetate. So, if you see your nail polish remover labeled as ‘natural’ or ‘organic,’ remember that these formulas also use a solvent, just not acetone or other harsh chemicals. These also have moisturizing agents added to them (like glycerin) to minimize that horrid drying effect.

Here’s our list of the best nail polish removers that you can purchase to maintain your healthy, gorgeous nails and hydrated cuticles.

15 Best Nail Polish Removers

1. Best Overall:Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover

4.6

Image: Cutex

BUY ON AMAZON | $7.31

Protect your nails while removing every trace of nail color in one swipe with the non-staining formula of Cutex Strength Shield Nail Polish Remover. It is enriched with a blend of hydrolyzed silk, vitamin E, and vitamin B5, nourishing the nails and preventing drying. This formula also protects your nails from damage to keep them looking healthy for longer. The lavender fragrance makes it even more irresistible.

Pros

• Removes nail color quickly
• Non-drying
• Doesn’t leave stain
• Pleasant fragrance
• Value for money

Cons

None

2. Best For Gel Polish: Aliver Nail Polish Gel Remover

4

Image: Aliver

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.99

Forget the troubles of scraping and sanding your nail paint, and get your hands on the Aliver Nail Polish Gel Remover for hassle-free nail paint removal. It can be used to remove the base coat, top coat, soak off gel, and matte top coat. It removes gel polish by breaking down the nail polish’s surface and gives you salon-quality results without spending the big bucks.

Pros

• Hydrating
• Non-drying
• Easy to use

Cons

• Takes efforts to remove nail polish completely

3. Best Scented: Zoya 3-In-1 Formula Remove Plus

4.6

Image: Zoya

BUY ON AMAZON | $12

Pros

• Flip-cap dispenser
• Easy to use
• Travel-friendly
• Pleasant smell

Cons

• A bit expensive

Review

This non-damaging nail polish remover from Zoya is an award-winning, gentle, and highly effective formula that also preps and conditions your nails. Its brilliant packaging is a major plus as you don’t have to worry about spilling or wasting the product. This formula removes even the most stubborn glitter nail polish with ease and never leaves your hands feeling dry or dehydrated. Do give this a try if you’re looking for high quality and handy nail lacquer remover. Go through this video review for a detailed understanding of the product.

4. Best User-Friendly: O.P.I Expert Touch Lacquer Remover

4.4

Now 40% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $3.87

Pros

• Removes gel and glitter nail polish effectively
• Does not sting or irritate your skin
• Infused with cooling and nourishing ingredients
• Easy to use

Cons

• The packaging is prone to leakage and spillage

Review

Want super quick and easy nail polish removal? This non-irritating formula from O.P.I is a breeze to use, and you only need about two to three drops to get rid of every last bit of nail polish. Isn’t that impressive? You will not have trouble removing shades like black or blue, and it won’t leave your nails stained. It also leaves your nails and the skin surrounding them feeling cool and moisturized. If you prefer using acetone formulas that are gentle, you will love this one. Check out this video for a detailed review of the product.

5. Best Travel-Friendly Packaging: L.A Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads

3.9

Image: La Colors

BUY ON AMAZON | $4.99

Pros

• Easy and convenient to use
• Moisturizes your nails
• Acetone-free
• Pleasant scent

Cons

• Can get messy with darker colors and glitter polishes

Remember

Close the box immediately after taking out a pad to prevent other pads from drying out.

Review

The L.A Colors Nail Polish Remover Pads come in six different scents. These are pre-moistened pads that are a great option for when you are on the move or traveling. If you want to refrain from using acetone-based polish and the harmful fumes of acetone, these are an excellent choice. However, using them can be a tad bit tedious and time-consuming, especially when it comes to darker shades of nail polish. Lighter shades can be easily removed with just a couple of swipes.

6. Best Natural:Purgenic Nail Polish Remover Pads

3.9

Image: Purgenic

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.99

Pros

• Acetone-free
• Acetate-free
• Mess-free usage
• Odor-free
• Travel-friendly

Cons

• Thin pads

Review

The Purgenic Nail Polish Remover Pads come in a pack of four polish variants, each infused with four essential oils and scented: ‘coconut’, ‘lavender’, ‘citrus’, and ‘ocean’. These easy-to-use pads are free of acetone and acetate, so they do not dry out your fingers. They are completely safe for your nails and cuticles, portable, and mess-free.

7. Best Biodegradable:La Fresh It Was All A Dream Nail Polish Remover Pad

4.4

Image: La Fresh

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.95

Pros

• Mess-free usage
• Individually wrapped wipes
• Cruelty-free
• Travel-friendly

Cons

• Unpleasant fragrance

Review

The La Fresh It Was All A Dream Nail Polish Remover Pads are acetone-infused towelettes that lift away all the polish from your nails in just a single swipe, as it dissolves the polish easily. The pads are enriched with aloe vera, lavender essential oil, and vitamin E that moisturize your nails and restore their strength. Each pad is manufactured with the use of clean solar power and can remove nail polish from 10 nails at a time. They come in easy-to-carry compact packaging.

8. Best For Quick Removal: Super Nail Pure Acetone Polish Remover

4.4

Image: Toloco

BUY ON AMAZON | $99.99

Pros

• Easy to use
• Fast-acting formula
• Value for money

Cons

• Can dry out the nails

Review

The Super Nail Pure Acetone Polish Remover is ideal for the quick removal of your nail polish. It is a 100% acetone-based formula that easily wipes away the polish remains and reveals clear and strong nails. This product is carefully crafted for manicures and pedicures.

Quick tip

This polish remover may dry your hands. So, wash your hands with mild soap and water after removing the nail polish. Then apply some lotion to your hands.

9. Best Vegan-Friendly: Karma Naturals Organic Nail Polish Remover Wipes

4.2

Image: Karma Organic

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.99

Pros

• Oil-based and non-toxic
• Comes in a travel-friendly container
• Contains lavender oil and soybean oil
• Has a pleasant smell

Cons

• Won’t work on gel nail polish or acrylics

Review

Karma Naturals Organic Nail Polish Remover Wipes are 100% acetone-free and perfect for sensitive skin and brittle nails. These wipes have an oily consistency owing to ingredients like vitamin E, soybean oil, and lavender oil, making them suitable for frequent use. If your nails need conditioning, these wholesome ingredients will take care of that. It removes your regular nail polish, regardless of the brand, with ease. If you’re conscious about choosing only vegan and cruelty-free products, this is made for you.

10. Best Affordable: Mineral Fusion Nail Polish Remover

4.6

Image: Mineral Fusion

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.99

Pros

• Acetone-free
• Travel-friendly
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Paraben-free
• Artificial fragrance-free
• Sulfate-free
• Hyppoallergenic

Cons

• Strong scent

Review

This acetone-free formula from Mineral Fusion is gentle on your nails and easily removes even the darkest of shades. It cleans and preps the nail well to prolong the life of your next nail color. It is made with natural ingredients that improve the nails’ complexion, nourish the skin, and prevent overdrying of the nails. This nail polish remover is also effective at removing shellac nail polish.

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11. Best Hassle-Free One:Deborah Lippmann The Stripper To Go Nail Lacquer Remover Finger Mitts

4.1

Image: Deborah Lippmann

BUY ON AMAZON | $12

Pros

• Pleasant lavender scent
• Contains aloe vera to prevent dryness
• Glitter nail polish comes off easily
• Travel-friendly

Cons

• Expensive

Review

Want a quick and hassle-free way to get rid of that worn-out nail polish? These finger mitts by Deborah Lippmann work well to remove regular and glitter nail polish effortlessly. They are infused with aloe vera and lavender to help condition and nourish your nails and cuticles. One mitt cleans all ten fingernails, and you get six mitts wrapped individually in a single box.

12. Best Plant-Based: Nailtopia Nail Polish Remover

4.3

Image: Nailtopia

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.99

Pros

• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Acetone-free
• Bio-sourced
• Soften cuticles
• Strengthen nails
• Camphor-free
• Gluten-free
• Toluene-free
• Formaldehyde-free
• Formaldehyde resin-free

Cons

• Strong smell

Review

The Nailtopia Nail Polish Remover is an exfoliating remover that gets rid of chipped nail paint while the avocado oil in the formula provides nourishment to the cuticles. This remover removes regular nail polish without scrubbing or rubbing the nails relentlessly leading to more nail damage. Dip a cotton ball in the solution and gently swipe it over your nails to get rid of your nail paint, no matter how pigmented. It leaves your nails and cuticles feeling refreshed and moisturized.

13. Best For Pregnant Women: Ella+Mila Soy Nail Polish Remover

4.2

Image: Ella Mila

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.49

Pros

• 100% vegan
• Acetone-free
• Cruelty-free
• Vitamin-enriched formula

Cons

• Does not work on gel polish

Review

Looking for a nail enamel remover that hydrates the nails and is 100% non-toxic? This one from Ella+Mila is your best bet. It’s a soy-based formula that also contains lavender essential oil, which means you will never have to deal with dehydrated nails or cuticles. The packaging is utterly cute, and it also has a mild fragrance to it. It is also suitable for pregnant women and children.

14. Best Portable: Diamond Wipes Nail Polish Remover Pads

4.3

Image: Diamond Wipes

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.66

Pros

• Resin-free
• TSA approved
• Cruelty-free
• GMP certified
• Easy to use
• Convenient

Cons

• Might dry out quickly

Review

The Diamond Wipes Nail Polish Remover Pads are a convenient way of removing regular nail paint while you’re traveling or need to get rid of the ugly chipped nail paint minutes before a big event. The pads of the wipes are infused with acetone, along with aloe vera and vitamin E to hydrate your nails and keep them moisturized and healthy. You can carry it in your purse or add these wipes to your nail care kit.

15. Best Shine-Boosting Formula: Nailtopia Fresh Avocado Nail Polish Remover

4.3

Image: Nailtopia

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.99

Pros

• Organic
• Acetone-free
• Vegan
• Cruelty-free

Cons

• Strong fragrance

Review

The Nailtopia Fresh Avocado Nail Polish Remover has an advanced organic formula that removes nail polish quickly. It is enriched with avocado oil that nourishes and strengthens the nails. The polish is also gentle on your cuticles and enhances the shine of your nails. This non-drying nail polish remover is non-toxic and safe for all skin types.

Ladies, follow these safety precautions when using a nail polish remover of any kind. Here’s what you need to consider.

Tips And Precautions To Take When Using A Nail Polish Remover

• Make sure you are in a well-ventilated room when removing your nail polish because acetone is highly flammable. Eliminate any sources of flame or spark to prevent a fire. (Yes, it seems ridiculous, but there have been incidents where acetone fumes caused a fire.)
• It is not a good idea to inhale the fumes as it is terrible for your health.
• Repeated exposure to harsh nail polish removers can lead to your skin becoming overly irritated and sensitive. Always choose a gentle, non-acetone formula if you’re a manicure junkie.
• Rub some olive on the skin around your nails before removing your nail polish with an acetone-based remover.
• Once you remove your nail polish, rinse your hands with water. Wait an hour before polishing your nails again so that the water has time to evaporate fully.
• Once you finish your manicure, moisturize your skin and nails with a nourishing nail and cuticle oil.
• You can also make your own DIY acetone remover with ten parts acetone, one part water, two to ten drops of olive oil and two to five drops of vitamin E.

Infographic: Types of Nail Polish Removers

Whether you are a nail art enthusiast or simply looking to maintain well-groomed nails, choosing the right nail polish remover is essential for preserving the health and beauty of your nails. Some of these formulas are gentle, some are fast-acting, and some are heavy-duty that remove stubborn gel polishes. Check out all the types in the infographic below!

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Esha Saxena, loves experimenting with different makeup products and reviewing them for her readers. She tried several nail polish removers and conducted in-depth research into them to curate this list of the top nail polish removers on the market. The shortlisted products remove nail polish quickly, keep your nail strong, and do not irritate your skin, all at an affordable price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the active ingredient in most nail polish removers?

Isopropyl acetone is an active ingredient in most acetone-based nail polish removers. Non-acetone-based nail polish removers usually have ethyl acetate as the most active ingredient.

Can I use a nail polish remover during pregnancy?

Yes. While many beauty enthusiasts suggest that some key ingredients in nail polish removers including isopropyl acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and n-methyl-pyrrolidone are harmful during pregnancy, there is no evidence supporting the notion.

How often can you use a nail polish remover?

It is safe to use a toxin-free nail polish remover as frequently as every four to five days if you love changing your nail art often.

How long does a nail polish remover last?

Nail polish removers do not have expiration dates. However, they turn yellowish and become less effective after two to three years.

How long does it take for nail polish removers to work?

Nail polish removers work almost instantly. The polish usually washes away within ten minutes of using the remover.

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Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for makeup, she brings to you reviews, techniques, and her ever-growing knowledge...more

Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor

Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant. She began her career as a freelance content writer, has worked as a journalist in several media houses, and has over three years...more

Asmita DeAssociate Editor

Asmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor. Her adeptness in refining content, ensuring clarity, and preserving the essence of the written word has consistently contributed to enhance the quality of published...more